The question “how much do can lights cost” pops up in nearly every homeowner consultation we conduct at CountBricks. Recessed “can” fixtures are clean, modern, and space-saving—but cost is always the deciding factor. Below, our residential construction pros break down real-world numbers, cost drivers, and money-saving strategies so you can decide with confidence.
Across the Phoenix metro area, CountBricks projects show a typical all-in cost of $180–$325 per can. That figure bundles the IC-rated housing, LED trim kit, wiring, labor, permits, and basic patch/paint touch-up.
To arrive at your exact number, CountBricks AI listens to your scope over a quick voice call, pulls current material pricing, and generates a line-item estimate in seconds. Visit CountBricks.com/services to schedule a live demo.
• Ceiling type: New construction open joists are simpler than finished drywall, shaving 25-35% off labor.
• Fixture quality: Builder-grade housings start at $22 while airtight, smart-enabled LEDs run $65+. The trim style you pick also influences price.
• Electrical access: Attics with clear access cost less than flat roofs that need fishing through fire blocks.
• Circuit load: Adding more than eight cans to an existing 15-amp circuit typically triggers a dedicated run and new breaker.
• Dimming & controls: Standard wall dimmers are $20; app-based smart drivers add $40-$60 per location.
• Permit fees: Phoenix residential permits average $125-$200, varying by municipality and project size.
CountBricks updates material pricing daily, so your estimate never lags behind market shifts. Here is a snapshot from this week’s supplier feed:
• 6" IC-rated new-work housing: $24 each
• 6" retrofit housing: $29 each
• LED trim kit (90 CRI, 2700-5000K selectable): $33 each
• Airtight gasket upgrade: $4 each
• Smart Wi-Fi dimmer switch: $49 each
Combine those numbers with labor and soft costs for the true answer to “how much do can lights cost.”
1. Layout & circuit planning – 0.25 hr per can
2. Cutting openings & setting housings – 0.35 hr per can
3. Running Romex & stapling – 0.40 hr per can
4. Trimming, testing, and labeling – 0.25 hr per can
5. Patch, texture, paint touch-ups – 0.20 hr per can
At an average $85 journeyman rate in Phoenix, labor alone lands near $127 per can. Smaller jobs increase unit price because set-up and permit time are fixed.
While the internet is full of DIY tutorials, recessed lighting intersects with structural drilling, fire safety, and code compliance. Hiring CountBricks means:
• Fast AI-generated quote documents delivered the same day
• Licensed electricians with current NEC knowledge
• In-house drywall finishers to eliminate “Swiss-cheese ceiling” syndrome
• A single invoice—no juggling suppliers, permits, or inspections
• Opt for four-inch cans in tight areas; they draw less wattage and may fit existing circuits.
• Bundle multiple lighting upgrades (e.g., under-cabinet LEDs) under one permit.
• Use CountBricks AI takeoff tools to pre-plan joist conflicts and reduce rework.
• Select 5-CCT selectable trims to avoid buying separate warm and cool fixtures.
In coastal states with Title 24 or more stringent energy codes, airtight housings and vacancy sensors become mandatory, adding $20-$35 per opening. Phoenix homeowners benefit from lower code-driven costs but must compensate for attic heat. CountBricks recommends IC-rated, thermally protected cans to prevent early LED failure.
A Scottsdale homeowner contacted CountBricks.com/consultation and used our voice AI to outline a vaulted-ceiling retrofit. The AI produced a parts list in 45 seconds. Final numbers:
• Materials: $987
• Labor: $1,856
• Permit & inspections: $178
• Miscellaneous (paint blending, furniture protection): $142
Total: $3,163 or $198 per can
The homeowner approved the quote on their phone and the project wrapped in two business days—ceiling spotless, lights dimming via smartphone.
LED cans slash wattage by up to 70%, recouping install costs within 3-5 years for active living spaces. CountBricks partners with green-energy lenders; see CountBricks.com/financing for same-day approvals.
The phrase “how much do can lights cost” is no longer guesswork. Use CountBricks’ free voice estimator and receive a precise, itemized proposal while you sip your coffee. No spreadsheets, no hold music, just actionable numbers.
1. Open the CountBricks app or visit CountBricks.com.
2. Describe your room, ceiling type, and preferred trim style.
3. Review your AI-generated estimate.
4. Schedule an on-site verification.
5. Approve and watch your space transform.
Illuminating your home has never been this transparent—or this fast.
Selecting the perfect fixture is just as important as asking “how much do can lights cost.” CountBricks curates a catalog of residential-grade cans tested under local attic conditions, ensuring longevity and compliance.
• Baffle trims: Most budget-friendly, great for living rooms where glare control matters.
• Reflector trims: Increase lumen output—ideal for kitchens but add $6-$8 per can.
• Adjustable gimbals: Perfect for wall art; expect a $12 premium.
• Square flangeless trims: Ultra-modern look, but drywall skim-coat labor pushes total costs 20% higher.
Homeowners often overspend on high-output fixtures. CountBricks recommends 600-800 lumens at 2700-3000K for bedrooms and 900-1100 lumens at 3000-3500K for task areas. Matching output to usage avoids unnecessary wattage and up-charges.
• Pre-score ceiling texture with a rigid putty knife to minimize chipping.
• Mark joist locations using CountBricks blueprint takeoff before cutting—zero surprises.
• Run a dedicated neutral for smart dimmers to eliminate flicker on low settings.
• Always photograph wiring paths; the CountBricks app stores images with your project file for future renovations.
Traditional bidding can take days of back-and-forth emails. CountBricks AI compresses the quoting window to minutes and locks material pricing in real time. That speed means: 1. Fewer change orders, 2. Faster permit submission, and 3. Confirmed crew availability.
Ready for lighting that shines and a process that’s just as bright? Visit CountBricks.com/consultation and speak your project into existence today.
