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USB Outlet Installation: Cost and What an Electrician Charges
USB outlets - wall outlets with built-in USB charging ports alongside the standard plugs - have become a popular upgrade in homes and offices. They...
- Updated August 27, 2026 - 3 min read
USB outlets - wall outlets with built-in USB charging ports alongside the standard plugs - have become a popular upgrade in homes and offices. They eliminate the need for bulky charging adapters taking up outlet space. Here is what they cost to install and what the job involves.
Types of USB Outlets
Type-A USB outlets: The older rectangular USB port, common on most phones and devices from 2010 through the early 2020s. Still useful for many devices.
Type-C USB outlets: The newer oval-shaped USB-C port that supports faster charging and is now standard on most smartphones, laptops, and tablets. If you are installing USB outlets in 2024 or later, USB-C is the better choice for longevity.
Combination outlets: Most USB wall outlets include both standard 120-volt plugs and USB ports in the same unit.
What USB Outlets Cost
The outlets themselves typically run $15 to $40 each depending on the number of USB ports, charging speed, and brand. USB-C fast-charging models are at the higher end.
Installation cost depends on whether you are replacing an existing outlet or installing a new one.
Replacing an existing outlet with a USB outlet: This is the simpler job. An electrician swaps the existing outlet for the USB model - typically 30 to 60 minutes per outlet. Expect to pay $75 to $150 per outlet in labor for professional installation.
Installing a new outlet with USB ports: If there is no outlet in the location you want, running wire from the nearest source, installing a box, and adding the outlet typically runs $200 to $400 for a single new location.
Can You Install a USB Outlet Yourself?
Replacing an existing outlet with a USB outlet is within the skill range of a confident DIYer. The steps are identical to replacing a standard outlet:
- Turn off the circuit breaker
- Remove the cover plate and unscrew the outlet
- Note which wires connect to which terminals (take a photo before disconnecting)
- Connect the wires to the same terminals on the new USB outlet
- Secure the outlet, reinstall the cover plate, and restore power
- Test with a device
The main consideration: USB outlets are slightly deeper than standard outlets. Make sure the new outlet fits the depth of your existing box before purchasing.
Is a Permit Required?
Replacing an existing outlet in the same location with a USB outlet of the same amperage is generally considered a like-for-like replacement and does not require a permit in most jurisdictions. Adding a new outlet does require a permit in most California cities and counties. When in doubt, call your local building department.
When to Hire an Electrician
Sources and editorial notes
Prices and permit requirements vary by location, property, equipment, and scope. Treat price ranges as planning estimates and confirm current requirements with the relevant authority and contractor.
- California Contractors State License Board - when a contractor license is required
- US Consumer Product Safety Commission - home safety
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- EV Charger Installation Cost for Your Home in 2026
- Electrical Outlet Repair Cost: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
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