Dishwasher Installation Cost (2026): $400–$1,700 per Project

Why does dishwasher installation cost so much?

Dishwasher installation typically runs $400 to $1,700 per project, averaging around $1,200 nationally (Angi, HomeAdvisor, Homewyse). The base number covers the appliance plus standard hookup labor, which is usually $150–$300 for a straightforward swap onto existing water, drain, and electrical connections (Fixr). Costs climb fast once the job goes beyond a like-for-like replacement. A first-time install with no existing hookups can push labor to $800 or more, and plumbing work alone runs $600–$1,600 per fixture when a new line has to be run (HomeAdvisor). Dishwasher type plays a role too: a standard built-in unit runs $350–$1,600, a drawer-style model $750–$2,000, while portable and countertop units stay in the $250–$750 range (HomeAdvisor, Fixr). Old unit removal, when it isn’t already bundled in, adds another $100–$250.

What affects the cost?

A handful of factors explain most of the spread between a $400 job and a $1,700+ one:

• Dishwasher type. Built-in units run $350–$1,600, integrated/panel-ready models $630–$3,000, and drawer dishwashers $750–$2,000, versus $250–$750 for countertop or portable units (HomeAdvisor).
• Labor scope. A simple swap onto existing hookups costs $150–$300 in labor; a first-time install needing new plumbing or electrical work can reach $800 or higher (Fixr).
• Plumbing. Running a new water or drain line where none exists costs $600–$1,600 per fixture (HomeAdvisor).
• Electrical. Adding a dedicated GFCI outlet runs $130–$300 (HomeAdvisor).
• Cabinetry. Modifying or removing cabinets to fit the unit under the counter costs $100–$1,200 per linear foot (HomeAdvisor).
• Old unit removal. Haul-away of the old dishwasher typically adds $100–$250 (Fixr, HomeAdvisor).
• Permits. Local permit fees run $10–$500 depending on the scope of plumbing or electrical work involved (HomeAdvisor).
• Relocation. Moving the dishwasher to a new spot in the kitchen averages around $2,600 once plumbing and cabinetry changes are included (Fixr).

How to lower your dishwasher installation cost

• Keep the dishwasher in its existing spot. Reusing the current water, drain, and electrical connections keeps labor in the $150–$300 range instead of the $800+ that new hookups or a relocation can trigger.
• Skip the cabinet rework if you can. Choosing a replacement that fits the existing cutout avoids the $100–$1,200 per linear foot cost of cabinet modification.
• Ask what’s included in the quote. Old unit removal ($100–$250) and delivery aren’t always bundled into the base install price, so confirm upfront to avoid surprise add-ons.
• Consider a countertop or portable unit for small kitchens. These run $250–$750 installed, a fraction of a standard built-in at $350–$1,600.
• Bundle electrical and plumbing work. If a GFCI outlet or new supply line is needed anyway, having the same crew handle both in one visit can be cheaper than separate trade calls.
• Get multiple quotes. Labor costs alone can range from $150 to $800+, so comparing local installers is worth the time before committing.

Prices vary by region, dishwasher type, and whether existing plumbing and electrical hookups are usable, so treat the figures above as a planning budget. Get two or three local quotes before committing to a final number.