How Much Does It Cost to Install Recessed Lighting in 2026?
The average cost to install recessed lighting is $125 to $300 per light installed. Here is what electricians charge, how many lights you actually need, and whether you can DIY it.
Recessed lighting transforms a room by replacing bulky fixtures with clean, modern lighting that disappears into the ceiling. The average cost to install recessed lighting runs $125 to $300 per light installed, or $1,000 to $2,500 for a typical room of 6 to 8 lights.
Average Cost to Install Recessed Lighting in 2026
| Scenario | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Single light (existing wiring nearby) | $100 to $200 |
| Single light (new wiring required) | $150 to $300 |
| 6-light room installation | $800 to $1,800 |
| 8-light room installation | $1,000 to $2,400 |
| Retrofit kit (existing fixture location) | $75 to $150 per light |
The Best Recessed Lights for the Money
Always choose LED recessed lights. LED recessed lights use 75% less energy than incandescent, last 15 to 25 years versus 1 to 2 years for incandescent, and produce significantly less heat. A pack of 6 quality LED recessed lights costs $30 to $80 and the long term savings in bulb replacements and energy costs are substantial. Look for fixtures rated at 650 to 800 lumens at 2700K to 3000K color temperature for warm, natural-feeling light.
How Many Lights Do You Need?
The standard rule is one recessed light per 4 to 6 square feet of ceiling for general lighting. For a 12x15 foot room (180 square feet) that means 6 to 8 lights. Place lights approximately 2 feet from walls and space them 4 to 6 feet apart in a grid pattern.
What You Are Paying For
The light fixture itself costs $15 to $50 each. The bulk of the cost is labor, which runs $50 to $150 per light depending on wiring complexity and ceiling accessibility. Attic access above the installation area dramatically reduces labor cost since wire can be run from above without cutting into the ceiling.
Should You DIY It?
With attic access, an experienced DIYer comfortable with basic electrical wiring can install recessed lights and save $50 to $150 per light in labor. Without attic access, fishing wire through finished ceilings requires more skill and most homeowners are better off hiring an electrician.
Verdict: DIY-friendly with attic access. Hire an electrician for finished ceiling installations without attic access.
Bottom Line
Budget $150 to $250 per light for a professional recessed lighting installation. A 6-light room runs approximately $900 to $1,500 all in. Get two quotes, confirm the electrician will obtain a permit, and always choose LED fixtures.
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