Home Repair Costs in New York
In the New York metro area, the median wage is $37.79 an hour for plumbers and $37.99 for electricians (BLS, 2025). Costs below are our estimates using those local wages.
Permits in New York
Most construction in New York City requires approval and permits from the Department of Buildings.
Examples of work that does not need a permit include painting, plastering, installing new cabinets, plumbing fixture replacement, resurfacing floors and non-structural roof repair.
Estimated cost of common jobs
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $790 | $2,200 |
| Roof Replacement | $7,650 | $24,900 |
| AC Replacement | $3,900 | $9,350 |
| Furnace Replacement | $3,050 | $8,850 |
| Toilet Replacement | $240 | $1,000 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,150 | $3,550 |
| Drain Cleaning | $110 | $480 |
| Garage Door Repair | $90 | $690 |
Hourly rates
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $37.79 | $94 | $170 |
| Electrician | $37.99 | $95 | $171 |
| HVAC Technician | $37.50 | $94 | $169 |
| Handyman | $28.63 | $72 | $129 |
| Roofer | $36.73 | $92 | $165 |
| Carpenter | $35.72 | $89 | $161 |
| Painter | $29.53 | $74 | $133 |
Sources
General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.