If you’ve ever searched “how much does holiday outdoor lighting cost”, you probably noticed one thing right away: the answers are all over the place.
Some people say they spent under $100. Others talk about $500—or even thousands. So what’s the real number?
The short answer: most U.S. homeowners spend between $100 and $300 on holiday outdoor lighting. The longer answer depends on a few practical choices you make. Let’s break it down in a simple, no-nonsense way.
What Really Affects the Cost of Holiday Outdoor Lighting?
There’s no single price tag for holiday outdoor lighting because every home—and every decorating goal—is different. In most cases, however, the total cost comes down to three practical factors.
The Size of the Area You’re Decorating
The size of the space you plan to light is the biggest cost driver. A small setup, such as an apartment balcony, porch, or entryway, usually requires only a few light sets. A medium setup often includes the front of a single-family home, with lighting along the roofline, bushes, and doorway. Larger setups that cover the full exterior, yard, trees, and pathways naturally require more lights, extension cords, and planning, which increases overall costs.
Simply put, more linear footage means higher material and setup expenses.
The Type of Holiday Outdoor Lights You Choose
Different types of holiday lights serve different purposes and come with different price points. String lights are the most common and flexible option, making them easy to use in a wide range of spaces. Icicle and net lights offer faster coverage for roof edges and shrubs, while pathway and landscape lights help create a more polished, high-end look.
In many cases, sticking to one or two light types keeps costs manageable while still delivering a cohesive appearance.
LED vs. Traditional Incandescent Lights
Lighting technology also plays a major role in overall cost. LED holiday lights typically cost slightly more upfront, but they use far less electricity and last much longer than traditional incandescent lights. When reused year after year, LED lights often end up being the more affordable option over time, especially for larger displays.
Icicle string lights suspended from trees add a magical glow to an outdoor winter landscape.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: What’s the Cost Difference?
Many homeowners wonder whether to install holiday lights themselves or hire a professional. The difference mainly comes down to labor costs versus convenience.
DIY installation is the more budget-friendly option. Most of your spending goes toward the lights themselves, keeping total costs lower and more predictable. It also allows flexibility to adjust or expand your setup over time, though it does require some time, basic planning, and occasional ladder use. For small to medium homes, DIY is usually practical and cost-effective.
Professional installation, on the other hand, typically costs $300 to $1,000+ in the U.S. This price often includes design planning, installation, removal, and sometimes storage. While convenient, professional services are generally best suited for large homes, complex rooflines, or commercial spaces rather than average residential setups.
In most cases, homeowners focused on value will find that DIY installation offers the best balance between cost and results.
Roofline holiday lighting highlights the architectural lines of modern cabin-style homes.
Hidden Costs People Often Forget
When estimating how much holiday outdoor lighting costs, many homeowners focus only on the price of the lights. In reality, a few smaller but ongoing expenses can affect the total cost over time.
Electricity Costs
LED holiday lights are highly energy-efficient. Even when used several hours each night, they usually add only a small amount to your electric bill. Traditional incandescent lights, however, consume more power and can noticeably increase electricity costs, especially in larger displays.
Replacements and Weather Damage
Outdoor lights are exposed to rain, snow, and temperature changes. Lower-quality lights may fail after one season, leading to frequent replacements. Over time, this can cost more than investing in durable, weather-rated lights upfront.
Storage
Reusable lights need proper storage to prevent tangling and moisture damage. While storage isn’t a major expense, simple weather-resistant bins help extend the lifespan of your lights and reduce replacement costs.
Soft outdoor holiday lighting guides the pathway and enhances the front porch entrance.
How to Save Money on Holiday Outdoor Lighting
You don’t need a large budget to create a festive, well-lit outdoor display. A few practical choices can significantly reduce costs without sacrificing style.
Choose LED or Solar Lights
LED holiday lights use far less electricity than traditional options, helping keep energy bills low throughout the season. Solar lights are especially useful for pathways and landscape accents, as they operate without adding any electricity costs at all.
Focus on High-Impact Areas
Rather than lighting every inch of your home, concentrate on areas that draw the most attention. The front door or entryway, roofline, and walkways or driveways tend to create the strongest visual impact while requiring fewer lights overall.
Use Timers or Smart Plugs
Timers and smart plugs ensure your lights turn on and off automatically, preventing them from running all night. This not only saves energy but also helps extend the lifespan of your lights.
Final Thoughts
Holiday outdoor lighting isn’t just about decoration—it’s about creating atmosphere, welcoming guests, and enjoying the season.
When done right, it doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. By choosing efficient lighting, focusing on key areas, and avoiding unnecessary extras, you can stay within budget and still achieve a festive, polished look.
If you’ve been wondering how much does holiday outdoor lighting cost, the answer is simple: as much—or as little—as you choose, as long as you plan smart.
