Replacement Window Cost Estimator

Most homeowners pay roughly $375 to $1,350 per window installed for a standard vinyl double-hung window, with fiberglass and wood running higher ($875–$2,550 per window) and aluminum running lower ($325–$1,200). A whole-house project (10-20 windows) typically lands between $4,000 and $25,000+ depending on material, window count, and size. Material and window type drive most of the spread — use the calculator above for a range that matches your actual job.

An insert (pocket) replacement fits a new window into the existing frame and is faster and cheaper — it's what most window replacements are. A full-frame replacement tears out the old frame down to the studs, which costs more in labor but is the right call if the existing frame is rotted, out of square, or you're changing the window's size. Full-frame jobs are also the ones most likely to need a permit; a like-for-like insert replacement usually doesn't. See the full-frame vs. insert guide for the decision.

For pure dollar-per-performance, vinyl wins for most homeowners: good energy efficiency, no repainting, and the lowest material cost. Fiberglass costs more up front but holds its seals longer as it ages, which can pay back over a couple of decades. Wood is the highest cost and the highest maintenance but is often required for historic homes. Aluminum is cheapest but insulates poorly, so it's a weak pick anywhere heating or cooling costs matter. See the full materials comparison for the breakdown.

Yes, meaningfully. A slider is typically a bit cheaper than a standard hung window because the hardware is simpler. A casement costs more because of its crank mechanism and tighter compression seal. A bay or bow window costs several times a single standard window because it's a multi-pane assembly that usually needs its own structural support and roofline work, not just a bigger pane of glass.

Usually not for a like-for-like insert replacement — same size, same opening, same wall structure. You typically do need one for a full-frame replacement that changes the window's size or the structural opening; permit fees generally run $80–$300 depending on your jurisdiction. Check with your local building department before starting, since requirements vary by city and county.