What Does Window Replacement Cost?
Replacing windows is one of the most impactful home improvement investments you can make. In 2026, homeowners typically spend between $300 and $1,200 per window installed, depending on size, material, and complexity.
Cost by Window Type
| Window Type | Material Cost | Installed Cost | |-------------|--------------|----------------| | Single-hung | $150–$400 | $300–$700 | | Double-hung | $200–$600 | $400–$900 | | Casement | $250–$700 | $450–$1,100 | | Bay/bow | $600–$2,500 | $1,200–$4,500 | | Picture | $150–$500 | $300–$800 | | Awning | $200–$600 | $400–$900 | | Sliding | $150–$500 | $300–$800 |
Cost by Frame Material
Vinyl ($150–$600 installed): Most affordable, low maintenance, good energy efficiency. Ideal for budget-conscious replacements.
Wood ($400–$1,500 installed): Premium look and feel. Requires painting or staining every 5–7 years. Best for historic homes or upscale projects.
Aluminum ($300–$900 installed): Slim profiles, strong, good for commercial applications. Lower energy efficiency without thermal breaks.
Fiberglass ($500–$1,800 installed): Strongest, most dimensionally stable material. Excellent long-term value despite higher upfront cost.
Composite ($400–$1,200 installed): Wood-fiber core with polymer shell. Good compromise between wood aesthetics and vinyl durability.
What Drives Cost Up
- Size: Oversized or custom-shaped windows add 20–50% to material cost
- Installation complexity: Second-story work, structural modifications, and rot repair all add labor
- Energy upgrades: Triple-pane glass, low-E coatings, and gas fills add $50–$200 per window
- Historic compliance: Approved products and craftsmanship requirements for historic districts
- Region: Labor costs vary significantly; coastal markets run 15–30% above national average
Getting the Most Value
- Replace multiple windows at once — contractors offer lower per-unit pricing on full-house projects
- Specify energy-efficient glass — low-E coatings typically add $30–$75 per window and pay back in 3–5 years
- Get at least three bids — pricing varies widely between contractors
- Ask about warranty — manufacturer warranties (typically 10–lifetime on frames) and installer warranties (1–5 years on labor) are both important
- Check for incentives — federal tax credits for energy-efficient windows may apply; check current IRS guidelines
Project Budgeting Example
For a typical 1,500 sq ft house replacing 12 standard double-hung vinyl windows:
- Materials: $3,600–$7,200
- Labor: $2,400–$4,800
- Total: $6,000–$12,000
A full fiberglass upgrade on the same house: $12,000–$22,000.
Ready to Get Quotes?
The best way to get accurate pricing is to submit your project and receive qualified bids from local contractors who specialize in window replacement.