What Is The Average Cost Of Christmas Lights: Don’t Overpay!

Christmas lights are a holiday essential—without them, December feels incomplete. But if you’ve ever browsed Christmas lights online or walked through a store aisle during the holidays, you’ve probably noticed something confusing: prices vary a lot. Some lights cost $10, others cost $200, and large displays can run into the thousands. So how much should an average person really expect to spend?
The average cost of Christmas lights ranges from $20 to $200 for basic sets depending on type, bulb count, and quality. Outdoor displays and LED options cost more, while incandescent lights are cheaper but less efficient. Larger setups, including rooflines and landscaping, typically run $200–$600 when professionally installed.

What Affects the Average Cost of Christmas Lights?

Christmas light prices depend on bulb type, length, indoor/outdoor rating, LED vs. incandescent, quality, and brand reputation. Outdoor lights cost more due to waterproofing and durable wiring.

1. Light Type & Materials

Different light types are made with different components.

For example, projector lights easily cost 3–5× more because they combine LEDs with motors and lenses.

2. LED vs. Incandescent

LEDs cost more upfront but consume 75–90% less energy and last much longer.
Incandescents are cheaper to buy but way more expensive to run.

3. Indoor vs. Outdoor

Outdoor lights need:
✔ Waterproof housing
✔ Weather-sealed sockets
✔ Thicker wires
✔ Higher safety ratings

These significantly increase production cost.

4. Brand & Build Quality

High-quality brands charge more because:

• The wires are thicker
• LEDs use better chips
• Connectors are safer
• Colors are brighter and more consistent

Cheap lights often fail after one season.

5. Light Length & Bulb Count

More bulbs = higher cost.
Compare:

• 100-LED string: $15–$25
• 300-LED string: $40–$60
• 1000-LED mega string: $90–$130

How Much Do Different Christmas Lights Cost?

Christmas Elk Plug In Luminous Decor Light Ornaments

Christmas lights cost between $10 and $200 depending on type. String lights are cheapest, while projectors and large motif decorations cost the most.

1. Decorating a small apartment: $30–$60
2. Decorating a full living room: $50–$120
3. Outdoor roofline + bushes: $120–$250
4. Full front yard display: $250–$600+

LED or Incandescent Lights?

LED lights are more cost-effective long-term due to lower energy usage and far longer lifespan, despite higher upfront prices.

1. Upfront Cost Comparison

LEDs cost more initially—but cost less later.

2. Energy Usage

• LED: 0.04 kW per 100 bulbs
• Incandescent: 0.4 kW per 100 bulbs
  (Yes—10× difference!)

3. Monthly Electricity Cost (Example Calculation)

Assume:
• 6 hours/day
• 30 days
• $0.15/kWh electricity rate

4. Lifespan

LEDs can last 10+ years with seasonal use.

5. Which Looks Better?

• LEDs: multiple colors, flashing modes, smart app control
• Incandescent: warm glow but fewer options

How Much Does It Cost to Run Christmas Lights?

Running Christmas lights costs $1–$50 per month depending on bulb type, wattage, and daily usage. LEDs cost far less than incandescent bulbs.

Energy Cost Formula:

Watts × Hours × Days ÷ 1000 × Electricity Rate = Monthly Cost

Use this formula in your own home.

Example: 300-LED Setup

0.12 kW × 6 hours × 30 days × $0.15 = $3.24/month

Example: 300 Incandescent Bulbs

1.2 kW × 6 hours × 30 days × $0.15 = $32.40/month

Solar Lights: Zero Running Cost

Outdoor solar lights save energy completely.

Pros:
✔ No electricity cost
✔ Environment-friendly
✔ Great for pathways & bushes

Do Professional Christmas Light Installations Cost More?

Professional installation costs $200–$600 depending on home size and complexity. DIY is cheaper but more time-consuming and risky.

1. Price by Home Size

2. Why It Costs More

• Ladder and roof work
• Electrical hookups
• Waterproofing
• Design layout
• Removal after the season

3. DIY vs. Pro

How Can You Save Money on Christmas Lights?

Save money by buying during sales, switching to LEDs, using timers, and purchasing in bulk for large displays.

1. Shop Off-Season

January & February = biggest discounts (up to 70% off!)

2. Upgrade to LEDs

You cut:

• Electricity cost
• Replacement cost
• Fire risk

3. Use Smart Timers

Set lights to turn on 6 PM and off 11 PM automatically.

4. Buy Multipacks

A 4-pack of LED strings is often 30–40% cheaper than buying individually.

5. Keep Lights Organized

Prevent damage → longer lifespan → less replacement spending.

6. Mix and Match

Use expensive lights only where they matter most (roofline, main tree).

FAQs

Q: How many lights does a house need?

• Small house: 200–400 LEDs
• Medium house: 400–800 LEDs
• Large house: 800–1500 LEDs

Q: Do Christmas lights increase the electricity bill?

LED setups add only $1–$5.
Incandescent setups: $10–$50.

Q: Are outdoor lights waterproof?

Check IP rating:

• IP44 = splash-proof
• IP65 = heavy rain ready

Q: When is the cheapest time to buy Christmas lights?

✔ After Christmas (Jan–Feb)
✔ Early November sales
Avoid last-minute buying.

Q: Can I leave Christmas lights on overnight?

LEDs are safe and cool, but still best to use a timer.

Conclusion

Christmas lights bring warmth, magic, and personality to your home, but understanding the true costs helps you avoid overspending. Whether you choose classic string lights, high-impact projectors, or a fully synchronized LED display, smart planning makes all the difference.

By comparing LEDs vs. incandescent, factoring in electricity costs, and using off-season deals, you can create a stunning holiday display without stretching your budget. With the right choices, your home will shine bright—and your wallet will stay happy.