Recessed Lighting Installation Cost in Seattle

How Much Does Recessed Lighting Cost to Install?

Recessed lighting (also called can lights or pot lights) is one of the most popular upgrades we install for homeowners in Seattle, Renton, Newcastle, and Bellevue. The clean look transforms a room, and modern LED recessed lights are energy efficient and long-lasting.

Per-Light Cost Breakdown

• New construction or open ceiling: $100–$150 per light installed. Fastest installation since there is no drywall to work around.
• Existing ceiling (remodel cans): $150–$250 per light installed. Includes cutting the hole, running wire, and installing the housing.
• LED retrofit into existing can: $50–$100 per light. If you already have recessed housings, we swap in LED retrofit kits.

Typical Room Costs

• Kitchen (6 lights): $900–$1,500
• Living room (4 lights): $600–$1,000
• Bathroom (2–3 lights): $300–$600
• Hallway (3 lights): $450–$750

These include labor, materials, LED trim, and a dimmer switch. Volume discounts apply — the more lights in one visit, the lower the per-light cost.

LED vs. Traditional Recessed Lights

We install LED exclusively. LED recessed lights use 75% less energy than incandescent, last 25,000+ hours, and produce less heat. For new installs, we use slim LED wafer lights that do not require a traditional housing can — they mount directly to the ceiling and sit nearly flush.

What Affects the Price?

• Attic access: With attic access above, wiring is straightforward. Without it, the work takes longer.
• Insulation contact (IC) rating: Required if insulation touches the housing. Most modern LED cans are IC-rated.
• Dimmer switch: Most homeowners want a dimmer — add $100–$175 for the switch if one is not already in place.
• Number of lights: Per-light cost drops significantly at 4+ lights.

Clarity Electric installed six recessed lights in our kitchen and added a dimmer. The difference is incredible — the kitchen feels twice as big. They were done in about three hours and the price was exactly what they quoted.

- Bellevue homeowner, February 2026

Get a Recessed Lighting Quote

Ready to upgrade your lighting? Call 425-210-4791 or request a free estimate online. We serve Renton, Newcastle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and all of King County.