Is a handyman cheaper than a contractor?

Author: Ebony Donnelly  |  Last update: Saturday, August 9, 2025

A handyperson is the right pro for smaller odd jobs around your home. Contractors manage large renovation projects and employ subcontractors. Hiring a handyperson is less expensive at $50 to $150 per hour. Contractors charge 10% to 20% of total project costs.

What do most handymen charge per hour?

Most handymen charge between $50 and $80 per hour, making an average of $150 to $600 per job. Rates depend on their specialty, experience, level of education, and whether the handyman is insured, requires specialized equipment, or services rural locations.

What are two advantages of hiring the handyman as a contractor?

A handyman can be your go-to professional. With their expertise, you won't have to hire multiple specialists for different tasks, saving you time, money, and the hassle of managing various contractors.

What is the most a handyman can charge?

On the low end, handyman prices range from $45-$50 per hour. On the high end, $100-$125 per hour. For small jobs, a handyman might have a minimum charge of $60-$100. However, how much you pay will ultimately depend on where you live and the complexity of the job.

What is the difference between a contractor and a handyman?

Typically, handyman work involves small jobs, quick repairs, or work valued under a certain dollar amount, but the laws and definitions vary by state. Contractors differ from handymen in that they are involved in major work such as commercial or residential contracting, which usually involves a bidding process.

Handyman Business vs. General Contractor

Are handymen cheaper than contractors?

A handyperson is the right pro for smaller odd jobs around your home. Contractors manage large renovation projects and employ subcontractors. Hiring a handyperson is less expensive at $50 to $150 per hour. Contractors charge 10% to 20% of total project costs.

Can a handyman remodel a bathroom?

Remodel Your Bathroom in Bits and Pieces

Still, a handyman can help you complete your renovation in bits and pieces over time, saving you additional money and getting you started on your remodel as soon as possible!

Why are handymen so expensive?

Typically, the more specialized the skill required, the higher the hourly rate. Just like in any other profession, a handyman's experience and skill level can influence their rates. A seasoned handyman who has been in the business for decades might charge more than someone who's just starting out.

What is the rate for a general handyman?

General rate means a rate (other than a separate rate) made and levied by a local government equally on the unimproved value of all rateable land in its area.

Can a handyman replace an electrical outlet?

Handymen can replace old, worn-out, or aesthetically outdated switches and outlets. They can also upgrade standard outlets to GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets in areas exposed to moisture, or install USB outlets for convenient charging of electronic devices.

Is it worth hiring a handyman?

The biggest benefit of hiring a handyperson over DIY is guaranteeing they'll do the project correctly. This might save money in the long run and prevent future issues from arising. Hiring a handyperson also saves you the hassle of doing the job yourself.

What is an advantage of using independent contractors?

Independent contractors allow companies to respond with flexibility to meet market demands. Engaging independent contractors for projects that require specific skills or additional resources allows companies to access in-demand skills, get to market faster, better manage turnover, and have flexibility in cost models.

What is a skilled handyman?

A handyman is a skilled tradesperson who does small projects at homes or businesses. Their skill set can usually cover a wider range of tasks and jobs. Handyman jobs might include home maintenance projects like fixing a leaky faucet, gutter maintenance or basic drywall repairs.

How much do you tip a handyman?

If the handyman is an employee, tipping him/her would be a great idea. But remember that this is not a necessity and is not expected. The general rule of thumb is to tip above $10 but not as high as $50. It will also be a good idea to ask beforehand if they accept tips.

What handyman job pays the most?

High Paying Handyman Jobs
  • Shovel Operator. Salary range: $69,000-$69,500 per year. ...
  • Tradesman. Salary range: $44,000-$55,000 per year. ...
  • Jack of All Trades. Salary range: $38,000-$54,500 per year. ...
  • Gardener. Salary range: $36,000-$50,500 per year. ...
  • Swamper. Salary range: $37,000-$50,500 per year. ...
  • Garden Center Manager.

Do handymen charge travel time?

Sometimes, the costs associated with getting to and from job sites, as well as the materials needed for the job, can affect overall charges. Handymen might include travel time in their rates, especially if they have to cover long distances.

How much does Angie's List cost?

Creating an account on Angie's List (aka Angi) is free for both users and service providers. However, there are also paid plans for both. For users, the paid Angi Key membership costs $29.99 yearly and lets you access more features and member-exclusive discounts.

What is the profit margin for a handyman?

Profit margins typically range from 15% to 50%, depending on the specific services provided and regional pricing trends. Keeping up with demand, managing scheduling, ensuring all operations are within local regulations, and marketing to stay ahead of the competition are all common challenges for a handyman.

Does a handyman do everything?

Anything outside of the walls that you can see and touch is fair game for a handyman, but anything inside the walls is something you would need to call a licensed technician for.

Is a handyman cheaper than a plumber?

For smaller jobs, like fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain, a handyman is usually the more affordable choice. Handymen are great for simple repairs that don't require specialized skills, and they typically charge less than plumbers.

Can I renovate my bathroom for $10000?

You can complete your bathroom renovation for under $10,000, and on time, especially if it's a small bathroom renovation. Set a firm budget, plan it well from the start and get several quotes. Speak to the experts first: plumbers, tilers and electricians.

Can a handyman install a new toilet?

An experienced handyperson can likely replace your toilet.

Can a handyman fit a shower?

A handyman is a qualified and skilled tradesman who can handle most plumbing tasks, such as repairing and replacing taps, fixing leaks, unblocking sinks and toilets, and rerouting piping. More complex jobs, such as installing a boiler or shower, may require the expertise of a fully qualified plumber or gas engineer.

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