"How much does a handyman cost?" is one of the most searched questions among NJ and PA homeowners. The honest answer: it depends. But here's a breakdown of real 2026 market rates across the most common handyman jobs.
How Handymen Charge
Most handymen charge either hourly or flat-rate per project. Here's what to expect:
- •Hourly rate in NJ/PA: $60 – $120/hour
- •Minimum service call: $75 – $150 (even for small jobs)
- •Most providers offer flat-rate quotes for defined projects
NJ & PA Handyman Cost by Job Type (2026)
- •TV mounting (+ cable management): $100 – $200
- •Furniture assembly (IKEA, flat-pack): $80 – $200 per item
- •Drywall patch (small hole): $100 – $250
- •Door repair or replacement: $150 – $400
- •Caulking (bathroom/kitchen): $100 – $200
- •Gutter cleaning: $100 – $250 (single-story home)
- •Painting (single room): $300 – $700
- •Light fixture replacement: $80 – $180
- •Shelf installation (3 shelves): $100 – $200
- •Baby-proofing package: $150 – $300
- •Window/door weatherstripping: $80 – $200
When to Hire a Handyman vs. a Specialist
Handymen are great for general repairs and installations. But for certain jobs, you need a licensed specialist:
- •Electrical panel work → Licensed electrician
- •Main sewer line or gas line → Licensed plumber
- •Structural changes, load-bearing walls → Licensed contractor
- •HVAC installation or repair → HVAC technician
- •Anything requiring a permit in NJ/PA → Licensed tradesperson
How to Get the Best Price
- •Bundle multiple small jobs into one visit — you save on the minimum call fee
- •Book mid-week and mid-day for lower rates vs. evening/weekend
- •Describe the job in detail upfront — vague requests get padded quotes
- •Get at least 2–3 quotes for any job over $200
💡 On Gygnus, you post your handyman job once and multiple verified local handymen send you competitive quotes. You compare, then choose. It's 100% free for customers.
