Summary:

Electrical panel upgrades typically cost between $2,000 and $10,000+ in California, depending on the complexity of the installation and your current system. A straightforward 100-amp to 200-amp upgrade with 15 hours of labor that requires no additional work often costs around $3,000. Jobs that involve digging up underground wires, installing a 400-amp service, or relocating the panel itself will be more expensive.

Calculator: What Does it Cost to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel in California?

The average home in the Bay Area consumes far more power than older 60-amp or 100-amp panels can safely handle. Trying to run newer devices like water heaters, heat pumps, or EV chargers on a system that's over 20 years old can overtax it, causing it to overheat, shut down, or even catch fire.

Our licensed electricians strongly recommend upgrading your electrical panel every 20 to 30 years, even if you aren't currently experiencing any specific problems.

Use the free calculator in this guide to estimate how much you can expect to spend.

Panel Upgrade Cost Calculator

This calculator uses the most common factors we see in the field, including current and desired amperage, location, service type, and permit fees. Keep in mind that it isn't intended to replace a full assessment and custom quote, but it will give you a rough idea of what to expect.

How to Find the Age of Your Panel

Frequently Asked Questions About Panel Upgrades

Why do some panel upgrades cost more?

The upfront price of the panel itself is just one part of the calculation. Most upgrades are relatively straightforward, but the overall price and scope may be higher if:

• We need to relocate your panel to a new area of your home first.
• You still have knob-and-tube wiring—here's how to tell.
• Your existing wiring is damaged or can't support the load
• PG&E needs us to upgrade your service line or meter first.
• You're adding high-draw tech, like EV chargers or solar panels.

A full initial assessment of your current system helps us identify complicating factors like these so we can factor them into your estimate. Any licensed electrician who's worth their salt will start here first.

My panel is 30 years old, but it still works. Should I still upgrade?

Yes. All panels will eventually begin to break down as a result of wear and tear, which increases the risk of failures and fires. For best results, we recommend replacing it every 10-20 years.

Are older FPE/Zinszo panels really that dangerous?

Yes! Zinsco and Federal Pacific Electric (FPE) panels were discontinued because they had serious manufacturing defects that caused them to fail under load. If you see this brand name on your panel, call us right away. Don't wait—the worst possible time to discover you have a problem is after a fire.

Learn More: Is Your Old Electrical Panel Putting Your Home Insurance Coverage at Risk?

Make Your Home Safer With a New Electrical Panel

Cost is a big deal for homeowners here in the Bay Area right now, so it's sensible to want to know what you're getting into before you pick up the phone. So, here's the straight truth: panel upgrades can be expensive, but the benefits and long-term savings you get in return make them a smart investment.

At Caccia Home Services, we work hard to keep prices stable for you so you get as much value for your money as possible. Don't wait until your panel breaks down and forces your hand—call us at (650) 294-8622 to schedule your panel upgrade assessment today!