| Permanent lights | Traditional seasonal lights | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical public pricing | About $21–$35 per linear foot, installed once | About $4–$12 per linear foot, each season, depending on whether lights, takedown, and storage are included |
| Example: 150 ft | $3,150–$5,250 one time | $600–$1,800 per season |
| Ladders each year | Usually none after install | Up in the fall and down in January, by you or a crew |
| Storage | Nothing to store | Bins of lights, unless the service stores them |
| Colors and scenes | Most systems change colors and scenes from a phone app | Usually fixed for the season once hung |
| Use beyond December | Diwali, Halloween, game days, and everyday accent lighting | Typically one season |
| Daytime look | Low-profile track that usually blends with the trim | Visible clips and wire while installed |
| HOA approval | Often treated as an exterior change that needs review | Seasonal displays may have date windows; check your HOA |
Prices are public DFW contractor listings checked October 2026, not quotes. Some permanent installers price the controller separately. DIY seasonal lights cost less in cash but more in time and ladder work.
How the math usually works out
At these public ranges, a one-time permanent install costs roughly as much as two to nine seasons of professional seasonal installs for the same footage. Where your home lands depends on the quotes you get and what each one includes.
When traditional lights may still make sense
If you only decorate for one holiday, plan to move soon, or your HOA does not allow permanent systems, seasonal lights can be the simpler choice.
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