Handyman Price List: How Much Does a Handyman Cost? [2025 Data]

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

The cost to hire a handyman averages $410, ranging from $177 to $690 on average. Prices depend on the type of project, its complexity, and your location. Understanding these costs helps you budget for your next home repair or improvement. This guide explains what impacts the cost to hire a handyman, so you can plan confidently and make the most of your investment.

Hire a Handyman Cost Factors

The cost to hire a handyman is influenced by several factors, from the type of task to material choices and labor. Let’s break down what goes into the final bill.

Types

Handyman services cover a broad range of home repairs and improvements. Common tasks include minor repairs like fixing leaky faucets, installations such as hanging shelves or mounting TVs, and general maintenance like caulking or weatherproofing. Small jobs (like changing a doorknob) cost less than more involved projects (such as drywall patching or installing fixtures). Specialized tasks—especially those involving electrical, plumbing, or carpentry—command higher rates due to the skills and tools required.

Many handymen have a minimum service fee for single small jobs, which ensures their time and travel are covered.

Size

The overall size and scope of your project play a major role in the cost to hire a handyman. Single-room or isolated repairs cost less than projects involving multiple rooms or whole-house maintenance. Bundling several small tasks into one visit provides better value than scheduling them separately. For example, combining light fixture replacements, door adjustments, and minor painting can save on minimum service fees and travel charges.

Longer projects—those that require several hours or a full day—will cost more, but you may negotiate a flat rate for bundled work.

Materials

Material costs depend on the project and whether you or your handyman provide the supplies. If the handyman purchases materials, expect a markup for sourcing and delivery—10% to 30% above retail. For basic jobs, materials may be minimal (like screws or caulk), but larger projects (such as fixture installations or painting) require more substantial purchases.

Labor

Handyman labor costs vary by provider. Independent handymen charge lower rates, while companies or franchises may cost more due to overhead and insurance. Hourly rates range from $50 to $150, but flat-fee pricing is common for well-defined tasks. Most handymen have a minimum call-out fee, covering the first hour of labor. For example, even a 10-minute job may still cost the minimum fee.

More experienced, licensed, or insured handyman professionals may charge at the higher end, especially for specialized or riskier work. Regional differences also play a part: urban and high-cost-of-living areas tend to have higher rates than rural or low-cost regions.

Prep

Preparing the work area can add to your total cost. If your handyman needs to move furniture, protect flooring, or cover surfaces before starting, this prep time is billed as labor. Some projects require disposal or cleanup of old materials, which may be charged separately—especially for jobs involving debris or hazardous waste. Working in hard-to-reach spots, such as attics or crawl spaces, can also result in additional charges.

Tipping

Tipping a handyman is not mandatory but is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for quality work. For small jobs, a tip of $10 to $20 is common, while larger or more complex projects may warrant $20 to $50. Some homeowners prefer to offer refreshments or write positive reviews instead. Referrals to friends or neighbors are also valued by most handymen.

Additional Cost Factors

Several extra factors can increase the cost to hire a handyman:

• Permit fees for electrical, plumbing, or structural work, if required by local codes

• Inspection costs, when mandated by your municipality

• Demolition or removal of old fixtures and materials

• Post-project cleanup and debris disposal

• Custom or specialty work, such as unique carpentry or tailored installations

• Travel charges for jobs outside the normal service area

• Emergency or rush service fees for urgent needs

• Upcharges for work performed outside standard business hours or on weekends

Hire a Handyman Ongoing Costs

Handyman services are not always one-time expenses—some projects and services involve ongoing costs worth considering.

Maintenance

Handymen can help with regular home maintenance, such as seasonal checks, gutter cleaning, caulking, and weatherproofing. Scheduling routine visits (annually or seasonally) helps prevent costly repairs and keeps your home in top shape. Maintenance visits cost less per task than one-off emergency calls, and you may be able to negotiate a flat rate for recurring work.

Operating Costs

Some handyman-installed features—like appliances, fixtures, or smart home devices—have their own ongoing maintenance or operating costs. Handyman companies may offer service contracts or ongoing agreements for regular upkeep at a discounted rate. Some providers also have subscription or membership programs, granting priority scheduling or bundled services for a monthly or annual fee.

Repairs

Handymen handle both minor and major repairs, from patching drywall and fixing loose tiles to adjusting doors and repairing leaky faucets. Minor repairs are less expensive and quicker to complete, while more significant fixes cost more due to time and materials. Repair costs are distinct from installation or maintenance, as they address specific issues rather than ongoing care or upgrades.

Insurance

Most reputable handymen carry liability insurance, which protects you and your property in case of accidental damage. This coverage can impact the overall cost—insured professionals may charge higher rates, but the peace of mind is worth the extra expense. Check if your homeowner’s insurance covers handyman work, particularly for higher-risk projects. For large or complex jobs, you may need to pay for additional insurance or bonds.

DIY Handyman vs. Hiring a Pro

Deciding between DIY and hiring a handyman comes down to cost, skill, and time. While DIY saves on labor, tool and material costs can add up, especially for tasks requiring specialized equipment. You’ll need basic hand tools (like a drill, screwdrivers, wrench set, and level) and possibly ladders, safety gear, or specialty tools for certain jobs. DIY requires time, patience, and a willingness to learn—plus an honest assessment of your skills.

Safety is a major consideration. Mistakes can lead to injury, code violations, or voided warranties. In some cases, tackling a project yourself could cost more in the long run if errors need professional correction. For complex, high-risk, or time-consuming tasks, it’s best to hire a professional handyman.

Cost of Common Handyman Add-Ons

Handymen offer a variety of add-on services to enhance your project. These include:

• Caulking around tubs, windows, or doors

• Minor painting or touch-ups

• Weatherproofing doors and windows

• Curtain/blind installation

• Hanging artwork or mirrors

Bundling multiple add-ons into one visit can reduce your overall cost by minimizing travel and minimum service fees. Some handymen offer premium options, such as expedited service or extended warranties, for an extra charge.

Tips to Save On the Cost to Hire a Handyman

Use these budgeting tips to save on project fees when you hire a handyman:

• Bundle multiple small tasks into one visit to save on minimum fees.

• Provide your own materials when possible to avoid markups.

• Prepare the work area in advance to reduce labor time.

• Get multiple quotes to compare rates and services.

• Schedule during off-peak times for potential discounts.

• Clearly communicate project scope to avoid change orders.

• Ask about package deals or loyalty discounts for repeat customers.

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’ve surveyed over 30,000 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.