The Ultimate Guide to Neon Signs

If you’re considering a neon sign for your home, event, or business, this guide covers everything you need to know — from cost and lifespan to design choices, disadvantages, and modern alternatives.

How Much Do Neon Signs Cost?

The cost of a neon sign can vary widely depending on whether you choose traditional glass neon or LED neon flex.

LED Neon Signs: Typically cost $200–$400 per foot, depending on the design complexity and quality of LEDs. A small custom sign might run between $300 and $1,500.
Traditional Glass Neon Signs: Range from $400–$2,400 per foot. A medium-sized storefront sign could easily exceed $10,000.

Why the big difference?

Glass neon requires specialized craftsmanship, with each glass tube bent and filled with gas.
Neon gas and colored tubing are more expensive than LED strips.
Installation is more complex, requiring trained professionals and high-voltage transformers.

Extra Costs to Consider:

Installation: Glass neon needs specialist mounting and electrical work. LED can be DIY-installed.
Repairs: Glass neon tubes are fragile and costly to fix. LED panels are more durable but may need circuit board replacement.
Power Supply: Neon uses more electricity (higher bills over time).

💡 Takeaway: If budget is your priority, LED neon is the clear winner. Traditional glass neon is more of an investment piece, often chosen for authenticity or vintage appeal.

Sizes & Custom Options

Neon signs can be made in a range of sizes, but there are practical limits.

Small Neon Signs (12” x 12”): Perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or as accent décor.
Medium Neon Signs (18”–24”): Great for small businesses, event décor, or statement pieces at home.
Large Neon Signs (36”+): Common for storefronts, event halls, or as focal backdrops at weddings.

Can Neon Signs Be Really Small?

Glass neon has limits because the tubing can only be bent so tightly. Extremely tiny letters or intricate shapes are difficult to achieve. LED neon flex, being bendable, allows for smaller, more detailed designs.

Can You DIY Neon Signs?

True glass neon signs require special equipment, gas filling, and high-voltage transformers — DIY is not practical. Most “DIY neon kits” you see online are actually LED flex strips, which are safer and easier for beginners.

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Lifespan & Durability

How long do neon signs last? The answer depends on whether you choose LED or traditional glass neon.

LED Neon Signs: Rated for 50,000 hours of continuous use. That’s about 5–7 years if left on all the time.
Glass Neon Signs: Tubes last 8–15 years on average, with a total lifespan of 75,000 hours. Unlike LEDs, glass tubes can sometimes be re-gassed, extending their life.

Do Neon Signs Burn Out?

Yes. Over time, electrodes wear down or the gas leaks out. LEDs “fade” rather than burn out, while glass tubes may suddenly stop glowing if broken or depleted.

Do Neon Signs Run Out of Gas?

Eventually, yes. True neon tubes are sealed, but small leaks or electrode wear can let the gas escape. Once depleted, the tube must be repaired or replaced.

Can You Leave Neon Signs On All the Time?

You can, but it does shorten lifespan. Best practice: turn them off for 24 hours every couple of weeks to reduce transformer stress.

💡 Pro tip: Indoor neon signs last longer since they’re not exposed to weather and sunlight.

Popularity & Modern Alternatives

Neon signs are less popular today compared to their mid-20th-century peak. Why?

Cost: Glass neon is expensive to make, install, and repair.
Safety: High voltage and fragile tubes pose risks.
Energy Efficiency: Neon uses significantly more electricity than LED.
Maintenance: LED requires almost no upkeep, while glass neon is fragile.

Popularity & Modern Alternatives

Neon signs are less popular today compared to their mid-20th-century peak. Why?

Cost: Glass neon is expensive to make, install, and repair.
Safety: High voltage and fragile tubes pose risks.
Energy Efficiency: Neon uses significantly more electricity than LED.
Maintenance: LED requires almost no upkeep, while glass neon is fragile.

Colors & Aesthetic Value

One of neon’s biggest appeals is its color variety and emotional impact.

Which Neon Colors Are Best?

Pink – playful, romantic, perfect for weddings or décor
Blue / Ice Blue – modern, calming, great for gaming rooms or bars
Red – bold and attention-grabbing, ideal for restaurants or nightclubs
White (Warm or Cool) – versatile and timeless, works for any setting
Yellow / Gold – cheerful, positive, good for cafés or motivational signs
Purple – luxurious, creative, moody
Green – fresh, natural, eco-friendly vibes

Collectible Value

Vintage neon signs are highly collectible, especially those from old diners, motels, or classic brands.
Authentic vintage neon can sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on rarity, size, and condition.

💡 Tip: If resale value matters to you, vintage glass neon has more collector appeal than LED neon.

Disadvantages of Neon Signs

While beautiful, neon signs have drawbacks:

High Upfront Cost: Especially for glass neon.
Fragility: Glass tubes break easily.
Energy Use: More expensive to run than LEDs.
Maintenance: Repairs and re-gassing are costly.
Safety Risks: High-voltage transformers and fragile materials.

This is why many businesses have switched to LED neon flex — nearly all the glow, with fewer downsides.

Conclusion

Neon signs are iconic, nostalgic, and visually stunning — but they’re no longer the most practical choice for everyday use.

If you want authenticity, artistry, or a vintage collectible: Choose traditional glass neon, but be prepared for higher costs and maintenance.
If you want affordability, flexibility, and long lifespan: Choose LED neon flex, which has become the new standard for both businesses and home décor.