If you’re planning to hire professionals to install your Christmas lights this year, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how much Christmas light installation costs per foot. Pricing varies depending on the type of lights, the complexity of your home, and whether you’re using your own materials or renting from the installer. But the per-foot rate is the simplest way to get a realistic estimate.
Here’s a clear breakdown so you can budget without surprises.
Average Cost Per Foot
Most professional Christmas light installers charge between $2 and $5 per linear foot for installation alone. If the installer provides the lights and materials, the cost usually increases to $5 to $10 per foot.
Quick Breakdown
| Service Type | Cost Per Foot | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Installation only | $2 – $5/ft | Hanging your existing lights |
| Install + lights rental | $5 – $10/ft | Commercial-grade LEDs, clips, cords, timers |
| Premium/custom displays | $8 – $15/ft | Rooflines + trees, bushes, walkways, specialty lights |
The cost varies because not all feet of lighting are equal. A straight roofline is faster and easier than wrapping pillars or climbing tall peaks.
What Affects the Price?
1. Type of Lights
Commercial-grade LED lights cost more to install but last longer and shine brighter. Basic string lights are on the lower end; icicle lights, dome bulbs, and C9 LEDs are on the higher end.
2. Roof Height and Complexity
Two-story homes come with higher labor costs due to ladder work and roof angles. Sharp peaks or long rooflines increase pricing.
3. Trees, Bushes, and Walkways
Wrapping trees can cost $10–$25 per foot, depending on trunk thickness and branch height. Pathway lighting also adds cost.
4. Removal and Storage
Some companies bundle removal into the per-foot rate; others charge an extra $1–$3 per foot after the season.
Storage can add $50–$200 annually if you choose to let the company store the lights.
Sample Cost Estimates
To give you a clearer idea, here are some realistic scenarios.
Small Single-Story Home
- 150–200 feet of lighting
- Basic roofline install
- Estimated Cost: $300–$1,000 depending on material inclusion
Medium Two-Story Home
- 200–300 feet
- Roofline + bushes
- Estimated Cost: $800–$2,500
Large Home or Custom Display
- 300–500+ feet
- Roof, trees, peaks, pathways
- Estimated Cost: $2,000–5,000+
Commercial properties or elaborate designs (arches, animated lights, tall trees) can go even higher.
Why Professional Installation Costs More Than DIY
You’re not just paying for time. You’re paying for:
- Safe ladder work on roofs and tall structures
- Weatherproof, commercial-grade lighting
- Custom cut-to-length strings that look clean and professional
- Timers, connectors, and clips
- Season-long maintenance if bulbs go out
- Removal once the holiday season ends
Professionals transform your home’s exterior into a clean, symmetrical holiday display something DIY setups rarely match.
Is It Worth the Cost?
Most homeowners say yes. Hiring a professional means:
- No climbing ladders in freezing weather
- No tangled lights
- No uneven or sagging lines
- No risky electrical mistakes
- A brighter, cleaner, more polished display
Plus, many companies like Ware Landscaping handle everything: design, installation, maintenance, removal, and even storage. That’s a full-service experience that removes all hassle from your holiday setup.
Final Thoughts
Christmas light installation costs between $2 and $5 per foot for labor and up to $10 or more per foot if the installer provides the lights. Your total cost depends on your home’s size, roofline complexity, and the type of lighting you choose.
If you want a professional, magazine-worthy display without the risk and stress, hiring a pro is absolutely worth it and understanding the per-foot pricing helps you plan confidently.
