Holiday Budget Guide: Christmas Light Installation Cost

The holiday season is a magical time when every home and business comes alive with the warm glow of Christmas lights. If you're considering adding some extra sparkle to your property this year, you might be wondering about the Christmas light installation cost. In this article, we will guide you through the average installation cost, the factors that influence pricing, and help you decide whether to start the project yourself or hire a professional.

What Is the Average Cost of Christmas Light Installation?

The average cost of Christmas light installation differs based on several factors, such as the home size, the type of lights, and the complexity of the installation. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2.50 to $7 per linear foot for professional Christmas light installation costs. This price range includes both the cost of materials ($0.50 to $2 per linear foot) and the installation labor ($2 to $5 per linear foot).

The total cost to install Christmas lights will depend on the specific areas you want to illuminate. Here's a breakdown of the average costs for different parts of your home:

In addition to these Christmas lights installation costs, you may need to factor in expenses for electrical wiring ($50-$100 per hour for an electrician) if your home requires new wiring to support the Christmas lights. Permanent light installations, which can last 6 to 10 years, cost around $3,500 on average.

When it comes to the types of Christmas lights available, prices range from $5 to $70 per 25-foot strand if purchased independently or $0.40 to $2 per linear foot if bought through an installation company. The four main types of lights are incandescent, LED, dome, and C9, each with its own characteristics and price points.

Additional features like timers ($10 to $50 per timer) and smart lights ($35 to $50 per 25 linear feet) can also impact the overall cost of your Christmas light installation.

While DIY Christmas light installation can save you $2 to $5 per linear foot on labor costs, it's essential to consider the safety risks and the expertise required for a polished, professional look. Hiring a local Christmas light installer ensures a safe and attractive installation, particularly for lights over 30 feet tall.

😎Related Reading: Permanent Christmas Lights Cost

Factors Affecting Christmas Light Installation Cost

When considering the cost of installing Christmas lights, there are several key factors to keep in mind:

1. Size of Your Home: The larger your home, the more lights and time it will take to complete the installation, resulting in a higher overall cost.

2. Complexity of the Installation: If your home has multiple stories, steep roofs, or hard-to-reach areas, the installation will be more challenging and time-consuming, leading to increased labor costs.

3. Type of Lights: LED lights are more expensive upfront but are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting compared to incandescent lights. The cost also varies based on the style of lights you choose, such as icicle lights, net lights, or traditional string lights.

4. Additional Features: Adding features like animated displays, timers, or smart controls will increase the overall cost of the installation.

5. Geographic Location: Labor costs vary depending on where you live, with prices generally being higher in urban areas compared to rural regions.

DIY Light Installation vs. Hiring a Professional: Which One to Choose?

When it comes to installing Christmas lights, you have two options: doing it yourself (DIY) or hiring a professional. Each approach has its pros and cons.

DIY installation can be more cost-effective, as you only need to purchase the lights and materials. However, it can be time-consuming, physically demanding, and potentially dangerous, especially if you have a large or multi-story home. You also need to have the necessary tools and knowledge to complete the installation safely and effectively.

Hiring a professional, on the other hand, ensures that the installation is done correctly, safely, and efficiently. Professional installers have the experience, tools, and expertise to handle complex installations and create stunning displays. While it may be more expensive upfront, it can save you time, stress, and potential injuries.

But, at the end of the day, the choice between DIY and professional installation depends on your budget, skills, and available time.

Tips to Save on Holiday Light Installation Costs

While the cost of installing holiday Christmas lights can add up, there are several strategies you can employ to keep expenses under control:

1. Plan Ahead: Start planning your installation early to take advantage of off-season discounts on lights and materials. Many retailers offer sales on holiday decorations in the months leading up to the festive season.

2. Reuse Lights and Decorations: Store your lights and decorations properly after each holiday season to reuse them the following year. This can reduce your overall costs over time.

3. Keep the Design Simple: A simple, elegant light display can be just as impactful as an elaborate one. By keeping your design straightforward, you can reduce the number of lights and materials needed, thus lowering the cost.

4. Compare Quotes from Multiple Professionals: If you decide to hire a professional, request quotes from several companies to compare prices and services. Look for companies that offer good package deals or discounts for early booking or multi-year contracts.

5. Invest in Quality Lights: Although it may be tempting to purchase cheap lights, investing in high-quality, energy-efficient LED lights can greatly save you money in the long run. LED lights last longer, consume less electricity, and are more durable than incandescent lights.

Invest in Good Lights, Spend Less Over Time

Putting up and taking down the same lights every single year costs time and money. The best way to cut down on those costs for good is to start with high-quality lights that are built to last.

You have a couple of solid options here. You can either get tough seasonal lights that you’ll reuse for many years or install a permanent system once and be done with it.

For Strong, Reusable Seasonal Lights

If you like the freedom of creating a new look each season, then durable, standalone lights are a great fit. For example, the eufy Outdoor Spotlights E10 are made to handle bad weather, meaning you're not buying replacements every year. You can use them to light up trees or focus on parts of your house. For walkways, the eufy Outdoor Pathway Lights E10 are just as tough and make your home look warm and inviting.

For a Set-It-and-Forget-It Solution

If you want to completely get rid of yearly setup costs, permanent lights are your answer. A system like the eufy Permanent Outdoor Lights S4 is installed once and stays up all year. Because they're rated IP67 waterproof, they have no problem with rain or snow. Your big advantage is turning that yearly labor cost into a one-time home improvement. Plus, you can switch on custom light shows for birthdays, game days, or other holidays, giving you more value well beyond Christmas.

Conclusion

There you go! A Christmas light installation cost can really differ depending on various factors, such as the size of your home, the type of lights used, and the complexity of the installation. While DIY installation may seem like a cost-effective solution, hiring a professional can ensure safety, efficiency, and a stunning display. Now that you know the costs involved and implement cost-saving strategies, you can create a dazzling holiday display without breaking the bank. So, go ahead and spread some holiday feels with the magic of Christmas lights!

FAQ

Are professional Christmas lights worth it?

Professional Christmas lights can be worth it if you want a stunning display without the hassle of installing them yourself. Professional installers have the experience and equipment to quickly and safely put up high-quality lights that will last throughout the holiday season. However, the cost of professional installation can be significant, so it's important to weigh the benefits against your budget.

How much does it cost to install Christmas lights on a 2-story house?

The cost to install Christmas lights on a 2-story house can vary depending on factors such as the size of your home, the complexity of the installation, and the type of lights used. On average, professional installation can range from $800 to $1,200 for a 2-story home. This price mostly includes the cost of labor, actual lights, and other necessary materials.

Are LED Christmas lights more expensive to install than incandescent?

LED Christmas lights are generally more expensive to purchase upfront compared to incandescent lights. However, LED lights are more energy-saving and have longer lifespans, which can lead to even more cost savings in the long run. When it comes to installation costs, there is typically no significant difference between LED and incandescent lights, as the labor and equipment required for installation remain the same.