Garbage Disposal Installation Cost
Typical range, labor only · 2026 U.S. averages
Installing a garbage disposal costs $150 to $600 in labor, or roughly $250 to $950 including the unit in 2026. A like-for-like replacement is cheapest; a first-time install that needs new wiring or a switch costs more.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Labor — replace existing | $100–$300 | 1 hour typical |
| Disposal unit | $80–$400 | 1/3 to 1 HP |
| First-time install | $300–$800 | New wiring + switch |
| Electrical (new circuit) | $150–$500 | If none present |
| Drain/plumbing mods | $50–$250 | New P-trap fittings |
What Affects the Cost
Replacement vs new
Swapping an existing disposal is quick; a first-time install needs electrical and possibly plumbing changes.
Unit horsepower
1/3 HP units are budget; 3/4–1 HP models grind better and cost more.
Electrical
If there's no dedicated outlet and switch under the sink, an electrician adds $150–$500.
Mounting type
Switching brands can mean a new mounting assembly and drain alignment work.
Cost by Region
Labor rates and material costs vary across the country. Here's roughly how the $400 national average shifts by region.
| Region | Typical Cost | vs National |
|---|---|---|
| National average | $400 | baseline |
| Northeast | $460 | +15% |
| West Coast | $480 | +20% |
| Midwest | $380 | -5% |
| South | $360 | -10% |
| Mountain / Southwest | $420 | +5% |
DIY or Hire a Pro?
Replacing a disposal on an existing outlet is a common DIY job (1–2 hours). Hire a pro if you need new wiring, a wall switch, or drain modifications — electrical under a sink is unforgiving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install a garbage disposal?
Labor runs $100–$300 for a replacement, or $300–$800 for a first-time install needing electrical work. Including the unit, total cost is typically $250–$950.
How much does a plumber charge to install a garbage disposal?
Most plumbers charge $100–$300 to replace an existing disposal. Expect more if new wiring, a switch, or drain modifications are required.
What size garbage disposal do I need?
For most households a 1/2 HP unit is fine; larger families or frequent use benefit from 3/4–1 HP for smoother grinding and fewer jams.