How Much Does Adding an Electrical Outlet Cost in Houston? [2025 Data]

Normal Range: $148 - $333

Adding an electrical outlet in Houston costs $241 on average, with most installations costing between $148 and $333. Local code, materials, and labor fees affect the final total.

How we get this data
Mint green toaster plugged into outlet on kitchen countertop
Photo: Melissa Ross / Getty Images
Mint green toaster plugged into outlet on kitchen countertop
Photo: Melissa Ross / Getty Images
Alison Kasch
Written by Alison Kasch
Contributing Writer
Updated Aug 26, 2025
Highlights

  • Specialty outlets like GFCI, USB, or smart outlets cost more to install than standard 120V units, but they offer more safety and functionality features.

  • Installing multiple outlets at once often reduces the per-outlet cost, especially if wall access and wiring are straightforward.

  • Houston electricians charge $50 to $150 per hour, with minimum service fees of $100 to $200, even for small jobs.

  • A Houston electrical permit costs at least $90 and must be pulled by a registered master electrician.

With Houston’s blend of older suburban homes and newer urban developments, homeowners often need to budget for a variety of electrical upgrades to keep up with modern energy demands. Adding an electrical outlet in Houston costs $241 on average, with most homeowners spending between $148 and $333. 

Project costs vary based on outlet type, wall access, and the condition of your home’s existing wiring. Local labor rates and Texas building codes also affect your bottom line, so use this guide to get a more accurate estimate for your Houston home.

Adding an Electrical Outlet Cost Factors

These are the main factors to consider when planning your cost to add an electrical outlet in Houston.

Outlet Type

Outlet type can significantly affect your installation price, especially when specialty units are involved. The cost to install a GFCI outlet is notably higher than a standard model, but it's often a requirement in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens for safety reasons.

Outlet TypeAverage Cost per OutletProsCons
Standard (120V)$3–$5Low cost, widely compatibleLimited features, basic power supply
Heavy-duty (220V+)$10–$20Supports high-power appliancesHigher cost, requires special wiring
GFCI$7–$25Protects against electrical shockHigher cost than standard outlets
AFCI$20–$30Prevents electrical fires from arc faultsHigher price, more complex installation
Floor$30–$50Convenient for open spacesMore prone to damage, higher cost
Coax$5–$10Supports cable TV and internetLimited to specific uses
Tamper-resistant$5–$10Safer for childrenSlightly higher cost
Smart$25–$50Remote-controlled, energy monitoringExpensive, requires Wi-Fi
Rotating$8–$20Adjustable angle for better plug accessHigher cost
Outdoor$1,000–$1,400Weatherproof, durableHigh cost, specialized installation
LED$10–$30Provides lighting, energy-efficientHigher price, limited use cases
USB$20–$40Convenient charging without adaptersMore expensive, may have limited power
Recessed$10–$60Saves space, safer for furniture placementHigher cost, more complex installation
Ceiling$3–$5Ideal for lighting fixturesLimited to lighting applications
TV$3–$5Designed for television and AV equipmentLimited use, minimal additional features

Number of Outlets

The cost to add outlets in Houston rises with each additional unit, but bulk installations may lower the per-outlet rate.

Number of OutletsAverage Cost Range
1$148–$333
2$295–$665
3$445–$995
4$580–$1,330
5$730–$1,660
6$875–$1,990
7$1,025–$2,320
8$1,170–$2,650
9$1,300–$2,980
10$1,450–$3,300

Location

The location of electrical outlets plays a key role in determining project cost. Outlets in unusual or enclosed spots often require more time and effort, which translates to higher labor charges.

Current Wiring

If rewiring is needed, it can add $550 to $2,500 to your total cost. This often depends on the age of your home and the condition of the existing electrical system.

Faceplate Materials

Plastic outlet covers often cost less than $10. Opting for custom or metallic styles can raise the price to over $100 depending on the design.

Switches vs. Sockets

Combo outlets that serve as switches generally cost more to install than basic outlets. This is because of their added functionality and wiring needs.

Advanced Technology

Advanced outlets tend to be more expensive to install. However, features like USB charging or smart home integration can add functionality and lasting value, so they can be well worth the initial investment.

Read more

Electrician Pro Costs in Houston

These are the main things to keep in mind when hiring a licensed electrician in Houston.

Hourly Rates and Minimum Fees

Local Houston electricians charge between $50 and $150 per hour for labor. Most electricians will charge a minimum fee of $100 to $200, regardless of the size of the job. This minimum fee covers the electrician’s cost of travel and materials.

Taxes

Texas doesn’t impose taxes on labor, but materials used in your project are subject to sales tax. In the Houston area, this combined sales tax rate is 8.25% and may be included in your final bill.

Licensing and Insurance Requirements

In Texas, electricians are required to be licensed through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) with credentials as either a journeyman or master electrician. In addition, they must also carry liability insurance. Before your hire, always verify the electrician’s license and insurance to ensure the job is completed safely and adheres to Houston-area electrical regulations.

Permits

The Houston Permitting Center electrical outlet permit entails an admin fee of $33 and an additional fee of $1.32 per outlet, with a minimum fee of $90. Note that only registered master electricians can apply for electrical permits in Houston.

Read more

Does Adding an Electrical Outlet Increase Home Value?

In Houston’s fast-growing housing market, modern functionality can give your home an edge. Most buyers won’t walk in counting outlets, but if your home lacks them, especially in key areas like kitchens, offices, or garages, it can suggest outdated systems or future upgrade costs. Homes that don’t meet Texas electrical code may also require outlet additions to pass inspection.

While a few new outlets won’t drastically boost resale value, additions like USB charging ports or conveniently placed GFCI outlets can make a home feel more turnkey and practical, especially if you're already doing electrical work.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.

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Learn more about our contributor
Alison Kasch
Written by Alison Kasch
Contributing Writer
Alison is a Chicago-based writer who has spent the last seven years focusing her content on everything inside and outside the home.

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