WCL / ELECTRICAL CONNECTION GUIDE
Cost to Run Power From Pole to House
If the serving utility already has a pole near the property, the remaining project can still vary widely depending on whether the service is overhead or underground and which equipment belongs to the utility versus the homeowner.
Start with the utility demarcation point
Ask the serving utility where its responsibility ends and the customer-owned service equipment begins. That boundary determines which parts belong in the electrician quote.
Distance still matters
Even a relatively simple pole-to-house connection can become more expensive when the service route is long, crosses a driveway, requires boring or needs substantial vegetation or surface restoration.
Meter and service entrance
The meter base, mast or service entrance conductors, disconnect and main panel can be separate line items. Compare quotes only after confirming that the scope includes the same components.
Overhead versus underground
An overhead service can avoid trenching, while underground service can reduce visual impact but may add conduit, trenching, boring and restoration work.
Use the electricity hookup calculator
Model the project with editable assumptions for utility fees, distance, line work, meter equipment, panel work, permits and contingency in the Electricity Hookup Cost Calculator.
Related pages
- Electricity hookup calculator
- Underground electrical service cost
- 200 amp panel upgrade cost
- Electric panel upgrade cost
Frequently asked questions
How far can power be run from a pole to a house?
The allowable configuration depends on the serving utility, conductor sizing, service design and local requirements. Confirm the planned route with the utility and electrician.
Who installs the wire from the pole to the house?
Responsibility varies by utility territory and whether the service is overhead or underground. Ask the utility for its service requirements before hiring site work.
Does the main panel belong in the hookup budget?
Yes if the project requires a new or upgraded panel. Keep it as a separate line item so utility-side and customer-side work can be compared clearly.
External video
Watch: practical renovation guide
A short external video can help you understand the installation details behind the cost drivers on this page.
WATTCOSTLAB / COST PLANNING
Cost to run electricity from a pole to a new house
Distance is important, but the service design matters just as much. A project may include utility-side work, service conductors, trenching or poles, meter equipment, service entrance, grounding, panel work and restoration of disturbed surfaces.
Underground vs overhead electrical service
Underground service can require trenching, conduit and restoration, while overhead service can require poles, clearances, mast and attachment work. Ask the utility to define the service point before comparing electrician bids.
Related calculators and guides
Quick questions
What affects the cost to run power from a pole to a house?
Distance, overhead versus underground design, trenching, utility requirements, meter equipment, service entrance and panel scope all affect the project.
Is underground power always more expensive than overhead?
Not always, but trenching, conduit, rock excavation and restoration can add cost. Site conditions and utility rules determine the actual comparison.