Cost to Rewire a House
Rewiring typically costs $2–$4 per square foot nationally, and $10–$20 when replacing knob-and-tube wiring. Set your home size to see your range.
Last reviewed September 2026
Published US ranges. Costs run higher in expensive cities, in plaster-walled homes and when walls need more patching and painting afterwards.
Rewiring prices
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Rewire a house (labor and materials) | $2–$4/sq ft |
| Replace knob-and-tube wiring | $10–$20/sq ft |
| Upgrade to a 200-amp panel (often done together) | $1,300–$2,500 |
Only one area acting up? It may be a single loose connection rather than the whole house. Check with the electrical problem finder.
Rewiring questions
How much does it cost to rewire a house?
Nationally, rewiring typically costs about $2–$4 per square foot including labor and materials, so roughly $3,600–$7,200 for an 1,800 sq ft home. Replacing knob-and-tube wiring costs much more, about $10–$20 per square foot.
What are the signs a house needs rewiring?
Knob-and-tube or cloth-covered wiring, two-prong outlets throughout, frequent tripping, warm or discolored outlets, flickering lights and a home over 40 years old that has never had an electrical update.
Can I live in my house while it's rewired?
Often yes. Electricians usually work room by room and restore power at the end of each day, though expect dust and some days without power in parts of the house.