Garbage disposal installation cost
Replacing an existing garbage disposal costs $200 to $550 with the unit and labor. Adding one where there was none costs $250 to $650, more if you need a new electrical outlet. Here is what drives the price.
Quick answer
$200 – $550replacement, installed
Most homeowners pay $200 to $550 to replace a disposal. A first-time installation runs $250 to $650, plus $150 to $350 if an outlet must be added. Repairs cost $100 to $250.
Disposal prices by horsepower
| Horsepower | Unit price | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| 1/3 HP | $75 – $125 | 1–2 people, light use |
| 1/2 HP | $100 – $150 | Most small households |
| 3/4 HP | $125 – $300 | Families, daily cooking |
| 1 HP | $175 – $400 | Heavy use, large families |
Installation costs
A straight swap takes one to two hours. A first-time installation can take two to four hours because it may need a switch, outlet and drain changes.
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Replace existing disposal (total) | $200 – $550 |
| New install, no existing unit (total) | $250 – $650 |
| Plumber labor to replace | $100 – $250 |
| Handyman labor | $80 – $160 |
| New electrical outlet | $150 – $350 |
| Electrical permit | $50 – $350 |
| Disposal repair | $100 – $250 |
What plumbers charge for this job
Most of the price of a plumbing job is labor. Licensed plumbers in the U.S. typically charge $45 to $150 per hour, and many add a $50 to $200 service call fee that often covers the first hour. Expect evening, weekend and holiday visits to cost noticeably more; emergency hourly rates commonly run $150 to $350. Master plumbers and plumbers in high-cost metro areas sit at the top of these ranges.
Before work starts, ask whether the quote is a flat price for the whole job or an hourly estimate, and whether parts, permits and haul-away are included. See Plumber rates per hour and Emergency plumber cost for the full breakdown.
Repair or replace?
Replace the disposal if it leaks from the body, is over 8 years old, or the repair costs more than half the price of a new unit. A jam is often free to fix: turn off the power and use the hex wrench in the bottom of the unit to free the blades.
Can you install a garbage disposal yourself?
Replacing a disposal with the same mounting system is a manageable DIY job for many homeowners, using the manufacturer's instructions. Hire a pro if you need a new outlet or switch, if the drain needs to be rerouted, or if a dishwasher connects to the disposal and you are unsure how to reconnect it.
How to save
- Buy a unit with the same mount as your old one for an easier swap.
- Have a plumber install it during another visit to avoid a second service fee.
- Choose 1/2 or 3/4 HP; more power is rarely needed.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a garbage disposal last?
About 8 to 15 years, depending on use and quality.
Do I need an electrician to install a garbage disposal?
Only if there is no outlet or switch under the sink. Adding one costs about $150 to $350.
Sources
Prices are national estimates for 2026 based on published cost surveys and labor data. Your local price can be higher or lower. FairFix Costs is not a plumbing contractor; read our disclaimer.