How Much Do Window Treatments Cost?

Window treatment costs can vary wildly, and your specific expenses will depend on what type of window treatment you choose, the material quality of your treatments, your window sizes, and the number of windows in your home. In general, most homeowners spend $1,500–$5,000 to install new window treatments throughout their entire home.

Window treatments come in many different forms, including affordable options such as blinds and shades and high-end options such as custom curtains and shutters. Budget-friendly blinds could cost as little as $10, while interior shutters can cost up to $700 per window.

Window treatments are more than just a way to control the light that enters your home — they’re also a functional decorative element, giving you the freedom to stylize your interior while letting in as much natural light as you want. 

“When I work with clients on window treatments, I always start with how the light moves through each space. Things like curtains and shades make a big difference for privacy, temperature control, and even how well your furniture holds up over time,” said Joy Aumann, interior designer and founder of LUXURYSOCALREALTY in La Jolla, California.

When shopping for new treatments, keep in mind that custom sizes and materials will be significantly more expensive than off-the-shelf models. Likewise, DIY installation will be cheaper than hiring professionals. This guide will break down the pricing of each type of window treatment, professional installation costs and benefits, factors to consider when installing new window treatments, and how to save money when budgeting for your new treatments.

Average Window Treatment Costs

On average, you should expect to spend $1,500–$5,000 to install window treatments throughout your entire home. However, if you have custom treatments or nonstandard sizes, prices could climb to $10,000 or higher. Likewise, DIY installations can be as affordable as $150–$200 for your entire house if you use budget-friendly treatments. Cost data is from the experts we interviewed for this article.

Keep in mind that most standard three-bedroom homes have 15–20 windows, which you can use to calculate your estimated total costs. The table below can give you a better idea of how much you should budget for your specific window treatments.

The cost figures above only correspond to standard window sizes. If you have oversize or specialty windows, such as arch or bay windows, your treatment costs will be higher.

What Affects the Cost of Window Treatments?

Your total cost will mainly depend on factors such as the type of treatment, the material you use, window size and shape, and whether you go the DIY route or hire a pro.

Type of Treatment

The type of window treatment you choose can dramatically change your home’s aesthetic, but it will also affect your costs. Curtains and shutters, especially interior models such as plantation shutters, are typically more expensive, while blinds and roller shades are often the most budget-friendly options.

Different types of treatments also have different functions. For example, cellular shades are great for insulation and energy savings, which means they can drastically lower your heating and cooling bills when you pair them with some of the most efficient windows. Meanwhile, curtains and drapes are easily customizable, allowing you to change fabrics for different seasons or occasions.

When weighing the different options for window treatments, a lot of it comes down to personal preference and budget. Try to strike a balance between functional and fashionable, choosing a window treatment that suits your aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Material and Quality

While luxury window treatments may not be a good choice for homeowners on a budget, opting for the most affordable option isn’t always the best course of action either.

“The right treatment doesn’t just cover a space, it completes it,” said Nick Smith, interior designer and founder of Smithers of Stamford in Shoreditch, London. “Go cheap, and it shows. Go tailored, and it transforms the whole room.”

Faux wood, vinyl, and aluminum are typically the most affordable materials for window treatments. Natural wood, linen, and designer fabrics are more expensive. But options exist for every budget, so it’s important to prioritize materials that work with your living space and preferences. Using more affordable treatments could free up more cash for window replacement costs or purchasing new windows from some of the best window brands, so it’s worth evaluating whether higher-quality materials are worth the price for your home.

Window Size and Shape

Standard window sizes offer the most affordable window treatment options, but if you have any large or nonstandard windows in your home, including bay or arched windows, you may need custom window treatments. “Custom sizing is where things start to scale. If you’ve got floor-to-ceiling windows or unusual shapes, you’re going to need custom work,” Aumann said.

Custom hardware can also add to your expenses. “Rods, rings, brackets, especially custom ones, aren’t cheap. In larger homes, I’ve seen hardware alone push the total up by $1,000 to $2,000,” Aumann added. If your home has any large or custom window configurations, be prepared to spend more for both your treatments and hardware.

Manual Vs. Motorized

While motorized treatments may seem unnecessary to some homeowners, they can be a valuable asset. “Motorized treatments have really become the norm in high-end homes. If the home already has a smart system in place, it’s a natural fit,” Aumann said.

These motorized smart-home treatments can also help your home become more energy-efficient through scheduled adjustments. For example, you can program your motorized blinds to cover the windows during peak sunlight hours when no one is home to prevent unnecessary heat from entering your home through the windows, cutting down on cooling costs and reducing energy consumption.

You can also receive a tax credit for energy-efficient windows. Some motorized window treatments may qualify you for a tax credit up to $3,200. You could also be eligible for a home efficiency rebate, which can take $8,000 off projects that significantly reduce household energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Motorized treatments cost an additional $250–$1,000 per window, but they can also add resale value to your home. “It’s definitely a higher initial investment, but it adds convenience and long-term value that buyers notice,” Aumann said.

DIY Vs. Professional Installation

While professional installation can ensure a polished result, it’s not always necessary. For standard blinds, shades, and curtains, DIY installation is relatively straightforward, especially if you have experience with basic tools. However, installing treatments yourself always comes with a risk.

“DIY saves money, especially on simple blinds or curtains. But incorrect measurements or installation can lead to poor functionality or damage,” said Brad Smith, interior designer and CEO of Omni Home Ideas, based in Dallas.

Simply put, some installation jobs are best left to the professionals. “For anything custom, large-scale, or involving shutters or motorized shades, I always recommend hiring a pro. It protects your investment and ensures the final result looks polished,” Brad Smith said. Likewise, if you’re feeling uneasy about doing the installation yourself, it’s best to hire professionals instead of compromising on quality.

How To Save on Window Treatments

If you’re looking to install window treatments on a budget, you can take a few actions to cut down on costs. First, start by purchasing off-the-shelf treatments from big-box stores instead of opting for custom or boutique options. Likewise, choose materials that offer a cheaper price point without sacrificing on appearance. For example, faux wood and vinyl are affordable and stylish alternatives to real wood.

If your windows are a standard size, you can try installing window treatments yourself. You can also use different treatments in different areas of the house. “To save money, consider mixing and matching. For example, using budget blinds in less visible rooms and investing in statement curtains for main areas. Shopping sales, considering outlet or second-tier fabrics, and avoiding motorization can also bring down the cost,” Brad Smith said.

Many manufacturers offer deals on window treatments during the winter months, so if you have some flexibility when to buy, you can wait for seasonal sales. Additionally, blackout curtains and cellular blinds can help cut down on energy costs by blocking out light during the hottest parts of the day. While they may not be as affordable as budget vinyl blinds, they could end up saving you more money in the long run through lower energy costs.

Next Steps

Window treatment costs can vary from a few hundred dollars to over $10,000 for a full home installation, but with the right plan, you can upgrade your home while staying on budget. In some cases, it can be worth splurging on window treatments that make a lasting impression. Some luxury or motorized window treatments can be convenient, eco-friendly, and they may increase your home’s resale value.

If you’re ready to get started on your new treatment installation, the first step is measuring your windows. “I always suggest measuring twice — width, height, and depth — and documenting window type. Then, get at least two quotes, ideally one from a national retailer and one from a local design professional,” Brad Smith said.

It’s especially important to get multiple quotes if you’re considering motorized or custom treatments, as these prices vary more than standard models. When shopping, consider the purpose of the treatments in each room — some rooms just need to control the light coming in, while others need a style upgrade.

FAQs About Window Treatment Costs