How much does it cost to install a TV mount?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Television mounts are brackets that are designed to secure your television to the wall. Typically, these are designed for use with flat-screen televisions when people need an alternative to sitting the television on a surface like a television stand or entertainment center. Installing these frees up space and allows furniture to be used for other things. Living room, bedroom, and kitchen walls are popular places to install a television. Several factors influence the cost of installation, such as the television size, bracket type, and labor.

The national average television mount installation price is between $100 and $300. Most homeowners will pay around $200 for a 40” tilting one, professionally installed. Prices can be considerably cheaper or more expensive, depending on the level of work required. A simple 25” television mount installed by a store installation tech costs about $75, while a full-motion one for a large, heavy 65” screen with a new power outlet installation costs closer to $1,000.

TV Mount Prices

TV Mount Cost by Television Size

The average cost to mount a tv on a wall ranges from $15 to $800 on top of the actual labor cost to hang a television. Most are built to hold any television of a specified width, regardless of its weight. For example, a model made for a 50” television can usually hold any television of that size, regardless of the weight. Prices rise as you increase the unit size and its features. The price will also be affected by the type and functionality:

TV Wall Mount Price by Television Weight

The average wall mount tv installation price ranges from $15 to $500, based on the size needed to secure the television. Most models are designed to hold just about any weight of television, but they will also have weight limits. For example, cheaper models may only be rated to hold lighter televisions, while the ones that hold heavier models are made of higher quality and therefore on the higher end of the price range. You may also have to pay for premium wall anchoring systems or a specialty installation. In the table below, you’ll see a breakdown of the average price by weight to help you get an idea of what to expect.

TV Mount Prices by Type

You can expect an average television mount to cost $15 to $500 in addition to the television wall installation cost for labor, depending on the style and size that you choose. They are divided into categories, depending on their style and where they are designed to install. A tilting television model can tilt to provide a clear viewing experience, while ceiling models attach directly to the ceiling when wall installation s too difficult. The unit type you buy affects the project’s price:

Under-Cabinet TV Mount

An under-cabinet television bracket is designed to fit beneath a cabinet and costs between $15 and $100. Under-cabinet models are great for kitchens because people like to have something to watch or may want to follow cooking shows while they work. They are not rated to hold much weight, but they are rather affordable when you just want a small television errected. Be sure to consider the size and weight of the television you are installing before choosing this option.

Fixed TV Wall Mount

These units are affordable, costing $15 to $150. A fixed television wall unit is set in a fixed position and holds the television rigidly in place. You may also hear this mount sometimes referred to as a low profile mount since it does not project out as far as other options. It cannot be tilted or moved, so you need to be confident with your placing. If the measurements are wrong, the television might not be clearly visible, and the project may need to be restarted. This is another installation that is often best left to professional installers.

Door TV Mount

Door units are a unique option growing in popularity and will cost you between $20 and $200. Let’s say you have an unused (or seldom used) closet and need a place to hang a television without making a permanent installation. Or perhaps you have a medical office where you want a television in the reception area, and there is a supply closet that is rarely accessed. Rather than installing the bracket on the walls, a door bracket could be the way to go. These brackets are designed to fit most door types, including sliding barn doors, closet doors, room doors, and cupboard doors. Most of these are made of durable metal and consist of a bracket that goes over the top of the door to secure the television, which is then bolted to the frame.

Ultra-Thin TV Wall Mount

Professional tv mounting cost to hang a television on the wall when you choose an ultra-thin model ranges from $30 to $300. For those who want their television bracket to be almost invisible, an ultra-thin model might be the answer. This option is hidden by the television and barely noticeable on the wall. This is a good choice for those who like clean looks, resulting in a pleasing aesthetic. However, they might not be able to hold a lot of weight, so you’ll want to make sure that you find one that can support your television.

Tilting TV Wall Mount

Costs for this option vary depending on the size and style. Prices range from $50 to $300, in addition to the professional cost from the installation. A tilting television option offers some degree of movement. You can tilt or bend the television around at certain set angles, up or down, which can provide a more comfortable viewing experience. A tilting television bracket has less risk of not seeing the screen because you can move it when guests are visiting or to reduce the glare from a nearby window. You can also install the television higher up on a bedroom wall.

In-Wall TV Mount

The in-wall TV wall mounting cost runs an average of $100 to $500 depending on the size of the televisions being mounted. They function in the same way that full-motion tv mounts do, allowing you to position your television anyway you need to for improved viewing. Instead of being flush in the wall, the mount will be placed inside the wall. Installation involves cutting away a section of drywall and mounting the bracket to the studs in the wall.

Full-Motion TV Wall Mount

These models, also sometimes referred to as articulating TV mounts, are among the most expensive, costing between $100 and $500. A full-motion wall model offers even more movement. You can move it from side to side and up or down with a full-motion bracket. This bracket type provides more options to find the best viewing angle, letting you adjust the screen to suit the situation. Because of their range of positions and features, these options come in hundreds of different styles.

Ceiling TV Mount

A ceiling television bracket costs $100 to $500. This style can be useful when installation on a wall is not possible or recommended. Adding a television to a brick wall can be expensive, so you could choose to attach it to the ceiling instead, reducing the level of complication and labor costs. Ceiling mounts also come with tilting features, rotating options, and other features that may assist in creating the perfect viewing angle. You may also pay a higher than average price to install a television because this requires more skilled labor.

Fireplace TV Mount

This type of brackets are expensive, costing between $150 and $500 each. Many people errect their television above the fireplace, but this can lead to neck strain. A fireplace bracket can solve this issue. This option is specifically designed to fit over fireplaces, so you can pull the television out and down over the mantle, much lower than if it were installed on a wall. This option should always be installed by professionals because of its special nature. Otherwise, you risk damaging the fireplace or improperly anchoring the bracket.

Labor Cost to Mount a TV on a Wall

Having a tilting television mount installed for a 40-inch television runs an average of $200, with approximately $100 to $125 being labor cost. The average TV wall mount installation service costs from $75 to $200, but prices can be higher or lower, depending on location, provider, and work intensity. For example, a store installation team might charge $50 for basic installation, while prices from an electrician would be closer to $40 to $120 per hour. A handyman usually charges by the project and may have a installation service cost of about $300 to $400. If you’re charged an hourly rate, it will be about $65 per hour.

Installing your television professionally can save time and money. They are skilled at finding the best placement and installing the television securely, so there is no risk of falling or wall damage. Professionals typically have the necessary tools, and the laborers can handle heavy televisions. They are usually experienced at wiring and wire concealment, making them well worth the price.

TV Wall Mount Installation Cost by Type of Wall

The average price to hang a television by the type of wall ranges from $100 to $800, installed. The wall type you plan to install your television on impacts the price. Some materials are easy to work with, but tougher materials like brick, concrete, and stone require more labor. Harder wall surfaces cost more for television installation than softer walls. Average costs for the harder surfaces are the same because they require the same type of equipment and process to get through the material. Be sure to include your wall type when getting a quote for installation.

Cost to Mount a TV Over the Fireplace

TV wall installation cost over a fireplace will range from $225 to $700, depending on the complexity of the installation, the material of the fireplace, and other factors. If you are asking yourself whether you should or should not mount a TV over a fireplace, you need to know that installing a television over the fireplace may require extra labor or a mason or other contractor for installation, such as if you have a brick fireplace. There will also be more work to run and conceal wires around the fireplace, which will incur an additional charge compared to a standard wall bracket, as well.

Although popular, it is not recommended to install a television over a working wood or gas fireplace as the heat can damage the wiring and the television itself. If your fireplace’s mantle extends further into the room, it can deflect some of the heat from the wall, making it safer to install a television. You should consult with your installation professional to see if the area above the fireplace is safe enough for a TV’s electrical system.

Cost to Mount a TV and Hide Wires

The cost to install a television on the wall and hide the cables is $150 to $250. Prices can increase closer to $400 to $500 to hang the television and hide the wires, depending on the wall type. An alternative to in-wall concealment uses cable management covers that snap into place around a bundle of cables. Kits cost $10 to $40. Some opt to have wires concealed behind the wall, which is another option. However, you should ensure that cables meet all fire and building codes before choosing this installation method. Most require a UL-rated wire labeled CL2 or CL3 for in-wall installations.

Motorized TV Mount

Motorized TV mounts run an average of $125 to $300 for materials depending on the size and type of mount. Some motorized mounts are designed to move your TV from side to side or tilt forward and backward. Others are designed to bring the TV down from a hidden position, such as a ceiling mount. There are different methods for operating your motorized mounts. Some will come with their own remote control, others will work through an app on your phone, and a few are even motion censored.

TV Mount Stand Price

Expect to pay $100 to $600 for a television mount stand. You can find television stands with built-in brackets. Instead of traditional mounts affixed to a wall, a TV mount stand will sit on the floor, with the TV being affixed to the top. This provides the benefits of a stand plus more. It also includes shelves and drawers for safely storing other devices and audio-visual equipment. These stands come in many styles and materials, from wooden drawers to contemporary glass shelves. Some can hold big, heavy televisions, while others are designed for smaller units. The prices vary broadly, depending on the type and size you want. TV mount stands are a good option for homeowners who want to move the TV more easily if needed or to have more storage options close to the TV.

What Height Should I Mount my TV?

It is vital to select the correct height when installing your television on the wall. If the television is too high, you might experience pain or discomfort in the neck when leaning back to see the screen. If it is too low, similar problems occur. The right height for any television depends on the television size, room size, and how you watch the television. For example, a television put up in a bedroom and viewed from the bed might be positioned higher than a living room television intended to be viewed from the sofa. Experts recommend that a typical living room television, viewed from standard sofas and seats, be positioned at about eye level. The right height ranges from 40” to 60” off the floor, with larger televisions needing to be installed higher than smaller ones.

If you plan to install the television above a fireplace or other obstruction, it should be positioned as close to eye level as possible. You may want to consider a tilting or full-motion option. These options make it easier to reposition the television if it is too high or low. In general, installers know the correct heights to install televisions and can measure rooms, sofas, furniture, televisions, and walls to place your television in the perfect position. This is why professional installation is recommended.

Pros and Cons

Mounting TVs is becoming more common, but that does not mean that it is the perfect solution for everyone's situation. One of the main pros of mounting a TV is gaining more floor space. Many entertainment stands can be bulky. If you have a small space, they can leave less room for other furniture. Another popular reason for mounting a TV is to get it to a better level for viewing. Also, mounted TVs are more out of the way, which can be ideal when you have small children.

There are some drawbacks to mounting your TV as well. The first is that it causes damage to your wall during the process. While this damage is minimal, it will need to be repaired if you remove the mount. Unless you install your mounted TV with hidden cords, you will also have to worry about cords hanging and connecting to components, which can be unsightly.

VESA TV Mount

To select a compatible mount, you should see if your television has the corresponding VESA number. VESA stands for Video Electronics Standards Association, which issues numbers on devices designating manufacturing standards. These numbers act as codes for standard vertical and horizontal patterns made for the unit’s holes. The numbers are based on metric measurements, ranging from 50mm to 800mm. You can check the back of your television or the manual to find your model’s VESA number (Ex: “VESA 75”). Then, you can choose a bracket that matches that number to guarantee compatibility.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Install Outlet Behind TV

If there are no electrical outlets for your television, a new outlet can be installed for $120 to $200. Before installing a bracket, make sure that an electrical outlet is within reach. If not, you will need to consider adding this expense to the project budget. You may also choose to install a new grounded outlet if yours is older or to upgrade to an outlet that includes jacks for cabling, fiber, or other connections, which will incur a premium cost.

Surround Sound Speakers Installation

Surround-sound speakers cost $800 to $4,000, with larger and higher-quality systems costing more. You can also get speaker stands and brackets for an average of $100 per pair. Surround-sound speaker systems are unique to the individual and offer all kinds of designs and layouts. You can find single-speaker soundbars, multi-speaker systems, and more. The type and quality of the system that you choose impact the cost.

TV Accessories

You may need accessories like HDMI cables ($20 to $220) and A/V cables ($2 to $170) to complete the setup of your installed television. These accessories connect your television to other devices like game consoles, computers, or surround sound systems. The prices of these cables are influenced by the quality and length. Make sure that you take inventory, purchase all necessary cords, and consider keeping extra cords around if one doesn’t work or you end up needing extra.

TV Wi-Fi Adapter

Wi-Fi adapters for a television cost between $25 and $150. You need this if you want to connect your television to your home’s Wi-Fi network and your television is older. Modern Smart televisions connect to Wi-Fi networks on their own, so this should not be a concern if you’ve purchased a television within the past five to seven years. If you need to purchase a Wi-Fi adapter, make sure that you choose a model compatible with your television.

Install a Wall Shelf

Installing a wall shelf with your mounted TV provides you with the additional space you need to hold cable boxes, media players, speakers, and other television accessories. If you have one installed when your TV is installed, you can expect to pay an additional $100 to $200. If you call a handyman out to install one after, you are likely to pay an average of $150 to $300, depending on the cost of the shelf. It is best to have a professional install a wall shelf, especially if it is holding electronics, so that you can ensure everything is secure.

Install a Cord Shelf

There are a few options when it comes to cord concealment. The simplest ones run an average of $30 to $85 and involve a metal, wood, or plastic case covering your cords and affixing to the wall. You can also choose to have your cords concealed inside the wall where they will not be visible until the ends, where they connect to the power and device. Doing this adds an extra cost to your mounting of $50 to $175, depending on the cord and type of wall. You can also have a power source recessed into the wall that fits behind the TV and allows you to attach everything behind the TV. These run an average of $85 to $200 to have installed, depending on the type of hardware needed and how long it takes to run the lines.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Home theaters. If you have a home theater or a surround sound system, the installation cost may include having AV cords reattached or components wired together. This may require a higher level of expertise and be more costly.
• Wall type. If your wall has metal studs, you should not put your television up on the wall. Most metal-studded walls cannot support a television’s weight.
• Position. Consider the viewing ability when selecting your television's new location. Your position influences what bracket type is most suitable. Options that do not tilt are not good choices for positions far above eye level. Fixed low-profile options are not ideal for high-mounting positions. Refer to the table above to check what types are best for your needs.
• Recycling. If you plan to fix a new television to the wall and want to get rid of an old one, your contractor can dispose of and recycle it. Not all contractors offer this service, and those who do may charge $50 to $75.
• Distance. Sit at the right distance from your television screen. Getting too close could lead to eye strain or make it difficult to see the entire screen. The right distance depends on your screen’s size. For bigger screens, you should sit farther back. Experts generally recommend sitting at a distance of 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal screen measurement. So, for a 50” screen, sit between 75” and 125” away, or roughly between 6’ and 10'.
• Guarantee. If you are having professionals install your television bracket, you should inquire about a guarantee or warranty on the work that is performed. Ask whether there is one, what it covers, and whether it can be transferred. There are often protection plans or warranties available at the time of purchase, or your installer may offer one at the time of service.
• Type of TV. The type of TV you have will not affect the mounting process or the mount type. Almost any type of TV can fit on any type of mount as long as the correct size is chosen.
• TV cart. Some homeowners prefer having the ability to move their TV around with ease. In these cases, a TV cart might be the best option. These carts are strong enough to hold your TV and allow it to be moved around as needed.
• Repairs and relocation. In some cases, you may need to have drywall or electrical wiring removed, repaired, or modified to accommodate a wall mount. This adds costs to your TV mount installation project.
• Testing and remediation. If mold is discovered, or you suspect you may have mold in the wall, when installing your TV mount it is important to have it tested and remediated if anything is found.