Recessed Lighting Installation Cost: Homeowner Pricing Breakdown
Angi puts the national average cost to install recessed lighting at $1,800 for a standard project. Fixr calls $550 to $1,500 a mid-range installation, with the count and type of lights setting the price. Because pricing is usually per light, the number of fixtures matters most.
Recessed lighting installation cost breakdown
| Setup | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Existing ceiling (remodel housing) | $125 to $300 per light | HomeGuide |
| New construction | $65 to $175 per light | HomeGuide |
| Kitchen, six lights | $700 to $1,650 | HomeGuide |
| Budget installation | $30 to $400 per light | Fixr |
| Mid-range installation | see intro | Fixr |
| Average install | $330 per fixture | Bob Vila |
| Standard project average | $1,800 | Angi |
| Whole-house smart lighting (high end) | up to $16,770 | Fixr |
HomeGuide notes that fixtures for an existing ceiling need remodel housings. Bob Vila lists housing types at $10 to $160 per light, and says a recessed light with baffle trim costs between $5 and $80.
Labor vs. materials
HomeGuide says electricians charge $40 to $100 per hour plus materials. Angi lists $50 to $120 per hour and says many projects carry a minimum service fee. Angi also says labor is often billed per fixture, at $60 to $150 each depending on complexity and regional rates. For do-it-yourself materials, HomeGuide gives $50 to $150 per light, and Angi estimates $250 to $800 for a small project.
Ceiling type and wiring complexity
HomeGuide reports savings of 40% to 50% when can lights go in while the ceiling is still open during new construction. It adds that an electrician who has to route wiring around joists or ducts charges an extra $200 per light, so open framing is the cheapest time to do the work. Cost also follows what you add: HomeGuide lists a dimmer switch at $55 to $150, and an LED retrofit kit for old fixtures at $5 to $40.
Permits and finishing
Angi puts permit and inspection fees at $150 to $250. HomeGuide says touching up the walls and ceiling after installation costs $1 to $3 per square foot for interior painting. Our electrical cost guides cover related jobs.
Return on investment
Angi reports a return of 50% to 80% for these projects, strongest in kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.
DIY vs. hiring a pro
Fixr says replacing an existing light yourself can cost as little as $20. Adding new circuits or working in the panel involves shock and fire risk, so use a licensed electrician for that work, and ask whether your area requires a permit.
Ways to save
- Install during open ceilings: HomeGuide says new construction can cost 40% to 50% less per light.
- Keep the count down: Pricing is per light, so fewer fixtures lower the total.
- Bundle with other work: Ask the electrician to price recessed lights along with other electrical tasks so you pay one service fee.
- Compare itemized bids: Ask for separate lines for labor, housings, trims, and patching.
How to get an accurate quote
Ask each electrician early on whether they price per light or by the hour, and whether the quote includes permits, patching, painting, and any minimum service fee. Check their license and insurance before you sign. If a bid is far above or below the figures in this guide, ask what is driving the difference, such as ceiling access, the number of lights, or add-ons like dimmers.
What changes the price
- Existing ceiling versus new construction
- Ceiling obstacles such as joists and ductwork
- Number and layout of recessed fixtures
- Fixture housing, trim, and bulb selections
- Electrical permits and municipal code inspections
- Drywall repair and ceiling paint touch-ups
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install recessed lighting per light?
HomeGuide gives $125 to $300 per light in an existing ceiling and $65 to $175 in new construction, while Bob Vila averages $330 per fixture.
How much does a kitchen cost?
HomeGuide puts a six-light kitchen installation at $700 to $1,650.
Does recessed lighting need a dimmer?
Not required by the figures above, but a dimmer switch is an optional add-on that HomeGuide lists at $55 to $150.
What does an LED retrofit kit cost?
HomeGuide lists LED retrofit kits for old recessed fixtures at $5 to $40.
Sources
Related cost guides
Figures are estimates based on the sources above and vary by region, home and contractor. Get at least three written quotes before you hire. See our disclaimer and how we research.