Knob and tube wiring replacement cost in 2026
Knob and tube wiring replacement costs $12,000 to $35,000 in 2026 for most homeowners, with a typical price near $23,500.
Is your quote fair?
Type the price you were quoted. We compare it to the usual 2026 range of $12,000 to $35,000.
What moves the price
- Bigger homes with more rooms need more labor, wire, and circuits.
- Homes with poor access to the attic, crawl space, or basement may need walls opened, which adds repair costs.
- Panel upgrades, permits, inspections, and the quality of fixtures also change the total.
- Where you live. Labor in big cities costs more than in small towns.
What is included
The range covers labor and materials for a typical knob and tube wiring replacement. It does not include permits unless the tables say so, or extra repairs found once work starts. Get a written quote that lists each part of the job.
Cost by home square footage
| Home sq ft | Average cost |
|---|---|
| 1,000 | $8,000 to $17,000 |
| 1,200 | $9,600 to $20,400 |
| 1,500 | $12,000 to $25,500 |
| 2,000 | $16,000 to $34,000 |
| 2,500 | $20,000 to $42,500 |
| 3,000 | $24,000 to $51,000 |
| 3,500 | $28,000 to $59,500 |
Average prices in US dollars. Source: HomeGuide.
Cost breakdown
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| New electrical panel | $800 to $2,500 |
| New wiring materials, outlets, & switches | $8,600 to $10,800 |
| Rewiring labor | $2,400 to $20,800 |
| Permits | $200 to $900 |
| Total cost to replace | $12,000 to $35,000 |
Average prices in US dollars. Source: HomeGuide.
Why this costs more in 2026
Labor is the biggest part of most home jobs, and skilled trade pay keeps rising. Many materials and parts are imported, and freight went up after the oil shock that began with the Iran war in February 2026. Steel, copper, aluminum and resin all cost more too, so quotes for knob and tube wiring replacement are higher than they were a few years ago.
Ways to pay less
- Get at least three in person estimates and check that permits and wall repairs are included in each one.
- Ask about local or state grants or low interest loans for knob and tube removal.
- Get at least three written quotes and compare them line by line.
Where the price comes from
The range on this page comes from one named price guide. We read every number on its page and show the date it was last updated.
- HomeGuide: Knob and tube wiring replacement cost guide, page dated February 12, 2026
Common questions
How much does this cost in 2026?
Knob and tube wiring replacement costs $12,000 to $35,000 in 2026 for most homeowners, with a typical price near $23,500. Most people pay about $23,500 per project. The low end is $12,000 and the high end is $35,000.
What changes the price the most?
The biggest factors are: Bigger homes with more rooms need more labor, wire, and circuits; Homes with poor access to the attic, crawl space, or basement may need walls opened, which adds repair costs; Panel upgrades, permits, inspections, and the quality of fixtures also change the total.
How can I pay less?
Get at least three in person estimates and check that permits and wall repairs are included in each one. Ask about local or state grants or low interest loans for knob and tube removal. Get at least three written quotes and compare them line by line.
Where do these numbers come from?
From one named price guide, HomeGuide. It is linked on this page with the date it was last updated.
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