How Much Are Handyperson Hourly Rates in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Handyperson rates range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on experience and location. On average, most homeowners spend $410 per project, with prices ranging between $65 and $1,500. Whether it's fixing a leaky faucet or tackling a list of home repairs you've been putting off, hiring a handyperson can save you time and effort. Let's explore what you can expect when budgeting for hiring a handy person.

Handyperson Cost by Task

Handyperson prices range from $177 to $691 per project, but costs can vary widely, from as little as $65 for a simple repair to as much as $1,500 for larger, more complex jobs. For instance, installing a light fixture will cost less than remodeling a small bathroom. 

Projects that require special licensing or involve high-risk tasks, such as electrical or roofing work, may incur an increased hourly rate. Keep in mind that unexpected issues, such as discovering mold behind drywall, will also add to the final cost.

Here are some common tasks that a handyperson can assist with, along with the average costs you might expect.

Remember, while handypeople are versatile, they can't perform major plumbing or electrical work without the proper licenses. For those bigger projects, it's best to hire a licensed plumber or electrician.

Handyperson Cost Factors

When hiring a handyperson, you'll need to consider more than the average handyperson's hourly rate to create your budget. Other factors that can impact the cost include the job size, the worker's experience level, the licenses they carry, travel distance, and material prices.

Job Size

The size and complexity of your project significantly influence the cost. A quick fix, such as replacing a toilet valve, won't cost as much as installing a new awning or building a deck. Thinking about hanging holiday lights, but worried about those high roofs? A handyperson can handle that safely for you. If you're unsure about the scope of your project, don't hesitate to ask when requesting quotes.

Experience

An experienced handyperson often works faster than their less experienced colleagues because they know what's involved in the project, and they've done it many times before. Their experience allows them to work efficiently and avoid mistakes along the way. However, this doesn't mean you'll pay less per hour. In fact, you might see a higher hourly rate.

License

The licensing requirements for handypeople can vary and depend primarily on where you live. Some states may not require any licensing, while others insist that handypeople carry the same licenses, bonds, and insurance as contractors. A licensed expert often charges more than an unlicensed one to cover the increased expenses associated with their certification. For certain jobs, you may need to forgo a handy person in favor of a licensed plumber or electrician.

Travel

If you live in a rural or isolated area that's more difficult to reach, handyperson prices may be higher. The cost of a handyperson can vary significantly depending on where you're located. 

In areas with a higher cost of living, you can expect a higher average hourly rate for a handyperson. Some professionals may include travel expenses in their hourly rate, while others offer complimentary travel within a specified area, such as the first 10 miles. If they charge for mileage, the standard practice is to charge according to the distance from their place of business. Ask about this when collecting hand-person quotes.

Materials

Some handyperson quotes may include labor and materials. Depending on the specific job, material costs could drive up the overall price. For example, the high potential cost of installing a garbage disposal is due to the expensive models that are available. You can save money by purchasing a budget-friendly unit.

DIY vs. Hiring a Handyperson

Thinking about tackling that home project yourself? If you have the skills and tools, DIY can be a rewarding experience. However, for many homeowners, hiring a handy person saves time and effort. Whether it's assembling new furniture, fixing a leaky faucet, or painting a room, a handyperson can get the job done quickly and efficiently, often at a lower cost than a specialized contractor. Ready to cross those tasks off your to-do list? Find a local handyperson today.

How to Hire a Handyperson

To hire a handyperson, start by researching handypeople in your area. You can look online or ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors. Always obtain quotes from multiple contractors before proceeding with any one of them. If the job is more complex, you may need to hire a different professional, such as a foundation repair contractor, plumber, or electrician.

Getting Quotes

A handyperson should be able to provide you with a written, firm quote before starting any project. You must provide sufficient details about the job, including the materials you prefer to use. The quote should clearly outline the project's scope, define the final product, and provide an accurate estimate of the time required. They can then use these factors to determine whether to use hourly or flat-rate pricing and calculate the total cost.

Projects can grow and change as they progress, resulting in additional costs. Unforeseen complications can also lead to an increase in the price. In either situation, a handyperson should provide another quote that explains the reason for the higher price.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed over 30,000 real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.