A January 2025 poll of 1,000 homeowners showed that window replacement costs an average of $554 per window, depending on the window style, frame material, and brand you choose. However, replacement window costs can range between $100 and $2,500 per window. While replacement windows can be expensive, they’re an upgrade that often has a high return on investment (ROI), not only because they reduce your monthly electric bill but also because they increase your home’s value.
This window replacement cost guide includes price ranges for common window types and insight into how various factors affect window replacement pricing, such as the top window brands that are the most affordable. We collected cost figures and window industry data from the construction cost database RSMeans, respected window associations such as the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), window company representatives, and our 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners, so you can find quality windows within your budget.
Key Takeaways
- The best value window option is a vinyl, double-hung window with insulated, double-pane glass, whereas the most affordable window is a single-pane, awning aluminum window.
- Nearly 43% of the 1,000 homeowners we surveyed said the potentially lower electric bills associated with energy-efficient windows convinced them to buy new windows.
- We found that the majority of respondents in our survey paid between $100 and $500 per window for their replacement projects.
Renewal by Andersen
Buy One Window or Door, Get One 40% Off
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- Features proprietary window frame material that is stronger and more durable than vinyl
- Includes a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on non-glass materials
- Provides full-service window replacement services
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t sell aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frame windows
- Provides fewer window styles than other brands
Window Styles Offered
Renewal by Andersen offers up to eight window styles, which you can customize to fit your home’s aesthetic. Here is the full list of window styles Renewal by Andersen offers:
- Specialty
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding
Average Cost of Window Replacement
Our January 2025 survey of 1,000 homeowners found that the average cost to replace a single window is $554, with a range of $338–$897. The biggest cost factor is the number of windows you have replaced. A home with 20 or more windows can cost $10,000 or more for a full replacement project.
In addition to the number of windows, the following factors influence the price of window replacement:
- Window type
- Window material
- Pane and glass type
- Brand or contractor
- Professional vs. DIY installation
Full House vs. Individual Window Replacement
You can choose to replace a single window at a time or all of your windows. However, the total project costs will be much higher when replacing all of your windows due to the number of windows and labor needed to complete the job. Based on homes with between five and 25 windows, the cost of replacing all of your windows will range from $2,678 to $13,840.
The cost varies depending on the number, style, type, and measurement of the windows you’re replacing. You can measure your own windows to get a better idea of the cost. The table below shows the average cost and general price ranges for replacement windows based on the number you buy.
| Number of Windows | Cost Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 window | – | $554 |
| 5–6 windows | $2,768–$3,322 | $3,045 |
| 8–10 windows | $4,429–$5,536 | $4,982 |
| 13–15 windows | $7,197–$8,404 | $7,750 |
| 18–20 windows | $9,965–$11,072 | $10,518 |
| 23–25 windows | $12,732–$13,840 | $13,286 |
Cost figures are from our analysis of our 2025 window survey of 1,000 homeowners who bought replacement windows. These ranges don’t include labor costs.
Cost by Type of Window
The type of window, or window style, is a major factor in determining the cost of a new window.
Generally, window types that are larger or have additional components, such as additional sashes or hinges, cost more than basic single-hung or fixed windows. We give a brief overview and the average costs of the most popular types of windows below:
Cost by Frame Material
Another major factor affecting replacement window costs is the frame material. Window frame material helps determine your window’s appearance, energy efficiency, and upkeep. The most common window materials are aluminum, composite, fiberglass, vinyl, and wood. They all have specific advantages and disadvantages that influence their costs.
We take a look at each frame material and its average cost below:
- Aluminum ($501 per window): Aluminum windows are strong, lightweight, and resistant to bending and warping. They’re a good option if you want a thin frame that can still hold a heavy pane of glass. However, metal isn’t very energy-efficient, and aluminum windows are prone to corrosion.
- Composite ($655 per window): Composite window frames blend wood fibers and polymers for additional durability and weather resistance. Composite windows are low-maintenance and energy-efficient, but quality varies by manufacturer.
- Fiberglass ($529 per window): Fiberglass window frames are incredibly energy-efficient, customizable, and low-maintenance, but they may not be within everyone’s budget.
- Vinyl ($538 per window): Vinyl window frames are the most common frame material in most homes due to their durability and affordability. They’re easy to maintain but less visually appealing than other options.
- Wood ($573 per window): Solid wood frames are energy-efficient and customizable. They’re also aesthetically pleasing, but they can require costly window repairs due to their likelihood of warping. Wood windows can also be covered in fiberglass or aluminum on the outside, though this is an extremely expensive option.
| Characteristic | Aluminum | Composite | Fiberglass | Vinyl | Wood |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Cost per Window | $501 | $655 | $529 | $538 | $573 |
| Attractive | |||||
| Durable | |||||
| Energy-Efficient | |||||
| Highly-customizable | |||||
| Low-maintenance |
Source: Calculated based on answers from our 2025 survey of 1,000 window buyers.
Cost by Glass and Pane Type
The type of glass and the number of glass panes you choose also directly affect the cost of your replacement windows. Most replacement brands only offer double- or triple-pane windows because single-pane versions aren’t energy-efficient. If cost is a concern, you can buy new construction windows, which are typically made with affordable materials.
Here’s an overview of the most common glass panes for new windows:
Single-pane windows are generally the most affordable because of their single-glass construction. However, they are the least energy efficient because hot and cold air can easily enter and escape through one glass pane.
Double-pane windows have two panes of glass and an insulating gas, such as argon or krypton. These materials serve as an insulating barrier, keeping home temperatures and noise levels comfortable.
Triple-pane windows provide even more insulation than double-pane windows because of their third glass pane. They are suitable for extremely hot or cold climates but cost the most of all window pane types.
Here are the most common glass treatment options:
This glass offers semiopaque views, allowing sunlight to travel through your window while blurring the view into your home.
This glass option contains resin for added durability, making it up to five times stronger than normal glass.
This glass offers better protection than laminated glass and blocks debris damage caused by inclement and extreme weather. Tempered glass is required in windows near doors and in ones that extend to the walking surface.
What Is the Return on Investment for Replacement Windows?
Installing new windows can enhance a home’s value by improving energy efficiency and curb appeal. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value report, replacing 10 existing double-hung vinyl windows, each measuring 3-by-5 feet, costs approximately $21,264. The report found that these windows gave a return on investment of 67.1% of the total project cost.
Beyond financial returns, new windows offer benefits such as enhanced curb appeal and reduced energy consumption. Our 2025 survey respondents noted that the main reason they bought replacement windows was for their increased energy efficiency compared to their home’s current windows. According to Energy Star, installing energy-efficient windows can lower heating and cooling bills by up to 13%. These improvements not only make homes more attractive to potential buyers but also contribute to long-term cost savings for homeowners.
Finding the Most Cost-Effective New Windows
The most cost-effective window replacement doesn’t always mean the cheapest windows available. Our research shows that the most cost-effective window replacement involves choosing a window with the most energy-efficient features suited to your climate.
However, our survey of 1,000 homeowners found that about 33% felt overwhelmed by their options.
“There were several options for colors, grids, and glass,” said homeowner Casey B. of Bentonville, Arkansas. “I didn’t feel limited. Maybe a little overwhelmed.”
Below, explore brands that offer energy-efficient windows and budget-friendly options.
Most Affordable vs. Most Energy-Efficient Options
Generally, brands that offer affordable window options lack some energy-efficient features that a more expensive window brand provides, such as triple-pane options. That said, the affordable window brands we’ve reviewed include standard energy-efficiency features with their offerings, including low-emissivity (low-e) glass coatings.
It all boils down to your budget and brand preference. You can purchase a standard vinyl window that performs similarly to a premium wood window, the only difference being the look of the window.
Best Companies for Budget-Friendly Window Replacement
Aside from reviewing more than a dozen window brands and their offerings, we gathered cost information from our 2025 window survey. Our 1,000 survey takers reported cost averages for 15 popular brands, such as Renewal by Andersen and Window World.
We found that most brands charge between $300 and $900 per window. Data showed Harvey and Window World as the least expensive, at $338 and $421 per window, respectively, and Marvin and Ply Gem as the priciest, at $742 and $897 per window, respectively. You should also consider factors like a company’s installation process for window replacement.
The table below shows the best window types and brands based on price, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.
| Window Features | Most Affordable | Most Aesthetic | Most Energy-Efficient |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Simonton Windows | Marvin | Renewal by Andersen |
| Style | Single-hung window | Bay window | Picture window |
| Material | Aluminum | Wood | Composite |
| Glass | Single-pane, uninsulated | Frosted | Triple-pane, insulated, low-e coated |
Other Factors Affecting Cost
Like most home improvement projects, window replacement has additional factors aside from the window that affect how much you pay for the project. Below are a few less-considered factors that can impact your total project cost:
- Accessories: Additional window accessories, such as latches, window cranks, and window shutters, add extra curb appeal and increase the amount you pay for your new window.
- Home age: A home’s age can increase labor costs, as older homes don’t always have standard window sizes or may have structural issues that require more labor.
- Permitting: Some counties require building permits and minimum energy efficiency standards before window installation. Permits are only slight fees, but meeting minimum energy requirements may be more costly.
- Retrofit vs. full-frame installation: Retrofitting a new window will typically cost less than a full-frame installation because installers simply swap out the old window with a new one. Full-frame installation, however, requires installers to replace the surrounding framing and window sills of the old window, adding material and labor costs.
- Seasonality: The time of year you replace your windows can impact cost. Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for window replacement, so pricing is often higher, particularly contractor costs. The best time of year to replace windows is winter if your timeline and climate allow it. You may be able to get a deal on materials and from installers looking for work.
- Window location: Windows on the second floor or above, or in challenging spots, make installation more difficult and expensive.
How To Save on a New Window Replacement Project
While window replacement can be an expensive project, there are multiple ways to reduce how much you pay, such as using local and federal tax credits, rebates, and more. We cover several ways to save below.
- Tax credits: According to Energy Star, you can claim up to 30% of installation costs for a maximum credit of $600. This credit applies to your primary residence and is available from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2032.
- Rebates and incentives: You can also check with your local utility company for any available rebates and incentives. These credits are limited to Energy Star or energy-efficient windows that have been professionally installed. Some states offer tax credits and rebates for energy-efficient home improvements, including windows. You should check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for available incentives in your state.
- Choose affordable window options: Buying budget-friendly window replacement options and styles—such as vinyl and double-hung windows—can help keep costs low. Although vinyl windows aren’t as visually appealing as wood or fiberglass, they’re energy-efficient and affordable.
- Negotiate the price: Not every window replacement contractor is willing to negotiate the cost estimate once they’ve given you a quote. But it just might be worth your time to make a counter-offer if the price you’re quoted is more than you expected. Sarasota, Florida, homeowner Curtis S. responded to mild sticker shock by making a counter-offer for his window replacement. “It was more [than expected], then after a few raised eyebrows, it was less,” he said. “And all costs were itemized.”
Professional vs. DIY Installation
When replacing windows in your home, it may be tempting to install them yourself or hire a professional. In some cases, you can install your replacement windows yourself. However, this might not be as affordable as you expect. If you choose a do-it-yourself (DIY) installation and have an issue with your window later on, many manufacturers won’t accept the warranty claim because their warranties require professional installation.
Unless you’re highly advanced at home improvement construction projects, it’s unlikely you have the skills needed to install a window properly. Homeowner Cindy W. of Vancouver, Washington, said that hiring a professional window installer gave her peace of mind, in spite of the price.
“It just seemed like we’re probably paying quite a bit more, but you get what you pay for, and we feel this house deserves to have quality materials,” she said. “You know, in some instances, that wasn’t done with the original build, and we’re paying the price for it later.”
Improper installation can result in air leakage, moisture infiltration, broken window parts, and expensive repairs that can affect not only your window but your entire home. Additionally, many newer window systems are attached to your house in complex ways that aren’t suited for most homeowners.
Window installation experts have experience with proper window installation and can identify any performance issues. Professional installers are also familiar with local codes and regulations, ensuring your new windows meet all building standards and requirements. They’ll also know about common but easy-to-miss pitfalls, such as dealing with nearby siding issues and the effects of lead paint and asbestos.
Expert Insights About Window Replacement
Are there any hidden costs associated with window replacement?
What are the benefits of hiring a professional for window replacement versus DIY?
How can homeowners save money on window replacement?
FAQs About Window Replacement Costs
What are the cheapest new windows you can buy?
The cheapest window you can buy is an aluminum, single-hung window with single-pane glass. While you’ll pay less for this option upfront, it doesn’t have a big return on investment due to its low energy performance. A more energy-efficient option that’s still budget-friendly is a vinyl, double-hung window with double-pane glass.
Does replacing my old windows increase my home’s value?
Yes, replacing your old windows increases your home’s value. The National Association of Realtors 2024 Cost vs. Value report showed that replacing vinyl windows added an average of $14,270 to resale value, and wood windows added an average of $16,222.
Can I save money by installing windows myself?
DIY installation eliminates labor fees, which could save you a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on how many windows you’re installing. However, improper installation can leave you with even costlier issues down the line. Not only can unlicensed window installation void your manufacturer’s warranty if you ever need to file a claim, but not properly installing and sealing windows can cause air and moisture leakage issues that drive up your energy bills or cause mold to grow in your home.
How do I know when my windows need to be replaced?
Replace your home’s windows if there’s damage to the glass or framing, your home is drafty, your energy bills are rising, you spot condensation between the window panes, your windows are letting in moisture, or your windows allow in more noise pollution than you want.
Is it cheaper to replace all windows at once?
While the total project cost of replacing every window in your home may be higher than replacing one, most window companies offer better discounts when you buy multiple windows. Many companies also provide better labor rates when installing multiple windows, which you could miss out on if you buy fewer units.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Team backs up our window ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each provider. We conduct research by speaking with company representatives, browsing product selections, analyzing window line specifications, and conducting focus groups and consumer surveys. We then score each provider against our review standards for window variety, value, trustworthiness and transparency, window features, and customer service to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
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