Guide
Commercial Low-Voltage Project Cost Guide
Commercial low-voltage pricing varies widely by region, building, and spec — but these ranges help you sanity-check a bid and budget a project. Always get itemized quotes from licensed contractors for an accurate number.
Structured cabling (per drop)
A "drop" is one cable run from the closet to an outlet, terminated and tested. Typical installed cost runs roughly $150–$350 per Cat6 drop, higher for Cat6A, long runs, hard ceilings, or occupied-space/after-hours work. Fiber backbone runs are priced separately per strand/run.
Access control (per door)
A single controlled door — reader, electric strike or maglock, controller share, and wiring — typically lands around $1,500–$4,000 per door installed, depending on hardware, door prep, and whether the panel/software is new or existing.
Video surveillance (per camera)
IP cameras with cabling, mounting, and a share of NVR/storage typically run $500–$1,500 per camera installed. Higher-resolution, PTZ, or specialty cameras and longer retention storage push this up.
What moves the number most
- •New construction vs. occupied retrofit (retrofit + after-hours can add 20–40%)
- •Cable category and warranty (Cat6A and certified-warranty work cost more)
- •Pathways — existing conduit/tray vs. fishing walls and open ceilings
- •Building height, run lengths, and closet/IDF count
- •Regional labor rates and prevailing-wage / union requirements
- •Testing, certification, and as-built documentation scope
Want to estimate a specific job? Use the bidding calculator, or read the RFP guide to scope it for bids.
Get real numbers from local contractors
Post your project for itemized quotes, or browse certified installers in your metro.