How much does an electrician charge per hour?

# Electrician Hourly Rates

Electrician hourly rates in the US typically range from $50–$100+ per hour, though this varies significantly by:

Location: Urban areas and high cost-of-living regions charge more than rural areas. California, New York, and major metros tend to be on the higher end.

Experience level: Apprentices are cheaper; master electricians or specialists command premium rates.

Type of work: Emergency/after-hours service often costs 1.5–2x the standard rate. Complex jobs may cost more.

Service call fees: Many electricians charge $75–$150 just to diagnose the problem, which may be waived if you hire them for the work.

## Other pricing models Many electricians charge flat rates for specific jobs (outlet installation, panel upgrade, etc.) rather than hourly—this can actually be better for budgeting. For larger projects, you'll get a project estimate upfront.

Tip: Get quotes from 2–3 local electricians to compare rates in your area. On electrician.city, you can search for contractors near you and often find reviews mentioning their pricing structure. Always ask upfront whether they charge hourly, flat-rate, or both, and if there's a service call fee.