If your kitchen faucet is leaking, outdated, or just not working right, you’re probably wondering: How much does a plumber charge for changing a kitchen faucet? You’re not alone. Thousands of U.S. homeowners face this exact question every year—and the answer isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re planning a quick fix or a full kitchen upgrade, understanding the real costs can help you avoid surprises and make smart decisions.
What’s the Average Cost to Replace a Kitchen Faucet?
Most homeowners in the U.S. pay between $150 and $400 for a professional plumber to replace a kitchen faucet, including both labor and materials. However, this range can vary widely based on several factors:
- Type of faucet (single-handle, pull-down, touchless, etc.)
- Labor rates in your region
- Plumbing complexity (old pipes, need for adapters, etc.)
- Whether you supply the faucet or the plumber does
According to HomeAdvisor’s 2025 data, the national average cost is $275, with 80% of projects falling between $180 and $360.
💡 Pro Tip: If you already own the new faucet, you’ll typically only pay for labor—usually $100–$225 per hour, with most jobs taking 1–2 hours.
What Factors Affect the Total Cost?
Understanding what drives the price helps you control your budget. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Faucet Type & Quality
- Basic models: $50–$150 (e.g., standard single-handle)
- Mid-range: $150–$300 (pull-down sprayers, brushed nickel finishes)
- Premium: $300–$800+ (smart faucets, commercial-grade, touchless)
Higher-end faucets often require more precise installation and may include extra parts like mounting hardware or water filters.
2. Labor Rates by Location
Plumbers in urban areas like New York City or San Francisco often charge $120–$200/hour, while rural areas may be as low as $60–$90/hour. Always get local quotes.
3. Additional Plumbing Work
If your old shutoff valves are corroded or your sink needs resealing, expect extra fees:
- Replacing shutoff valves: +$50–$100
- Sink repair or resealing: +$40–$80
- Removing an old garbage disposal connection: +$30–$70
4. Emergency or Weekend Service
Need a faucet fixed on a Sunday? Many plumbers charge 1.5x to 2x their standard rate for after-hours service.
DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber: Which Saves More?
You might think installing a faucet yourself is cheaper—but it’s not always the case.
| Factor | DIY | Professional Plumber |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50–$300 (faucet only) | $150–$400 (full install) |
| Time Required | 2–4 hours (for beginners) | 1–2 hours |
| Risk of Leaks/Damage | High (if inexperienced) | Very low |
| Warranty | None (unless faucet has one) | Often 30–90 days on labor |
⚠️ Warning: A poorly installed faucet can cause water damage, mold, or even void your home insurance. According to the Insurance Information Institute, plumbing leaks account for nearly 10% of all homeowner claims—many stemming from DIY errors.
For most people, hiring a licensed plumber is worth the peace of mind—especially if you’re not confident with tools or pipe fittings.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Professional Faucet Replacement?
Here’s exactly what a plumber will do when replacing your kitchen faucet:
- Turn off water supply – Locate and shut off the hot and cold shutoff valves under the sink.
- Disconnect supply lines – Use an adjustable wrench to detach the flexible hoses.
- Remove old faucet – Loosen the mounting nuts (usually 1–2) from underneath the sink.
- Clean the sink surface – Remove old putty, debris, or mineral buildup.
- Install new faucet – Insert the new unit, secure with mounting hardware, and connect supply lines.
- Test for leaks – Turn water back on and check all connections at normal household pressure (40–60 psi).
- Adjust spray function (if applicable) – Ensure pull-down or side sprayers retract smoothly.
The entire process usually takes 60–90 minutes for a standard replacement with no complications.
How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
You don’t have to overpay. Try these proven strategies:
- Buy your own faucet: Retailers like Home Depot or Amazon often sell quality brands (e.g., Moen, Delta, Kohler) for 20–30% less than contractor markup.
- Schedule during business hours: Avoid weekends or holidays to dodge premium rates.
- Bundle services: Need a garbage disposal installed too? Ask for a package deal.
- Check for rebates: Some utility companies offer rebates for water-efficient faucets (look for WaterSense-labeled models certified by the EPA).
🌱 Eco Tip: A WaterSense faucet uses at least 20% less water than standard models—saving you up to $100/year on water bills (EPA.gov).
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
Avoid these costly errors:
- Choosing the wrong faucet size: Measure your sink’s hole spacing (typically 1″, 4″, or 8″) before buying.
- Ignoring valve compatibility: Older homes may have compression valves that don’t fit modern supply lines.
- Skipping the permit (in some areas): While rare for faucet swaps, major plumbing changes may require inspection—check local codes.
- Not checking reviews: Always verify a plumber’s license and read Google or Angi reviews. Look for consistent 4.5+ star ratings.
For more on plumbing standards, see the Wikipedia entry on residential plumbing.
FAQ Section
Q1: How long does it take a plumber to replace a kitchen faucet?
A: Most replacements take 1 to 2 hours. Complex installations (e.g., adding a soap dispenser or switching from a 3-hole to single-hole setup) may take up to 3 hours.
Q2: Can I reuse my old supply lines?
A: It’s not recommended. Old braided hoses can crack or leak. Plumbers usually install new supply lines ($10–$20 each) for safety.
Q3: Do plumbers charge a flat rate or hourly?
A: Many offer flat-rate pricing for faucet replacement (e.g., $199 all-in). Others charge hourly ($80–$150/hr). Always ask which model they use before work begins.
Q4: Is it worth upgrading to a pull-down faucet?
A: Yes—if you cook often. Pull-down faucets improve functionality for filling pots, rinsing veggies, and cleaning the sink. They cost $50–$150 more than basic models but add value to your kitchen.
Q5: What if my faucet starts leaking after installation?
A: Reputable plumbers offer a 30–90 day labor warranty. Contact them immediately—most will fix it free of charge if it’s due to installation error.
Q6: Can a handyman replace a kitchen faucet instead of a plumber?
A: In many states, yes—but only if no pipe modifications are needed. For anything involving water lines, a licensed plumber is safer and often legally required.
Conclusion
Knowing how much a plumber charges for changing a kitchen faucet empowers you to budget wisely, avoid scams, and choose the right professional. On average, expect to pay $150–$400, but smart choices—like buying your own faucet or scheduling during weekdays—can lower that cost significantly.
More importantly, a proper installation protects your home from water damage and ensures your new faucet works flawlessly for years. Don’t gamble with DIY if you’re unsure—your kitchen (and wallet) will thank you.
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Stay informed, stay dry, and happy plumbing!
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