Electrical Panel Upgrade Costs in San Diego: What Homeowners Should Expect
Upgrading your home’s electrical panel isn’t something most San Diego homeowners think about until it becomes necessary. Maybe your breakers keep tripping, you just bought an EV, or your lights dim every time the AC kicks on. Whatever the reason, a panel upgrade can make your home safer and more reliable—while preparing it for today’s energy demands.
But how much should you expect to pay for an electrical panel upgrade in San Diego? Let’s break down the typical costs, what factors affect pricing, and what you can expect during the process.
⚡ Why Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?
Older panels (60–100 amps) often can’t keep up with today’s power demands.
Adding new appliances or an EV charger may push your system beyond its limits.
Outdated panels like Federal Pacific or Zinsco can be fire hazards.
Frequent tripped breakers or flickering lights are warning signs of an overloaded system.
Upgrading ensures your home is safe, code-compliant, and ready for modern electrical needs.
⚡ Cost Factors for a Panel Upgrade in San Diego
The price can vary depending on your home and project details. Here are the main factors that affect cost:
Panel Size (Amps)
100-amp upgrade: Often $2,000–$3,000
200-amp upgrade: Typically $3,500–$5,500
Larger panels (e.g., 400 amps): $6,000+
Location of the Panel
Replacing in the same spot is more affordable.
Moving the panel or upgrading a main service line costs more.
Permit & Inspection Fees
San Diego requires permits for panel upgrades. Fees vary by city, usually several hundred dollars.
Utility Coordination (SDG&E)
If SDG&E needs to shut off power at the street or upgrade service lines, expect additional time and possible costs.
Additional Work
Grounding & bonding upgrades
Replacing outdated wiring
Upgrading the meter base
⚡ Typical Price Range in San Diego
For most homeowners, a standard 200-amp panel upgrade runs between $3,500 and $5,500.
This usually includes:
Permit and inspection
New panel and breakers
Labor and materials
Coordination with SDG&E
Prices may be higher if your home needs extensive rewiring or if your panel is in a difficult-to-access location.
⚡ How Long Does a Panel Upgrade Take?
Permit approval: A few days to a couple of weeks, depending on your city.
Installation day: Typically 1 full day of work.
Inspection & power restoration: Same day or within 24–48 hours.
Most San Diego homeowners have their power restored the same day the new panel is installed.
⚡ Financing & Rebates
Some homeowners qualify for rebates or financing programs when upgrading panels for EV charger readiness or solar installation. It’s worth checking what incentives are currently available in San Diego County.
⚡ The Bottom Line
Budget: $3,500–$5,500 for a standard 200-amp upgrade in San Diego.
Expect permits and utility coordination.
Hire a licensed electrician. Panel upgrades are not DIY projects—they require expertise, safety checks, and city approvals.
At Andre Electric, we specialize in electrical panel upgrades across San Diego. Our team handles the permits, coordinates with SDG&E, and installs your new panel safely and efficiently—so your home is ready for the future.
👉 Thinking about a panel upgrade? Contact Andre Electric today for a consultation and estimate.
