Electricians in
San Mateo, CA

In the San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA metro area, electricians earned a median of $44.63 an hour ($92,830 a year) in May 2025, and the middle 80% earned $26.62–$87.66. About 9,060 people work in this occupation in the metro area. That is a lower share of local jobs than the national average (location quotient 0.78). These are what workers earn, not what electricians charge: a contractor's hourly rate also covers insurance, licensing, vehicles, overhead and profit. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.

The typical home in San Mateo was built in 1965, and 70% of homes were built before 1980. The median owner-occupied home is worth $1,618,700. 44% of San Mateo's homes were built before 1960. Homes of that age may still have knob-and-tube or ungrounded two-prong wiring and service panels too small for modern loads such as EV chargers and heat pumps, so a panel and wiring check is worth doing before adding circuits. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates.

Electricians in San Mateo typically charge $75–$150 per hour. Project costs vary widely — a simple outlet installation may cost $100–$200, while a full panel upgrade can exceed $2,000.

Yes, most electrical work in San Mateo requires a permit, including panel upgrades, new circuits, rewiring, and service entrance changes. Contact the San Mateo building department for permit requirements. Even seemingly minor work like adding outlets or moving switches typically requires inspection in CA to ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code.

On Ratedeed, you can browse electricians serving San Mateo, view license details, and compare free quotes to compare pricing and availability. Look for electricians with experience in your specific type of project — residential, commercial, or industrial.

Yes, licensed electricians in San Mateo can upgrade your electrical panel. A panel upgrade typically costs $2,000–$5,000 depending on the amperage. Upgrading from an outdated fuse box or 100-amp panel to a modern 200-amp service improves safety and supports modern electrical demands. A permit and inspection are required in CA.

In California, a licensed electrician is required for any work involving circuit installations, panel upgrades, service entrance changes, wiring for new construction or additions, and any work that requires a permit. While homeowners can legally replace light fixtures and outlets in some jurisdictions, San Mateo's building codes are strict and it's always recommended to hire a licensed professional for safety and code compliance.