Handyman
Handyman hourly rate: what it costs in Massachusetts
Wide range: this job varies a lot. Itemize your quote for a better answer.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts and materials | $0 | $100 |
| Labor: 1 to 4 hours × $85 to $130 an hour | $85 | $520 |
| Fees: disposal, permits, supplies | $0 | $50 |
| Total, rounded | $85 | $670 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $29.08 an hour, times 2.6 to 3.6 to cover what a contractor bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Materials are a band from basic to high-end. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your home, materials and contractor change the number.
A handyman does small fixes like patching drywall, hanging shelves or assembling furniture, billed by the hour with a minimum.
Got a quote for this job?
Check it with the button above, or share what you were quoted so the range gets better.
Get quotes from local pros
Tell us about the job and your ZIP. Free, takes a minute.
Fair Price is not a contractor or a repair shop. Who sees your request
What is usually included
- Small repairs
- Assembly
- Hanging items
- Minor fixes
What moves the price
- The minimum hours billed for small jobs
- Materials
- Trip fee
- Job complexity
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is there a minimum charge for a short visit?
- Who buys materials?
- Can you batch my list?
- Are you licensed where needed and insured?
Can you do it yourself?
Many small jobs are fine to DIY; leave electrical, gas and structural work to licensed pros.
Common questions
Is a handyman licensed?
Not required for small non-electrical or plumbing work in Massachusetts, but ask about insurance.
Can they do electrical?
Only minor swaps in many states. In Massachusetts, wiring work needs a licensed electrician, so a handyman can swap a fixture but not add circuits.
Hourly or flat?
Small jobs are often hourly with a minimum. For a clear job like a door, ask for a flat price in writing.
How much does handyman hourly rate cost in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $85 to $670. It is an estimate built from labor wages and material prices, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $85 to $670 |
| New York City area | $85 to $670 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $80 to $650 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $80 to $650 |
| Houston area, Texas | $70 to $590 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $75 to $610 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $75 to $610 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $75 to $610 |
| Miami area, Florida | $70 to $570 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $90 to $710 |