Skylight installation costs $1,500–$4,500 per unit in the US, including the skylight and labor. Fixed skylights are cheapest at $500–$1,500 for the unit, while vented (operable) skylights cost $1,000–$3,000+. Installation labor runs $500–$2,000 depending on roof type and whether structural modifications are needed. VELUX and Fakro are the two dominant manufacturers.
Average skylight costs by type[1,2,3]
| Skylight type | Unit + installation (USD) |
|---|---|
| Fixed skylight | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Vented/operable skylight | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Solar-powered vented skylight | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Tubular skylight (sun tunnel) | $500–$1,500 |
| Flat-roof skylight | $1,500–$3,500 |
| Custom or architectural skylight | $3,000–$10,000+ |
Skylight installation costs in the United States
US homeowners pay $1,500–$4,500 per skylight installed. The most popular choice is the VELUX deck-mounted fixed skylight at $300–$600 for the unit plus $800–$1,500 for installation. Solar-powered vented models qualify for the federal 30% solar energy tax credit when they include solar blinds (saving $400–$800 on a typical installation). A tubular skylight (sun tunnel) is the budget option at $500–$1,000 installed — ideal for interior bathrooms and hallways.
Install skylights during a roof replacement when possible — the roofer is already on-site, and flashing can be integrated into the new roof. Standalone skylight installation requires a skilled roofer, not just a general contractor, to prevent leaks.
What affects the cost?
- Skylight type — fixed is cheapest, solar-powered vented is most expensive standard option
- Size — standard sizes (21×27 to 30×46 inches) cost less than custom dimensions
- Roof type — asphalt shingles are easiest; tile, metal, and flat roofs cost more to cut and flash
- Structural modifications — cutting through rafters requires a header, adding $500–$1,500
- Glazing options — triple-pane, laminated, or electrochromic glass adds $200–$1,000
- Interior finishing — light shaft construction from roof to ceiling adds $500–$2,000
How to save on skylight installation
- Install during roof replacement — saves $300–$800 per skylight on labor
- Choose fixed over operable — fixed skylights cost 40–50% less and have fewer leak points
- Consider tubular skylights — at $500–$1,000 installed, they're the most affordable way to add natural light
- Claim tax credits — US solar-powered VELUX skylights qualify for the 30% federal solar tax credit
- Use standard sizes — custom dimensions cost 50–100% more than stock sizes