How Much Does an Electrician Cost in Austin, TX?

Quick facts	Answer
Cost range	$40 to $100 per hour; most projects $150 to $400
Time	Varies by job - a 200-amp panel upgrade can take most of a workday
Who's qualified	Must hold a Texas state license; electricians must also be registered with the City of Austin

What do common Austin electrical jobs cost?

Many Austin jobs are quoted at flat rates instead of by the hour. Outlet or switch replacement runs $100 to $250, and ceiling fan installation runs $175 to $400. A 200-amp panel upgrade is listed at $1,500 to $3,500.

How much does a service call cost in Austin?

Austin homeowners typically pay a $75 to $150 service-call fee, which often covers the first hour on site. Emergency electricians may charge $150+ per hour for evenings, weekends, and holidays.

What does a larger project cost in Austin?

Level 2 EV charger installation is listed at $1,200 to $2,500. Whole-home rewiring is commonly quoted at $5,000 to $20,000. A whole-house surge protector, useful in Austin's storm-prone climate, is listed at $300 to $700.

What licensing must an Austin electrician have?

Texas requires anyone who performs electrical work in the state to be licensed. Electrical contractors must carry at least $300,000 per occurrence and $600,000 aggregate in liability insurance.

What to do next

Verify the contractor's Texas electrical license on the TDLR license search before work begins.
Confirm the contractor is registered with the City of Austin, as the city requires for trade contractors.
Ask that the quote show the contractor's phone number and license number, as TDLR requires on proposals and contracts.
Ask whether a building or trade permit is required for your job and who will pull it.
Call (737) 367-2100 or email [email protected] for a free referral to a licensed, insured local electrician.

Austin Volts is a free referral service: an independent contractor does the work and may pay us a referral fee. You never pay us anything.

Quick answers

Is the Austin Volts referral service free?

Yes, Austin Volts is a free referral service that connects you with a licensed, insured electrician. We do not perform the work ourselves.

How long are Texas electrician licenses valid?

Texas electrician licenses are valid for one year from issuance and must be renewed annually. Check the license date before hiring.

What minimum liability insurance must an electrical contractor carry in Texas?

Texas requires $300,000 per occurrence, $600,000 aggregate, and $300,000 aggregate for products and completed operations. Ask for proof of coverage.

Do I need a permit for electrical work in Austin?

Austin recommends checking for an active building permit and any required trade permits before construction begins. Your electrician should be able to confirm which permits apply.