A GE microwave oven typically costs $100-$1,500 before installation, with most countertop models near $200 and many over-the-range units around $400. The final price depends on type, capacity, features, cabinet fit, delivery, and whether electrical or venting work is needed.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countertop GE microwave | $100 | $200 | $400 | Compact through larger models |
| Over-the-range GE microwave | $250 | $400 | $700 | Typically includes a vent fan and cooktop light |
| Built-in GE microwave | $500 | $900 | $1,500 | Trim kit or cabinet work may cost extra |
| Basic installation | $100 | $225 | $500 | Price depends on type and existing setup |
What GE microwave buyers usually pay by type
For a standard GE countertop microwave, a practical budget is $100-$300, with an average around $200. Smaller units with roughly 0.7-1.1 cubic feet of capacity tend to occupy the lower end; larger 1.6-2.2-cubic-foot models, sensor cooking, and convection features can push the shelf price toward $400 or more.
GE over-the-range microwaves generally run $250-$700, with many conventional models priced around $350-$500. Built-in units usually cost $500-$1,500, excluding any separate trim kit or cabinet modifications. GE Profile models and units with convection, advanced sensors, or premium finishes can exceed these typical ranges.
For a basic replacement, allow about $200 for a countertop model or $400 for an over-the-range unit before delivery and installation. These are product-only estimates, not guaranteed retailer prices. Assumptions: New GE appliance, standard finish, ordinary U.S. retail availability, and no unusual cabinet or electrical work.
How the appliance, labor, and venting shape the quote
A complete quote can include the microwave, installation labor, delivery, haul-away, and small materials. Countertop units often need no installation beyond positioning and plugging into an appropriate outlet. An over-the-range replacement involves lifting and securing the appliance, connecting it to the existing power supply, and checking the vent arrangement.
| Quote item | Countertop range | Over-the-range range | Built-in range | What changes the charge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appliance | $100-$400 | $250-$700 | $500-$1,500 | Capacity, features, and model line |
| Labor | $0-$75 | $150-$350 | $200-$500 | Mounting, cabinet fit, and wiring access |
| Delivery and setup | $0-$100 | $50-$150 | $50-$150 | Retailer and delivery distance |
| Haul-away | $0-$50 | $25-$75 | $25-$75 | Local service and appliance size |
| Trim kit or small materials | $0-$30 | $0-$50 | $100-$400 | Model compatibility and fit |
Installation providers may charge a flat fee or an hourly rate, often about $75-$125 per hour. A straightforward over-the-range swap may take 1-2 hours when the mounting plate, outlet, and vent are usable. A built-in installation can take longer if a trim kit or cabinet adjustment is required.
Ask whether the estimate includes mounting hardware, delivery, disposal, and any trim kit; a low appliance price alone does not show the complete project cost. Retail installation packages vary, so confirm what work is excluded before comparing quotes.
Capacity, ventilation, and cabinet fit that raise GE prices
Capacity is a useful price clue, but it is not the only one. Compact countertop models around 0.7-1.1 cubic feet often cost $100-$200, while larger 1.6-2.2-cubic-foot options commonly fall between $180 and $400. Wattage, cooking sensors, turntable design, and convection functions can shift the price even among models with similar capacity.
Over-the-range units are priced partly by ventilation and installation needs. A standard recirculating setup may be simpler than an arrangement vented through a wall or roof. Changing from recirculating to external venting can add duct materials and labor, commonly $100-$400 when the route is accessible; complex runs or roof work can cost more. A 30-inch cabinet opening is common, but buyers should verify the exact appliance dimensions and clearance requirements rather than assume every model fits.
Built-in pricing also depends on the opening and trim. A compatible trim kit may add roughly $100-$400, and cabinet changes can add another $100-$500 or more if a carpenter must alter the opening or finish exposed edges. Electrical work is a separate potential charge: adding or relocating an outlet may cost $150-$500, depending on access and local requirements.
Measure the opening, depth, clearance, and vent path before choosing a model; a fit problem can cost more than moving up one appliance tier. Confirm model-specific installation instructions and whether the selected GE unit needs a dedicated circuit or a particular trim kit.
Countertop versus over-the-range and built-in GE models
Countertop models usually deliver the lowest total cost because they require little or no installation. A $150-$300 unit can serve as a direct replacement if the counter has enough space and a suitable outlet. These models are not designed to mount above a range without the manufacturer-approved installation arrangement.
An over-the-range microwave costs more upfront but combines cooking with a vent fan and cooktop light. A typical appliance-and-basic-installation budget is $450-$900. If ductwork, electrical changes, or cabinet repairs are needed, the installed total can rise to $1,000 or more. The vent fan may recirculate air or exhaust outdoors, depending on the setup and model.
Built-in GE microwaves suit cabinet installations and can create a finished appearance, but the appliance and trim kit increase the purchase price. A common appliance-plus-trim budget is $650-$1,800 before substantial carpentry. Confirm whether the quoted trim kit is designed for the exact microwave model; appearance alone does not establish compatibility.
Compare installed totals rather than appliance prices when deciding between a countertop replacement and a mounted model. If a home already has the correct opening, outlet, and vent route, the higher-priced type may need only routine installation. Starting from scratch changes that calculation.
How long GE microwave installation takes and what labor includes
Positioning a countertop unit generally takes little time and may be included with delivery. A mounted over-the-range replacement often takes 1-2 hours for a two-person crew when the old unit comes down cleanly and the new model matches the existing setup. Typical labor charges are about $150-$350, not including the appliance.
A built-in model can take 2-4 hours to install when the opening is ready, with labor often around $200-$500. The job may take longer if the installer must fit a trim kit, adjust cabinetry, or coordinate electrical work. An hourly quote around $75-$125 can be reasonable for extra work, but ask whether a minimum service charge applies.
Installation labor does not always include removing the old microwave, repairing tile or cabinets, running new ductwork, or adding an outlet. A second worker may be needed to safely handle a heavy over-the-range appliance. Confirm the crew size, the number of included visits, and whether the quoted price covers testing the fan and cooking functions.
A matching replacement usually costs less to install than a change in appliance type or vent configuration. Share the old and new model numbers, opening measurements, and vent direction when requesting an estimate so the installer can identify likely extras.
Three realistic GE microwave budgets for common replacements
A compact countertop replacement is the lowest-cost scenario. A 0.9-cubic-foot GE microwave priced at $130-$200, plus $0-$50 for delivery or setup and $0-$40 for haul-away, produces a likely total of $130-$290. If the household moves and plugs it in without paid delivery or disposal, the expense stays close to the appliance price.
A typical over-the-range replacement costs more because the unit must be mounted. For a standard 1.6-2.1-cubic-foot model at $300-$500, allow $175-$325 for labor, $50-$125 for delivery, and $25-$75 for old-unit removal. The estimated total is $550-$1,025 when the mounting location and vent remain usable.
A built-in installation with a trim kit can reach $900-$2,000. For example, a $700-$1,200 microwave, a $150-$350 compatible trim kit, and $250-$450 labor yield $1,100-$2,000 before any cabinet changes. If the opening needs modification or a new outlet, the final quote may exceed that range.
These examples assume ordinary access and no major remodeling; the over-the-range example includes existing compatible mounting and ventilation. Use the itemized costs as a way to compare bids, not as a promise that a particular retailer or installer will charge those exact amounts.
When delivery, disposal, or electrical work adds to the bill
Delivery is often free during promotions, but standalone delivery can cost $50-$150, especially for a mounted or built-in unit. Room-of-choice delivery, unpacking, and setup may be included in a package or charged separately. Rural distance, stairs, narrow access, and a missed delivery appointment can bring additional fees.
Old-appliance haul-away commonly costs $25-$75 when offered by the retailer or installer. Some services require the microwave to be disconnected and accessible before pickup. For an over-the-range unit, the removal charge may be separate from installing the new one. Ask whether disposal includes carrying the old unit out of the home and whether the provider accepts the appliance under local rules.
Electrical or ventilation changes are less predictable. An outlet relocation may add $150-$500, while accessible duct adjustments may add $100-$400. A new duct path through an exterior wall, roof, or finished cabinetry can cost more because it involves materials, cutting, sealing, and possibly additional trades. If the existing circuit or vent does not meet applicable requirements, the installer may ask for an electrician or other licensed professional.
Request a written list of exclusions before scheduling, especially for old-unit removal, duct changes, outlet work, and cabinet repair. These items can turn an apparently inexpensive installation package into a significantly larger project.
Ways to lower the GE microwave total without sacrificing fit
Keeping the same appliance type and dimensions is often the most effective saving. Replacing an over-the-range unit with a compatible model can avoid new cabinet work, vent routing, and electrical changes. For a built-in installation, selecting a GE model that fits the existing cutout and has an available matching trim kit may prevent expensive alterations.
Compare at least three itemized estimates for mounted installations. Ask each provider to separate appliance, labor, delivery, haul-away, and extra work. A lower labor bid may not include removal or testing, while a retailer package may include delivery but exclude duct modifications. Compare the total for the same model and work scope.
Choose features based on actual use. A standard microwave may be less expensive than a convection or premium sensor model, and a countertop unit can avoid installation fees when space permits. Avoid buying a trim kit or mounting accessory until the exact model number is confirmed. Measure the opening and verify clearance before ordering to reduce return, restocking, or redelivery charges.
Scheduling a routine replacement before the old unit fails may give more time to compare prices and book standard service. Urgent replacement can limit model selection and availability. Promotions, delivery terms, and installation packages change by retailer, so compare the final checkout amount rather than relying on a discount percentage.
The lowest-cost choice is usually the model that fits the existing space and connection without adding work that the household does not need. Avoiding an unnecessary type change or feature upgrade can save more than negotiating a small discount on the appliance itself.