Quick Answer
Separate the service upgrade from branch-circuit work. A broad base planning range for a 100A-to-200A or larger-service upgrade may start around $1,800–$4,500 before difficult utility work, while standard 120V circuits and dedicated 240V loads should be priced as separate line items. Local code adoption and utility requirements control the real scope.
1. Break the Service Upgrade Out as Its Own Scope
A panel replacement is not always the same as a service upgrade. A true capacity upgrade can involve the meter base, service conductors, exterior disconnect, grounding and bonding, utility coordination and sometimes utility-side equipment.
100A → 200A
Broad base planning range before major utility relocation, trenching or corrective work.
200A → 400A
Often requires different equipment, utility coordination and a documented load calculation.
2. Account for New Circuits by Type
| Circuit Type | Broad Planning Range | Typical Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 120V | $150–$300 each | Lighting, receptacles and small appliance circuits. |
| Dedicated 240V | $300–$800+ each | EV charger, heat pump, induction range, dryer and workshop loads. |
Distance, wire size, wall access and panel location matter. A 240V circuit five feet from the panel is not the same job as an 80-foot route through finished rooms.
3. Add AFCI/GFCI Protection Explicitly
| Protection | Planning Hardware Allowance |
|---|---|
| Basic standard breaker | About $15+ |
| AFCI / GFCI / dual-function | About $50–$100+ |
4. Underground Service and Trenching
Trench Length × $15–$35/ft = Basic Planning RangeRock, boring under hardscape, conduit size, pull boxes, utility requirements and surface restoration can move this far higher.
5. Worked Example
A renovation requires a 200A upgrade, six standard circuits, three dedicated 240V circuits and 40 feet of trench.
| Line Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Service upgrade | $1,800 | $4,500 |
| 6 × 120V circuits | $900 | $1,800 |
| 3 × 240V circuits | $900 | $2,400 |
| 40 ft trench | $600 | $1,400 |
| Planning subtotal | $4,200 | $10,100 |
Then add local permit/utility fees, drywall repair and any code corrections found during inspection.
6. Questions That Make Quotes Comparable
- Is this a panel change or full service upgrade?
- What service amperage and load calculation are assumed?
- How many new circuits are included?
- Which circuits get AFCI/GFCI protection?
- Are grounding and bonding upgrades included?
- Who pays utility charges and trench restoration?
- Are permits and inspections included?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 100A to 200A panel upgrade cost?
A broad early-planning range may be about $1,800 to $4,500 for the service/panel work, but meter relocation, utility changes, grounding, exterior disconnects, trenching, local code and difficult access can push the total higher.
What is the difference between a standard 120V circuit and a dedicated 240V circuit?
Standard 120V circuits typically serve lighting and receptacles. Dedicated 240V circuits serve larger loads such as EV chargers, heat pumps, dryers and induction ranges and often require heavier cable, larger breakers and dedicated routing.
Are AFCI and GFCI breakers always required?
Requirements depend on the locally adopted electrical code, occupancy and circuit location. Modern codes commonly require expanded AFCI and GFCI protection, but the exact rule must be verified locally.
How much should I budget for underground electrical trenching?
A broad planning range of roughly $15 to $35 per linear foot can be useful for simple trenching, but utility specifications, conduit size, excavation conditions, restoration and permits can materially increase cost.
Is a 400A service automatically better than 200A?
No. Service size should be based on a calculated electrical load and future needs. Oversizing adds cost without benefit if the load does not justify it.