How Much Should I Charge as a Handyman?
Handyman work is mostly small jobs: hanging shelves, fixing doors, patching drywall, assembling and mounting things. The price is your hourly rate times the time on the job, plus materials, and most handymen set a minimum charge so short jobs are still worth the drive.
Reference Rates: Handyman
Based on a reference of $65 an hour for handyman at an intermediate level, in a state with average living costs. These are starting points, before materials, travel and card fees.
| Experience | Per hour | Small job (1 h) | Half day (4 h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Just Starting less than 1 year | $45.50 | $50 | $190 |
| Intermediate 1 to 3 years | $65 | $65 | $260 |
| Experienced 3 to 8 years | $87.75 | $90 | $360 |
| Expert top of your field | $117 | $120 | $470 |
By State (Intermediate Level)
| State | Per hour | Small job (1 h) | Half day (4 h) |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $72.80 | $75 | $300 |
| New York | $70.20 | $75 | $290 |
| Texas | $63.05 | $65 | $260 |
| Florida | $66.30 | $70 | $270 |
| Illinois | $65 | $65 | $260 |
| Pennsylvania | $62.40 | $65 | $250 |
| Ohio | $58.50 | $60 | $240 |
| Georgia | $61.10 | $65 | $250 |
Working in a big city or its metro area, add about 8%. For your exact case, including any other state, use the calculator above.
Set a Minimum Charge
A 20-minute job still costs you the drive, the parking and the time between appointments. That's why most handymen charge a minimum of 1 or 2 hours per visit. Say it clearly in your quote, for example "minimum charge: 1 hour".
Clients with a list of small tasks are your best jobs: you stay in one place and get paid for half a day. Ask for the full list when they call.
Know Where Handyman Work Ends
Many states require a contractor license above a certain job value, and electrical, plumbing and gas work usually needs a licensed pro. Check your state's rules before you quote bigger jobs. Staying in your lane protects you and your client.
What's Usually Included
- Labor on site
- Basic tools and fasteners
- Cleaning up after the job
- Hauling away small packaging
What to Charge Extra For
- Parts and materials (shelves, hardware, paint)
- Trips to the hardware store
- Haul-away of old items or debris
- After-hours or same-day urgent jobs
Common Pricing Mistakes
- Quoting a job by phone without seeing photos
- Not charging for the trip to buy materials
- Going under your minimum for a "quick fix"
- Taking on licensed work without a license
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fair handyman hourly rate?
It depends on your state and experience. The table above shows reference rates by state. Use the calculator to add your materials and get a full quote.
Should I charge by the hour or by the job?
Charge by the hour while you learn how long jobs take. Once you know, flat prices for common jobs (mounting a TV, installing a faucet) are easier to sell.
Do I mark up materials?
Many handymen add 10% to 20% to cover shopping time and returns. If you prefer not to, charge your hourly rate for the shopping time instead.