While chandeliers often look much more expensive, the average cost to install a chandelier is $500. The total cost can range from $100 to $4,000 or more.
Chandelier installation costs $350 to $1,250, with an average cost of $500. The cost of the chandelier itself, along with the type and placement, will play a major role in the final price. A heavy chandelier will not only cost more, but you may have to pay for a carpenter—as well as an electrician—to help reinforce the attachment site. Learn more about what factors in below.
Chandeliers can be expensive, and so can the labor required to install them. But, there are other factors that impact your total budget, too.
| Cost Factor | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Chandelier | $100 – $500 |
| Supplies | $10 – $50 |
| Tools | $10 – $30 |
| Labor | $200 – $1,200 |
| Permits | $50 – $500 |
Whether you're looking to illuminate your dining room or add a touch of luxury to any spot in your abode, understanding the different types of chandeliers can help you choose the perfect piece for any interior. Here are the various types of chandeliers, each with its unique characteristics and style.
| Chandelier Type | Description | Style |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal | Reflecting crystals | Traditional |
| Candle | Mimics real candles | Classic, rustic |
| Sputnik | Sphere with arms | Mid-century modern |
| Rustic | Made of natural materials | Country, rustic |
| Beaded | Strings of beads | Bohemian, eclectic |
| Linear | Long/horizontal design | Modern, sleek |
The average range of a chandelier is between $100 and $500—and you’ll have thousands of options to choose from. Not all chandeliers are created equal, though, so there are a few things that influence the short-term and long-term costs.
The heavier the fixture, the higher the labor costs to install.
An LED-compatible fixture can decrease your long-term costs.
Integrated fixtures are double-edged—if one aspect fails, the entire fixture needs replacing.
A chandelier installation can have variables depending on the fixture you chose and the location of the installation. An electrician can install new wiring safely and quickly if you choose a spot that doesn't already have wiring. You need a permit whenever you need new residential wiring, though there are some exceptions. Your electrician will know for sure.
A heavy chandelier, anything over 30 pounds, needs reinforcement at the attachment site, so an electrician may call in a carpenter for assistance. Here are some common fees for your light fixture installation team.
Permit costs: $10–$500
Cost to hire an electrician: $50–$200 per hour
Cost to hire a carpenter: $35–$100 per hour
Selecting the ideal spot for your chandelier depends on ceiling height and what you plan to illuminate. For example, a chandelier over a dining table requires a different height than one in a grand entryway. Considering the room's function and the desired lighting effect will ensure that your chandelier enhances the space's aesthetics and usability.
| Room | Standard 8-9 ft. Ceiling | High/Vaulted Ceiling |
|---|---|---|
| Dining and kitchen | 30-34 inches over table | 36-44 inches over table |
| Living | 7 feet from floor | 8-9 feet from floor |
| Foyer and entryway | 7 feet from floor | 8-9 feet from floor |
| Bedroom | 7 feet from floor | 8-9 feet from floor |
Whether you DIY or hire a pro, installing a chandelier at a high point in your home can add hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to your installation because of the need for specialized equipment. Some professionals will charge by the foot for that kind of installation, others by the hour.
For a DIY job, you'll probably need to rent scaffolding to reach your installation location. Scaffolding allows you to keep your tools and supplies on hand, and you can rent 10-foot scaffolding for about $40 for 4 hours and 20-foot scaffolding for $70 for 4 hours.
Chandelier installation can be easy if you replace an existing light fixture, have a helper, and have a comfortable knowledge of residential electrical wiring. You can pick up a simple and modern chandelier for around $75, but if you are willing to spend a little more, your options increase vastly in the $100 to $200 range.
You'll need a ladder, a screwdriver, a voltage tester, and about two hours to complete the project. It could cost you as little as $100 to DIY a chandelier swap with an existing light fixture, saving you upwards of $200 in labor costs.
Things become complicated if you need new wiring, have a very high installation site, or have a heavy chandelier. Any new wiring usually requires a permit, which costs $30 to $300. Support screws can range from $2/per screw to $40 for a box. A support screw into a joist can support 40 to 100 lbs, depending on its rating.
Since there’s a lot to unpack here, it's probably better to leave this one to a professional electrician near you before undertaking new wiring, a high installation, or added carpentry.
One of the benefits of hiring an electrician to install the chandelier for you is their knowledge and speed. If you switched from a standard ceiling light to a Smart fixture or dimmable fixture, have them install a new light switch. If you plan on installing more than one light fixture along the way, have them rough in your wiring now to save on permit costs and labor costs later.
Cost to replace a light switch: $100–$200
Cost to install a light fixture: $150–$950
If you DIY and want to save a bit of money, you can scale back on the type of chandelier you buy. Purchase a lightweight, low-cost chandelier to make the project more manageable. You could also choose a discontinued model, returned model, or second-hand fixture to get a higher-end option for a lower price. You can sell the existing fixture online to lessen the overall cost of the installation even further.
If you hire a pro, you can save on labor costs by prepping the work area. Clear the work area of any furniture and breakable items. If you’re comfortable with light electrical work, remove the existing chandelier or light fixture before your professional arrives.
When hanging a chandelier, the distance from the ceiling depends on the room and height. For standard 8-9 foot ceilings, chandeliers in living areas or bedrooms should hang 7 feet from the floor. In dining rooms, the chandelier should be placed 30-34 inches above the table.
For higher or vaulted ceilings, adjust accordingly, ensuring the chandelier remains balanced and visually appealing. Aim for chandeliers in entryways to be 7 feet from the floor or adjust for high ceilings to make a grand statement. Always consider the room's function and the desired lighting effect to achieve the perfect placement.
A chandelier can last 10 to 50 years or more, depending on its quality, usage, and maintenance. High-quality chandeliers made of durable materials like crystal, brass, or wrought iron tend to have longer life spans. Regular cleaning, timely light bulb replacement, and proper care can extend its life significantly. Vintage or antique chandeliers can sometimes last for generations with proper restoration and upkeep.
If your chandelier is flickering, it may just need new bulbs or wiring, so consider repairs before replacing it.
Yes, it is worth it to install a chandelier. A chandelier is a statement piece that ties your decor style together and adds flair to your home. It can add light to a dim or drab dining space, add a wow factor to a foyer or stairwell, or become a topic for conversation among guests.
An electrician or contractor can install a chandelier for you. The cost will depend on their skill set, market demand, and the details of your project. We've compiled a list of questions to ask an electrician to simplify the process for you. This person will work in your home and should be someone you feel comfortable with.
