HomeMaintCalcs

Electrical Panel Upgrade Cost — 100A to 400A

Who this is for: For homeowners upgrading an electrical panel — especially before EV charger or heat pump installation.

Panel amperage, sub panel and rewiring in — upgrade cost range.

Quick answer: Electrical panel upgrade: 100A $800–1,500, 200A $1,500–3,000, 400A $2,500–4,500. Sub panel +40%, rewiring +60%. 200A is the standard for modern homes. Permit and inspection required.

Expected cost
$2,250
midpoint estimate
Quote range
$1,500–3,000
permits + inspection included
Power outage
4–6 hours
one workday
Panel upgrade (200A)$800–4,500 by size
Total range$1,500–3,000
Panel work is licensed-electrician territory everywhere — permit and inspection required, DIY voids insurance. Before upgrading for an EV charger: a load calculation may show a load-management device ($400–600) does the job instead.
200A is the modern standard — EV charger + heat pump + electric range coexist. Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels are fire hazards: replace on discovery regardless of symptoms.
Core facts
100A$800–1,500
200A$1,500–3,000
400A$2,500–4,500
Sub panel+40% of base
Rewiring+60% of base
Status2026 US industry averages compiled from HomeAdvisor, Angi, and contractor quotes. Estimates for budgeting — real quotes depend on location, materials, and job complexity.

How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost?

Panel upgrade: 100A $800–1,500, 200A $1,500–3,000, 400A $2,500–4,500. Sub panel adds 40% of base cost. Rewiring adds 60%. A 200A upgrade with sub panel: $2,400–4,200. Panel upgrades are needed before EV chargers (240V circuit), heat pumps (high amperage), and major renovations. Permits and inspection are always required.

Common uses

  • Budgeting a panel upgrade before EV charger or heat pump
  • Checking electrician quotes
  • Deciding 100A vs 200A vs 400A
  • Understanding sub panel and rewiring costs

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an electrical panel upgrade cost?
100A $800–1,500, 200A $1,500–3,000, 400A $2,500–4,500. Sub panel adds $600–1,200, rewiring adds $1,350–2,700. Permits and inspection are required and included in most quotes.
Do I need a 200A panel for an EV charger?
Not necessarily — if your panel has a spare 40–50A slot, a licensed electrician can add a Level 2 charger circuit. 200A is recommended for whole-home electrification (EV + heat pump + induction range).
How long does a panel upgrade take?
4–8 hours typically. Power is off for 4–6 hours. Permit inspection may add a day. Plan for a full day without electricity.
When should I upgrade my electrical panel?
Before: EV charger, heat pump, major renovation, or if you have a 60A–100A panel with frequent breaker trips. Also: Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels are fire hazards and should be replaced immediately.
Can I upgrade my own electrical panel?
Legally: only a licensed electrician can perform panel upgrades in most jurisdictions. Permit and inspection required. DIY electrical panel work is dangerous and will void insurance.

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