How Much Does an Electric Fireplace Cost?

Common Range: $250 – $4,100

National Average: $2,160, Installed

Updated: November 21, 2023. Written by: Steve Hansen

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Electric Fireplace Installation Cost Range

The cost of an electric fireplace can vary depending on several factors, including the size and style of the fireplace, as well as any additional features it may have. You can expect to pay between $100 and $1,500 for a basic electric fireplace and high-end models can cost upwards of $3,000 or more. This is before the cost of installation, which can add between $250 for basic installation, up to $2,500 for custom electric fireplace installation.

Average Cost

The average cost of a mid-range quality electric fireplace with installation is around $2,160. Affordable DIY units start below $150. The most expensive models with pro installation cost $2,750-$4,100 and include built-in fans, wireless thermostats and many other features.

Average Do It Yourself Cost
$365 (Fireplace and Supplies Only)
Average Contractor Installed Cost
$2,160, Installed
Typical Cost Range
$250 – $4,100

electric fireplace in drywall wall

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Overview of Electric Fireplaces

There’s a lot to like about an electric fireplace – no wood to load, no venting, no mess and no risk of a chimney fire, or the need to add a chimney flue liner. And they have more options than gas log fireplaces. The best electric fireplaces produce “flames” that are nearly as attractive and mesmerizing as the real thing. Read more about the pros and cons of electric fireplaces.

There’s a good selection for appearance, performance and heating features. Free-standing, wall-mounted, firebox inserts and large fireplaces with mantels are available.

Electric fireplace options and how they affect cost are explored in this page of Costimates. The information will help you decide your budget for the style and features you want in your electric fireplace. A comparison of prices from other top renovation sources is included along with actual costs from homeowners like you. Finally, we’d like your opinion on DIY vs pro installation, and we’ll share our recommendation.

Note on heating capacity: Keep in mind that these units are designed for supplemental heat and for creating ambience. They are not primary heat sources. The area they can effectively serve depends on wattage, outside temperatures and the amount of insulation in the space.

free standing electric fireplace unit

Electric Fireplace Installation Cost Factors

There’s a $2,000 difference between the least and most expensive electric fireplaces. These factors determine how much a unit will cost that has the features you want.

  • Design Complexity – Wall-mounted models have simple design – a frame around the fireplace panel. The most complex stand-alone models feature a mantel and faux stones or other design features to resemble a built-in natural fireplace.
  • Size – In any given style, the larger the unit is, the more it will cost. For example, wall mounted electric fireplaces range in width from about 24 to 100 inches. Stand-alone models range from 14 to 60 inches wide.
  • Realism – The more realistic the look of the flames, and logs if included, the higher the cost. Realism is achieved in a variety of ways including lifelike logs, randomly flickering flames and LED displays.
  • Features – Most have multiple heat stages and a no-heat mode. A few are controlled by a thermostat for more precise comfort. Flame height, brightness and up to 12 color choices can be selected on many models. Remotes and touchscreens add convenience.
  • Heat Output – It’s common to have two heat settings, usually 750 and 1,500 watts. BTU output is approximately 2,500 and 5,000 for the two settings. Units with just one heat setting, typically 1400 or 1500 watts, cost less.
  • Quality – Like any other consumer good, quality varies. Cheap models are mostly plastic. They last about as long as a space heater. High-quality units incorporate steel frames and housing, genuine wood, realistic stone and LED displays. They often work well for a decade or more.
  • Dual-purpose – A few large electric fireplaces cost more because they have bookshelves or a TV stand built into them.
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Get Electric Fireplace Installation Cost Quotes

built-in electric fireplace with remote control

Electric Fireplace Unit and Related Supplies Cost

Electric Fireplace Cost Range

  • $55 – $150 | These entry-level electric fireplaces are produced in desktop, freestanding and wall-mounted styles. Flame realism isn’t very good, but they do create a bit of ambience. Features and fireplace colors are limited. There is typically one heat setting of 1350 to 1500 watts.
  • $165 – $385 | Features choices expand in this range, but are still limited in some styles. Quality varies, so be sure to check customer ratings and reviews before buying.
  • $400 – $850 | This is the best-selling cost range. Most units have low and high heat settings and adjustable flames. Remotes are common. Better materials are used, and greater durability can be expected.
  • $900 – $2,100 | The most expensive electric fireplace models are feature-rich and made with quality materials. In terms of features, expect multiple flame control options (color, brightness, height), thermostat-controlled heat, touchscreen control and/or remote, a timer and LED display. Units are made from better materials such as genuine wood and steel instead of plastic and authentically textured faux stone or brick. Some also have added features like a bookshelf, closing doors or an integrated television stand. Most are large electric fireplaces.

Cost of Installation Supplies

About 98% of all electric heaters come with standard 110-120V plugs. If an outlet is available where you want to install your electric fireplace, then there is little or no installation cost.

If there’s no outlet, you’ll have to run wire, an outlet box and an outlet with cover.

  • $0.30 – $0.40 (30-45 cents) per foot | 14/2 Romex insulated wire. It’s available in packages of 15 feet and spools starting at 25 feet.
  • $0.75 – $1.50 per unit | Outlet box
  • $1.50 – $2.50 each | Standard 20 Amp, 110-120 volt outlet. If your fireplace will be used in a bathroom, it is recommended that you use a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet, or GFCI, if one does not already exist. They cost $15-$18 each.
  • $4 – $6 | 20 Amp circuit (optional)
  • $15 – $25 | Miscellaneous tools such as a wire cutter/stripper, electrical tape and wire nuts.
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Get Electric Fireplace Installation Cost Quotes

Permits, Inspection, and Installation Costs

A permit may be required when electric wiring is installed. Your installer should be able to tell you whether one is needed, and if so, will apply for the permit.

If you’re planning to wire it yourself, call your local Building Codes office to ask if a permit is required. And see our DIY or Not section for our recommendation on wiring.

  • $50 – $85 | Permit for a simple wiring job

Installation Labor Cost Example

Jim from Source Julien in Traverse City, Michigan told us, “When there is no wiring to be done, we charge between $100 and $200 to install a wall-mounted, insert or other type of electric fireplace. This includes making sure it is functioning properly and giving the homeowner a brief tutorial on its use.”

Installation Labor Factors

These factors will affect material and labor costs when a new outlet is installed by an electrician.

  • New vs Existing Circuit – If the existing circuit is sufficient in the area you intend to install the fireplace, then installing just a new outlet will cost $125-$200. When a new circuit must be installed, cost will increase to $300-$500.
  • Wiring Distance – How far the fireplace location is from the circuit it ties into or the electrical box for a new circuit will impact material and labor costs.

Installation Time

For professional installation, here’s what you can expect.

  • 1 – 3 Hours | Installing wiring, if needed
  • .5 – 2 Hours | Installing the fireplace. The time it takes depends on the fireplace style. Installing a wall-mount bracket takes a half-hour or less. So does fitting an insert and fastening it in place. Cutting into drywall to install a recessed fireplace is a 1-2 hour job.

If you have to install wiring and an inspection is required, waiting for the inspector might hold up the project for a day to a week.

Note on assembly: Electric fireplaces that resemble full-size, built-in wood fireplaces require assembly. That usually takes 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on the complexity of the design. This is usually done by the homeowner prior to the arrival of the pro installer.

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Are You a Fireplace Installer?

If so, head over to our Costimates Pro’s page, and help us make this page better and more accurate for both our visitors and your future customers.

DIY or Hire a Pro

Assembling an electric fireplace and plugging it in is a simple task, obviously. Installing a wall-mounting bracket and fireplace or fastening an insert fireplace into place are nearly as easy.

The bigger challenge is installing an electrical outlet when needed. Adding a circuit to the electrical box is even more dangerous.

I’ve installed a handful of electric fireplaces in my home and the homes of relatives and friends, and they have always been a good choice. If you need more incentive or reasons to buy one, head over to Twin Star Homes and see their list of 10 reasons why they make sense. When an outlet or complete circuit was needed, I hired an electrician for the work. In short, those jobs have been a joint DIY/pro job.

Our recommendation is to discuss the work with a local electrician and hire them when a circuit and/or outlet is needed.

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Reviewed and edited by Steve Hansen of Costimates

steve hansen of costimates-sm Steve Hansen, that's me, the Senior Editor of Costimates. (Learn more about myself and our team) I'm an avid home improvement professional with more than 37 years experience working on all types of residential new home building, upfits, repairs and remodeling.

"Like most homeowners, I was frustrated with the lack of quality information available on specific home improvement repairs and renovations. In 2015, Costimates was formed to help homeowners learn as much as possible about various projects and their costs so they could make better financial decisions."