Our research shows 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 value.
Our guide includes price ranges for common window types and insight into how various factors affect window replacement pricing, such as which top window brands 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
- Our 2025 homeowner survey found that over 47% of respondents who replaced their windows had homes older than 20 years old.
- We found that the majority of respondents in our survey paid between $100 and $500 per window for their replacement projects.
- 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.
Pros
- 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
Cons
- Doesn’t sell aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frame windows
- Provides fewer window styles than other brands
- Average Price per Window: $612
- BBB Rating: A+
- Warranty: 20-year glass/frame, 2-year labor, 10-year hardware
- Best For: Full-service installation
- State Availability: 47 states
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:
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Picture
- Sliding
- Specialty
Understanding Window Replacement Costs
As mentioned above, several factors affect how much you pay for replacement windows. For example, you can end up spending several hundred or several thousand dollars for this project, depending on how many windows you install at once. Below, we go over two scenarios to help you understand the true cost of window replacement.
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 5 and 25 windows, the cost of replacing all of your windows will range from an average of $2,678–$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.
Is It Cheaper to Replace All of Your Windows at Once?
Yes, if your budget allows for it, buying all your windows at once is more cost-effective than buying a couple at a time. Some window manufacturers offer a discounted rate for buying in bulk. You also won’t have to pay installers to come out multiple times or for numerous permits if your county requires them.
Another thing to consider is the disruption to your day-to-day routine. Installers must perform extensive preparation before they can start replacing your windows, such as moving your furniture, keeping pets away, and cleaning up after the job. While you’ll pay much less upfront for smaller jobs, you will need to repeat the preparation process once it’s time to replace more windows.
Compare Top Window Replacement Companies
The table below compares several key factors of our top replacement window brands, such as materials, pricing, warranty coverage, and financing options. You can see each company’s price range per window.
| Company | Logo | Our Score | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Renewal by AndersenGet Quote |  | $1,200+ | Best Installation | |
ChampionGet Quote |  | $600–$900 | Best Financing | |
CastleGet Quote |  | $550–$849 | Best Warranty | |
Milgard |  | $550+ | Best Fiberglass Windows | |
MarvinRead Our Review |  | $400–$1,925 | Most Diverse Selection | |
Harvey |  | $550–$849 | Best Vinyl Windows | |
Simonton WindowsRead Our Review |  | Best Ongoing Maintenance | ||
PellaRead Our Review |  | $1,200+ | Easiest to Find |
Factors That Affect Window Replacement Costs
The biggest factors impacting cost are window style, material, and glass. These selections can vary the price by a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. For instance, a double-hung window with vinyl framing and untreated glass costs much less than a wooden bay window with specialty, energy-saving glass.
Our team spoke with Jason Henler, the president of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, to hear his insights on window replacement costs. “The windows, themselves, and the labor to install them will make up the bulk of that cost,” says Henler. “Quantity, style, and the materials used can all affect the price,” he added.
- Homeowners invest in window replacement for several reasons. In our 2025 survey, we asked 1,000 homeowners why they installed new windows. Nearly 43% said the cost savings associated with energy-efficient windows convinced them to buy new windows.
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:
- Awning ($288 per window): These windows have a top-hinge design that can push outward for ventilation without letting rain inside.
- Bay ($1,131 per window): Bay windows typically have a three-dimensional, three-pane design. They are generally larger and more expensive and let in lots of natural light.
- Bow ($1,299 per window): Bow windows are similar to bay versions, except bows have more window panels and a more curved design.
- Casement ($344 per window): Casement windows open like doors, typically from left to right. They are great for kitchens and bathrooms where ventilation is needed. You operate them with a hand crank.
- Double-hung ($357 per window): A double-hung window opens from the top or bottom for maximum ventilation and costs slightly more than single-hung windows. In new construction homes, it’s the most common window style. You’ll often see them in bedrooms and living rooms.
- Egress ($473 per window): Egress windows are specialty windows that serve as emergency exits in habitable spaces such as basements or attics.
- Glass block ($540 per window): A popular choice for bathroom windows, glass block windows offer excellent lighting, moisture resistance, and privacy.
- Picture ($775 per window): Picture windows, sometimes called fixed windows, are made of a single-framed glass sheet usually customized for a home’s design. They’re the most energy-efficient window style because they don’t open, so you don’t have to worry about a loose seal that lets in air and moisture.
- Single-hung ($336 per window): Single-hung windows have a movable bottom sash and a fixed upper sash, making them great security options for bottom-floor installations.
- Sliding ($339 per window): Sliding windows have a sash that moves one of the window panels left or right horizontally. These windows are generally affordable and work well in kitchens or any room that can benefit from the outside breeze.
- Specialty/custom ($825 per window): Custom or specialty windows are designed to fit your space and vary in function and design depending on your chosen style. Since window companies design these windows specifically for your home, expect to pay more per window.
- Transom ($430): Transom windows sit on a horizontal beam, called a transom, over another window or a door. They can be decorative or functional and vary in shape and style.
Ask Yourself This
- Do I care more about appearance or energy efficiency?
- Do I want the window to open? Should it open from the top or the side?
- What size window do I need?
- Which window type is best in each room?
Frame Materials
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 break down each frame material and their average costs 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 ($651 per window): Fiberglass window frames are incredibly energy-efficient, customizable, and low-maintenance, but they may not be within everyone’s budget.
- Vinyl ($558 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 ($646 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 | $651 | $558 | $646 |
| Attractive | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Durable | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Energy-Efficient | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Highly-customizable | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Low-maintenance | ✘ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✘ |
Source: Calculated based on answers from our 2025 survey of 1,000 window buyers.
The best window material for the price is vinyl. Top vinyl windows are budget-friendly yet durable, long-lasting, and highly energy-efficient. When choosing framing material, ask yourself the following questions:
- Can I repair the existing frame, or do I need a full frame replacement or window insert?
- Do the frames match my home’s style?
- Which energy features do I need based on my climate?
- Which material checks most of my boxes while being within my budget?
Glass Type and Pane Options
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 pane for new windows:
- Single-pane ($450 per window): 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 ($539 per window): 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 ($766 per window): 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:
- Frosted glass: This glass offers semiopaque views, allowing sunlight to travel through your window while blurring the view into your home.
- Laminated glass: This glass option contains resin for added durability, making it up to five times stronger than normal glass.
- Tempered (safety) 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.
Things to Consider When Choosing Replacement Window Glass
- Do I want extra privacy?
- How much do extra safety features matter to me?
- Which window glass is best for my area’s weather conditions?
- What kind of look do I want?
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a feature that most modern windows have, with many reputable brands holding certifications with Energy Star and the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), a nonprofit organization that grades windows’ insulation and efficiency performance. According to Energy Star, using its certified windows lowers your household energy bills by an average of up to 13% per year. Energy Star products carry energy performance rating designations, making it easier to select the best options for your home’s needs.
When shopping for energy-efficient windows, make sure they are Energy Star-certified and have an NFRC label that shows their U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) values. Our team spoke with Steve Urich, the Chief Program Officer for the NFRC, to understand the meaning of the organization’s window ratings. “U-Factor is a measure of how much heat is going through your windows, just like there’s heat going through your walls. The [SHGC] is a measure of how much heat is coming into your house based on the sun shining on your window.”
Urich added that your climate would determine which values would bring the most energy efficiency, although lower numbers for both tend to work best in most climates. “The lower U-Factor value is always better because that just means there’s less heat flowing through your window, whether it be inside to outside in cold weather or outside to inside in hot weather.”
Tips From Window Experts
- “The best option is to choose windows with either double or triple-paned glazing and a low-e coating. Our Glass Doctor® experts recommend choosing energy-efficient low-e glass for optimal performance. Low-e coatings prevent heat gain and protect your home’s interior from fading by blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays. Because the coating is invisible, you will benefit from everything low-e glass offers without obstructing your view.” —Jeramy Sibley, President of Glass Doctor, a Neighborly company
- “Performance needs are a big factor that will influence cost, but it’s important to work with a window replacement expert local to your area to ensure you get the performance you need for your climate, the location of the window, and the way you need it to operate.” —Michael Wandschneider, Director of Group Product Management at Marvin Windows & Doors
Other Factors
Like most home improvement projects, window replacement has additional factors aside from the window that affects 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.
Finding the Most Cost-Effective Window Replacement
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. Below, we go over 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 Ply Gem and Marvin as the priciest, at $897 and $742 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 |
How To Save on Window Replacement
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.
“Homeowners can save money by choosing energy-efficient windows that qualify for rebates and tax credits,” says Jessica Ehrlichmann, vice president and general manager of windows and doors at Andersen. “Installing high-quality windows suited to the home’s climate can also lower energy bills. Scheduling window replacement during the off-season, like late fall or winter, may reduce labor costs, too. Comparing prices from multiple contractors and suppliers can also help [you] find the best deal.”
Expert Tips on How To Save on Window Replacement
- Wandschneider says to consider purchasing windows from multiple product lines within a brand’s portfolio. “In some cases, you may need the performance and design of a certain product line. Other areas of your home may require a simpler window solution that can come from a different and potentially less expensive product offering.”
- Sibley also recommends a window tint if updating to multipaned windows isn’t in your budget right now. “Home window tint provides many of the same capabilities as low-e glass, but it’s applied to existing windows as an aftermarket product. Films of various shades are available to block out just the right amount of light and heat to meet your needs.”
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. 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.
“If you live in a home built before 1978, you will need to have your window frames and sills tested for lead paint.” —Amanda Hatherly, CEO of the Building Performance Institute
How Much Should You Spend?
Your selected window style, material, glass type, and brand will most impact your window replacement cost. If you want a budget-friendly but reliable window, we recommend a vinyl, double-hung window with insulated glass and an Energy Star label. This is an energy-efficient, durable, long-lasting window option that won’t break the bank.
If you’re willing to pay a little more but want to spend wisely, we suggest upgrading to a fiberglass window in your chosen style, still with insulated glass and Energy Star certification. Fiberglass is a premium material that’s more attractive than vinyl but won’t warp or rot like wood.
Energy efficiency is the No. 1 quality not to skimp on if you want a good ROI, so be willing to alter your choices in other areas to prioritize this feature while staying within your budget.
The best way to find your window replacement cost is to get a quote from manufacturers that have what you’re interested in. We recommend getting quotes from a few window companies to compare pricing before making your decision.
Expert Insights and Tips
Jessica is responsible for the complete portfolio of Andersen window and door products. She serves as a member of Andersen’s senior leadership team and on the board of directors of the St. Croix Valley Foundation. Jessica is also involved in Greater MSP Business Bridge and MBold, Environmental Initiative: Sustainable Growth Coalition, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), and the American Cancer Society. She received her bachelor of science degree in chemical and biological engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
FAQs About Window Replacement Costs
What are the cheapest 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?
The National Association of Realtors 2023 Cost vs. Value report showed that replacing vinyl windows added an average of $13,766 to resale value, and wood windows added an average of $14,912.
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 Reviews 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.
