How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Electrical Outlet in 2026?
The average cost to replace an electrical outlet is $100 to $250. Here is what electricians charge, when you need a GFCI outlet, and how to replace a standard outlet yourself.
Replacing an electrical outlet is one of the simpler electrical repairs a homeowner can face. The average cost to have an electrician replace a standard outlet runs $100 to $250 per outlet including labor and materials. But this is also one of the most DIY-friendly electrical jobs for a homeowner comfortable with basic safety procedures.
Average Cost to Replace an Outlet in 2026
| Outlet Type | Professional Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard 15-amp outlet | $100 to $175 |
| Standard 20-amp outlet | $100 to $200 |
| GFCI outlet | $130 to $250 |
| AFCI outlet | $150 to $275 |
| USB outlet | $125 to $225 |
| 240-volt outlet (dryer, range) | $200 to $400 |
When Do You Need a GFCI Outlet?
GFCI outlets are required by code in areas where water is present including all bathrooms, kitchens within 6 feet of a sink, garages, unfinished basements, and outdoor locations. A GFCI outlet cuts power within milliseconds if it detects a ground fault, preventing electrocution. If you have standard outlets in any of these locations, replacing them with GFCI outlets is a safety upgrade worth doing immediately. One GFCI outlet can also protect multiple downstream outlets on the same circuit when wired correctly.
Should You DIY It?
Replacing a standard outlet with an identical replacement is one of the most accessible electrical DIY projects. The critical first step before touching any wires is verifying the circuit is dead with a non-contact voltage tester. This tool beeps and lights up near live wires without touching them and is the most important safety tool any DIYer can own. Never rely solely on the breaker being in the off position. Always verify with a tester.
Once you have confirmed power is off, the steps are straightforward: remove the old outlet, note which wires connect to which terminals, connect the same wires to the same terminals on the new outlet, and reinstall.
Verdict: Straightforward DIY for a like-for-like standard outlet replacement. Hire an electrician for 240-volt outlets or if you find aluminum wiring.
Aluminum Wiring Warning
Homes built between 1965 and 1973 may have aluminum wiring, which requires special outlets rated for aluminum (marked CO/ALR). Standard outlets connected to aluminum wiring are a fire hazard. If you see silver-colored wiring in your outlet box, have a licensed electrician assess your home before doing any outlet work.
Bottom Line
Budget $100 to $175 for a standard outlet professionally replaced. For GFCI outlets in required locations budget $130 to $250. If you are comfortable with basic electrical safety, outlet replacement is a solid DIY project that saves $75 to $150 per outlet in labor.
RepairReality is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.