Cost per Foot to Run Electrical Line

Understanding the Cost per Foot to Run Electrical Line in 2026

For construction professionals, knowing the cost per foot to run an electrical line is crucial for accurate bidding and project management. According to current 2026 data, costs vary from $6 to $8 per foot per linear foot for standard wiring. More extensive projects, such as underground installations, can see costs rise to $10 to $25 per foot per foot due to additional requirements such as trenching and specialized conduit protection.

Key Factors Influencing Cost Per Foot

1. Wire Type and Gauge: Different projects may require specific wire types like copper THHN or aluminum SER, influencing costs significantly.

2. Conduit or Cable Path: The installation path—especially labor-intensive ones like underground placement—can affect overall costs.

3. Accessibility: Open framing installations are typically faster and cheaper compared to pulling wires through finished walls.

4. Service Panel Capacity: If an upgrade is needed, it can substantially increase project costs.

5. Regional Labor Rates & Permits: Labor rates differ by region, impacting project expenses significantly.

Sample Estimates for Residential Projects

Advanced Estimation with CountBricks

• Voice-to-Estimate: Discuss and transform project details into actionable estimates.
• AI-Enhanced Takeoffs: Upload drawings to receive precise conduit lengths and material requirements.
• Automatic Code Compliance: Ensure compliance with conductor fill and protection rules.

Strategies to Reduce Cost Per Foot

Plan efficient wiring routes, bundle circuits, and utilize open framing where possible to minimize costs.

Common Errors That Inflate Costs

Miscalculating long cable runs and specifying unnecessary materials can unnecessarily escalate costs.

From Estimate to Invoice: The CountBricks Workflow

By starting with precise estimates, CountBricks facilitates efficient project execution through real-time task and cost management.

Optimize Your Bids with Precision

Using CountBricks, contractors can achieve accurate, custom estimates tailored to location and project specifics. Start improving your bid accuracy at CountBricks.com.

Case Study: Kitchen Remodel Wiring with CountBricks

During a kitchen remodel in Riverside, a contractor needed to reroute circuits and update the panel. With varying bids, CountBricks' AI-assisted tools provided precise measurements and costs.

Deliverables by CountBricks

• Measured 112 feet of branch circuits
• Identified project challenges such as plaster walls
• Offered real-time pricing: $0.50 to $3.00 per foot for copper cable, $2 to $5 per foot for labor
• Suggested necessary panel updates

Final Calculations

Branch circuit wiring: $6 to $8 per foot/ft × 112 ft = $700 (flat total)

Sub-panel install: $1,400 to $2,800

Labor and device setup: $1,100 to $2,500

Total Project Cost: $2,500 to $6,000

The detailed breakdown facilitated quick client approval, reduced waste, and accelerated project timelines. Experience enhanced accuracy and efficiency with CountBricks for your upcoming projects.

Explore more at CountBricks.com.