A best mid-price dishwasher typically costs $650-$1,050 for the appliance, or about $850-$1,450 with standard installation. Price depends on noise level, drying system, rack features, finish, delivery, and whether the old unit or plumbing needs extra work.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher only | $650 | $850 | $1,050 | Midrange, standard 24-inch built-in |
| Installation labor | $150 | $250 | $400 | Existing connections in usable condition |
| Delivery and haul-away | $40 | $90 | $180 | Varies by retailer and access |
| Installed total | $840 | $1,190 | $1,630 | Before unusual plumbing or electrical work |
What a $650-$1,050 midrange dishwasher includes
In this price band, shoppers generally find standard 24-inch built-in machines with stainless-steel interiors, adjustable upper racks, several wash cycles, and sound ratings around 44-50 dBA. Typical capacity is 12-16 place settings, depending on rack layout and manufacturer measurement.
Lower-priced models near $650-$750 usually have basic controls and heated drying. Around $800-$1,050, common upgrades include quieter operation, a third rack, soil sensors, improved drying, and flexible loading features. A practical installed budget is about $1,000-$1,400 when the existing opening and hookups are standard. Assumptions: 24-inch opening, standard U.S. labor rates, no cabinet changes, and ordinary delivery access.
How appliance, labor, and delivery charges add up
The appliance is usually the largest expense, but installation and removal can move a quote substantially. Retailer installation may include basic connection to existing lines; replacement valves, new wiring, or changes to cabinets are often charged separately.
| Quote component | Low | Average | High | Typical scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher | $650 | $850 | $1,050 | Midrange stainless or black stainless model |
| Labor | $150 | $250 | $400 | Disconnect and connect replacement unit |
| Delivery | $40 | $70 | $120 | Standard delivery to kitchen entrance |
| Haul-away | $0 | $30 | $60 | May be included or separately priced |
| Parts and adjustments | $20 | $75 | $250 | Hose, fittings, valve, or minor leveling |
A straightforward replacement often takes 2-3 hours; at $75-$125 per hour, labor alone can reach $150-$375. Ask whether the written quote includes connection parts, haul-away, and a test cycle.
Which features are worth paying more for
Noise rating is a useful comparison: moving from roughly 50 dBA to 44-46 dBA can matter in an open kitchen, though quieter machines may cost $100-$250 more. A third rack and adjustable tines can improve loading without requiring a premium-priced model.
Drying systems vary. Heated drying is common on value models, while fan-assisted or mineral-based systems may add $100-$300. Stainless tubs often improve durability and drying performance compared with plastic tubs, but the benefit depends on household use and maintenance. Choose features that solve a regular problem rather than paying for a long list of rarely used cycles.
How Bosch, Whirlpool, and GE prices compare
Within common U.S. midrange lines, Whirlpool and GE models often list around $650-$950, while many Bosch 100 or 300 Series options fall roughly between $750 and $1,100. Promotions can narrow or reverse those gaps, and model numbers differ by finish and retailer.
For a fair comparison, check the exact model’s noise rating, rack configuration, drying method, warranty, and included delivery terms. A stainless finish may add $50-$150 over a basic finish. Compare final checkout totals, not just advertised appliance prices.
When installation can push the total above $1,500
Replacing a dishwasher in the same opening is less expensive than correcting an old or nonstandard installation. A new shutoff valve may add $100-$250, while electrical changes can cost $150-$500 or more depending on access and local code. Cabinet trimming or floor-height problems can add further labor.
Stairs, long carries, tight turns, or a dishwasher located far from the delivery entrance may trigger handling fees of $25-$100. Installation appointments that require a return visit can also add a service charge. Photographs of the opening, water line, drain, and electrical connection can help identify likely extra work before delivery.
Regional labor rates change the installed dishwasher price
In lower-cost rural and Midwestern markets, standard installation may run about $150-$250. Large coastal cities and high-cost metro areas can be 15%-35% higher, putting similar labor at roughly $225-$340 before unusual repairs. Delivery fees and local disposal charges can vary separately.
Labor pricing also depends on contractor minimums. A technician may charge a $100-$175 service minimum even when the work takes less than an hour. Use a local written quote for installation rather than assuming a national online estimate includes your area’s labor and fees.
Three realistic mid-price dishwasher quote examples
| Scenario | Appliance | Labor and extras | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic replacement, existing hookups | $700-$800 | $190-$300 | $890-$1,100 |
| Quiet model with third rack | $850-$1,000 | $250-$400 | $1,100-$1,400 |
| Replacement with valve and drain work | $800-$950 | $450-$750 | $1,250-$1,700 |
These examples assume a standard 24-inch built-in and exclude sales tax. A local tax rate can add roughly $50-$100 to an $850-$1,000 purchase. The third example costs more because connection work, not a more expensive machine, accounts for much of the difference.
How to lower the price without losing useful features
Measure the opening before shopping, confirm door clearance, and keep the existing layout when possible. Compare at least two installation quotes with the same scope, including delivery, haul-away, parts, and warranty handling. A sale price is less valuable if required services are excluded.
Choose a standard finish and avoid optional smart controls if they do not matter to the household. If the current dishwasher only has a failed pump, latch, or inlet valve, a repair estimate of $150-$400 may be less than replacement; compare it with the unit’s age and condition. Keep the appliance budget near $800-$950 and reserve $250-$400 for standard installation and fees.