Electrical panel upgrade cost: 100 and 200 amp panels, by state
A 200 amp panel: about $1,950 to $2,750, typically $2,300. That's a new breaker panel with the old one taken out and the circuits moved over, plus the contractor's overhead, profit and sales tax. A bigger service from the utility, a new meter base or service cable, and permits are extra.
Anthony Hicks30+ years in construction. Updated November 5, 2026.
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What it costs
| Job | Cost |
|---|---|
| A 100 amp panel | $1,150 to $1,650 |
| A 200 amp panel | $1,950 to $2,750 |
| A 200 amp panel with arc-fault breakers | $3,350 to $4,100 |
Totals include the contractor's overhead and profit (20%) and the state's average sales tax. Prices as of November 2026.
What’s in these numbers
Each total is a typical job, priced the way a contractor’s estimate is priced:
- A new breaker panel of the size shown, set and wired, with the old panel taken out.
- Overhead and profit: 20%, the standard markup on a contractor’s estimate.
- Sales tax on the materials, at the state’s average rate.
Not in them: a larger service from the utility, a new meter base, service entrance cable or grounding, new circuits, patching the wall, and permits.
Arc-fault breakers
Arc-fault breakers (AFCIs) watch a circuit for the sparking of a damaged wire. The residential code calls for arc-fault protection on the 15 and 20 amp, 120 volt circuits feeding outlets in kitchens, family rooms, dining and living rooms, bedrooms, closets, hallways, laundry areas and similar rooms (IRC E3902.20). When a branch circuit in those rooms is modified, replaced or extended, it gets arc-fault protection too (E3902.21). The third size here prices a 200 amp panel with arc-fault breakers in it.
What moves the price
- Size. A 200 amp panel costs more than a 100 amp one.
- Breakers. Arc-fault and ground-fault breakers cost more than standard ones.
- The service. Going from 100 to 200 amps can mean a new meter base and service cable, and the utility’s work.
- Where it goes. Moving the panel means new cable to every circuit.
- Where you live. Pick your state in the box above.
Common questions
How much does it cost to upgrade an electrical panel?
About $1,950 to $2,750 for a 200 amp panel with the old one taken out, typically $2,300, before any work on the service.
How much is a 100 amp panel?
About $1,150 to $1,650, typically $1,400.
How much is a panel with arc-fault breakers?
About $3,350 to $4,100 for a 200 amp panel with arc-fault breakers.
Do I need a 200 amp panel?
It depends on the house’s load: the heating, cooling, range, water heater, dryer and car charger it runs. An electrician works it out from the load before picking the size.