Cost Guide
Electrical Cost in Tennessee
Average project costs in Tennessee — get free estimates to compare local prices
| Service | Low | High |
|---|
| Panel Upgrade | $1500 | $4000 |
| Emergency Electrical | $200 | $600 |
| EV Charger Installation | $500 | $2000 |
| Outlet & Switch Repair | $100 | $350 |
| Ceiling Fan Installation | $150 | $450 |
| Generator Installation | $3000 | $12000 |
| Lighting Installation | $200 | $800 |
| Wiring & Rewiring | $150 | $600 |
| Smoke Detector Install | $100 | $300 |
| Electrical Inspection | $100 | $300 |
| Knob & Tube Rewiring | $3500 | $15000 |
| Whole House Rewiring | $3500 | $15000 |
| Surge Protection | $200 | $600 |
| Solar Electrical | $1500 | $5000 |
| Battery Backup Systems | $3000 | $8000 |
Costs vary by location, scope, and materials. Get free estimates for accurate local pricing.
FAQ
Reviewed by the HomeAdvisor.cc Editorial Team • Pricing data last reviewed July 2026
Pool & Hot Tub Electrical Installation | Licensed Electrician Services
Common questions about Electrical in Tennessee
How do I add circuits for a home addition in ?
Adding circuits for a home addition requires a licensed electrician to: (1) assess available panel capacity, (2) size the new circuits for planned loads, (3) pull a permit, (4) run conduit or cable per Tennessee code, and (5) pass the rough-in inspection before walls close. If your panel is at capacity, an upgrade or subpanel addition will be part of the project. Budget \$500–\$2,000+ per added circuit.
What smart home electrical upgrades are worth it in Tennessee?
High-value smart home electrical upgrades in Tennessee: smart panel monitors (Span, Leviton) for real-time energy tracking, smart switches and dimmers on main living areas, outdoor GFCI outlets for entertainment areas, and a whole-home surge protector. If you have solar or plan to add it, a solar-ready panel (400A, load center with interconnect breaker) avoids a costly panel replacement later.
How much does a home generator installation cost in Tennessee?
A standby whole-home generator in Tennessee costs \$5,000–\$15,000 installed depending on size (11–22kW for most homes) and fuel type (natural gas runs \$1–\$3/hour; propane \$3–\$6/hour). Portable generators cost \$800–\$3,000 plus a transfer switch (required by code: \$500–\$1,500). Tennessee's severe weather makes generators a priority purchase — ask your electrician about load calculation to size correctly.
What does rough-in electrical work involve for a remodel in ?
Rough-in electrical for a kitchen or bathroom remodel in involves running new circuits before walls close: dedicated 20A circuits for kitchen countertop appliances, 20A circuit for bathroom GFCI protection, vent fan wiring, and under-cabinet lighting rough-in. A licensed electrician coordinates with your GC on the inspection schedule. Permit and inspection is required before walls are closed.
Can an electrician lower my electric bill in Tennessee?
Yes — a licensed electrician in Tennessee can: install a whole-home energy monitor to identify high-draw appliances, add a smart thermostat (10–15% HVAC savings), install LED dimmer switches, add attic ventilation fans, and wire for solar panel interconnection. Many Tennessee utilities offer energy audits or rebates on efficiency upgrades — ask your electrician about available programs.
What is a subpanel and when do I need one in ?
A subpanel is a secondary distribution board fed from your main panel — used when the main is full or when circuits need to run to a detached garage, workshop, or addition in . A 60A or 100A subpanel costs \$800–\$2,500 installed. It's less expensive than a full panel upgrade when you only need more circuits in one area. A licensed electrician will assess whether a subpanel or full main panel upgrade is the right call.
How do I prepare my home for an electric vehicle?
EV readiness in starts with a 240V/50A dedicated circuit to your garage or parking area — typically a Level 2 EVSE outlet. If your panel is at capacity, it may need an upgrade or a managed-charging EVSE that limits draw when other loads are high. Budget \$800–\$2,500 for the circuit and outlet installation. The federal EV charger tax credit covers 30% of installation costs through 2032.
What electrical work requires a licensed electrician vs. DIY in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, these always require a licensed electrician: panel work, service entrance, adding new circuits, EV charger wiring, generator installation, and any work in the meter base. Minor fixture swaps and outlet replacements are DIY-legal in most Tennessee jurisdictions but require proper knowledge and correct materials. When in doubt, the cost of a licensed electrician (typically \$100–\$200/hour) is far less than the cost of an insurance claim or fire damage.
