Window replacement cost by number of windows
The table below is the window calculator’s 2026 installed range for a standard insert (pocket) replacement — new window set into the existing frame — including removal of the old sash, exterior trim, and permit. A full-frame replacement that rebuilds the opening runs higher.
| Windows | Vinyl | Fiberglass | Wood |
|---|
| 5 | $5,550 – $9,650 | $7,550 – $12,550 | $7,550 – $13,200 |
| 8 | $8,550 – $14,900 | $11,700 – $19,500 | $11,750 – $20,550 |
| 10 | $10,500 – $18,400 | $14,450 – $24,100 | $14,500 – $25,350 |
| 15 | $15,450 – $27,000 | $21,250 – $35,500 | $21,300 – $37,350 |
| 20 | $20,300 – $35,550 | $27,900 – $46,650 | $28,000 – $49,100 |
Cost per window by material
On a 10-window job, the installed cost works out to roughly $1,050–$1,840 per window for vinyl, $1,445–$2,410 for fiberglass, and $1,450–$2,535 for wood. The frame material sets the floor:
- Vinyl — the value standard: never needs painting, good insulation, the most common replacement frame. Limited color options and can’t be refinished.
- Fiberglass — stronger and more dimensionally stable than vinyl, holds paint, narrower frames for more glass. Costs about 35–40% more.
- Wood (clad) — the premium look, usually aluminum-clad outside and wood inside; best for historic and high-end homes. Highest cost and the most upkeep.
Because removal, trim, flashing, and labor are similar across frames, the material premium is a few hundred dollars per window — real, but smaller than the glossy-brochure gap suggests.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace windows?
Replacement windows run about $10,500–$18,400 installed for 10 standard vinyl double-hung windows in 2026, or roughly $1,050–$1,840 per window, including old-sash removal, exterior trim, and permit. A 5-window job runs $5,550–$9,650; a whole-house 20-window job $20,300–$35,550. Fiberglass and wood frames cost 35–40% more.
How much does one replacement window cost?
On a typical multi-window job, a standard vinyl double-hung insert replacement runs about $1,050–$1,840 installed per window in 2026. Fiberglass runs about $1,445–$2,410 and clad wood about $1,450–$2,535 each. Single-window jobs cost more per unit because the crew mobilizes for just one.
Is vinyl or fiberglass better for replacement windows?
Vinyl is cheaper (about $1,050–$1,840 per window installed) and never needs painting, which is why it is the most common choice. Fiberglass costs about 35–40% more but is stronger, more stable in temperature swings, holds paint, and has narrower frames for more glass. Both insulate well; the choice is budget versus longevity and looks.
What is the difference between insert and full-frame replacement?
An insert (pocket) replacement sets a new window into the existing frame — faster, cheaper, and the default when the old frame is sound. A full-frame replacement removes everything down to the rough opening — necessary when the frame is rotted or you are changing the window size, and it costs more because of the added carpentry and trim.
Do replacement windows add home value?
New windows recover a meaningful share of their cost at resale and cut energy bills in the meantime, and they are a common buyer expectation on an older home. Vinyl offers the best cost recovery per dollar spent; wood and fiberglass appeal more in higher-end markets. Energy savings, comfort, and curb appeal are the bigger day-to-day payoff.
Which window frame should you pick?
- Best value, low maintenance? Vinyl — cheapest, no painting, good insulation.
- Stronger and more stable, willing to pay more? Fiberglass — narrower frames, holds paint, long life.
- Historic or high-end home? Clad wood — the premium look, at the highest cost and upkeep.
- Frames rotted or changing sizes? Budget for full-frame replacement, not inserts.
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