How Much Should a Plumber Charge to Replace a Faucet?

Is your kitchen or bathroom faucet dripping, leaking, or just outdated? You’re not alone—faucet issues are among the most common reasons homeowners call a plumber. But before you pick up the phone, you’re probably wondering: how much should a plumber charge to replace a faucet? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but we’ll break down everything you need to know—fair pricing, hidden costs, and when it’s worth doing it yourself. Let’s help you avoid overpaying while ensuring quality work.

What’s the Average Cost to Replace a Faucet?

According to HomeAdvisor’s 2024 data, the national average cost to replace a faucet ranges from $150 to $400, including both labor and materials. However, this can vary significantly based on several factors:

• Type of faucet (kitchen, bathroom, single-handle, touchless, etc.)
• Plumber’s hourly rate (typically $75–$150/hour in the U.S.)
• Location (urban areas like NYC or San Francisco often cost 20–30% more)
• Complexity of installation (e.g., old pipes, need for new valves or shutoffs)

For a standard bathroom faucet replacement with no complications, most homeowners pay $125–$250 in labor alone. Kitchen faucets—especially pull-down or smart models—can push labor costs to $200–$350 due to extra connections and mounting hardware.

💡 Pro Tip: Always ask for a flat-rate quote, not just an hourly estimate. Flat rates protect you from unexpected overtime charges.

What Factors Affect Faucet Replacement Costs?

Understanding these variables helps you anticipate your final bill and spot potential red flags.

1. Faucet Type & Quality

• Basic models: $50–$150
• Mid-range (e.g., Moen, Delta): $150–$300
• Premium or smart faucets: $300–$800+

Higher-end faucets often require specialized installation (e.g., electrical for touchless models), increasing labor time.

2. Labor Rates by Region

Plumbers in rural areas may charge $60–$90/hour, while those in major cities average $100–$180/hour. Check local directories or platforms like Angi or Thumbtack for regional benchmarks.

3. Access & Existing Plumbing

Old homes with corroded pipes, missing shutoff valves, or cramped under-sink spaces can double installation time—and cost. If your plumber discovers hidden damage (e.g., water-damaged cabinetry), expect an additional $100–$300 for repairs.

4. Emergency or Weekend Service

Need a fix on a Sunday? Many plumbers charge 1.5x to 2x their standard rate for after-hours or holiday calls.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: Which Saves More?

Many homeowners consider DIY to cut costs—but is it worth the risk?

While replacing a simple bathroom faucet can be a beginner-friendly project, kitchen faucets with sprayers or smart features often require precise alignment and pressure testing. One mistake can lead to water damage costing hundreds in repairs.

🛠️ According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, licensed plumbers undergo 4–5 years of apprenticeship. Their expertise prevents costly errors—especially in homes with older plumbing systems.

For more on plumbing standards, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing .

Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Professional Faucet Replacement?

If you hire a plumber, here’s what to expect—so you know you’re getting fair service:

1. Shut off water supply – Both hot and cold lines under the sink.
2. Disconnect supply lines – Using a basin wrench to loosen nuts (often corroded).
3. Remove old faucet – Unscrew mounting hardware from above or below.
4. Clean mounting surface – Remove old putty or debris to ensure a watertight seal.
5. Install new faucet – Insert through sink holes, secure with mounting nuts.
6. Connect supply lines – Use new braided stainless hoses (never reuse old ones!).
7. Turn water back on – Check for leaks at all connections.
8. Test functionality – Run hot/cold water, check spray function (if applicable).

A skilled plumber completes this in under 90 minutes for standard installations. If it takes much longer, ask why—delays should be explained and justified.

Red Flags: When a Plumber’s Quote Is Too High (or Too Low)

Not all quotes are created equal. Watch for these warning signs:

• No itemized estimate – A legitimate pro breaks down labor vs. materials.
• Cash-only deals – Often indicates unlicensed work with no warranty.
• “$50 faucet install” specials – May use cheap parts or skip critical steps (e.g., not replacing shutoff valves).
• Pressure to upgrade unnecessarily – Some upsell expensive faucets for commission.

Always verify licenses (check your state’s contractor board) and read recent reviews. A fair, transparent plumber will welcome your questions.

FAQ Section

Q: How long does it take a plumber to replace a faucet?
A: Most standard faucet replacements take 30 to 90 minutes. Complex jobs (e.g., installing a new sink or repairing pipes) may take 2–3 hours.

Q: Can I replace a faucet myself to save money?
A: Yes—if you’re comfortable with basic tools and your plumbing is modern. But if you lack experience, a DIY mistake could cost $200+ in water damage. When in doubt, hire a pro.

Q: Does the faucet brand affect installation cost?
A: Indirectly, yes. Premium brands like Kohler or Grohe may have unique mounting systems that take longer to install. Smart faucets also require electrical connections, adding labor time.

Q: Should I replace the shutoff valves when installing a new faucet?
A: Yes, especially if they’re older than 10 years. Old valves often seize or leak when turned. Replacing them costs $20–$50 per valve but prevents future emergencies.

Q: Are plumbing quotes free?
A: Most reputable plumbers offer free in-person or virtual estimates. Avoid companies that charge for basic quotes—it’s not industry standard.

Q: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover faucet replacement?
A: Generally, no—faucet replacement is considered routine maintenance. However, if a failed faucet caused sudden water damage, insurance may cover the resulting repairs (not the faucet itself).

Conclusion

Now you know exactly how much a plumber should charge to replace a faucet—and what’s fair versus overpriced. On average, budget $150–$400 for a professional job that’s done right the first time. While DIY can save money, it’s not worth the risk if you’re unsure. A licensed plumber ensures leak-free performance, protects your home, and often provides a warranty on their work.

Got a faucet project coming up? Share this guide with a friend who’s tackling home repairs—or post your own experience in the comments! 💧🔧

Found this helpful? Pin it, tweet it, or send it to your neighbor before they overpay for a simple faucet swap!