How Much Does It Cost to Run 220V to a Detached Garage?
Running 220V power to a detached garage typically costs $1,000 to $4,000. The biggest factors are the distance from the house, whether you trench underground or go overhead, and whether you add a subpanel. Longer runs and a subpanel push toward the higher end.
Powering a detached garage for a workshop, EV charger, or tools usually means running a new 220V/240V line and often a subpanel. Here's what goes into the cost.
Typical Cost by Setup
| Setup | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Short run, single 220V circuit | $1,000 – $1,800 |
| Longer run with a subpanel | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Underground trenching | Adds $15 – $30/ft |
| If a main panel upgrade is needed | Add $1,300 – $4,000 |
Typical U.S. estimates; cost varies by distance, trenching, amperage, and panel capacity. Your electrician provides a firm quote.
What Drives the Price
- Distance — the run from the house to the garage is the biggest cost factor.
- Underground vs. overhead — trenching adds cost per foot; overhead has its own rules.
- Subpanel — most garages benefit from a subpanel to run multiple circuits.
- Amperage — a small workshop needs less than an EV charger plus tools.
- Main panel capacity — a full panel may need upgrading first.
- Permits — this work requires a permit and inspection.
Smart move: if you'll run more than one thing in the garage — tools, EV charger, lighting — a subpanel usually costs less than multiple separate runs and leaves room to expand later.
Want Power in Your Detached Garage?
The Neighborhood Electrician connects you with a licensed electrician who can run the line safely and quote it upfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a subpanel in my garage?
If you'll run more than one circuit — tools, lighting, an EV charger — a subpanel is usually the better value and gives you room to add circuits later.
Is it cheaper to run the line overhead or underground?
Overhead can be cheaper since it avoids trenching, but underground is more protected and often preferred. Local code and your layout affect which is allowed.
Do I need a permit to wire a detached garage?
Yes. Running a new circuit or subpanel to a detached structure requires a permit and inspection. A licensed electrician handles this as part of the job.
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The Neighborhood Electrician is a referral service that connects homeowners with independent, licensed electrical contractors. We do not perform electrical work directly.