Rewiring a house is one of those projects homeowners tend to put off, until it becomes urgent.
But in Sacramento, where many homes were built before the 1970s, it’s not uncommon for electrical systems to be outdated, overloaded, or even dangerous.
Here’s the thing: rewiring your house isn’t just about adding new outlets or modern lighting. It’s about safety, resale value, and long-term peace of mind.
If you’re wondering what the house rewiring cost in Sacramento looks like, this guide walks you through everything, cost ranges, influencing factors, red flags to watch for, and smart ways to save.
Table of Contents
Why Rewiring Matters More Than You Think
Let’s start with the obvious: old wiring is a fire risk.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical issues are one of the top causes of house fires nationwide.
In Sacramento specifically, older neighborhoods like Land Park, East Sac, and Curtis Park often have wiring that’s 50+ years old. That’s beyond its safe lifespan.
Here’s what outdated wiring can cause:
- Flickering lights
- Constant tripping breakers
- Burning smells from outlets
- Ungrounded two-prong outlets
- Limited capacity for modern devices
If any of that sounds familiar, your system might be overdue for an upgrade, and it’s time to look into the house rewiring cost in Sacramento.
The Average House Rewiring Cost in Sacramento
Now let’s get into numbers.
The typical house rewiring cost in Sacramento falls between $8,500 and $18,000, depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Here’s a quick breakdown based on square footage:
| Home Size | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 1,000 sq ft | $8,500–$11,000+ |
| 1,500 sq ft | $11,000–$14,000+ |
| 2,000+ sq ft | $14,000–$18,000+ |
That includes labor, materials, permits, and inspections, but doesn’t include drywall repairs or repainting afterward.
Wondering why the range is so wide? Let’s look at what affects the total house rewiring cost in Sacramento.
What Impacts the Cost of House Rewiring?
Rewiring isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Several key factors influence your final bill:
1. Age of the Home
Older homes often need more labor. Plaster walls, hidden junction boxes, or cloth-covered wiring can slow down the process, and add cost.
2. Wall Access
If your walls are already open due to renovation, electricians can work faster. If not, they may have to make (and later patch) multiple drywall cuts.
3. Type of Wiring Being Replaced
Replacing knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring usually costs more due to its complexity and the higher safety risk.
4. Electrical Panel Upgrade
Rewiring often requires a new panel. A panel upgrade in Sacramento can run $2,000–$4,000+ alone.
5. Number of Outlets, Switches, and Fixtures
The more you add, the more time and materials are needed. Think strategically here, don’t overdo it, but don’t cut corners either.
6. Permit and Inspection Fees
Sacramento County typically requires permits for full rewiring jobs. These fees can range from $250 to $900.
7. Contractor You Hire
Always hire a licensed Sacramento electrician. Rates may vary, but experienced pros prevent costly mistakes.
When Should You Rewire?
Still not sure if it’s time? Here are signs your home might be due:
- You have a fuse box, not a breaker panel
- Outlets are warm or discolored
- Lights dim when appliances run
- You can’t run a microwave and hairdryer at the same time
- Your home insurance flagged your electrical system
If you’re remodeling a kitchen, converting a garage, or adding square footage, that’s also the perfect time to consider the house rewiring cost in Sacramento, it’s easier to do everything at once.
Can You Rewire Room by Room?
Yes, and many Sacramento homeowners go this route to spread out the cost.
It’s called a partial rewire, and it allows you to tackle critical areas first (like the kitchen or panel), then do the rest over time.
Pros:
- Spreads out costs
- Less disruptive
- Helps prioritize safety
Cons:
- Multiple permit rounds
- May cost more overall due to repeated setup/labor fees
If budget is a concern, talk to your electrician about breaking the job into phases. Just be clear about long-term goals upfront.
Cost-Saving Tips Without Cutting Corners
Rewiring isn’t cheap, but you can stay smart about it:
- Bundle projects: Doing other upgrades? Combine them to save labor costs.
- Open up walls yourself: If you’re handy, demoing drywall (with your electrician’s guidance) can cut time and labor.
- Skip cosmetic add-ons: Focus on safety and essentials. You can install fancy lighting later.
- Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary by $3K+ between companies in Sacramento.
- Ask about copper vs. aluminum: Copper is more expensive but safer and longer-lasting.
A trusted electrician will help you navigate these choices while keeping the house rewiring cost in Sacramento within your budget.
How Long Does Rewiring Take?
Expect anywhere from 3 to 10 days, depending on home size and whether it’s occupied during the project.
If you’re living in the house during rewiring:
- You may lose power for a few hours daily
- Cover furniture and belongings from dust
- Plan for basic meals and minimal appliance use
Some families choose to stay elsewhere during the heaviest days. Ask your electrician for a daily breakdown so you can plan accordingly.
Choosing the Right Sacramento Electrician
Don’t just go with the lowest bid, go with the most qualified.
When screening electricians, ask:
- Are you licensed and bonded in California?
- Have you done full home rewires before?
- Do you handle permit pulling and inspections?
- Can I see customer reviews or local references?
- What’s your timeline and cleanup process?
In Sacramento, a pro electrician should have no problem answering these questions confidently.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend $10K+ on electrical wiring. But when it comes to your family’s safety, your home’s value, and future-proofing your investment… it’s worth every penny.
Plus, a rewired home can:
- Pass inspections faster
- Get better insurance rates
- Command a higher resale value
So, if you’ve been putting off this project, maybe it’s time to get a couple of quotes, talk through your options, and map out a plan.
Whether you do it all at once or piece by piece, understanding the house rewiring cost in Sacramento gives you the confidence to move forward smartly.
Need Help Getting Started?
Reach out to a Prime Electric in Sacramento and ask for a free estimate. Walk us through your concerns, your goals, and your timeline.
Remember, rewiring isn’t just a renovation. It’s a safety upgrade.