How Much Does Window Replacement Cost in Washington, D.C.? [2025 Data]
Window replacement in Washington, D.C. costs $6,455 on average, with most homeowners spending between $3,058 and $9,864. Cost factors include home age and window materials.
Washington, D.C., has a higher-than-average window replacement cost
Fiberglass windows are expensive, but well-suited to Washington, D.C.’s varied climate
You may need a permit to make alterations to windows in older Washington, D.C. homes
Washington D.C. has among the highest costs of living for cities in the U.S., and this comes with a higher window replacement cost and more expensive home improvement projects. D.C. homeowners can expect to pay an average of $6,455 on a window replacement project, though these costs can range from $3,058 to $9,863. The lowest you might pay to replace a single window is about $300. High-end projects such as a whole-home window replacement can reach $17,000.
Window Replacement Cost Factors
There are many cost factors to consider before buying windows in Washington, D.C. These include the age of the home, the size of the project, and the materials used.
Home Age
Washington, D.C., has one of the highest concentrations of old homes in the country, with many homes dating back to the early 20th century. It typically costs more to replace a window on an old property due to the added time and labor that comes with refitting window openings, designing custom-made pieces, and completing structural repairs during installation.
Number of Windows
The larger your D.C. home, the more windows you may have to replace.
| Number of Windows | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 6–8 | $4,500–$6,000 |
| 8–12 | $6,000–$9,000 |
| 12–16 | $9,000–$12,000 |
| 16–20 | $12,000–$15,000 |
| 20–24 | $15,000–$18,000 |
| 25 | $18,000–$20,000 |
Materials
Window frames can be made from various materials that also vary in cost. Fiberglass windows are particularly well-suited to the climate in Washington, D.C., thanks to their longevity and ability to withstand heat, cold, and moisture. However, they're also the most expensive option.
Vinyl windows are more affordable and still offer good efficiency, but won't add as much value to your home. Aluminum windows are a good budget option, but they lack efficiency in the winter. Wood windows may be the best option if you live in a historic home that needs to maintain a traditional look, but they require lots of maintenance to protect them from heat and moisture.
| Window Material | Average Cost Per Window | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $500–$1,500 | High durability and efficiency year-round | High cost |
| Vinyl | $100–$900 | High efficiency year-round | Low ROI, may warp in high heat |
| Aluminum | $75–$400 | Relatively low cost | Lower efficiency |
| Wood | $150–$1,300 | Suited to historic and luxury homes | Susceptible to moisture damage |
| Composite | $300–$1,200 | High durability | Susceptible to UV damage |
Style
Windows come in many styles that differ in form and function. Some of the most common window types used in Washington, D.C. homes include single-hung, double-hung, picture, and bay.
| Roof Type | Average Cost Per Window | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Hung | $100–$400 | Easy operation | Limited ventilation |
| Double-Hung | $150–$650 | Increased ventilation and easy to clean | Higher cost |
| Picture | $65–$700 | Highly customizable with lots of natural light | No ventilation |
| Bay | $900– $7,100 | Expanded living space and ROI | Highest cost |
Glass Type
The type of glass you use for your replacement windows directly impacts their cost.
| Type of Glass | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-pane glass | $200–$500 | Most cost-effective and easy maintenance | Poor insulation |
| Double-pane glass | $500–$2,000 | Efficient and durable | High cost |
| Triple-pane glass | $1,000–$4,000 | Best insulation | Highest cost |
| Tempered glass | $200–$700 | Increased strength | Limited customization |
| Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass | $300–$1,100 | Most energy efficient | Less natural light |
Post-Construction Cleanup
While this cost will likely be included in your total price, project cleanup and old window removal will add labor hours to your project. Expect to spend an extra $30 per hour of cleanup for each installer on site.
Window Replacement Pro Costs
Window installers in Washington, D.C., charge an average of $30 per hour for each installer on site. Expect at least two installers per job, meaning an average cost of $60 per hour for labor alone. When looking for a local window company, gather multiple quotes and ensure that whichever company you hire is properly licensed to operate in Washington, D.C.
According to the Washington D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, you do not need a permit for the replacement of non-rated windows in most cases. However, a permit is required if your project involves structural alterations to the home.
Does Window Replacement Increase Home Value?
Window replacement does increase home value in Washington, D.C. The National Association of Realtors reports that homeowners recoup an average of about 71% to 74% of the cost of window replacement when they sell their homes.
Updated, energy-efficient windows can lower energy bills by hundreds of dollars a year while increasing indoor comfort. Efficiency is especially important in Washington, D.C., which experiences both hot summers and cold winters as well as high humidity throughout the year.
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 survey 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.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
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