A transfer switch costs about $400 to $1,300 installed for a manual switch used with a portable generator, and about $600 to $2,500 installed for an automatic transfer switch used with a home standby generator, according to HomeGuide. The switch itself is $200 to $2,000, and an electrician charges about $200 to $500 to install it. A breaker interlock kit is the cheaper alternative at $400 to $850 installed.
Transfer switch cost at a glance
| Option | Unit only | Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Manual transfer switch (portable generator) | $200 to $800 | $400 to $1,300 |
| Automatic transfer switch (standby generator) | $400 to $2,000 | $600 to $2,500 |
| Interlock kit (alternative) | $50 to $150 | $400 to $850 |
Source: HomeGuide cost data. Prices vary by region, brand and how much wiring your panel needs.
Manual vs. automatic: which one you’re pricing
A manual transfer switch is what you use with a portable generator. You start the generator, plug it into an outdoor power inlet box, and flip the switches for the circuits you want. Generac, for example, sells manual switches for portables in 30-amp, 60-amp and 100-amp sizes, and whole-house 200-amp switches with a 30-amp or 50-amp generator input.
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) pairs with a permanently installed standby generator. It senses an outage, starts the generator and switches over by itself. It’s often sold with the standby generator, so you’ll see it as part of a larger installation quote. Here’s how both types work.
Cost by size
Bigger switches handle more amps and bigger generators. HomeGuide lists these unit prices (before labor):
| Switch size | Generator size | Unit price |
|---|---|---|
| 30 amp | Up to about 7,500 to 8,000 W | $200 to $500 |
| 50 amp | About 8,500 to 12,500 W | $260 to $900 |
| 100 amp | About 10,000 to 24,000 W | $300 to $950 |
| 200 amp (whole house) | About 45,000 to 48,000 W | $680 to $1,500 |
Switches are also sold by circuit count. HomeGuide puts a 6-circuit switch (for 5,000 to 7,500 watts) at $230 to $360 and a 10-circuit switch (7,500 to 12,500 watts) at $300 to $670. Many homes with a portable generator pick 6 to 10 circuits: refrigerator, furnace, well or sump pump, lights and a few outlets. Use our generator size calculator to see what you’ll run.
Installation labor and permits
- Labor: HomeGuide says electricians charge $50 to $130 an hour plus a $75 call-out fee, and a straightforward install costs $200 to $500. The job takes about 2 to 4 hours or more.
- Permit: $50 to $350, depending on your city. Most areas require one for work inside the main panel.
- Power inlet box: $20 to $100 for the box. See our inlet box guide.
- Generator cord: $30 to $350, depending on length and amps.
What makes the price go up
- A panel far from the outside wall where the generator will sit, which means a longer wire run.
- A full or outdated panel that needs work before the switch can go in.
- 240-volt loads like a well pump, which take two circuits on the switch.
- Higher amperage: a 50-amp setup costs more than 30-amp for the switch, inlet and cord.
- Local labor rates and permit fees.
Cheaper alternatives
Interlock kit: a sliding plate on your main panel that blocks the main breaker and a generator breaker from being on at the same time. HomeGuide puts it at $400 to $850 installed, and it lets you power any circuit in the panel. It needs an approved kit for your panel brand. Compare them in interlock kit vs. transfer switch.
GenerLink: a meter-socket device some utilities install, usually $700 to $1,400. See GenerLink cost and where it’s approved.
Extension cords only: free if you already have heavy-duty cords, but it can’t run hardwired items like a furnace or well pump. Never use a “suicide cord” into a wall outlet: here’s why.
Is a transfer switch worth it?
If you lose power more than once or twice a year, or you need a furnace, well pump or sump pump during outages, yes. It lets you run hardwired loads safely, without cords through windows. If you only need a fridge and a few lamps once every few years, heavy-duty cords are fine. Here’s how to connect a generator to your house step by step.
Related guides: How a transfer switch works, Interlock kit vs. transfer switch, Generator power inlet box and GenerLink cost.
FAQ
How much does it cost to install a transfer switch for a portable generator?
About $400 to $1,300 for a manual transfer switch, installed, according to HomeGuide. That includes the switch ($200 to $800) and labor ($200 to $500). Add $50 to $350 for a permit if your city charges for it.
How much is an automatic transfer switch?
HomeGuide lists automatic transfer switches at $400 to $2,000 for the unit and $600 to $2,500 installed. They’re usually sold with a home standby generator.
Is an interlock kit cheaper than a transfer switch?
Usually. HomeGuide puts an interlock kit at $400 to $850 installed, versus $400 to $1,300 for a manual transfer switch.
Can I install a transfer switch myself?
Most areas require a licensed electrician or a permit and inspection for work in the main panel. A mistake can backfeed the utility lines or start a fire, so hire a pro.