Wiring a house is an important part of constructing or renovating a house. If you’re planning to rewire a house, it’s essential to estimate a budget before starting. This guide will tell you the costs of different wiring materials per linear foot. We’ll make an estimated cost to wire a 2,000 sq ft house. Also, get to know what other costs are included in house wiring, such as labor costs and installing electrical panels and outlets.
So, let’s dive into the process of wiring your house.
Average Cost to Wire a House per sq ft
The average cost to wire a new house is $4 to $9 per square foot. Electrical wire pricing is $0.10 to $4.00 per linear foot before installation. These prices do not include labor costs. These are just a rough estimate. The total price will depend on different factors like:
- wire type
- location
- transport cost
- size of the house
- size of the room
- additional features
Average Cost to Wire a 2,000 sq ft house
The average cost to wire a 2,000 square foot house can range from $6,000 to $22,500. However, this is just a rough cost for basic wiring. Basic wiring usually costs less, but if you want extra outlets, special lighting, or high-end materials, the cost can go up.
It is best to take quotes from multiple electricians. These specialists will give you the estimated range according to your specific functions and requirements. They can also give you some recommendations for choosing wire material. Electricians can also help you save money by advising money-saving options.
Breakdown of Cost
Here is a cost breakdown, so you can easily understand different expenses. This table provides you with the estimated cost of wiring in different areas of the house.
Area |
Square feet |
Average cost |
| Kitchen | 100 – 200 | $400 – $1,800 |
| Bedroom | 130 – 230 | $520 – $2,100 |
| Bathroom | 40 – 150 | $160 – $1,400 |
| Living room | 200 – 450 | $800 – $4,100 |
| Basement | 500 – 1,500 | $2,000 – $13,500 |
| Garage | 288 – 576 | $1,200 – $5,200 |
Wire Pricing According to Different Materials
Electrical wire pricing is $0.10 to $4.00 per linear foot. This range does not include the labor cost. The most common wiring used in the house is “NM cables”. These are Non-metallic sheathed cable that costs between $0.50 to $3.00 per linear foot.
| Wire type | Material price per linear foot | Details & uses |
| Coaxial | $0.10 – $0.60 |
|
| Direct buried | $0.50 – $3.00 |
|
| Metallic sheathed AC/BX | $0.60 – $4.00 | Common in exposed interior applications like unfinished basements or garages. |
| Multiple-conductor | $0.20 – $1.00 | Computer, audio/video, security, and fire-protective signaling systems. |
| Non-metallic sheathed (NM cable) | $0.50 – $3.00 |
|
| Ribbon | $0.80 – $1.80 | Use in LED strip lighting, stereo/sound equipment, internal computer connections. |
| Twin-lead | $0.60 – $0.90 |
|
| Underground feeder |
$0.50 – $1.30 | Carries electricity from indoor to outdoor settings, such as garages, and lighting fixtures. |
Labor cost
Labor costs include all the work that the electrician does to install the wiring throughout the house. This includes running wire through walls or underground. Connecting the wires to the switches, outlets, and electrical fixtures. The electrician will also install the main electrical panel and connect it to the power supply. The electricians will ensure that all wiring and power run smoothly all over the house.
Labor costs can vary, but for a 2,000 sq ft house, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $6,000. The more additional features you install, the higher will be the cost.
Electrical Panel Installation Cost
Standard houses in the US use 200-amp electrical panels. You can expect to spend between $1,500 to $3,000 for a 200 amp panel. Installing a new circuit and circuit breaker costs $150 to $300.
Installing a new dedicated circuit costs $250 to $900. Large appliances, kitchens, and bathrooms, require dedicated circuits.
Install Electrical Outlets and Switches
New electrical outlet installation costs $150 to $350. Electrical switches cost $100 to $300 per switch in the house. The kitchen and bathrooms may require large switches, so the cost can vary. These costs can change depending on the type of switch and outlet.
Conclusion
Wiring a house can be expensive but it is important for home security and safety. The cost to wire a 2,000 sq ft house can range from $6,000 to $22,500. However, it is important to understand all the cost factors before starting the task. It is advised to take quotes from multiple electricians so that you can get a perfect estimate according to your requirements.
