Expect a wide band even when the panel itself does not need a heavy-up. Angi, updated 23 September 2026 and based on 4,398 verified Angi Pros projects, reports a $967 national average to install an EV charger, with most jobs between $555 and $1,380, and describes Level 2 (220–240 V) as $700 to $2,000 once hardware and labor are included. Fixr, updated 31 January 2025, reports a $1,000–$2,500 national average range and says most people pay around $1,200 for a 240-volt outlet, a Level 2 charger, and a wall-mounted system. Those sources were gathered independently and do not match. They also do not isolate “labor only, no panel upgrade” as cleanly as the question wants: Angi lists electrical upgrades as a separate $800–$2,000 add-on, and Fixr’s $4,500 high end is a two-car, pedestal, panel-upgrade job.
| Source | As-of date | What they say |
|---|---|---|
| Angi | 23 Sep 2026 | National average $967 (4,398 projects); most jobs $555–$1,380; Level 2 hardware + install $700–$2,000; professional labor $400–$1,200; permits $100–$200; new wiring $500–$1,500; panel upgrade add-on $800–$2,000 |
| Fixr | 31 Jan 2025 | Average range $1,000–$2,500; typical wall-mounted Level 2 with 240 V outlet and charger about $1,200; Level 2 hardware $600–$1,200; typical Level 2 labor $420–$800; hardwired installed $850–$1,800; interior installed $800–$1,500; exterior $800–$2,500; high end $4,500 with dual charger, pedestal, and panel upgrade |
The spread is mostly scope: whether the charger is in the price, the length of the wire run, indoor versus outdoor or pedestal work, and permits. A straightforward garage install next to the panel should be compared with the lower halves of these ranges; a detached garage with a trench should not. This page does not apply a federal tax credit; several residential credits have ended. Get written quotes that state whether hardware, permit, and trench work are included, and use the calculator to confirm you truly do not need a panel upgrade.
This is not a permit calculation, a utility approval, or a substitute for a licensed electrician, HVAC contractor, or the authority having jurisdiction. Panel Headroom is an independent educational site. It is not a utility, a certification body, or a contractor. Electrical and generator work that is done incorrectly can cause fire, shock, or carbon monoxide poisoning. Use the adopted electrical code and manufacturer instructions; pull permits where required.