01
The short answer
Most San Diego homeowners pay between $2,000 and $4,000 to upgrade to a 200-amp panel. Simpler swaps land at the low end; jobs that need a new meter location, a new service mast, or utility coordination land higher.
| Scenario | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Straight 100A → 200A panel swap, same location | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Upgrade with meter/mast relocation or code corrections | $3,000 – $4,500 |
| 400A service or larger / heavy SDG&E coordination | $4,500 – $8,000+ |
02
What's included
- The new panel (and meter main, if required).
- Labor to remove the old panel and install, wire, and label the new one.
- The electrical permit and the inspection.
- Bringing grounding and bonding up to current code — often missing in older homes.
03
What moves the price
- Service size — 100A → 200A is routine; 200A → 400A costs more (bigger gear, sometimes two panels).
- Meter or mast relocation — moving where power enters the home adds labor and SDG&E steps.
- SDG&E coordination — a service upgrade usually needs the utility to disconnect and reconnect, plus a work order.
- Panel location — a tight garage corner or an exterior wall behind landscaping adds time.
- Code corrections — older homes often need grounding, bonding, or wiring brought up to code at the same time.
04
The SDG&E step most quotes forget
A panel swap that keeps the same service size is mostly an in-and-out day. But a true service upgrade (more amps, or moving the meter) requires coordination with San Diego Gas & Electric — a work order, a disconnect/reconnect, and sometimes their own scheduling timeline.
We handle that coordination for you and tell you up front when it applies, so the project timeline is clear before you commit.
These are typical ranges, not a quote. Your number depends on your specific panel, location, and whether SDG&E coordination is needed — which we confirm during a free assessment.
Common questions
Before you decide.
How long does a panel upgrade take?+
The physical swap is usually 6–8 hours. If SDG&E coordination or a meter relocation is involved, the overall project can span a few days to a couple of weeks once scheduling and inspection are factored in.
Will my power be off during the upgrade?+
Yes — power is off for part of the day while the panel is replaced. We plan the timing with you so it is as painless as possible.
Is a permit required?+
Always. A panel upgrade changes your home's electrical service and must be permitted and inspected. We pull the permit and schedule the inspection.
Is a panel upgrade worth it?+
If your panel is full, undersized for modern loads (EV, AC, electric appliances), or a known hazard brand, yes — it improves safety and unlocks future upgrades like an EV charger or heat pump.