How much does it cost to upgrade an electrical panel to 200 amps in San Diego, CA?
A 200-amp panel upgrade in San Diego, CA typically costs $1,800–$3,500 including permit and inspection, more if the service line or meter base also needs work. It's the prerequisite for EV chargers, hot tubs, and most additions — and it's a permit job: any quote that skips the permit is a red flag, not a discount.
Likely causes
Undersized legacy panel — 60- or 100-amp panels in older homes can't feed modern loads.
Failed or unsafe panel brands — Certain legacy panels (Federal Pacific, Zinsco) are known fire risks — replacement is safety, not upgrade.
New load added — EV charger, addition, or workshop pushes a working panel past its limit.
What you can check yourself
Read your current panel's rating (sticker inside the door) so you can describe it accurately when calling.
List what you're adding (EV, hot tub, addition) — it determines whether 200 amps is right or 150 suffices.
Data by Servik — verified local pros from official license records and public sources. Cost figures are typical ranges, not quotes; a pro's written estimate is the real number.