Panel Upgrade Cost Breakdown: Parts, Labor, Permits, Utility

Typical U.S. ranges

As a planning baseline, a like-for-like panel replacement commonly runs about $1,800–$4,000, while a 100A-to-200A service upgrade commonly runs about $2,500–$5,500 and can go higher with a new mast, underground service, or meter relocation. Major metros with high labor rates and strict permitting land at the top of these ranges.

What's inside a quote

Ask for these items to be shown separately:

• Panel, main breaker, and branch breakers (AFCI/GFCI breakers cost more)
• Meter base, service-entrance conductors, mast or conduit
• Grounding electrode system and bonding upgrades
• Labor, including any circuit re-termination or extension
• Permit and inspection fees
• Utility disconnect/reconnect fees
• Patching drywall or exterior finishes
• Surge protective device (required for services under NEC 2020+)

Where surprises come from

The most common change orders: circuits that are too short to reach the new panel's terminals, aluminum branch wiring that needs special handling, corroded grounding electrodes, code-required AFCI protection on existing circuits when the panel is replaced, and utility requirements discovered at the meter. A thorough site visit before the quote prevents most of these.