Security Lighting Cost Calculator | Accurate Pricing Estimator

Outdoor security lighting is a smart way to enhance your home’s safety and visibility. Whether you’re installing motion-activated floodlights, wall-mounted sconces, or integrated smart lighting, planning your budget upfront is essential. Our Security Lighting Cost Calculator helps homeowners get accurate estimates tailored to their lighting goals and property size.

How to Calculate Security Lighting Cost Using This Calculator Step by Step Guide

Using the calculator is simple and helps you plan for both parts and labor. Here’s how:

Step 1: Select Type of Lighting

Choose the lighting style(s) you’re installing:

Motion floodlights
Wall sconces
Smart lights
Mixed configuration

Each option sets a baseline for fixture and labor costs.

Step 2: Enter Fixture Count

Add the total number of lights you plan to install. You can split by type if needed or use an overall quantity.

Step 3: Input Labor Rate and Install Time

Use the default ($100/hr) or your contractor’s quote
Enter expected hours per fixture (1–2 typical)

The calculator multiplies total labor across all fixtures.

Step 4: Estimate Material & Wiring Per Fixture

Use the default of $45/light or customize if you have quotes. This covers electrical components and cable.

Step 5: Add Permit Fee

If required in your area, enter the estimated cost. Use $150 as a baseline.

Step 6: Toggle Optional Features

Click to include any of the following:

Timer module
Smart integration
Camera attachment

Each item adds a fixed cost per install location.

Step 7: Adjust Complexity Multiplier

1.0 for easy access (open walls)
1.2 to 1.5 for trenching or tall mounting

This impacts labor and wiring cost line items.

Step 8: Set Contingency Buffer

Leave the default 7% or increase if you expect tough terrain, old wiring, or add-ons.

Step 9: Click “Calculate Estimate”

The calculator provides a full cost breakdown:

Fixture costs
Labor total
Wiring/material cost
Add-on feature costs
Permit & contingency
Final estimated range (low/high)

Step 10: Export Estimate to PDF

Click “Export to PDF” to save a formatted version of your estimate. Ideal for:

Contractor bidding
Planning outdoor upgrades
Budgeting home security improvements

Security Lighting Cost Calculator

Number of Lights

Light Type

Motion Sensor Included?

Dusk-to-Dawn Sensor?

Camera-Light Integration?

Maintenance Plan?

Wiring Required?

Installation Labor Rate ($/hr)

Installation Time (per light in hrs)

Total Estimated Security Lighting Cost

Disclaimer: This estimate covers standard security lighting installation. Additional factors such as mounting complexity or trenching may impact final cost.

'); printWindow.document.write(content); printWindow.document.write(''); printWindow.document.close(); printWindow.print(); }

Key Cost Factors in the Security Lighting Calculator

Our calculator is designed to reflect realistic pricing for outdoor and perimeter lighting installations. It includes the following factors:

1. Type of Security Lighting

You can select from various lighting types:

Motion-activated Floodlights ($75–$200 each)
Wall-Mounted Sconces ($40–$150 each)
Dusk-to-Dawn LED Fixtures ($60–$180 each)
Smart Security Lights with Cameras ($150–$300 each)

Each fixture type varies in hardware cost, installation complexity, and wiring needs.

2. Number of Fixtures to Install

Enter how many lights you plan to install. Most homes use:

2–4 floodlights (corners, driveway)
1–2 sconces (entryways)
Optional: smart lights at key access points

The calculator multiplies per-fixture cost and labor accordingly.

3. Labor Rate and Hours per Fixture

Electricians typically charge:

$75–$125/hour (adjustable)
Installation time: 1–2 hours per light depending on wiring

If trenching or new wiring is needed, time increases. You can customize this in the calculator.

4. Wiring & Material Costs

In addition to fixture cost, material pricing includes:

Junction boxes, conduit, connectors
Low-voltage wiring or Romex cable
GFCI outlets or new switches

Typical wiring/material costs: $30–$60 per light depending on layout.

5. Permit & Inspection Fees

Outdoor lighting may require permits if wiring is new:

Permit fees: $75–$250 depending on jurisdiction
The calculator allows you to enter your local value

6. Add-On Features

Optional upgrades you can toggle:

Timer or Photocell Switch (+$50)
Wi-Fi Smart Integration Module (+$75)
Camera Integration for Smart Lights (+$150)

These add functionality and impact the final cost.

7. Site Complexity Factor

Not all installs are equal. If your project includes:

Trenching for detached garage or yard pole
Hard-to-access mounting areas

Use a complexity multiplier (1.0–1.5) to adjust labor and wiring estimates.

8. Contingency Buffer

The calculator includes a 5–10% contingency to account for:

Additional wiring lengths
Unexpected access challenges
Change orders or material upgrades

Why Use a Security Lighting Cost Estimator?

Security lighting improves curb appeal and deters intruders—but without a budget tool, costs can vary wildly.

With our Security Lighting Cost Calculator, you can:

Compare basic vs smart lighting solutions
Understand full install costs before you commit
Plan upgrades by priority and property zone

Try the calculator today and take the guesswork out of your outdoor lighting installation.

Calculate Your Cost

testing