In 2025, handyman hourly rates average between $60 and $80. However, the average handyperson cost can vary between as low as $45 hourly or up to $120 per hour. The job’s location and complexity will be significant factors in the cost.
While a handyperson’s price can be reflective of their labor, the factors in the cost are complex and can start from the location of the job to job complexity. This guide explores what you can expect from a handyperson service in San Diego and beyond, as well as what you should genuinely expect to hear for a reasonable quote.
Table of Contents
What Is a Handyman?
A handyman, or handyperson, is a skilled tradesperson with a range of skills related to small to medium-sized home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. A handyman is a jack-of-all-trades and does not have the same focus as a specialized contractor for strictly one trade, for example, plumbing or electrical. A handyperson would typically take your household to-do list from a leaky faucet to a fresh paint job.
Common handyman jobs include:
- Assembling furniture
- Minor carpentry and drywall repairs
- Hanging pictures and mounting TVs
- Installing light fixtures and ceiling fans
- General cleaning and maintenance
You may also read: What is Handyman Services?
Handyman Hourly Rates
The average hourly rate for a handyman is the most common way they charge for services, especially for small, varied tasks. This model is straightforward: you pay for the time they spend on the job.
- National Average Rate: $60 – $80 per hour
- Average Low-End Rate: $45 – $50 per hour
- Average High-End Rate: $100 – $120+ per hour
The numbers reflect an average nationally and can vary extensively. For example, an independent handyperson’s rate may be lower than a company service due to lower overhead costs. A skilled handyman with a specialization may charge at the higher end of the average.
Handyman Flat Rates
A handyman may offer a flat rate for some everyday tasks instead of charging by the hour. Flat rates are often for jobs that they do regularly, and where the time and materials are predictable. A flat rate will give you a clear upfront price for the whole job, so you can know what the full handyperson cost will be before they start.
Examples of projects that might have a flat rate pricing:
- Installing a new garbage disposal
- Mounting a television
- Replacing a door knob
Handyman Rates by Project Type
The handyman pricing can vary greatly based on the type of project. Here’s a look at the average cost for different handyman services.
- Assembly: $200 – $400
- Painting: $400 – $600
- Minor Plumbing: $150 – $300
- Drywall Repair: $200 – $500
- Small Electrical Work: $150 – $350
This is just a general guide. The final price depends on the project’s complexity and the time it takes to complete.
Handyman Prices by State: A Regional Breakdown
Location is one of the most significant factors in handyman hourly pricing. The cost of living in a particular area directly affects what a handyman will have to charge to run their business and make a living. A handyperson living in a rural location in Arizona will have a much lower hourly rate than a handyman living in a large city such as San Diego.
City, State | Average Hourly Rate |
San Diego, CA | $75 – $120+ |
Dallas, TX | $40 – $100 |
New York, NY | $80 – $150+ |
Atlanta, GA | $50 – $90 |
Phoenix, AZ | $40 – $85 |
As noted, the handyman hourly cost in San Diego is going to be higher than in a lot of other places. The high cost of living in San Diego is the reason for the higher handyman hourly rate. When searching for a handyperson in your area, keep in mind that pricing is relative to your specific geographical location.
Handyman Price List Example: Breaking Down a Typical Service Call
To help you understand how handyman charges work, let’s walk through a real-world example. Imagine you have a few small tasks that need to be done around your home.
Project: Hanging new shelves, replacing a bathroom faucet, and mounting a TV.
- Labor: The handyman charges a typical hourly rate for a handyman of $80 per hour. The project is estimated to take 3 hours. (3 hours x $80/hour = $240)
- Materials: You bought the shelves and TV mount yourself. The handyman needs basic plumbing parts for the faucet, like sealant and a new shut-off valve. These material costs are around $35.
- Trip Fee: The handyman has a standard trip fee of $25 to cover travel time and gas.
- Total Cost: $240 (labor) + $35 (materials) + $25 (trip fee) = $300
This example shows how the final handyman cost is a combination of labor, materials, and other fees.
Handyman Prices by Scope of Work
Handymen often categorize projects by size to give a clearer idea of the potential cost. This helps them manage expectations and ensures you get the right person for the job.
Job Size | Description | Average Cost |
Small Task | It takes less than 2 hours. Requires basic tools. | $75 – $200 |
Medium Project | It takes 2-5 hours. May require power tools or multiple steps. | $250 – $500 |
Large Project | It takes more than 5 hours or a full day. Often involves multiple skills. | $500 – $1,500+ |
This structure is helpful when you have a list of home repairs. By bundling smaller jobs together, you can often make the most of the handyman’s time and your money.
You may also read: How much does a handyman charge to paint a room?
What Affects Handyman Rates?
Several factors go into a handyman’s pricing model. Understanding these helps you see the value behind their hourly rate for a handyman.
- Experience & Skill Level: A handyman with 20 years of experience and a broad set of skills will charge more than a novice. Their experience means they work faster, more efficiently, and can handle complex problems.
- Geographic Location: We already discussed this, but it’s the primary driver. In high-cost areas, everything from insurance to vehicle maintenance is more expensive for the handyman, which is reflected in their prices.
- The Project’s Complexity: Simple tasks like hanging a picture are less expensive than a job that requires specialized knowledge, like certain handyman electrician tasks.
- Overhead: A professional handyman has business costs like insurance, fuel, tools, and marketing. These are all part of the labor costs and contribute to the final price.
Travel Fees
Travel or trip fees are standard practices for many handymen. They are not hidden costs; they compensate the handyman for their time and gas to drive to your home. The travel fee could be a flat fee, or it may be a per-mile charge, which is sometimes mentioned on the estimate form (or estimate).
So, before you schedule the handyman for the project, always ask, in advance, if they include a travel fee in their estimate!
Material Costs
Handymen often have basic supplies on hand, such as nails, screws, and spackles, and the cost of a handyperson may or may not include these items. If your job needs special materials, like a new faucet or lumber, you’ll pay for them separately. You can often save money by purchasing the materials yourself before they arrive.
Minimum Service Fees
It is common for handymen to have a minimum charge of hours for a service call. For example, a handyman is $80 an hour and has a 2-hour minimum charge of $160. Even if they only work for 30 minutes, it is worth it for them to drive to your location, set up their tools, and do a minor job. Plan and make a list of small handyman jobs to maximize the cost. This could allow you to combine a few jobs into one visit.
Handyman vs. Contractor: When to Hire Which
This is a crucial distinction. Hiring a handyman is perfect for minor home repairs, but there’s a point where you need a licensed contractor.
Handyman | Contractor |
Small to medium jobs | Large, complex projects |
Unlicensed (in most states for small jobs) | Licensed and insured |
Charges by the hour or flat rate | Provides a bid or contract for the entire job |
Perfect for a to-do list | Required for structural, electrical, or plumbing work that needs a permit |
In many states, including California, a job that exceeds a certain amount (typically $500) requires a licensed contractor. For example, a handyman electrician can hang a new light fixture but cannot rewire a house, as that requires a permit and a licensed professional.
You may also read: Can a handyman do electrical work?
How to Hire a Great Handyman
Finding a trustworthy and skilled professional is key. Here are some steps to ensure you hire the right person:
- Read Reviews: Look for a handyman with a consistent track record of positive reviews. Pay attention to comments about their professionalism, punctuality, and quality of work.
- Check Experience: Ask about their experience with the specific jobs on your list. If you need a door repaired, find someone who has done it before.
- Discuss Rates & Payment: Always clarify the handyman pricing upfront. Ask if they charge by the hour or if there is a flat rate. Confirm their preferred payment method.
- Request an Estimate: A professional will be happy to provide a free estimate before starting the work. This helps you avoid surprises.
- Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, it probably is. A professional handyman should be transparent, friendly, and easy to communicate with.
How to Save Money on Handyman Projects
Hiring a handyman is an investment in your home, but there are ways to keep the costs down.
- Bundle Your Tasks: Remember the minimum charge? Combine all your small jobs into one service call. This makes the minimum number of hours more cost-effective.
- Buy Materials Yourself: This avoids any potential markup on materials. It also lets you control the quality and style of the items used in your project.
- Prepare the Workspace: Clear the area where the handyman will be working. Moving furniture or cleaning up before they arrive saves them time and you money.
- Be Specific: A handyman needs to know exactly what to expect. Take photos and make a detailed list of what you need done. This ensures they bring the right tools and materials, preventing extra trips and saving time.
Finding a Handyman Near You
The best way to find a reliable handyman is to get a referral from a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor. You can also search online. If you are looking for handyman services in San Diego, you will find many options. When you choose a local company like San Diego Home Remodeling, you can rest assured you’re working with a team that understands the local market and its unique needs.
Conclusion
By understanding the handyman hourly rate and the factors that affect costs, you’ll know what to expect when hiring a professional for your home projects. Whether labor is priced hourly or is a flat fee, you’ll want to have some understanding of the process for getting quality work at a fair price and what to anticipate at a future date. By planning, obtaining quotes for comparison, and hiring professionals recognized for their work, you can save money while ensuring your project is completed well.
At San Diego Home Remodeling, we focus on providing the best handyman services in San Diego with fair and transparent pricing and a guarantee of value in artistry. Whether your project is large or small, our experienced team can help. Contact us today for all your handyman needs and discover the difference in quality and service we can provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a handyman charge per hour?
A handyman typically charges an average of $60 to $80 per hour, but rates can vary based on location, experience, and the specific job. A handyman with a special skill, like a plumber or handyman electrician, might charge more.
What is a typical hourly rate for a handyman in San Diego?
In San Diego, you can expect the hourly rate for a handyman to be on the higher end of the national average, typically between $75 and $120 or more, due to the high cost of living.
Is it better to pay a handyman hourly rate or a flat rate?
It depends on the job. For simple, predictable tasks like mounting a TV, a flat rate can be a great option. For complex or multi-step projects, a handyman hourly rate may be more transparent, as you only pay for the time worked.
What’s the difference between a handyman and a licensed contractor?
A handyman handles small home repairs and odd jobs, while a licensed contractor is required for larger projects that require permits, such as major remodels, or for work that exceeds a certain cost threshold set by the state.
What is the handyman cost for a full day of work?
The average cost of a handyman for a full day of work (8 hours) is typically between $320 and $600. This often comes at a discounted average hourly rate compared to single-hour jobs.
