Circuit breaker prices range from $15 to $100 per unit, depending on the type, amperage, and brand

A standard single-pole breaker for a residential panel costs between $15 and $25. A double-pole breaker (which handles 240-volt circuits like electric dryers or air conditioners) runs $25 to $50. Specialty breakers — arc-fault detection (AFCI) or ground-fault protection (GFCI) types — cost $40 to $100 each. The price also shifts based on the panel brand: Siemens, Square D, and Eaton breakers are the most common in homes, and their prices are fairly close, but less common brands or older panel types can cost more or be harder to find.

Labor to install a breaker typically costs $150 to $300 per breaker if you hire an electrician, because the work requires opening the main panel and working around live electricity. Many homeowners cannot legally do this work themselves — most jurisdictions require a licensed electrician to touch the main panel. The total job (breaker plus installation) usually lands between $200 and $400.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard single-pole breakers cost $15 to $25; double-pole breakers cost $25 to $50; specialty types like AFCI or GFCI breakers cost $40 to $100.
  • The breaker type you need depends on what circuit it protects — a 20-amp breaker for a kitchen outlet is different from a 50-amp breaker for an electric range.
  • You must know your panel brand and the exact amperage rating before buying, because breakers are not interchangeable across panel types.
  • A licensed electrician must install the breaker in most places; the labor cost alone is usually $150 to $300.
  • Buying the breaker yourself and having an electrician install it costs less than letting the electrician source it, but confirm they will accept a customer-supplied part first.

How to identify which breaker you need before you buy

Open your panel door and look at the breaker that is tripped or the space where you need a new one. Write down three things: the panel brand (printed on the inside of the door), the amperage of the breaker you are replacing (printed on the switch itself — usually 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, or higher), and whether it is single-pole (narrow, handles 120 volts) or double-pole (wide, handles 240 volts).

If you are adding a new circuit rather than replacing one, you need to know what you are powering. A standard outlet circuit is 20 amps and single-pole. A large appliance like an electric range or water heater needs a double-pole breaker, usually 40 to 50 amps. An air conditioner or heat pump might need 30 to 60 amps depending on the unit. If you are unsure, a licensed electrician can tell you the correct size in a five-minute phone call.

Breakers are not universal. A Square D breaker will not fit in a Siemens panel, and a 20-amp breaker will not work in a 15-amp slot. Buying the wrong type means a wasted trip and a return. Bring a photo of your panel or the exact panel model number when you shop.

Where to buy circuit breakers

Home Depot and Lowe's stock the most common breaker types for the major panel brands. They usually have single-pole and double-pole breakers in 15, 20, and 30 amps in stock. Specialty types (AFCI, GFCI, tandem breakers) are less reliably in stock but can be ordered for pickup in one to three days. Prices at big-box stores are usually the lowest for standard breakers.

Electrical supply houses (local shops that serve contractors) carry a wider range of breaker types and older panel models. They cost slightly more than Home Depot but have stock that big-box stores do not. If your panel is older or uncommon, a supply house is often the only place that has the right breaker. Ask your electrician which supply house they use; they may have an account and can order for you.

Online retailers like Amazon and eBay sell breakers, but shipping times are longer and return policies vary. Buy online only if you are certain of the type and have time to wait. Never buy a used breaker — they wear out and can fail without warning.

Single-pole versus double-pole breakers and when you need each

A single-pole breaker is narrow and protects one circuit at 120 volts. It is the standard for outlets, lights, and small appliances in most rooms. Most homes have dozens of single-pole breakers. They cost $15 to $25 and are the cheapest option.

A double-pole breaker is twice as wide and protects one circuit at 240 volts. It is used for large appliances that need more power: electric ranges, dryers, water heaters, air conditioners, and heat pumps. A double-pole breaker is really two single-pole breakers joined together, so it takes up two slots in the panel. They cost $25 to $50.

If you are replacing a breaker, the old one tells you which type you need. If you are adding a new circuit, the appliance manual or the electrician can tell you. Do not guess — installing the wrong type will not work and wastes money.

AFCI and GFCI breakers cost more but protect against specific hazards

AFCI breakers (arc-fault circuit interrupters) detect electrical arcs — tiny sparks inside wires that can start fires. Building codes now require AFCI protection in bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens in most jurisdictions. An AFCI breaker costs $40 to $80 and replaces a standard breaker in the same slot. You do not need a separate device; the breaker itself does the work.

GFCI breakers (ground-fault circuit interrupters) detect when electricity is leaking to ground — a sign of a wet or damaged wire. They are required in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor circuits. A GFCI breaker costs $50 to $100. Like AFCI, it replaces a standard breaker and does not require a separate outlet device.

If your panel does not have AFCI or GFCI protection in the required areas, adding these breakers is a common upgrade. Many electricians recommend it even where code does not require it, because the protection is real. The cost per breaker is higher, but you are buying safety, not just a switch.

Tandem and twin breakers are cheaper but not always allowed

A tandem breaker (also called a twin or duplex breaker) fits two circuits into one slot. They cost $20 to $40 per unit and are tempting when a panel is full and you need to add a circuit without upgrading the whole panel. However, many jurisdictions do not allow them, and some panel brands do not support them. Check your local electrical code or ask your electrician before buying.

If tandem breakers are allowed in your area and your panel supports them, they are a cheaper way to add a circuit without a full panel upgrade. If they are not allowed, you will need a panel upgrade instead, which costs $1,500 to $3,000. Always confirm with your electrician or local building department before you buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a circuit breaker myself?

In most jurisdictions, no — the main panel is considered live even when the main breaker is off, and only a licensed electrician is allowed to open it. Some areas allow homeowners to work on their own panels if they pull a permit and pass inspection, but this is rare. Check your local building department or ask an electrician whether DIY work is legal in your area.

What is the difference between a 15-amp and 20-amp breaker?

A 15-amp breaker trips at 15 amps of current; a 20-amp breaker trips at 20 amps. The 20-amp breaker is used for circuits that power multiple outlets or a single high-draw device. A 15-amp breaker is older and less common in new homes. You cannot swap them — the breaker size must match the wire gauge of the circuit it protects.

Why is my breaker tripping over and over?

A breaker trips when the circuit draws more current than it is rated for, or when there is a short or ground fault. If it trips once and stays off, something on that circuit is overloaded or damaged. If it trips repeatedly even after you unplug everything, the breaker itself may be failing and needs replacement. Call an electrician to diagnose it — do not keep resetting it.

Can I buy a cheaper breaker from an unknown brand?

No. Breakers from unknown brands may not fit properly, may not trip reliably, or may not meet electrical code. Stick to the major brands: Square D, Siemens, Eaton, and GE. The price difference is small, and a failed breaker can cause a fire. Your electrician will refuse to install an off-brand breaker anyway.

How long do circuit breakers last?

A breaker can last 30 to 40 years or longer if it is not overloaded or damaged. However, they wear out with use — a breaker that trips frequently will fail sooner than one that rarely trips. If a breaker is tripping regularly, the underlying problem (overloaded circuit or faulty device) should be fixed rather than the breaker replaced repeatedly.