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How Much Does a Handyman Charge?

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Key Takeaways

Key PointDescription
Hourly Rates$50 – $80 for self-employed; $75 – $125 for corporate
Average Cost Per Job$150 – $600
Cost Varies by JobDifferent tasks have varied pricing, outlined in a detailed table
Factors Influencing RatesExperience, location, job complexity, and materials
Ways to SaveCombine projects, compare quotes, choose less busy times

$50 – $80 Hourly Rate

A handyman typically charges between $50 and $80 per hour. These rates can fluctuate depending on the region, the complexity of the job, and the handyman’s experience.

$150 – $600 Average Cost Per Job

The average cost for a handyman per job can range from $150 to $600. This number varies significantly based on the type of work required and the scope of the project.

Handyman Hourly Rates

Handyman services are often charged by the hour, with rates varying as follows:

TypeHourly Rate*
Self-employed$50 – $80
Corporate$75 – $125

Factors Affecting Hourly Rates

  • Experience: More experienced handymen charge higher rates.
  • Location: Rates can vary widely by location.
  • Job Complexity: More complicated jobs may have higher hourly rates.
  • Materials: Material costs are often extra and can include a markup.

Handyman Price List

The cost for specific handyman jobs can vary. Here is a detailed price list:

JobAverage Cost*
Appliance installation$100 – $250
Art hanging$40 – $200
Attic fan installation$300 – $900
Attic ladder replacement$200 – $650
Awning installation$175 – $400
Awning repair$250 – $1,000
Basement finishing$22,000 – $46,000
Bathroom exhaust fan installation$150 – $550
Bathroom remodeling$2,500 – $15,000
Bathtub reglazing$275 – $560
Blind installation (each)$30 – $80
Blind repair$75 – $170
Brick mailbox$600 – $1,500
Cabinet refacing$2,500 – $8,000
Cabinet refinishing$1,700 – $3,000
Cabinet repair$120 – $400
Carpentry repair$250 – $800
Caulking repair$150 – $300
Ceiling fan installation$75 – $150
Ceiling repair$200 – $1,000
Childproofing home$200 – $700
Christmas light installation$240 – $650
Concrete work$600 – $1,500
Countertop repair$200 – $500
Crawl space cleaning or repair$500 – $2,500+
Crown molding installation$400 – $1,600
Curtain rod hanging$100 – $250
Deck or porch repair$500 – $2,600
Deck staining$450 – $1,000
Dishwasher installation$120 – $250
Door frame repair$75 – $220
Door installation$225 – $825
Driveway sealing$100 – $200
Dryer repair$100 – $400
Dryer vent cleaning$80 – $185
Dryer vent installation$200 – $500
Drywall installation$600 – $1,400
Drywall repair$200 – $800
Electrical work$140 – $420
Faucet installation$120 – $300
Fence or gate repair$200 – $800
Fireplace cleaning$150 – $250
Fireplace installation$1,900 – $5,600
Flooring installation$1,000 – $4,000
Flooring repair$150 – $500
Furniture assembly$85 – $200
Garage door opener installation$250 – $500
Garage door repair$125 – $300
Garbage disposal installation$80 – $200
General maintenance$100 – $300
Gutter cleaning$100 – $225
Gutter repair$150 – $500
Hardwood floor refinishing$1,000 – $2,000
Hardwood floor repair$500 – $1,500
Home safety modifications$150 – $2,000
House cleaning$90 – $180
Insulation installation$300 – $600
Kitchen remodeling$12,000 – $21,000
Lamp repair$30 – $100
Landscaping maintenance$100 – $200
Lawn care$25 – $50
Lawn mower repair$40 – $90
Leaky faucet repair$65 – $150
Light fixture replacement$65 – $175
Lock replacement$75 – $200
Mailbox installation$150 – $200
Microwave installation$100 – $580
Mirror installation$140 – $430
Moving (local)$700 – $1,500
Paint a room$350 – $850
Paint removal$400 – $1,500
Paver patio installation$2,000 – $7,000
Pest control$250 – $400
Pet door installation$200 – $450
Plumbing repairs$125 – $800
Pressure washing$150 – $300
Re-grouting$250 – $1,000
Roof repair$200 – $800
Security camera installation$80 – $200
Septic system repair$500 – $2,500
Shelf installation$150 – $500
Shower repair$70 – $200
Shutter installation (each)$150 – $350
Sink installation$230 – $650
Skylight installation$1,600 – $4,200
Sliding glass door installation$300 – $600
Snow removal$30 – $70
Sod installation$500 – $5,000
Soundproofing$400 – $600
Sprinkler system repair$75 – $250
Sprinkler system installation$1,500 – $3,500
Stain removal$80 – $350
Staining furniture$150 – $500
Stucco repair$200 – $800
Swimming pool maintenance$80 – $200
Sump pump repair cost$200 – $870
Thermostat installation$80 – $200
Tile and grout cleaning$250 – $650
Tile refinishing$300 – $1,200
Toilet installation$120 – $230
Toilet repair$130 – $310
Trash or junk removal$100 – $250
TV mounting$100 – $300
Unclog a drain$100 – $275
Wall framing & building$1,000 – $2,500
Wallpaper removal$150 – $1,000
Washer and dryer installation$50 – $175
Water softener installation$200 – $500
Water softener repair$150 – $600
Weather stripping installation$150 – $400
Welding work$150 – $500
Window cleaning$150 – $350
Window glass pane replacement$150 – $500
Window replacement$400 – $1,000
Window frame repair$150 – $600
Window screen replacement (each)$15 – $50**

Handyman Minimum Charge

Handymen often have a minimum charge for their services. These charges can range from $75 to $200 depending on the area and the handyman’s experience.

Why Minimum Charges Exist

  • Travel Time: Covers travel time to and from the job site.
  • Operational Costs: Helps cover basic operational costs.
  • Short Jobs: Ensures small jobs are still profitable.

Handyman Pricing Guide

Prices for handyman services can vary significantly depending on the size and scope of the job:

Job SizeAverage CostDescription
Small$50 – $250Jobs that take less than two hours and use basic tools, such as lawn care, toilet installation, gutter cleaning, TV mounting, garbage disposal installation, or thermostat replacement.
Medium$250 – $500Jobs under five hours that may require power tools, such as sink installation, drywall repair, fence repair, roof repair, door installation, Christmas light installation, or installing garage door opener.
Large$500 – $1,500Jobs that take from five hours to a few days, such as interior painting, window replacement, concrete work, floor installation or refinishing, skylight installation, drywall installation, or sod installation.

Handyman Experience & Skill Level

The experience and skill level of the handyman will also impact the cost. More experienced handymen tend to charge higher rates but also bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the job.

Material Costs

Material costs can significantly influence the overall cost of handyman services. Handymen often mark up the cost of materials by 20% to 50% to cover procurement and handling.

Common Material Costs

  • Lumber: Prices vary based on type and quality.
  • Paint: Costs depend on brand and finish.
  • Hardware: Nails, screws, bolts, etc.
  • Fixtures: Light fixtures, faucets, etc.

Handyman Price Chart By Location

The cost of handyman services varies significantly by location:

City, StateAverage Hourly Rates*
Atlanta, GA$45 – $80
Austin, TX$50 – $85
Boston, MA$40 – $125
Chicago, IL$40 – $75
Dallas, TX$40 – $100
Denver, CO$50 – $80
Detroit, MI$55 – $75
Houston, TX$40 – $100
Los Angeles, CA$60 – $120
Miami, FL$35 – $85
Minneapolis, MN$50 – $85
Nashville, TN$50 – $85
New York, NY$60 – $125
Newark, NJ$50 – $100
Philadelphia, PA$55 – $90
Phoenix, AZ$35 – $90
Pittsburgh, PA$50 – $100
Portland, OR$55 – $80
San Diego, CA$60 – $95
San Francisco, CA$60 – $110
Seattle, WA$35 – $75
Washington, D.C.$40 – $80

Handyman Licensing And Insurance

When hiring a handyman, it is essential to check whether they have the necessary licenses and insurance. Licensed handymen are more likely to provide quality work and meet regulatory standards. Insurance protects against potential damage or accidents during the job.

Corporate Vs. Self-Employed Handyman Job Prices

Choosing between a corporate handyman service and a self-employed handyman can impact cost and quality:

TypeProsCons
Self-employed– Typically more affordable rates due to lower overhead
– Flexible in pricing terms
– More likely to go above and beyond since their reputation is on the line
– Work is not subcontracted out
– Ability to develop an ongoing working relationship
– May not have insurance
– You have to verify their qualifications and reputation yourself
– All complaints go directly to the handyman instead of the main office
Corporate– Companies verify the handyman’s background and qualifications
– Companies maintain insurance and licensing
– Companies offer a workmanship guarantee
– Any complaints go to the company instead of the handyman
– Prices are typically higher, not flexible, and are set by the company
– A different handyman may arrive each time
– A corporate handyman is less likely to go above and beyond

Handyman Rates & Charges

Here is a summary of average handyman rates and charges:

TypeAverage Rate
Per hour$50 – $125
Per day$320 – $600
Minimum charge$75 – $200
Trip charge$30 – $80
Material markup20% – 50%+
Mileage fee$0.30 – $0.60 per mile

Mr. Handyman Hourly Rate

Mr. Handyman is a well-known franchise with rates generally ranging from $75 to $125 per hour, depending on the specific services required and the region.

How To Pay A Handyman?

Most handymen accept various forms of payment, including cash, check, and credit card. Some may also use payment platforms like PayPal or Venmo for convenience.

Do You Tip A Handyman?

Tipping a handyman is not required but is appreciated if you feel they have done an exceptional job. Typically, a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill is appropriate.

What Does A Handyman Do?

Handymen perform a wide array of jobs and minor repairs, including but not limited to:

  • Appliance installation
  • Carpentry work
  • Electrical repairs
  • Plumbing fixes
  • Painting and drywall work
  • General maintenance and repairs

What Jobs Can A Handyman NOT Do?

In general, a handyman may not be able to perform more complex tasks that require specialized licenses, such as major electrical work, extensive plumbing repairs, or large-scale construction. Always check your local regulations to ensure the handyman you hire is legally allowed to perform the job.

Handyman Vs. Contractor

Handymen typically handle smaller, less complex tasks, while contractors are licensed professionals who can manage larger projects:

HandymanContractor
Performs minor repairsManages large-scale projects
Often self-employedLicensed and insured
Lower costHigher cost due to specialization
No specific licenses requiredRequires industry-specific licenses

Can A Handyman Do Plumbing Or Electrical Work?

Most handymen can perform minor plumbing and electrical tasks, such as fixing leaks or installing light fixtures. For more extensive work, you should hire a licensed plumber or electrician.

How Much Does A Handyman Make?

Handymen’s earnings vary widely by location and experience. On average, handymen in the United States can make between $30,000 and $60,000 annually. More experienced handymen or those in higher-demand areas can earn more.

How To Find And Hire A Handyman

To find and hire a handyman:

  1. Search Online: Look for reviews and ratings.
  2. Ask for Recommendations: Friends, family, and neighbors can be good sources.
  3. Check Qualifications: Ensure they have the necessary skills and, if required, licenses and insurance.
  4. Compare Quotes: Get multiple quotes to ensure competitive pricing.

Getting Handyman Quotes

When getting quotes, be sure to:

  • Describe the job in detail.
  • Ask for a written estimate.
  • Inquire about additional costs for materials or travel.

Questions To Ask A Handyman

  • Are you licensed and insured?
  • How long have you been in business?
  • Can you provide references or examples of previous work?
  • What is your hourly rate?
  • Do you charge a flat rate or per hour?

How To Save On Handyman Jobs

  • Bundle Projects: Completing multiple tasks in one visit can reduce costs.
  • Off-Peak Timing: Schedule work during off-peak times.
  • Provide Materials: Buy your own materials to avoid markups.
  • Compare Quotes: Seek multiple quotes to find the best rate.

By understanding the typical costs associated with hiring a handyman and the factors that can influence these rates, you can make more informed decisions and ensure you get the best value for your home repair and improvement needs.

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