How Much Does It Cost to Install Stair Railings in 2024?

The average cost to replace a stair railing is $900, with prices ranging from $500 to $10,000. The staircase size and railing material have the largest impact on the total cost, with material costs ranging from $20 to $600 per linear foot. Other factors to consider are the design, removal fees, finishes, and labor. Most contractors charge between $60 and $100 per hour for installation.

Average Cost to Install Stair Railings

Stair Railing Installation Cost Factors

The total cost of stair railing installation is affected by various factors, including size, design, labor, and finishes.

Staircase Size

The total price of a railing largely depends on its size because the length and thickness impact the cost of materials. A small staircase with a five-foot railing costs as low as $100 for materials, while a grand staircase can cost upwards of $15,000.

Design

Railings with simple, premade designs are less expensive than those with intricate designs. However, a staircase with curves, bends, or spirals requires custom work, so it costs more than a straight staircase.

Removing Old Railings

A contractor must first remove the old railing before installing the new one. Most installers charge between $70 and $150 per hour, and the removal cost depends on the intricacy and size of the old staircase.

Replacing Banisters and Balusters

The cost to install balusters ranges from $1,200 to $1,500, while banisters average between $300 and $450. A banister, also known as the handrail, is the part of the staircase where people place their hands when walking up or down. Balusters are the supporting posts of spindles that run between the handrail and the stairs. 

Labor

Most general contractors charge $60 to $100 per hour to install a stair railing. An average 25-foot railing takes five to 10 hours to install and costs between $300 and $1,000 for labor. You can also hire a handyperson for simple projects for $50 to $80 per hour. 

Painting and Refinishing

After installation, most homeowners paint or refinish the stair railings to match the home's aesthetic. Hiring a painter costs between $20 and $70 per hour; most jobs take three to five hours. You may also have to purchase paint, which runs $2 to $6 per square foot.

Stair Railing Cost by Material

When installing a new stair railing, several material options are available, each varying in price. Wood is a popular choice and the least expensive option, while glass is often the most costly.

Wood

Wood railings cost between $20 and $60 per linear foot. Wood is a common choice because it’s budget-friendly and easy to customize, paint, and stain. However, wood railings are inappropriate for outdoor use because they’re susceptible to water damage and pests.

Aluminum

Aluminum railings are another affordable option, ranging from $40 to $90 per linear foot. They’re highly durable and low-maintenance, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor stairwells. 

Stainless steel

Stainless steel railings cost from $50 to $250 per linear foot. They’re popular for outdoor staircases due to their enhanced durability and easy maintenance.

Cable

Cable railings cost from $60 to $500 per linear foot and are often seen in modern and farmhouse designs. Their wide price range is largely due to the various cable materials and designs.

Wrought iron

Wrought iron railings cost between $65 and $135 per linear foot. This mid-range option is durable, timeless, and easy to care for. With proper coating, wrought iron railings are suitable for outdoor use.

Glass

Glass is the most expensive railing material, costing between $100 and $600 per linear foot. It offers a modern look for indoor and outdoor staircases, providing an unobstructed view to make rooms feel bigger.

Stair Railing Replacement vs. Repair

When taking on a stair railing project, consider whether you’d like to replace or repair your current railings. If your current railing is damaged or outdated, it’s often best to replace it. Replacement involves the complete removal of your existing railing and the installation of a new one. It’s often more costly than repair due to the required labor, materials, and time.

If your stair railing has limited damage and aligns with your home's design, repair can be a cost-effective alternative to replacement. Repairing the railing involves fixing loose parts, cracks, or damages without changing the design or structure. Many homeowners choose to repaint or refinish the railing after repairing it. The cost of repairing a staircase railing ranges between $30 and $45 per linear foot, depending on the extent of damage.

Budgeting for Stair Railing Installation

While stair railing installation is a complex job that requires the skills and experience of a licensed contractor, you can still cut down on costs by using these budget-friendly tips:

• Stick with a classic, premade design rather than an intricate or custom one.

• If you have the proper equipment, remove and dispose of old stair railings yourself.

• Paint and finish the railing on your own to reduce labor costs.

• Opt for a cost-effective material like wood or aluminum rather than more costly options like glass.

• Get quotes from multiple railing installers in your area to find the most budget-friendly option.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the 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.