How Much Does Egress Window Installation Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Egress window installation costs average $4,216 nationwide, with most homeowners spending between $2,718 and $5,878 per window. Costs can be as low as $700 for basic installations or exceed $9,500 for complex projects. Pricing depends on window size, labor rates, permits and inspections, and additional window features.

For homeowners, installing an egress window isn’t just about meeting code—it’s about adding safety, light, and value to your space. In this guide, we’ll break down what impacts your total cost and how to plan for every step.

Egress Window Installation Cost Factors

Several factors influence the final price of your egress window installation. Understanding these can help you anticipate your budget and avoid surprises. Here’s a closer look at how your total breaks down.

Window Size

When considering egress window installation cost, the size of the window plays a major role. Building codes require egress windows to meet minimum dimensions so people can exit safely in an emergency. Most basement egress windows must have an opening at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high, with a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet. Above-grade installations may have slightly different requirements, but all must allow for easy escape.

Standard sizes are often less expensive than custom windows. Larger or custom-sized egress windows can increase both material and labor costs, especially if extra structural work is needed. Let’s look at how size influences your total cost:

Labor

Egress window installation often involves a team, including a general contractor, window installer, and sometimes an excavation specialist. Labor costs are often the largest part of your budget. Hourly rates for hiring pros range from $50 to $120, depending on your region and the contractor’s experience. In high-cost areas, labor can be even higher.

Complex projects—like cutting through concrete foundations or rerouting plumbing and electrical lines—require more hours and specialized skills, increasing your total labor cost. If the installation site is hard to reach, such as a finished basement or a tight yard, expect higher labor costs. A standard installation may take 16 to 24 hours, while complex projects can require 40 hours or more.

Permits

Most municipalities require a building permit for egress window installation to ensure safety and code compliance. Permit fees range from $100 to $500, depending on your location. Some cities may also require inspection fees, which can add another $50 to $300. Skipping permits can lead to penalties or require costly rework, so always include this in your budget.

Features

Egress windows often require a window well, especially for basement installations. Window wells can be made from the following materials:

• Metal: $200 to $600

• Plastic: $250 to $800

• Concrete: $750 to $2,500

Other additional features and upgrade costs include:

• Adding a cover to your window well costs $50 to $500 and helps keep out debris and water.

• Drainage systems are crucial to prevent water from entering your basement. Installing a drain can add $500 to $2,000 to your project. 

• Security features like locks or window bars add $50 to $300. 

• Interior and exterior finishes—such as trim, drywall, and paint—cost an additional $300 to $1,200.

Other Expenses

Beyond the basics, several other factors can increase your egress window installation cost:

• Project complexity: Cutting through thick concrete, working around landscaping, or installing multiple windows at once increases both time and expense.

• Site preparation: Excavation, debris removal, and material delivery can add $500 to $2,000.

• Cleanup: Disposal fees and post-construction cleanup costs range from $100 to $500.

• Design or architectural fees: Additional costs for custom installations can range from $200 to $1,500.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond installation, egress window projects come with ongoing and one-time costs that homeowners should factor into their budget.

Warranties

Most egress windows come with a manufacturer's warranty, often covering defects for 10 to 20 years. Some installers offer labor warranties, which can last from one to five years. Extended warranties may add $100 to $500 to your project cost, but they provide peace of mind if issues arise.

Operating Costs

Energy efficiency matters, especially in climates with extreme temperatures. Double-pane or low-E glass windows can reduce heating and cooling bills by 10% to 20%. While these upgrades add $200 to $600 to the upfront cost, they can save you money over time.

Maintenance

Egress windows and wells require routine maintenance. Cleaning the well, checking the drainage, and lubricating window mechanisms prevent problems. Annual maintenance costs average $50 to $150. Watch for signs of damage like cracked seals, sticking hardware, or water pooling in the well.

Taxes

Sales tax on materials and labor varies by state and municipality, ranging from 5% to 10%. This can add several hundred dollars to your total. Check your local tax rates so you’re not caught off guard.

Insurance

Installing an egress window can affect your homeowners' insurance. Some insurers offer discounts for improved safety or code compliance, while others may slightly increase your premium due to added features. Always verify that your contractor is insured, as this protects you from liability during the project.

DIY Egress Window Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

For those who are handy, tackling an egress window installation yourself is possible—but there are important considerations.

DIY Cost Factors

If you’re installing an egress window yourself, you’ll need specialized tools, such as a concrete saw, shovels, and safety gear. Permits and inspections are still required, and you’ll need to handle all paperwork yourself.

DIY installation can take two to four full days, depending on your experience and site conditions. Risks include structural damage, water leaks, and failing inspection due to code violations—all of which can be costly to fix. While you may save on labor, improper installation can lead to expensive repairs or safety hazards.

Professional Installation 

Hiring a professional increases your upfront cost, but you benefit from their expertise, code compliance, and warranties. A pro’s cost includes labor, materials, permits, and finishing work. Professionals handle complex tasks like foundation cutting and drainage installation, reducing your risk of mistakes. For most homeowners, hiring a pro is the best choice for peace of mind and long-term value.

Egress Window Replacement vs. Repair

Sometimes, an existing egress window needs attention. Knowing when to repair versus replace can save you money and keep your home safe.

When to Repair vs. Replace

Minor issues like cracked glass, leaking wells, or broken locks can often be repaired. However, if the window frame is rotted, the well is collapsing, or the installation no longer meets code, replacement is the best option. If your window is over 15 years old or out of warranty, replacement often makes more sense. Assess the extent of the damage and consult a pro if you’re unsure.

Cost Comparison

Repairs for egress windows and wells range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the issue. Full replacement, including a new window and well, averages $2,500 to $8,000. Use the “50% rule”: If repair costs exceed half the price of a new installation, replacement is the smarter investment.

Does Egress Window Installation Add Value to Your Home?

Adding an egress window is about more than safety—it can also pay off when it comes to home value.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Installing an egress window delivers an average ROI of 50% to 75%. This is especially true if you’re converting a basement into a legal bedroom or living space, as it can add thousands to your home’s resale value.

Home Value and Safety

Egress windows ensure that basement bedrooms meet legal requirements, making your home more marketable. More importantly, they provide a safe exit in emergencies, bringing peace of mind to your family.

Efficiency and Functionality

Beyond safety, egress windows let in natural light and fresh air, improving the comfort and usability of your space. They also support universal design principles, making your home more accessible for everyone.

Aesthetic and Curb Appeal

A well-designed egress window can enhance your home’s exterior and landscaping. Compared to other upgrades, it’s a practical project that blends function with visual appeal.

Tips to Reduce Costs While Installing Egress Windows

Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your egress window installation project more budget-friendly:

• Get multiple quotes from licensed local egress window installers to compare pricing.

• Choose standard window sizes to avoid custom fees.

• Schedule installation during off-peak seasons for potential discounts.

• Handle some prep or finishing work yourself (e.g., painting, cleanup).

• Select budget-friendly materials for wells and covers.

• Ensure proper drainage to avoid costly repairs later.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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