Consider upgrading your home's lighting. You've probably seen can lights—recessed ones—and noticed their clean, modern look. So, what are can lights?

They are fixtures built into the ceiling, giving a smooth and simple design. This makes rooms feel larger and helps show off your home's best features. The benefits are easy to see: focused light, versatile use, and no bulky fixtures hanging down.

They're perfect for kitchens, living rooms, and more. But here's the question every homeowner asks: What's the real cost to install them? You're in the right place.

This guide explains the price step by step, including hidden costs, so you can confidently budget.

Average Cost to Install Can Lights: A Quick Overview

Let's start with the numbers. The national average to install recessed lighting is between $125 and $300 per light. That price includes materials and labor. Most people spend around $180 per fixture. The total cost depends on how many lights you add. Here's a quick breakdown of project sizes.

Cost to Install Recessed Lighting in 2025 (By Project Size)

Note: These are estimates. Your final price depends on the factors we'll cover next.

Main Factors That Drive Up the Cost

Why is there such a big range? Several key factors affect your bill. The first is the fixture type and quality.

A basic LED fixture costs $15–$30, while innovative or designer models can be $50–$100 or more. Labor is another massive part of the budget. Electricians charge $50–$150 per hour. One light can take 2–3 hours in an existing ceiling. Your location, the electrician's experience, and job complexity all matter.

House structure also plays a role. Installing during new construction is cheaper since the walls and ceilings are open. Retrofitting into an existing home costs more because of drywall cutting and wiring, often adding 20–30%.

Ceiling height matters too. An 8-foot drywall ceiling is standard, but vaulted or high ceilings require scaffolding and extra time. Materials like plaster, wood, or concrete add cost as well.

Electrical work is another variable. Using old wiring saves money. Running new wiring or a new circuit can cost $200–$600 or more. Permits are also required in most areas. Fees range from $50–$500, depending on your city.

Price Examples for Common Installation Scenarios

Let's look at typical rooms. Kitchens often need 6–10 lights, costing $1,000–$3,000+. Extra wiring and working around cabinets add to labor costs. Living rooms usually need 6–8 lights and cost $900–$2,400. Costs may rise with tall ceilings or special trims. Basements need 8–12 lights, ranging from $1,200 to $3,000+. Wiring is often more complex if none exists.

Real-World Case Studies: City by City

Labor rates vary the most by location. Here's an example of six mid-range LED lights installed in three cities.

• Houston, TX
• Lights & Materials: $390
• Labor (~8 hrs at $118/hr): $944
• Permit & Misc: $267
• Total: ~$1,600
• Los Angeles, CA
• Lights & Materials: $390
• Labor (~8 hrs at $147/hr): $1,176
• Permit & Misc: $313
• Total: ~$1,880
• New York, NY
• Lights & Materials: $390
• Labor (~8 hrs at $170/hr): $1,360
• Permit & Misc: $350
• Total: ~$2,100

As you can see, labor costs in cities like LA and New York push the total higher.

Don't Forget! Extra Fees & Hidden Costs

Quotes don't always include everything. Be prepared for extra charges. Drywall repair can cost $300–$900 if patching and painting aren't included. Removing old fixtures may add a small labor fee. A dimmer switch runs $75–$200 installed. Intelligent lighting systems add $50–$150+ per fixture, plus setup costs. Some electricians charge a minimum trip fee of one or two hours of labor.

DIY Recessed Lighting Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Want to save money by doing it yourself? It's possible, but risky. DIY costs about $50–$130 per light for materials and tools. Hiring a pro costs $125–$300+ per light. DIY has high safety risks. Mistakes with wiring can cause shocks or fire hazards. Licensed electricians follow codes and are insured. Time is another factor. DIY may take a full day or more per room. A pro can often finish in 4–8 hours. Mistakes alone could double costs if you need a pro to fix them. A contractor's work is usually guaranteed.

If pro installation feels too costly, there's another option: bright floor lamps. No wiring, no permits, and you plug them in. With app or voice control, you can change brightness, color, and even move the lamp to another room. It's a modern lighting upgrade without construction. 👉 [Learn more about our bright floor lamps]

Smart Tips to Save Money on Your Project

Even with a pro, you can cut costs. Bundle lighting with a bigger remodel so drywall and painting are included. Install in batches, since the cost per light drops with more fixtures. Prep the room by moving furniture or covering floors to save labor time. Choose fixtures wisely. Sometimes "canless" LED models save labor because they're easier to install.

FAQs

How much does it cost to install 4 recessed lights?

Between $450 and $1,100, depending on wiring, ceiling type, and labor rates.

Do I need a permit to install recessed lighting?

In most cases, yes. Adding new wiring or circuits requires one. Fees are $50–$500.

Can I install recessed lighting myself?

Yes, but it's risky. Mistakes can be dangerous and costly, so most homeowners should hire a pro.

Conclusion

Installing can lights costs from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. But it's worth it. They modernize your home and can even raise resale value. By knowing the cost factors and planning smartly, you'll get the style you want without overspending. The best way to get your actual cost is to call a local electrician.