What Did That Home Project Actually Cost? Let’s Upgrade the Panel.
Real Numbers Behind an Electrical Panel Upgrade (And Why You Might Need One Too)
Homeownership comes with projects—some expected, some surprising. Whether you’re preparing for renovations, expanding your home’s functionality, or just keeping things safe and up to code, home improvements are inevitable.
But let’s be honest: Googling “How much does this cost?” usually leads you down a rabbit hole of “it depends.” That’s why I’m launching this new series, What Did That Home Project Actually Cost?, to help you get real insight into what projects cost in our area—based on actual work done by licensed professionals.
And we’re starting with something that’s a little hidden, but a big deal for safety and home functionality: your electrical panel.
What Is an Electrical Panel, and Why Might You Need to Upgrade It?
Your electrical panel (also known as a breaker box) is the hub for all the power flowing through your home. It routes electricity to your outlets, appliances, lights, HVAC system, and more. Most older homes—especially in places like Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky—are operating on 100-amp panels.
That might have been enough in the 1950s, but today? Between air conditioning, dishwashers, electric cars, and high-demand appliances, many homes simply need more capacity.
Common reasons to upgrade your panel include:
• Adding central air or mini-split units
• Installing an EV charging station
• Building out a finished basement, attic, or third floor
• Modernizing an older home to handle today’s tech load
• Replacing outdated or unsafe panels (like old fuse boxes or recalled brands like Zinsco or Federal Pacific)
My Real-Life Example: The Electrical Upgrade I Just Had Done
Here’s what I recently had done to prepare for some future third-floor improvements (and just to get my house in better shape overall):
• Upgraded electrical panel from 100 amps to 125 amps
• Installed a new outlet in the basement
• Extended wiring and added a new outlet on the third floor
This work wasn’t just about immediate needs—it was about giving my home more flexibility for future improvements and ensuring it could handle a larger load safely and efficiently.
What It Cost (Spoiler: Not as Bad as You Might Think)
I worked with a licensed local electrician I’ve trusted on multiple projects—Phillip Gatto (513-678-7709)—and the total cost was:
$2,000 flat
That includes materials, labor, permits, and cleanup. No hourly surprises or creeping costs.
Other Real-Life Scenarios Where an Electrical Upgrade Might Come Up
To give you a broader perspective, here are a few different reasons clients of mine have upgraded or had electrical work done—and what their projects looked like:
1. Finishing a Basement: $2,800–$4,200
One client was converting an unfinished basement into a family room and workout space. Their 100-amp panel just couldn’t handle the added lighting, outlets, and mini-split system. They opted for a full 200-amp upgrade. The project also included GFCI outlets and hardwired smoke detectors.
2. EV Charger Installation: $1,200–$1,800
Another client recently bought a Tesla and needed a Level 2 charging outlet in their garage. That meant running a dedicated 240V line, adding a sub-panel, and coordinating with their HOA. The final price depended on garage access and wall/ceiling routing.
3. Aluminum Wiring Update: $6,000–$10,000
I had a buyer moving into a 1970s home that still had aluminum branch wiring—a known fire hazard. The entire home had to be rewired, including updated outlets, breakers, and fixtures. Expensive? Yes. Necessary? Absolutely.
4. Kitchen Remodel Add-On: $500–$1,500
A more basic example: One couple was already renovating their kitchen and needed an additional circuit for under-cabinet lighting, new outlets near the sink, and wiring for their new double oven. The electrician tacked on $1,200 to the existing remodel invoice.
PHILLIP GATTO
Who I Used and Recommend
Name: Phillip Gatto
Phone: (513) 678-7709
Licensed + insured
He’s honest, responsive, and reasonably priced—and I’ve had a great experience working with him across multiple projects.
Why This Series Matters
Whether you’re planning a home upgrade or just trying to stay ahead of costly surprises, understanding project pricing helps. You deserve to feel confident in budgeting—and know who you can call when the time comes.
Stay tuned as I break down the real costs of:
• Roof replacements
• Tuckpointing historic brick
• Bathroom remodels
• Sump pump installation
• HVAC repairs
• And more!
And as always, if you’re thinking about buying or selling—or just improving your current home—I’m here to help.
Want to Know What a Home Project Will Cost You?
Send me a message! I’m happy to connect you with trusted contractors and help you start planning smarter.
Gabrielle Hodge
REALTOR® – Northern Kentucky & Cincinnati
(513) 417-3709
ghodgehomes@gmail.com
Hodge-Homes.com
