New York Home Repair Guide
In New York, the median wage is $37.26 an hour for plumbers and $37.86 for electricians (BLS, 2025). This page shows what common repairs cost there, and who needs a license.
Who needs a license in New York
| Trade | Rule | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General contractor | Home improvement contractors must be licensed in New York City and in Suffolk, Nassau, Westchester, Putnam and Rockland counties. State law requires a written contract for home improvement work. | Source |
File a complaint against a contractor: New York Attorney General, File a Complaint
What common jobs cost in New York
| Job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Water Heater Replacement | $790 | $2,150 |
| Roof Replacement | $7,150 | $22,900 |
| AC Replacement | $3,850 | $9,300 |
| Furnace Replacement | $3,050 | $8,750 |
| Toilet Replacement | $240 | $1,000 |
| Electrical Panel Upgrade | $1,150 | $3,550 |
| Drain Cleaning | $110 | $470 |
| Garage Door Repair | $90 | $680 |
Hourly rates in New York
| Trade | Median wage | Billed low | Billed high |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $37.26 | $93 | $168 |
| Electrician | $37.86 | $95 | $170 |
| HVAC Technician | $35.78 | $89 | $161 |
| Handyman | $27.79 | $69 | $125 |
| Roofer | $31.74 | $79 | $143 |
| Carpenter | $34.77 | $87 | $156 |
| Painter | $28.64 | $72 | $129 |
Cities
Licensing last verified 2026-11-03
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.