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“The Quote was WHAT?!”
My husband came downstairs this morning and met me in the kitchen to let me know that the contractors who’d installed a playset area earlier this week had informed him they install Christmas lights and asked if we wanted a quote. My husband agreed happily; who loves climbing up on the roof? We’d discussed having them installed year after year and just never did, so it seemed like kismet. Until the reply came, quoting the front and sides of our two-story home at $1,700!
Our immediate reaction was “oh heck no,” and we immediately started planning to order an adjustable, 20-foot ladder. However, it got me wondering what we should have expected in terms of cost. That quote was roughly 5x what I was expecting, but was I being realistic? And so, my research began!
Average Christmas Light Installation Cost
According to national data from Angi, HomeGuide, and HomeAdvisor, most U.S. homeowners spend between $220 and $685 to have Christmas lights professionally installed. The average cost is around $442 for a standard residential setup.
That price typically includes:
- Installation and takedown
- LED string lights (if provided by installer)
- Roofline and window outlines
It usually excludes permanent or custom displays, large estates, or intricate landscaping.
Per-foot pricing runs between $2.50 and $7.00, depending on the light type, roof height, and whether you’re supplying your own lights.
Cost Breakdown by Project Type
| Project Type | Typical Cost Range | Details / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Roofline Installation | $250 to $1,500 | Standard single-story or two-story roofline with LED string lights; may include windows. |
| Full Holiday Lighting Package | $750 to $5,000 | Includes rooflines, windows, garage, landscaping, and trees; suited for larger homes or complex designs. |
| Permanent Lighting System | $2,000 to $8,000+ | Year-round or smart RGB LED systems; higher upfront cost but no annual setup/removal. |
| Removal / Takedown Service | $100 to $400 | Often included in quotes but confirm with installer; varies by project size. |
| Tree Lighting | $85 to $135 (small tree) / $300 to $2,000+ (large tree up to ~28 ft.) | Prices depend on tree size, height, and density. |
| Per Linear Foot Pricing | $2 to $5 | Typical range for roofline or trim lighting, including lights and labor; higher for multi-story or steep roofs. |
Regional Price Differences
Installation costs vary across the country due to differences in labor rates, housing styles, and demand during the holidays.
| Region | Metro/Suburban Typical | Rural/Low-Cost Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast & West | $500 to $1,200 | $300 to $600 | 25% to 35% higher due to higher labor and insurance costs |
| Midwest & South | $300 to $800 | $250 to $500 | Lower labor and material costs, simpler rooflines |
| National Average | $220 to $685 | Same | Based on various cost sources |
In short: Metro homeowners pay more, especially in areas like California, New York, and Massachusetts. Rural and small-town homeowners often see lower prices.
State-by-State Installation Costs
Here’s what you might expect to pay in several major states for a standard two-story home:
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| State | Average | Low-End | High-End | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | ~$260 | ~$147 | ~$367 | Metro areas like Austin and Dallas can reach $700+ |
| Florida | ~$291 | ~$163 | ~$418 | Rural areas cost less; Miami metro runs higher |
| California | $510 to $728 | ~$183 | ~$1,250 | Premium West Coast labor costs |
| Illinois | ~$660 | ~$171 | ~$1,150 | Moderate Midwest range |
| Georgia | ~$264 | ~$148 | ~$379 | Atlanta area runs ~25% higher |
| Ohio | ~$267 | ~$150 | ~$384 | Midwest average; rural homes are cheaper |
| Washington | ~$295 | ~$165 | ~$424 | Slightly above national average |
| New York | $500 to $900 | ~$300 | $1,200+ | NYC metro prices are highest |
Cost by Home Type and Complexity
For most suburban 1- or 2-story homes, expect to spend $300 to $700 for roofline and window outlines.
Prices increase with:
- Complex or steep rooflines
- Multi-story homes
- Tree or landscape lighting
- Lights provided by the installer
Many companies include takedown in their quote, but it’s worth confirming before booking. If not, plan for a removal service costing $100 to $400, depending on project size.
Permanent vs. Seasonal Lighting
If you prefer to keep the sparkle year-round, permanent lighting systems — such as smart RGB LEDs or soffit-mounted designs — cost $2,000 to $15,000+. These are a bigger investment but eliminate the need for annual setup and removal.
Getting the Best Value
Here are a few ways to keep your installation affordable:
- Book early: Installers fill up fast before Thanksgiving.
- Use your own lights: Supplying your own LEDs can save $100 to $200.
- Simplify your design: Rooflines only are cheaper than wrapping trees or fences.
- Bundle services: Some installers offer discounts for repeat customers or referrals.
Questions to Ask a Professional Christmas Light Installer
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| What’s included in your quote? | Clarifies whether installation, takedown, and lights are covered. |
| Do you use LED or incandescent lights? | LEDs last longer and are more energy-efficient. |
| How do you price installations? | Helps compare linear-foot or project-based quotes. |
| Are you insured and licensed? | Ensures safety and protection for roof or ladder work. |
| When do you start installations and removals? | Early scheduling can secure better rates and availability. |
| Do you store the lights after the season? | Some companies offer optional off-season storage. |
| Can you customize the design or color scheme? | Confirms flexibility for your preferred look or lighting pattern. |
| What happens if a light strand goes out? | Check for mid-season maintenance or repair policies. |
Bottom Line
All in all, our reaction to the $1,700 quote was justified. While you can leave the research and article writing to me and other curious home experts, it’s always smart to check your expectations before accepting any estimate that makes your blood pressure rise.
Professional Christmas light installation in 2025 typically costs about $220 to $685 nationally, with most homeowners paying around $442. Costs vary based on home size, region, and design complexity — but the convenience and safety of letting professionals handle the job often make it worth the investment.
Our story is a great example of this: prices can vary widely depending on where you live, your roofline, and the installer’s experience. That’s exactly why we recommend getting multiple quotes from contractors in your area before booking. Comparing local professionals helps ensure you find the best fit — and the best price — for your home and holiday vision.
Find the Right Contractor for Your Project
Whether you’re ready to begin your project now or need some expert advice, our network of contractors are here to help. With a few simple questions, we’ll find the best local professionals for you
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