Are Permanent Holiday Lights Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Real Costs

TL;DR

Permanent holiday lights are a growing trend in the U.S., offering homeowners convenience, durability, and year-round curb appeal. While the upfront investment is high, the long-term savings, customization, and energy efficiency make them worth it for many families who plan to stay in their homes long-term.

The Rise of Permanent Holiday Lights

Not too long ago, holiday decorating meant spending hours untangling string lights, climbing ladders, and then taking everything down just a few weeks later. Today, homeowners across the U.S. are embracing a simpler, smarter solution: permanent holiday lights. Searches for permanent holiday lighting have surged in recent years. 

According to Google Trends, interest in “permanent holiday lights” has grown by nearly 80% since 2022 (Google Trends). 

The shift is clear. Families want lighting that’s convenient, beautiful, and built to last.

But here’s the real question: Are permanent holiday lights worth the investment? 

Let’s dive deep into what they are, how they work, and whether the benefits outweigh the costs.

What Are Permanent Holiday Lights?

Permanent holiday lights are professionally installed, weatherproof LED systems that stay hidden in your roofline and can be controlled anytime through a mobile app. Unlike regular string lights, they’re designed to last for years without the hassle of yearly setup and takedown.

Popular U.S. brands like Gemstone Lights, EverLights, Govee, and Trimlight offer unique features and warranties. Some people wonder, what are permanent Christmas lights called? In the industry, they’re often referred to as permanent holiday lighting or permanent outdoor lights, and marketed as “all year Christmas lights” or *“year-round lights for house.”

Source: iStockphotos

A common concern is whether they look tacky. The answer: not at all. With color-matched tracks, they’re nearly invisible during the day and give your home a polished, professional look at night.

Now that we know what they are, let’s dive into why so many homeowners are choosing permanent holiday lights and the lifestyle benefits they bring.

Pros of Permanent Holiday Lights

Investing in permanent holiday lights isn’t just about skipping the ladder each December; it’s about transforming your home with a lighting system that works for every season, event, and mood. Homeowners across the U.S. are realizing that the benefits stretch far beyond the holidays, making the investment feel more practical than indulgent. Let’s break down the major advantages.

1. Convenience

Imagine never pulling tangled lights from a storage box again. With permanent systems, your lights are always in place, controlled by a simple app. Whether it’s Christmas Eve or a random Friday night, you can light up your home in seconds without lifting a ladder.

2. Cost Efficiency

Yes, the upfront cost is significant, but over time the savings add up. Instead of spending $500–$1,200 every year on temporary installations and replacements, permanent lights pay for themselves in 3–5 years. For families who plan to stay in their homes long-term, this efficiency is a game changer.

3. Durability

These aren’t flimsy string lights. Permanent outdoor lights are built to last a decade or more, weatherproofed to withstand heavy rains, snowstorms, and blistering summer heat. Unlike traditional bulbs that burn out quickly, LEDs offer up to 50,000 hours of use.

4. Customization

Permanent holiday lighting systems put creativity at your fingertips. 

• Want red, white, and blue for July 4th? 
• Orange for Halloween? Pastels for Easter? 
• Or even a soft white glow for everyday elegance? 

With app control, you can program colors, patterns, and animations for any event all year long.

And that brings up a common question: Can you use permanent Christmas lights year-round? 

The answer is yes. 

They’re designed to be discreet during the day and versatile at night, making them suitable for every season, not just December.

5. Curb Appeal

Permanent lights don’t just brighten your home; they elevate it. A professionally installed system looks clean, polished, and modern. Many homeowners report a boost in curb appeal, and realtors often highlight permanent lighting as a unique selling point that can increase home value.

Homeowners also wonder: Are permanent holiday lights energy efficient? Thankfully, yes. 

These systems rely on LED technology, which consumes 80–90% less power than traditional incandescent bulbs (Energy.gov). This means you can enjoy nightly displays without worrying about a big spike in your electric bill.

Of course, no home upgrade is perfect. While permanent holiday lights bring plenty of benefits, they also come with challenges that every homeowner should weigh before making a decision.

Cons of Permanent Holiday Lights

While the benefits of permanent holiday lights are appealing, it’s important to look at the other side of the equation. Like any home investment, these systems have drawbacks that homeowners should consider before signing a contract. Here are the most common concerns.

1. High Upfront Cost

The biggest hurdle is the price tag. Installing permanent holiday lighting typically starts from $2500, depending on the home’s size and design. That’s a much bigger commitment than paying a few hundred dollars each year for temporary rentals. For some families, the sticker shock can be hard to justify.

2. System Malfunctions

Although high-quality brands are reliable, no system is perfect. App glitches, wiring issues, or power surges may occasionally cause problems. While warranties often cover repairs, homeowners may need to schedule servicing, which isn’t always instant or DIY-friendly.

3. Limited DIY Options

Permanent outdoor lights aren’t the kind you casually hang on a Saturday afternoon. They’re integrated into your roofline with specialized brackets and wiring. This means most installations and many repairs require professional help. For DIY enthusiasts, the lack of hands-on flexibility can feel restrictive.

4. Maintenance Over Time

While permanent lights are built to last a decade or more, they’re not completely maintenance-free. Over time, some LEDs may dim or colors may fade slightly. Seasonal cleaning and occasional part replacements are often necessary to keep them looking their best.

This brings us to one of the most common questions: Are permanent holiday lights worth the cost? For homeowners who plan to stay put for several years, the investment usually pays off through convenience, safety, and long-term savings. But for short-term homeowners or those on a tighter budget, the upfront cost may outweigh the benefits.

Another frequent concern is electricity usage. Do permanent lights increase your electricity bill? The answer is: only a little. Most LED-based systems add just $10–$20 per month when used daily, far less than the costs of incandescent lighting. In other words, the bigger expense comes from installation, not monthly utility bills.

After weighing the pros and cons, the next big question is cost. Are permanent holiday lights a luxury splurge or a practical investment? Let’s break down what you can actually expect to spend.

Real Costs: What You’ll Actually Spend

The biggest question: How much do permanent holiday lights cost?

• Average U.S. cost: $2,500–$5,000 for a mid-sized home.
• Per linear foot: $20–$40, depending on brand and installer.
• Factors influencing price: Roofline size, complexity, smart features, and installer labor fees.

Yearly Rental vs. Permanent Installation

Factor	Seasonal Rentals	Permanent Holiday Lights
Initial Cost	$0 upfront	$2,500–$7,500 one-time
Annual Cost	$500–$1,200 per year	None (beyond minimal maintenance)
5-Year Cost	$2,500–$6,000	Already paid off
Ownership	No (rented each year)	Yes (system installed permanently)
Convenience	Requires yearly setup & takedown	One-time install, app-controlled
Lifespan	One season	10–15 years (LED-based system)
Long-Term Value	Recurring expense	Saves money long-term (break-even in 3–5 years)

So, how much does it cost to have holiday lights installed? 

Temporary installs run $500–$1,200 each season, while permanent setups range from $2,500–$7,500.

And is permanent holiday lighting cheaper in the long run? Yes. After four to five years, rentals surpass the cost of a permanent system, making permanent lights the smarter financial choice.

Once you understand the price range, the next step is figuring out how to get them installed. Should you do it yourself or hire professionals? Here’s what you need to know.

Installation Guide: How to Get Permanent Holiday Lights Installed

Once you’ve decided to invest in permanent holiday lights, the next step is figuring out how to get them up on your home. Unlike traditional string lights, which you can hang in an afternoon, permanent systems are more sophisticated. That’s why homeowners need to weigh the choice between doing it themselves and hiring professionals.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Some systems are marketed as DIY, but they often require ladders, wiring, and technical know-how. For safety and reliability, professional installation is strongly recommended.

Source: DesertOutdoorLighting

Step-by-Step Installation Overview at Haply

Here’s what the installation process at Haply typically looks like:

1. Free consultation and quote – A local installer visits your home or uses satellite imaging to estimate cost.
2. Roofline measurement – They measure the exact length and layout of your gutters, eaves, and trim.
3. Custom system design – You choose features like color zones, animations, and smart home integrations.
4. Mounting brackets and LED installation – The lights are secured in tracks that blend with your trim color.
5. Wiring and app setup – Electric connections are made safely, and the mobile app is connected.
6. Testing and walkthrough – Installers test the system and show you how to use it.

Homeowners often ask: How long does it take to install permanent lights? For a typical mid-sized home, installation takes just 1–2 days, though larger or more complex roofs may take longer.

Getting your lights up is just the beginning. Like any home system, permanent holiday lighting benefits from a bit of upkeep to keep them looking bright year after year.

Maintenance & Storage Tips

One of the biggest advantages of permanent holiday lights is that they don’t require the dreaded ritual of dragging boxes out of the attic every December. Since the system stays in place year-round, there’s no storage hassle at all. Still, a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your lights looking bright and performing well for years.

Annual Inspections

Take time once a year to walk around your home and check the brackets and wiring. Make sure everything is secure and hasn’t shifted due to wind, rain, or snow. Catching loose clips or small issues early prevents bigger, costlier repairs down the road.

Cleaning for Clarity

Over time, dust, dirt, and pollen can dull the brightness of your LEDs. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth or gentle spray once or twice a year will keep the lights shining like new. For homes in dusty or coastal areas, more frequent cleaning may be needed.

Software Updates

Because many permanent holiday lighting systems are app-controlled, don’t forget the digital side of maintenance. Updating the app’s firmware ensures you get access to new features, bug fixes, and smooth performance across your smart devices.

No Storage Stress

Unlike traditional lights, which demand attic or garage space, permanent systems free you from tangled cords and bulky bins. That’s why many homeowners say these lights are about reclaiming time and space during the busiest season of the year.

If you’re convinced permanent holiday lights might be right for you, the next question is which system to choose. Several top brands dominate the U.S. market, each with unique strengths.

Best Permanent Holiday Lighting Systems in 2025

Here are some of the top brands:

• Gemstone Lights – Premium, fully app-controlled; $25–$35/ft.
• EverLights – Sleek design, integrates with smart homes; $30–$40/ft.
• Trimlight – Long-standing U.S. brand, wide installer network; $20–$30/ft.
• Govee – Budget-friendly DIY option; $15–$20/ft.

Each of these has U.S. installer networks for easy “Christmas lighting installers near me” searches.

With the leading options in mind, let’s circle back to the big question: are permanent holiday lights really worth it?

Are Permanent Holiday Lights Worth It? 

Final Verdict

So, are permanent holiday lights worth it? For many homeowners, the answer is a clear yes.

Source: iStock

If you:

• Plan to stay in your home for 5+ years
• Value convenience, customization, and year-round beauty
• Want to avoid the risks of climbing ladders every season

…then permanent holiday lighting is more than just decoration. It’s an investment in comfort, safety, and style.

But here’s the best part: you don’t have to pay premium market rates to enjoy them. Through Haply, you can get professional, hassle-free installation at prices up to 30% lower than market averages. Because Haply connects you with multiple vetted vendors in your local area, you not only save money but also get the flexibility to compare and choose what’s best for your home.

Think of it as stress-free holiday magic delivered by experts, without the inflated price tags. Haply makes it easier than ever to enjoy permanent holiday lights that look stunning, work flawlessly, and fit your budget.

Get your permanent holiday lighting estimate at +1 (425) 633-2227 today or email us at hi@haply.app.

FAQs

1. How much do permanent holiday lights cost?
   Most U.S. homes pay between $2,500 and $7,500, depending on size and brand.
2. How long do permanent holiday lights last?
   On average, 10–15 years, thanks to durable LED technology and weatherproof designs.
3. Are permanent lights customizable for different holidays?
   Yes. You can program themes for Christmas, Halloween, birthdays, and more using mobile apps.
4. Can I remove permanent holiday lights easily?
   Yes, but removal requires tools and often voids warranties. They’re designed to stay mounted.
5. Do permanent lights work with smart home systems?
   Many integrate with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit.
6. What are the best brands for permanent lights?
   Popular choices include Gemstone Lights, EverLights, Trimlight, and Govee.

Summary

Permanent holiday lights are more than just decoration; they’re a lifestyle upgrade. With searches skyrocketing and adoption growing across U.S. neighborhoods, these systems solve the age-old hassles of untangling, installing, and storing lights.

The pros: convenience, durability, customization, and curb appeal make a strong case. Yes, the cons like high upfront cost and occasional maintenance exist, but the ROI perspective is clear: after 3–5 years, homeowners save money compared to seasonal rentals.

Costs vary widely, but most U.S. homes spend $2,500–$5,000, with premium brands edging higher. Installation is best left to professionals, who can safely mount and wire systems in just a day or two.

Brands like Govee, Gemstone, EverLights, and Trimlight lead the U.S. market, offering smart integrations and sleek designs. For anyone planning to stay in their home for years, permanent holiday lights are a solid investment in both convenience and joy.

And if you’re ready to take the next step, don’t forget that platforms like Haply make it easy to connect with local installers and neighbors who can share their real experiences. Haply isn’t just about lights. It’s about community, helping you find trusted local services and support, right where you live.