The Going Rate for a Full House Rewire: $8k to $20k+
For electricians pricing major residential projects, new video guides break down the cost of a full house rewire. The price typically ranges from $8,000 to over $20,000, depending on the home's size and complexity. When quoting, contractors are advised to factor in a material markup of 10-25% to cover the risk of purchasing, storing, and warrantying the parts.
Labor typically constitutes the largest portion of a rewiring bill, accounting for 50-70% of the total cost. Electrician rates in the Minneapolis area generally range from $50 to $100 per hour. The total time commitment for a standard-sized home can be significant, as electricians often budget one hour of labor for every 100 square feet of wiring. The age and construction of a house are major variables in the final price. Homes built before the 1960s may contain outdated and potentially hazardous knob-and-tube wiring, which is more labor-intensive to remove. Accessibility is another key factor; running new wires in a home with finished walls and ceilings can increase labor costs by 20-30% due to the need for cutting and subsequent repairs. Material choice significantly sways the budget. While copper remains the industry standard for its durability and conductivity, its price is substantially higher than aluminum. As of early 2026, copper wiring could cost around $11.59 per foot, whereas aluminum was closer to $1.74 per foot. However, homes with aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to present a fire hazard compared to those with copper. Beyond the wires themselves, a full rewire often necessitates a new electrical panel to handle modern power demands, which can add $1,500 to $3,000 to the project. Permits and inspections are also required to ensure the work complies with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations, typically adding another $200 to $1,000 to the total cost.
