How Much Does Window Replacement Cost in San Francisco? [2025 Data]
Window replacement costs in San Francisco, California, average $10,358, with most homeowners spending between $7,360 and $13,557. Budget extra for materials that protect against the region’s humid, salty air and risk of earthquakes.
Window replacement costs in San Francisco are over 40% higher than the national average, and construction labor costs are around 25% higher than the national average.
The costs are higher for installing earthquake-protective tempered glass and anchored window frames.
Investing in moisture-resistant materials promotes longevity in the humid, salty coastal air.
Historically designated homes may incur higher costs to meet preservation standards.
The average window replacement cost in San Francisco, California, is $10,358, but it can range from $7,360 to $13,557. As well as the number and size of the windows you’re replacing, consider the local climate, seismic activity, and historical preservation codes when calculating costs. The humid coastal air and risk of earthquakes mean it's sensible to invest in tougher tempered glass and anchored window frames.
Window Replacement Cost Factors
Window replacement costs in San Francisco, California, range widely whether you’re replacing a single, rectangular window or multiple bay windows in a luxury Pacific Heights mansion. In addition to size and number of windows, the region’s humid coastal climate, earthquake risk, and historic building codes can also impact the final price.
Number of Windows
Window replacement costs in San Francisco average $1,000 per window. The average home has eight to 12 windows, and the average cost to replace 10 windows in San Francisco, California, is $9,000 to $10,100.
| Number of Windows | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 6–8 | $5,400–$8,800 |
| 8–12 | $7,200–$13,200 |
| 12–16 | $10,800–$17,600 |
| 16–20 | $14,400–$22,000 |
| 20–24 | $18,000–$26,400 |
| 25 | $22,500–$27,500 |
Material
The type of frame you select also impacts overall window replacement costs. Investing in moisture- and earthquake-resistant frames can increase the longevity of your windows in a region with humid, coastal air and an increased risk of seismic activity.
San Francisco Planning has strict criteria for window replacement in historic buildings. Historic homes often have wood window frames, which are more prone to rot—although selecting a quality hardwood offers better durability than less expensive softwoods.
If historic preservation codes do not restrict you, fiberglass frames provide excellent moisture resistance and durability. Investing in additional frame reinforcement will add to your bill, but it can give extra peace of mind and protection against earthquake activity.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Durable | Prone to condensation | $75–$400 |
| Vinyl | Energy-efficient | Not a fit for historic homes | $100–$900 |
| Composite | Heat-resistant | UV ray fading | $300–$1,200 |
| Wood | Heat-resistant | Rotting in humidity | $150–$1,300 |
| Fiberglass | Insulating and durable | High cost | $500–$1,500 |
Glass Type
When calculating window replacement costs in San Francisco, California, you must consider the local requirements of the Title 24 Compliance Guide. This sets standards for window replacements with a glass surface area exceeding 25%. Current guidance stipulates that replacement energy-efficient windows must be dual-glazed and have a U-factor of 0.30 or less.
Using more costly tempered glass, especially in windows over 9 square feet, is safer in areas at risk of seismic activity.
| Type of Glass | Qualities | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single-pane glass | Cost-effective and easy maintenance, but poor insulation | $100–$400 |
| Double-pane glass | Durable and heat-resistant | $300–$2,000 |
| Triple-pane glass | Highly heat-resistant, but high cost | $600–$3,000 |
| Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass | High energy efficiency, but can reduce natural light | $300–$1,100 |
Window Style
San Francisco windows are often larger to maximize coastal views, natural light, and sometimes to fit with the region’s architectural styles. For example, large bay windows are common in historic Victorian homes. Below are some popular window styles for traditional and contemporary homes in San Francisco, along with their average replacement costs.
| Window Type | Average Cost per Window | Qualities |
|---|---|---|
| Awning | $490–$1,400 | Can leave them open in the rain, providing good ventilation |
| Bay | $1,260–$9,940 | Prevalent in older neighborhoods; offer panoramic views and lots of light |
| Casement | $210–$1,400 | Energy efficient and catches side breezes effectively |
| Custom | $1,400+ | Perfect for non-standard window sizes or shapes |
| Double-hung | $210–$910 | Popular in Victorian, Craftsman, and Edwardian homes; top and bottom sash provide good ventilation |
| Floor-to-ceiling | $980–$7,000 | Let light into modern homes; can pose privacy concerns |
| Picture | $90–$980 | Offers no ventilation; minimalist design maximizes natural light and views |
| Single-hung | $140–$560 | Easy operation and timeless design; limited ventilation |
Window Replacement Pro Costs
Although learning how to install replacement windows can lead to significant savings, hiring a licensed window pro in San Francisco ensures that this complex construction project will be completed to a high standard and comply with local building codes. Avoid any nasty budget surprises by keeping these location-specific contractor cost factors in mind.
Labor
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction labor costs in San Francisco are around 25% higher than the national average. Expect a local window company to charge between $125 and $375 per window for installation. If the contractor needs to comply with local planning criteria for historic window replacements, the specialist skills and additional time required could increase costs further.
Permit
The San Francisco Planning Department requires homeowners to secure a permit for window replacement work when they are visible from the street or on architecturally significant structures. The average cost of a building permit and plan review fees for this type of work ranges from $290 to $755.
Tipping
While not necessary, it’s common to budget 10% to 20% of the original window replacement cost to tip a contractor for a job well done. The average tip for a contractor completing window replacement in San Francisco ranges from $730 to $2,600.
Does Window Replacement Increase Home Value?
New windows can increase your home’s value, with the average return on investment (ROI) in San Francisco between 70% and 85%. Quality installation of new windows that comply with local building codes and are in keeping with the architectural style will provide the best value for money.
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’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from 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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