Replacing a main electrical service line typically costs $1,500-$8,000, with many straightforward jobs near $3,500. The price depends on whether the connection is overhead or underground, the distance to the meter, required panel or mast work, permits, and local labor rates.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overhead service line replacement | $1,500 | $3,500 | $6,000 | Homeowner-side wiring and connection work |
| Underground service line replacement | $2,500 | $5,000 | $8,000 | Trenching and surface restoration affect price |
| Service line and panel upgrade | $3,500 | $6,500 | $12,000 | May include a new 200-amp panel and code work |
Assumptions: Typical U.S. home, standard copper or aluminum conductors, ordinary access, and no major utility-side construction.
Typical prices for overhead and underground service lines
For a standard home, replacing overhead service entrance conductors from the attachment point to the meter or panel commonly runs $1,500-$6,000. A short, accessible run with an intact mast tends toward the low end; damaged conduit, a new mast, or a panel change raises the quote. Underground replacements often cost $2,500-$8,000 because excavation, conduit, and landscaping repairs add work.
A full service upgrade is not the same as replacing conductors alone. Moving from 100 amps to 200 amps, for example, can add panel, grounding, meter equipment, and utility coordination charges. Confirm which components are included before comparing estimates.
What the electrician quote includes for wire, labor, and permits
Quotes may bundle materials and labor, so the following ranges are planning estimates rather than fixed line items. Utility fees and restoration can be billed separately.
| Quote component | Typical range | Common basis | Price effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Service conductors and fittings | $300-$1,500 | $5-$20 per linear ft, depending on size and material | Length and ampacity |
| Electrician labor | $800-$3,000 | $75-$150 per hour | One to two electricians, often 6-16 hours |
| Mast, conduit, meter base | $200-$1,800 | Per assembly or component | Replacement or code upgrades |
| Permit and inspection | $50-$500 | Local jurisdiction fee | Permit level and municipality |
| Trenching and restoration | $500-$3,000 | $10-$40 per linear ft | Soil, pavement, and landscaping |
Labor estimate example: 10 hours × $110 per hour = $1,100, before materials, permits, and other charges.
How service size, wire distance, and access change the total
Service capacity is a major price driver. Replacing conductors for an existing 100-amp service is generally less involved than installing conductors and equipment sized for 200 amps. Larger capacity may require a new meter base, panel, grounding system, or utility approval, pushing a project beyond the conductor-only range.
Distance and route matter, too. A 20-foot overhead run with clear access can be much cheaper than a 75-foot underground route beneath a driveway. Trenching through concrete, rocky soil, or established landscaping can add hundreds or thousands of dollars. Ask whether the quote prices the full route and restoration, not just the wire.
Which parts of the service line belong to the utility
Responsibility depends on the utility’s service rules and the point where its equipment connects to customer-owned equipment. The utility commonly maintains its distribution equipment and may handle the overhead drop or underground lateral, while the homeowner may be responsible for the service entrance, meter equipment, and panel. Boundaries vary, so verify ownership before authorizing work.
Some utilities disconnect and reconnect power without a charge; others charge for special coordination or require approved contractors. A damaged utility-owned line may be repaired by the utility, while customer-side work is generally billed by the electrician. Get the utility’s ownership determination in writing before accepting a complete replacement estimate.
How long overhead and underground replacement work takes
A straightforward overhead replacement may take one workday, with power shut off during the work and reconnection coordinated with the utility. A complicated mast or panel replacement may require more time, inspection, and a second visit. Underground jobs can take one to several days, especially when trenching, locating buried utilities, or restoring hard surfaces is involved.
Electricians commonly charge $75-$150 per hour, but many quote a project total. Ask whether the estimate includes the utility appointment, inspection wait, temporary power needs, and cleanup. Scheduling may depend on utility availability even when the electrician’s work can be completed quickly.
Regional labor and trenching rates shift service line quotes
Prices in high-cost metro areas can run about 15%-35% above the national midpoint, while lower-cost rural markets may be 10%-20% below it. These are broad comparisons, not guaranteed regional rates. Local permit rules, contractor availability, and utility requirements can outweigh the difference between regions.
Underground work has its own local spread: a short trench in open soil may be relatively affordable, while pavement cutting and repair can add 20%-50% to excavation costs. Request separate prices for electrical work, utility charges, and surface restoration to see where a regional quote is higher.
Three sample service line replacement estimates
| Job scope | Work estimate | Likely total |
|---|---|---|
| Overhead, 100-amp conductors, 25-foot run | 8 labor hours at $100-$125 per hour; basic fittings | $1,700-$3,000 |
| Overhead, 200-amp service with mast and meter base | 12-16 hours; new equipment and permit | $3,500-$6,500 |
| Underground, 200-amp service, 60-foot trench | 16-24 hours; excavation, conduit, and restoration | $5,000-$8,500 |
These examples assume ordinary access and exclude unusual utility charges or major panel relocation.
How to lower the replacement price without cutting safety
Get at least three written estimates based on the same scope: service capacity, conductor length, meter or mast work, permit, utility coordination, and restoration. Ask the utility whether it owns any portion of the damaged line, and avoid paying twice for equipment or work the utility will provide.
Keep the existing service capacity if a licensed electrician confirms it meets the home’s load and code requirements. For underground work, ask whether trenching can be combined with another planned project, but do not choose a route or conductor size solely to save money. Compare itemized scopes and code compliance, not just the lowest total.