Prices for built in microwave ovens vary by size, features, and installation. The cost shown here focuses on the typical price range you can expect for 20″ to 24″ built in microwaves, with attention to the main drivers like unit price, installation, and potential upgrades. The keyword price appears early to align with search intent.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in microwave unit | $600 | $900 | $1,800 | Assumes mid-range convection or sensor models |
| Installation labor | $150 | $400 | $900 | Mounted into cabinet or wall; electrical work may vary |
| Electrical work upgrades | $100 | $350 | $900 | New circuit or 20A/15A compatibility |
| Trim kit and finishing panels | $20 | $120 | $300 | Optional aesthetic upgrades |
| Delivery | $20 | $60 | $150 | Door-to-door or curbside |
| Permits and inspections | $0 | $50 | $200 | Depends on local rules |
Typical Total Cost for 24″ Built-In Microwaves
Most homeowners pay between $800 and $1,900 for a 24″ built-in microwave with basic installation. In higher-end kitchens with convection features, smart controls, and premium trim, total costs can reach $2,400 or more. Assumptions: standard cabinet cutout, existing 120V outlet, Midwest labor rates.
| Scenario | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Convection 24″ model, standard install | $1,000 | $1,350 | $1,900 | Includes unit + labor |
| Smart features with trim kit | $1,200 | $1,600 | $2,400 | Wi-Fi, app control, sensors |
Major Cost Components in Built-In Microwave Quotes
The quote breaks down into four to six parts. Materials and unit price cover the microwave itself plus trim kits. Labor handles removal of the old unit and new installation. Electrical work may require permits or upgrades. Delivery and disposal add a modest extra. A short estimation can help compare quotes.
| Component | Low | Average | High | What drives the cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microwave unit | $600 | $900 | $1,800 | Size, features | Convection or smart controls raise price |
| Labor | $150 | $400 | $900 | Install complexity | Access and cabinet modification impact |
| Electrical work | $100 | $350 | $900 | New circuit needs | May require electrician |
| Trim/finishing | $20 | $120 | $300 | Visual finish | Optional upgrade |
| Delivery | $20 | $60 | $150 | Distance to home | Local vs. distant delivery |
| Permits | $0 | $50 | $200 | Local rules | Not always required |
Size and Configuration How They Drive Price
Size matters: 20″ and 24″ wide models have different cabinet cutouts and ventilation needs. A 20″ unit may cost $500-$900 for the shell, with installation around $200-$500, while a 24″ unit with convection features tends to push totals higher. When choosing a configuration, consider Assumptions: standard cabinet dimensions, single-wall installation.
Feature Tiers That Shift the Price Picture
Basic sensors and turntable models are cheaper than convection and smart-control models with built-in Wi-Fi and voice integration. Expect price gaps of roughly $150-$700 between entry-level and premium tiers for the same 24″ footprint. Assumptions: mid-range brand, normal installation, urban market.
Regional Price Variations for Built-In Microwaves by Zone
Coast and metro areas tend to command higher labor rates than rural markets. Midwest pricing might land in the $800-$1,600 range for standard installs, while West Coast projects can push toward $1,000-$2,000 depending on proximity to retailers and electricians. Regional delta estimates help buyers budget accurately. Assumptions: typical labor, standard materials, regular access.
Labor Time, Crew Size, and Scheduling Impacts on Cost
Most installs take 2-6 hours with a single technician, but complex cabinet work or updated electrical can extend to 8-12 hours with two installers. If scheduling requires expedited service, expect a 15-25% rush fee. Budget for permitting delays only where required. Assumptions: standard cabinets, no major electrical upgrades.
Per-Unit Quotes vs Project Scenarios for a Full Kitchen
For a kitchen with multiple built-in appliances, per-unit pricing often drops slightly due to bundled labor. A single 24″ microwave may cost $1,000-$1,600 including install, but a paired setup with a wall oven and microwave combo might price at $2,500-$3,500.
Practical Ways to Cut Price on Built-In Microwaves
Control scope by choosing standard features, avoiding premium trim, and aligning cutouts to existing cabinets. Opt for a non-convection model if baking results are acceptable, and compare multiple quotes to leverage competition. Bundling delivery and installation can reduce total costs by 5-15%. Assumptions: mid-range market, standard cabinetry.
Three Realistic Quote Scenarios with Specs and Totals
Scenario A: 24″ basic model, standard install — unit $800, labor $350, delivery $40, permits $0; Total $1,190.
Scenario B: 24″ convection model, upgraded trim, single-wall install — unit $1,300, labor $450, trim $120, delivery $60; Total $1,930.
Scenario C: 20″ smart model, new circuit, comprehensive trim and disposal — unit $1,000, labor $520, electrical $300, trim $150, disposal $40; Total $2,010.
| Quote Scenario | Unit | Labor | Electrical | Trim | Delivery | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | $800 | $350 | $0 | $0 | $40 | $1,190 |
| B | $1,300 | $450 | $0 | $120 | $60 | $1,930 |
| C | $1,000 | $520 | $300 | $150 | $40 | $2,010 |
Regional, Labor, and Material Variables That Move the Price
Two numeric drivers commonly shift the final quote: (1) cabinet depth and cutout accuracy (measured in inches) and (2) required electrical upgrades (amps and wiring type). A deeper cabinet and a difficult cut can add $100-$250 in labor. Revisions to a 20A outlet to support a smart microwave can add $150-$350 in electrical work. Assumptions: normal installation terrain, standard local permits.
What Affects the Price Most in a Built-In Microwave Project
Primary cost movers are unit size and feature set, installation complexity, and electrical readiness. A high-end convection-smart unit in a tight cabinet with a new circuit can push total costs above $2,500, whereas a basic non-convection model in a straightforward cabinet can stay under $1,200.