Home Repair Decoded

Home Repair Costs in San Antonio

In the San Antonio metro area, the median wage is $27.97 an hour for plumbers and $27.41 for electricians (BLS, 2025). Costs below are our estimates using those local wages.

Permits in San Antonio

In San Antonio, a building permit is typically required to build, remodel, repair or demolish a structure on your property. Electrical, mechanical, plumbing and demolition permits are separate trade permits.

City of San Antonio Development Services

Projects that typically need no permit include one-story detached sheds or playhouses of 300 square feet or less that meet setback rules, retaining walls under 4 feet, cabinets, countertops, flooring, painting and tiling, broken window glass replacement, replacing existing doors, and new siding over existing siding. Historic, neighborhood conservation or corridor districts may restrict design and materials.

Estimated cost of common jobs

JobLowHigh
Water Heater Replacement$740$2,000
Roof Replacement$6,100$18,500
AC Replacement$3,800$9,000
Furnace Replacement$2,900$8,250
Toilet Replacement$220$880
Electrical Panel Upgrade$950$3,000
Drain Cleaning$90$360
Garage Door Repair$70$590

Hourly rates

TradeMedian wageBilled lowBilled high
Plumber$27.97$70$126
Electrician$27.41$69$123
HVAC Technician$28.17$70$127
Handyman$21.82$55$98
Roofer$21.02$53$95
Carpenter$23.51$59$106
Painter$20.88$52$94

Texas contractor licensing

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.