Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost Guide
What actually drives the price of a panel upgrade or replacement in Texas — without a flat number that won't match your home.
Quick Answer
Panel upgrade pricing depends mainly on the amperage target, whether a subpanel is involved, and how much of the existing grounding and bonding needs to be brought up to current code. A load calculation during the visit determines the actual scope before any number is finalized.
What Affects Cost
- Amperage upgrade size — a 100A-to-200A upgrade is a bigger job than a like-for-like panel swap
- Subpanel additions — adding a subpanel for a garage or shop adds materials and labor
- Grounding and bonding — bringing older grounding up to current code can add scope
- Permits and inspection — required in most Texas jurisdictions for panel work
- Utility coordination — some upgrades require scheduling a temporary service disconnect with the utility
Repair vs. Full Replacement
Not every panel issue needs a full replacement — see circuit breaker repair if a single component, not the whole panel, is the actual problem.
Getting an Accurate Number
Because the right scope depends on a load calculation and a look at the existing panel, the most accurate number comes after describing the situation on a call and, for most panel work, an in-person evaluation.
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Does upgrading from 100A to 200A cost more than a straightforward repair?
Yes, generally — an amperage upgrade involves more materials and labor than repairing a single component, and may also require utility coordination.
Does a panel upgrade always require a permit?
In most Texas jurisdictions, yes. Permit and inspection costs and timing are factored into the overall project.
What makes one panel upgrade cost more than another?
Amperage target, whether a subpanel is also being added, grounding/bonding work needed to meet current code, and any utility coordination required all affect the total.
Does a bigger house always mean a bigger panel-upgrade bill?
Not necessarily — square footage matters less than the target amperage, existing wiring condition, and whether a subpanel is added.
Can I get a firm price before the crew arrives?
A general range can often be given over the phone based on the current panel and desired amperage; a firm number typically follows an on-site load calculation.
Does the brand of panel affect the price?
Yes, somewhat — panel and breaker brand availability can affect material cost, though labor is usually the larger share of the total.
Is financing available for a panel upgrade?
Financing availability varies — ask when you call if cost is a factor in timing the project.
Considering a Panel Upgrade?
Call to describe your current panel and what you're adding.