How Much Does It Cost to Install Under-Cabinet Lighting? [2026 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

In 2026, the national average cost to install under-cabinet lighting is $400, with most homeowners spending between $200 and $800 depending on fixture type, cabinet run length, and wiring complexity. Costs can climb higher for custom, hardwired systems, while basic plug-in LED strips sit at the lower end of the range.

Under-Cabinet Lighting Cost by Size: How Does Length Affect Price?

Under-cabinet lighting costs range from $100 for a small, partial installation to $1,500 or more for a large kitchen. Most kitchen installations span 10 to 25 linear feet and cost $250 to $1,200. Measuring the exact linear footage of the cabinet bases you want to light before getting quotes tells you how many fixtures you need and keeps estimates accurate. 

The table below compares average under-cabinet lighting costs across four cabinet length ranges, from small partial installations to large multi-run kitchens:

How Much Does Under-Cabinet Lighting Cost by Type?

Your choice of lighting type plays a major role in determining the cost of under-cabinet lighting. Here's a look at the most common options:

• LED strip or tape lights: Popular for their energy efficiency and low profile, these cost $20 to $50 per linear foot and provide even, continuous light.

• Puck lights: These are small, round fixtures that cost $10 to $30 each and are ideal for spot lighting, though they may create uneven illumination.

• Light bars: Offering bright, uniform coverage, light bars cost $30 to $60 per bar.

• Fluorescent fixtures: These are less common now but remain affordable, costing $15 to $40 per fixture.

• Xenon and halogen lights: These lighting options offer warmer tones but use more energy and run hotter, with costs ranging from $25 to $50 per fixture.

• Plug-in systems: Plug-in systems are easier to install and cost less, whereas hardwired options require professional installation and additional wiring, increasing your total cost.

• Battery-operated lights: Battery-powered lights are convenient for quick upgrades, but they may require frequent battery replacements.

• Smart lighting: Integration with an app or voice control adds convenience but also increases cost.

Under-Cabinet Lighting Costs by Location: Where Does It Cost the Most?

Where you live meaningfully affects what you pay for under-cabinet lighting, with urban areas and high-cost-of-living regions carrying higher labor rates and material prices. Rural locations tend to have lower labor costs, though a smaller pool of available professionals can mean longer wait times. In some markets, specialty or high-end fixtures are also priced higher due to limited local availability, so it pays to compare quotes from multiple pros before committing.

Installation Area Within the Home

The room where you install under-cabinet lighting might introduce its own set of challenges that affect both complexity and cost. Wet areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms require moisture-resistant fixtures and GFCI protection, while workshops and garages may need brighter, more durable lights and specialized wiring. Limited access behind cabinets in any location can add labor time regardless of the room. 

Under-Cabinet Lighting Cost Factors: What Determines the Price?

Several variables shape the final cost of an under-cabinet lighting project, and understanding them before you start helps you budget more accurately. The sections below break down the most significant cost factors to consider.

Labor

Labor makes up 40% to 60% of your total under-cabinet lighting cost, so choosing the right pro matters. Electricians charge $50 to $120 per hour, while handypersons generally run $40 to $80 per hour. Complex wiring, thick cabinet materials, or hard-to-reach spaces will increase the time a pro spends on your project, and regional labor rates vary enough that getting quotes from multiple pros in your area is always a smart move.

Permits

Permits are required only for hardwired under-cabinet lighting installations, with costs ranging from $25 to $150 depending on your local regulations. Some municipalities also require a post-installation inspection to confirm the work meets code, which can add to both your overall cost and your project timeline.

Additional Features

Add-on features can increase the cost of your under-cabinet lighting installation, including:

• Adding dimmers, remote controls, or smart home integration increases both material and installation costs.

• Specialty lighting, such as color-changing LEDs, motion sensors, or an adjustable brightness feature, requires more advanced wiring and sometimes additional components.

• Custom wiring, hidden outlets, and integrated power strips also add to your total under-cabinet lighting cost.

Additional Cost Factors to Consider

Your under-cabinet lighting installation cost can depend on the following factors:

• Project complexity: Factors such as multi-zone lighting, custom layouts, or integration with your home's electrical system will increase costs.

• Accessibility: Difficult access to wiring or obstacles behind cabinets can require extra labor.

• Site preparation: Removing old lighting, prepping surfaces, or patching and painting increases your project time and cost.

• Design or consultation fees: Custom lighting plans may involve additional costs.

• Post-installation cleanup and debris removal: This could be a small but necessary expense.

• Inspection costs: Some electrical work requires a final inspection, which may be charged separately.

Under-Cabinet Lighting Additional Costs: What to Budget For

Beyond installation, several additional and ongoing costs can affect your total under-cabinet lighting budget. The sections below cover the key items to factor in before finalizing your estimate.

Warranties

Most under-cabinet lighting fixtures come with a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship for one to three years. Extended warranties are available for an additional $20 to $50 and offer longer-term protection, though both standard and extended warranties cover parts and sometimes labor, but exclude accidental damage or improper installation.

Operating Costs

Operating costs vary by fixture type, with LED lights being the most energy-efficient option at just $1 to $5 per year for standard kitchen use. Fluorescent, xenon, and halogen fixtures consume more electricity, pushing annual operating costs to $10 or more. Choosing LEDs not only lowers your utility bills but also reduces how often you need to replace bulbs.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance for under-cabinet lighting is straightforward: wipe the fixtures with a soft cloth to remove dust and grease, and address flickering or dimming by tightening connections or replacing bulbs. LED systems last up to 25,000 hours, making bulb replacement rare, whereas fluorescent, xenon, and halogen fixtures need new bulbs every 1 to 3 years at $5 to $20 each.

Taxes

Sales tax on fixtures and materials ranges from 5% to 10% depending on your state, and some areas also apply tax to installation services. Check with your installer or local tax office before finalizing your budget so you are not caught off guard by additional charges.

Insurance

Upgrading your electrical system for hardwired under-cabinet lighting may affect your homeowner's insurance, and some providers require notification or proof of professional installation to maintain coverage. Before work begins, confirm that your contractor carries adequate liability insurance to protect against accidental damage during the installation.

DIY Under-Cabinet Lighting Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Many homeowners wonder if they can save money by installing under-cabinet lights themselves. Here’s how the costs compare.

DIY Cost Considerations

DIY under-cabinet lighting installation is most practical for plug-in or battery-operated systems, with material costs ranging from $50 to $300 depending on the type and quality of lights you choose. Basic tools like a drill, wire strippers, and a voltage tester are all you need for simpler systems, and most plug-in or battery setups are manageable for homeowners of any skill level. Hardwired systems are a different matter, requiring solid electrical knowledge and careful attention to safety to avoid risks such as electric shock or code violations. Plan for two to six hours for a standard DIY project, regardless of the system type.

Professional Installation Cost Comparison

Hiring a local LED light installer adds $100 to $500 or more in labor costs, but guarantees your lighting is installed safely and up to code, which is especially important for hardwired, custom, or smart systems. Before deciding between DIY and professional installation, weigh your skill level, available time, and project complexity, since mistakes on hardwired systems can lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. Costs vary by installation method, as shown in the table below:

Under-Cabinet Lighting Replacement vs. Repair

Sometimes, fixing your current lighting is possible—and more affordable—than a complete replacement.

When to Repair vs. Replace

Minor issues like loose wires, flickering, or burned-out bulbs can often be repaired for a small fee. If your fixtures are outdated, have recurring problems, or show signs of electrical damage, replacement is the safer choice. 

Always check your warranty before paying for repairs. Most under-cabinet lighting lasts five to 15 years, depending on type and usage.

Cost Comparison

Repair costs range from $20 to $100 per fixture or $50 to $150 per hour for professional help. Full replacement costs $100 to $500 per fixture or $200 to $800 for a complete system. If repair costs approach half the price of replacement (the 50% rule), replacement is the better investment.

Does Under-Cabinet Lighting Add Value to Your Home?

Under-cabinet lighting can offer a strong return on investment. It makes kitchens and workspaces more functional and attractive—two qualities buyers look for most. Energy-efficient lighting upgrades may also lower utility bills and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. 

Compared to other kitchen upgrades, under-cabinet lighting is affordable and delivers immediate impact. Improved safety, better visibility, and a modern look all contribute to your home’s appeal and market value.

Tips to Reduce Under-Cabinet Lighting Costs

Consider the following tips to keep your under-cabinet lighting costs within budget:

• Get multiple quotes from licensed professionals.

• Choose energy-efficient LED fixtures for long-term savings.

• Opt for plug-in or battery-powered lights to avoid electrical work.

• Install lighting only in high-use areas to limit material costs.

• Purchase materials during sales or with bulk discounts.

• Consider DIY installation for simple, plug-in systems.

• Reuse existing wiring or fixtures when possible.

• Bundle installation with other electrical projects to save on labor.

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 extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on 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. 

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