How Much Does a Panel Upgrade Cost in California? (2025 Guide)
Everything homeowners need to know before upgrading their electrical panel
If you’re a California homeowner dealing with flickering lights, tripping breakers, or planning to add EV chargers, solar, or new appliances, an electrical panel upgrade is one of the most important investments you can make in your home’s safety and capacity.
But how much should you expect to pay?
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that panel upgrade costs can vary widely depending on the home, the existing system, and local permitting requirements.
As a licensed California electrical contractor (Light Wave Electric — CSLB #1146989), here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect in 2025.
⚡ Average Cost of an Electrical Panel Upgrade in California
In California, most Main electrical panel upgrades fall between:
💲 $3,500 – $6,500 total
The most common cost range for a standard 100A to 200A upgrade is:
➡️ $4,500 – $5,500
However, depending on the home’s layout, utility requirements, or the condition of the existing system, the price can be slightly lower or significantly higher.
🔍 What Affects the Cost of a Panel Upgrade?
1. Amperage Size (Main Driver of Cost)
100A to 200A upgrade: $3,500 – $5,500
200A to 400A upgrade: $6,000 – $12,000+
New construction or full service rebuild: varies by project
Most homes in California today benefit from a 200A panel, especially if adding:
✓ EV charger
✓ Electric dryer or range
✓ Heat pump
✓ Hot tub
✓ Solar
2. Condition of Existing Wiring
If your home has outdated or unsafe wiring (e.g., aluminum wiring, double-tapped breakers, cloth wiring), some corrective work may be required.
This typically adds $200–$1,500 depending on the issue.
3. Location of the Panel
Hard-to-access or code-deficient locations (closets, garages, tight exterior corners) can increase labor time.
Simple replacement in same location: standard cost
Relocating panel to a new location: +$1,000–$3,000
4. Utility Company Requirements
Every California utility (Edison, PG&E, LADWP, etc.) has its own rules for meter placement, service entry, and clearance.
If upgrades to the service drop or meter are required, this may add $500–$2,000.
5. Permit & Inspection Fees
California requires permits for ALL panel upgrades.
Typical permit cost: $150–$400
Some cities require an additional “service release,” which can add time and cost.
6. Indoor vs. Outdoor Panels
Outdoor replacements sometimes need:
Weatherproof enclosures
Grounding upgrades
Rerouting of conduit
Cost impact: $150–$800
⚠️ Warning Signs You Might Need a Panel Upgrade
If you’re experiencing any of these, it may be time:
Breakers trip often
Lights dim when appliances turn on
Burning smell near the panel
Panel is warm or buzzing
Home uses fuses instead of breakers
Adding an EV charger, A/C, hot tub, or new appliances
Existing panel brands like Zinsco or Federal Pacific (known fire risks)
Upgrading your panel improves safety and prevents electrical overloads — one of the leading causes of electrical fires.
💡 Benefits of Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
Upgrading your service panel helps you:
Meet modern electrical demands
Reduce breaker trips
Improve home safety
Increase home resale value
Support future upgrades (EVs, solar, HVAC, etc.)
Ensure your system meets current California electrical code
An upgraded panel is one of the highest-ROI improvements for older homes in California.
📍 Serving San Dimas, Glendora, La Verne, Covina & Surrounding Areas
Light Wave Electric is fully licensed and insured (CSLB #1146989) and provides complete service panel upgrades for homeowners across the San Gabriel Valley.
We also provide:
EV charger installation
Rewiring
Lighting upgrades
Troubleshooting
Service calls
And more
📞 Want an Exact Price for Your Home?
Every home is different — but we can typically provide a fast quote the same day.
Contact Light Wave Electric for a free panel upgrade estimate.