Prices estimated using the NailThePrice Local Cost Model™ — national averages adjusted for Evanston's labor rates, cost of living, and material pricing.
The cost to install landscape lighting in Evanston ranges from $1,690 to $6,760, with most homeowners paying around $3,940. Your actual cost depends on several factors specific to your home and the Chicago-Naperville market.
Each fixture adds $50–$300 depending on quality, plus wiring and installation labor. Most designs use 8–15 fixtures.
Low-voltage (12V) systems are safer, easier to install, and less expensive than line-voltage (120V) systems that require conduit and permits.
The transformer must be sized to the total wattage of all fixtures — larger systems need a bigger transformer, adding $100–$400.
Burying wire across yards, driveways, or landscaped areas requires trenching that adds labor and potential landscape restoration costs.
Basic timers cost $20–$50 while smart controllers with zones, scheduling, and phone apps add $100–$400.
The Midwest has a strong pool of skilled tradespeople, and labor rates tend to be moderate compared to coastal cities. Union and non-union shops both compete, giving homeowners options on pricing.
Landscape lighting installation in Evanston generally does not require a permit for standard installations. Check with your local building department if your project involves panel work or structural changes.
In cold climates, expect additional costs for heated conduit runs, insulated wire, and work scheduling around freezing temperatures. Winter installations may cost 10–15% more due to shorter workdays and weather delays.
Handy homeowners with basic tools can handle straightforward landscape lighting installation. If your project involves the panel, new circuits, or gas lines, hire a licensed pro. DIY can save $1,519–$1,953 in labor.
Compare prices from licensed, insured contractors in Chicago-Naperville.
Get Free Quotes from Evanston Pros →The average cost to install landscape lighting in Evanston ranges from $1,690 to $6,760, with most homeowners paying around $3,940. This estimate includes both labor ($2,170) and materials ($1,770). Costs in Evanston are higher than the national average due to local cost of living and labor market conditions. Get multiple quotes from licensed Evanston contractors to lock in the best price.
Evanston does not typically require a permit for standard landscape lighting installation. However, projects involving electrical panel work, structural changes, or gas line modifications may still require one. Check with Evanston's building department to confirm before starting work.
Most landscape lighting installation projects in Evanston take 1–3 days to complete. The timeline depends on project scope, contractor availability in the Chicago-Naperville metro area, and seasonal demand. Scheduling during Evanston's off-peak season (typically fall and winter) can reduce wait times and may lower costs.
Including installation, expect $150–$400 per fixture for professional low-voltage LED landscape lighting. This includes the fixture, wiring, and labor. High-end fixtures with brass housings cost more but last decades.
Absolutely — LED landscape lights use 75% less energy than halogen, last 25,000+ hours versus 2,000 for halogen, and produce very little heat. The slightly higher upfront cost pays for itself within 1–2 years in electricity savings alone.