How Much Does a Neon Sign Cost? Prices & Guide
You’ve seen the trends on Pinterest or TikTok. Got inspired by the futuristic look of spaces decorated by neon signs. And now you can’t keep calm till you get one for your home or shop. But wait a minute…how much does a neon sign cost? That’s actually the starting point for most people thinking about sprucing up their spaces with a neon sign.
That’s not an issue, though, if you’ve already done some groundwork about the mood you’re aiming for and where you’ll mount it. If not, we highly recommend that you do, so you don’t end up with a piece that you’ll ask yourself, “Why did I get this?”
Now that modern LED signs are becoming more common, people are beginning to realise they’re no longer a wild luxury.
Here, we dive deep into the pricing factor. We’ll look at what drives the cost of a neon sign and how to pick the right one for your space without feeling like you just gave your money away for nothing.
The Great Debate: Real Glass Neon vs. LED Neon Signs
Before we get to the dollar signs, we need to have an awkward chat. The kind you don’t like when you’re in a hurry to buy that neon sign design you saw on TikTok.
Traditional glass neon? Gorgeous. No doubt about that. It gives off an authentic buzz with a warm, almost organic-like glow that’s hard to replicate. With all these amazing qualities, it also has shortcomings. It’s expensive as hell and fragile, considering it's made of a glass tube. Don’t forget how hot it can get when it’s been running for hours. And that’s a risk you don’t want to bear with kids and clumsy pets running around.
Then you’ve got modern LED neon signs, which are what 99% of us should go for. They’re built using advanced LED technology, meaning they can mimic the nostalgic glow of a traditional glass neon. Except it doesn’t get hot because it uses power more efficiently.
It’s built with a silicone or plastic casing, so no risk of shattering even if you mistakenly drop it. Let’s not forget about the cost difference because it’s massive. A traditional glass neon sign can cost from $1,000 to $3,000 for a small to medium-sized one. Now, factor in the shipping and installation cost, and you may need to add up to $500. What if your little one accidentally knocks and breaks it? That’s a whole different cost altogether.
Modern LED neon signs often cost from $100 up to $800. This price range covers the custom-made designs for homes and businesses. Considering their robust build, deliveries are fast because there are no fragile components that need to be handled like an egg.
See the difference? That’s the difference between a “maybe one day” purchase and a “click, order, done” purchase.
Breaking Down the Numbers: What Actually Changes the Price?
When it comes to pricing, neon vs LED sign comparisons often play a key role in choosing the right option for your budget and purpose. Both deliver a strong visual impact, but their cost structures differ significantly. Neon signs usually require more craftsmanship and materials, making them more expensive, while LED alternatives are typically more affordable and flexible. This is why many buyers compare both before making a final decision.
Alright, so you’ve decided it’s going to be an LED. Smart move. Next big question. How much does a neon sign cost , and why is there a difference in pricing? Yeah, some neon signs cost as little as $100 while others can cost a whopping $600. That’s maths; boring but important.
Size Matters (Don’t Be Gross)
This is the big one. A tiny 20cm sign for your desk? Cheap as chips. A massive 1-metre-wide statement piece for your living room? That’s going to hurt the wallet more.
The rule of thumb is simple: bigger sign, more rope light, more backing board, more time to make. Most Aussie custom shops price per centimetre or per character. A three-letter name like “MAK” will cost a fraction of a full sentence like “LIVE LAUGH LOVE.”
So here’s a pro tip: Measure your wall before you buy. I cannot tell you how many people buy a tiny sign, stick it on a massive blank wall, and wonder why it looks lonely. Size it properly, or don’t bother.
Colour Complexity (It’s Not Just Pink or Blue)
Here’s where the pricing thing gets interesting. You’d think a pink sign costs the same as a blue one, right? Wrong. Well, mostly wrong.
The actual LEDs inside the rope have different price points. White is usually the cheapest. Warm white, cool white, easy. Then you get into the fancy stuff.
And this is where we need to talk about neon sign gases for a second. In the old days, you needed different gases (neon for red, argon for blue, etc.) to get different colours. That was expensive and limiting. With modern LED? We can do anything. But just like in glass tube neons, not all colours are made equal in LED technology.
Modern LED neon signs bearing a single colour glow like white, blue, pink, or green are affordable. Most of these have prices ranging from $200 to $500. But when a sign bears two or more colours, that’s extra labour. The sign maker has to incorporate or join different coloured neon ropes. And this can add between 20 and 40% to the cost.
Full RGB colour-changing: The fun one. You get a remote. Red for rage, blue for chill, green for… whatever. Pricier, but worth it for a party room. Think $400 - $800.
Here’s a quick rant. Don’t be that person who orders a seven-colour flashing monstrosity for their bedroom. You’ll hate it after three nights. Pick one vibe. Stick with it.
Customizations
Perhaps you’re the type of person who wants something that truly defines their identity. In that case, you’d want to go for a custom sign. But how much does a custom neon sign cost? The more customisations you need, the deeper you have to dig into your pockets.
You see, with any piece of art, pricing doesn’t just depend on the size. It’s also about how much “wow” you actually need. A tiny bedside quote might cost less than your weekly groceries, while a large salon window piece with multiple colours and custom cursive fonts can feel like a proper investment.
Simple text in one colour? Cheaper. Custom logos, multiple lines, backboards, or special effects? That adds up because more LED tubing means more materials and labour. And if you want other extras like remote control, dimmers, or weather-resistant versions, you’ll need to pay more.
The good news? Sign makers like Oasis Neon Signs have made it easier to get your custom sign. With a free design tool, you get to pick the wording, glow colour, size, font, type of backing, etc. You end up with a sign that feels like you actually built it yourself and defines your identity. If you're wondering how to find the best neon signs, focus on quality materials, customization options, and reliable customer reviews before making your final choice.
Realistic Price Ranges for Different Uses
How much does a neon sign cost, especially if you need one for your bedroom? Will the cost be different from the one meant for the kitchen? Let’s get specific with some Aussie-friendly examples.
1. Bedrooms.
Budgeting for a teen or your bedroom’s neon sign? If you opt for a small custom quote or personalised name sign, you’re looking at spending $200 to $450. That’s enough glow to add some personality to the space without making it feel overwhelming.
Perhaps you prefer simplicity? Then go for a soft amber neon sign with a phrase like Sleep Love Repeat. This one will cost you about $550 and can give your bedroom a basic to special vibe.
2. Lounges and Home Offices
For a home office or lounge, you don’t need anything that seems too dramatic. A simple medium-sized neon sign will do. That will cost from $400 to about $900 if you’re looking to make a statement with a custom abstract shape or a favourite lyric.
This neon sign will pair well with neutral walls, and suddenly, that lonely, boring corner in your space becomes inspiring instead of just functional.
3. Businesses (Salons)
Businesses, especially salons, are where things get interesting. A decent window or wall sign can start at $400 and go up to $1,500, depending on visibility needs. You’ll have to pick from popular colours for salons: blush tones, soft pinks, lavenders, and warm whites. They flatter skin, create that pampering atmosphere, and photograph beautifully for social media.
4. Events and Commercial Spaces
For bigger commercial spaces or events, larger or more complex pieces can hit $1,000–$3,000, but that’s still way more affordable than a full fit-out.
So, how much should you expect to pay for an LED neon sign compared to the glass tube ones? You’ll pay about 50 to 70% less for an LED than a traditional glass equivalent. Also, don’t forget about how much power the latter guzzles. LED signs sip power, and that can be a big win in a country where electricity bills can sting during summer.
Hidden Costs Nobody Warns You About
How much does a neon sign cost? So far, we’ve just considered the actual price of the piece. However, a real cost shouldn’t assume that shipping and installation costs aren’t part of the deal. Here are a few more costs you may need to cover:
Shipping to Australia
If you buy from overseas, add $30-$80 for shipping. And wait three to six weeks. And pray customs doesn’t hold it.
Buying Locally
Local Aussie makers (like Oasis Neon Signs) often include shipping or charge a flat, reasonable rate. You get it in days, not months.
Hanging hardware
Most signs come with a few little screws or 3M tape. But if you’re putting it on brick or concrete? You’ll need a drill and wall plugs. Or a very helpful mate with a drill.
Electricity
The good news is that LED energy consumption costs pennies a year. You won’t notice it on your bill. Unlike that old beer fridge in the garage.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a neon sign cost? Expect to pay anywhere from $100 for a small desk piece to $800 for a wall-dominating art masterpiece. However, the real question isn’t always about the price. It’s the value you’re getting out of it. What’s it worth to walk into a room that feels like you? A room that drives you to want to spend more time there.
That’s what getting a neon sign is all about. And honestly, that’s worth paying every single dollar. Don’t rush to order a $100 neon sign that can barely serve the space its intended for. If you’re willing to add to your budget, you might actually get a neon that does the work perfectly for longer.
Are you ready to find the perfect neon sign for your space? Browse the collections available at Oasis Neon Signs or use the free design tool to craft a piece that checks all the boxes for you. Ready-made or custom, no pressure really. But your wall is waiting.