Window replacement costs $300–$1,200 per window installed in the US, with the national average at $650–$900 per window. A full-house replacement (10–20 windows) runs $6,000–$18,000. In Poland, expect PLN 800–3,000 per window; in the Netherlands, €400–€1,500. New windows reduce energy bills 10–25% and return 60–70% of their cost at resale.
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Average window installation costs by type
| Window type | Typical cost per window (USD) |
|---|---|
| Single-hung vinyl | $300–$600 |
| Double-hung vinyl | $400–$800 |
| Double-hung wood | $600–$1,200 |
| Casement (crank-out) | $400–$1,000 |
| Sliding window | $350–$700 |
| Bay or bow window | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Picture window (fixed) | $300–$800 |
| Egress (basement) | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Skylight | $1,000–$3,000 |
Sources: HomeAdvisor 2025, Angi service pricing, US DOE Energy Star program.
What affects the cost?
- Window material — vinyl ($300–$800) is cheapest, wood ($600–$1,200) is premium, fiberglass ($500–$1,000) is mid-range with best energy performance
- Glass type — double-pane is standard; triple-pane adds $75–$150/window but cuts energy loss 20–30% more; low-E coating adds $25–$50
- Full-frame vs insert — insert replacement (same opening, $300–$800) is cheaper; full-frame (new framing, $500–$1,200+) is needed when frames are rotting
- Window size and shape — standard sizes cost 20–40% less than custom; arched and specialty shapes add 50–100%
- Number of windows — contractors offer 10–20% bulk discount on 10+ windows
- Story height — second-floor windows cost 15–25% more due to scaffolding and ladder work
- Permits — required in some jurisdictions; $50–$200
Costs by country
Window installation costs in the United States
The US average is $650–$900 per window installed (window + labor). A full-house replacement of 15 windows runs $10,000–$15,000 for vinyl and $15,000–$25,000+ for wood. Labor is $150–$400 per window. Energy Star–rated windows may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $600/year (30% of cost, $200 max per window). High-cost metros (NYC, SF, Boston) run 20–40% above national averages.
Timeline: a crew of 2–3 installers can replace 5–8 windows per day. A full-house project takes 2–4 days. Order windows 4–8 weeks before the scheduled install date — custom sizes take longer. The best seasons for installation are spring and fall (moderate temperatures, lower demand).
How to save on window installation
- Vinyl over wood — vinyl windows cost 40–60% less than wood with similar energy performance and zero maintenance
- Insert replacement when possible — saves $200–$400 per window vs full-frame by reusing existing framing
- Standard sizes — stock windows are 20–40% cheaper than custom; measure carefully to avoid custom orders
- Replace all at once — bulk discounts of 10–20% on 10+ windows; one mobilization cost instead of multiple
- Claim tax credits and subsidies — US federal Energy Star credit up to $600/year; Poland's Czyste Powietrze; Dutch ISDE subsidy
- Get 3+ quotes — window replacement bids vary 20–35% for identical specifications
- Schedule in fall or winter — installers are less busy and may offer better pricing
Frequently asked questions
How much does window replacement cost?
Window replacement costs $300–$1,200 per window installed in the US. Vinyl windows: $300–$800. Wood windows: $600–$1,200. Fiberglass: $500–$1,000. A full-house replacement of 15 windows runs $10,000–$15,000 for vinyl. Labor adds $150–$400 per window. Energy Star windows may qualify for a federal tax credit up to $600/year.
How long do new windows last?
Vinyl windows: 20–40 years. Wood windows: 30+ years with regular maintenance (painting/staining every 3–5 years). Fiberglass: 30–50 years. Aluminum: 20–25 years. The weakest point is the seal between panes — when it fails (foggy glass), the window needs replacement. Quality brands like Andersen, Pella, and Marvin last longer than budget options.
Are new windows worth the investment?
Yes for most homes — new windows reduce heating and cooling bills 10–25%, return 60–70% at resale, eliminate drafts and condensation, and reduce outside noise 25–50%. They're especially worth it if your current windows are single-pane, have failed seals (foggy), or don't operate properly. The payback period on energy savings alone is 8–15 years.
What's the difference between insert and full-frame replacement?
Insert (pocket) replacement: the new window slides into the existing frame. Cheaper ($300–$800/window), faster (30–60 min per window), minimal interior disruption. Works when existing frames are sound. Full-frame: removes everything down to the rough opening. More expensive ($500–$1,200+), takes 1–2 hours per window, requires interior trim work. Necessary when frames are rotting, out of square, or poorly insulated.