What is the Average Cost of Installing Outdoor Lighting?

21Oct
by dkelectrical  
0

Brightening Your Home Starts with the Right Budget

Outdoor lighting does more than make your home look good at night. It adds safety, curb appeal, and even value to your property. But here’s the big question homeowners across Burlington and Camden County ask: how much does it actually cost to install outdoor lighting?

If you’ve been wondering whether it’s worth the investment or what price range you should plan for, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks it down clearly so you know what to expect and how to make the best decision for your home.

What We’ll Cover:

Average Cost of Installing Outdoor Lighting

The average cost to install outdoor lighting ranges from $2,500 to $5,500 for a typical home project. Some smaller jobs may cost as little as $500 to $1,000, while large landscape designs can exceed $8,000.

Brightening Your Home with Outdoor Lighting

Why such a wide range? It depends on:

  1. Number of lights being installed

  2. Type of fixtures (LED, solar, wired, decorative)

  3. Electrical complexity (existing wiring vs. new circuits)

  4. Labor costs and permits in your area

Think of it this way: adding a few path lights is a much different project than illuminating a large backyard or installing full landscape lighting across walkways, decks, and gardens.

What Affects the Cost the Most?

When planning, here are the key factors that drive the final price:

  • Type of Fixture

    • Solar lights: lower cost, limited brightness

    • Wired LED: higher upfront cost but long-term savings

    • Decorative fixtures: premium styles increase cost

  • Number of Fixtures

    Each additional light adds to the material and labor costs. A single path light may cost $100 to $200 installed, but multiply that by 10–20 for a full walkway.

Outdoor Lighting Cost Estimate

  • Wiring and Labor

    1. If you already have outdoor wiring, the costs are lower

    2. Running new wiring, trenching, and installing a new electrical panel increases cost

  • Control Systems

    Timers, smart controls, and dimmers add convenience but also increase installation cost.

Types of Outdoor Lighting and Their Costs

Here’s a breakdown of common lighting options and their average installed costs:

Outdoor Lighting Cost Estimate

  1. Pathway Lights: $100–$200 each

  2. Spotlights/Floodlights: $200–$400 each

  3. Deck or Step Lights: $150–$300 each

  4. Wall-Mounted Fixtures: $250–$500 each

  5. String or Festoon Lights (Professional Install): $800–$2,000 per project

Homeowners often mix types for a layered effect: pathway lights for safety, spotlights for trees or architecture, and deck lights for ambiance.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional Electrician

If you’re thinking of saving money with DIY solar lights, that’s an option. But when it comes to wired systems, here’s what you need to consider:

DIY

  1. Cheaper upfront
  2. Limited to solar or plug-in lights
  3. Risk of uneven lighting and shorter lifespan

Professional Install

  1. Code-compliant wiring and safe installation
  2. Access to higher quality fixtures
  3. Longer-lasting, energy-efficient systems
  4. Adds property value and peace of mind

For most projects beyond simple solar lights, hiring a licensed electrician is the smarter move. It ensures safety, reliability, and better results.

Why Outdoor Lighting is Worth the Investment

Cost is one part of the story. The benefits often outweigh the expense:

  1. Safety and Security: Well-lit walkways reduce falls and deter intruders.

  2. Curb Appeal: Lighting highlights your home’s architecture and landscaping.

  3. Energy Efficiency: LED and smart systems lower long-term bills.

  4. Property Value: Professional outdoor lighting increases resale value.

At DK Electrical Solutions, we’ve seen firsthand how the right lighting transforms a home. Customers often tell us it’s the project that made their house feel complete. If energy bills are a concern, check out our guide on easy ways to lower utility costs.

Ready to See What It Could Cost for Your Home?

Every home is different, and so is every project. If you’re considering installing outdoor lighting, the best way to get clarity is with a tailored estimate.

Ready to explore options? Schedule a consultation or request a fast quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Lighting Costs

For small solar or plug-in lights, it’s fairly simple. Wired lighting systems require electrical expertise, trenching, and connections to your breaker panel. That’s when hiring an electrician makes sense.

Yes. Professionally installed outdoor lighting enhances curb appeal and can increase resale value by making your home appear more inviting and secure.

Labor, wiring, and high-quality weather-resistant fixtures drive the price. Professional-grade systems also last longer than DIY kits.

For most homeowners, yes. It enhances security, usability of outdoor spaces, and aesthetics. Many homeowners say it’s one of the most impactful upgrades they’ve made.

On average, $100 to $400, depending on the fixture type and wiring needs.

Choose energy-efficient LED fixtures, plan for fewer but strategically placed lights, and consult an electrician for design options that balance cost with effect. If you’re dealing with older homes, updating outdated wiring may also reduce future repair costs.

Light Up Your Home with Confidence

Outdoor lighting is more than a home improvement project. It’s about safety, beauty, and value. While costs vary, the right installation makes your outdoor spaces more enjoyable and your home more secure.

If you’re ready to find out what it would cost for your property, DK Electrical Solutions is here to help. Get your fast estimate today and bring your vision to life.