Short answer: A whole-house standby generator typically costs about $6,000 to $11,000 installed, with the unit itself around $3,000 to $6,000. Adding a transfer switch for a portable generator runs about $400 to $2,500, and an interlock about $400 to $850.
Whole-house standby generators
Published national ranges put total installed cost at roughly $6,000 to $11,000, including the unit (about $3,000 to $6,000) and labor (about $3,000 to $5,000). Gas line work, concrete pads and permits are the common extras.
Portable generator hookups
A transfer switch or interlock lets you power selected circuits safely from a portable generator. It also keeps power from feeding back onto the utility lines, which protects line crews. Never connect a generator to a house with a plug that has two male ends.
- Transfer switch installation: about $400 to $2,500, depending on the size and the number of circuits
- Interlock installation: about $400 to $850
Which is right for you?
A standby unit starts automatically and powers a large share of the house, but costs the most. A portable generator with a transfer switch or interlock costs far less and covers the essentials, such as the furnace, refrigerator and sump pump. Your outage history and budget decide.
Cost figures are published national ranges and are for planning only. Your price depends on your home, so we quote after we see it. Last updated October 2026.
Get a quote for your home
All City Electric has been a family-owned, licensed and insured Shoreline electrician since 1971. Call (206) 533-6333 or request a free quote.