How Much Do Stair Railings Cost to Install in 2025?
The average cost to install stair railings is $900
Installing a stair railing costs $900 on average, with a normal range of $500 to $1,300.
The top factors influencing the total price include the staircase size, railing design, labor, materials, and finishes.
For labor alone, expect to pay between $70 and $150 per hour, with the average staircase taking five to 10 hours to install.
Materials vary greatly in price, with wood being the most budget-friendly option and glass being the most costly.
Hiring a professional stair contractor for installation ensures the railing is securely mounted, meets safety standards, and complements the design of your staircase.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
On average, installing a stair railing costs $900, with homeowners paying between $200 and $10,000. Factors like the size of your staircase, the design of the railing, and the materials you choose will impact the total cost. Understanding these factors can help you budget effectively and decide whether to hire a professional for the job. Hiring a professional stair contractor ensures the railing is installed correctly and efficiently, complementing the design of your staircase.
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 size of your staircase plays a big role in the total cost of your railing since longer and thicker railings require more materials. If you have a small staircase needing a five-foot railing, materials might cost as little as $80. On the other hand, for a grand staircase, your railing could cost upwards of $1,600.
| Railing Length (Lin. Ft.) | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 8 | $80–$800 |
| 10 | $100–$1,000 |
| 12 | $120–$1,200 |
| 16 | $160–$1,600 |
Design
If you choose a simple, premade design for your railing, you'll save more money than opting for intricate designs. However, if your staircase has curves, bends, or spirals, it will require custom work, which can increase the cost compared to a straight staircase.
Removing Old Railings
Before installing your new railing, the contractor must remove the old one. This process can vary in time and cost depending on how complex and large your existing staircase is. Most installers charge between $70 and $150 per hour for this service. If you're comfortable with DIY projects and have the right tools, removing the old railing yourself could save you money.
Replacing Banisters and Balusters
Balusters cost $3 to $17 per piece before installation. 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 between $70 and $150 per hour to install a stair railing. Installation often takes five to 10 hours, depending on the complexity of your project. Knowing this can help you budget for labor costs more effectively. While it might be tempting to tackle this project yourself, hiring a pro ensures the railing is installed safely and meets all building codes.
Painting and Refinishing
If you'd like to paint or refinish your new railing, hiring an interior painter costs between $20 and $50 per hour. Keep in mind that detailed painting of railings and balusters can cost up to $20 per linear foot due to the intricate work involved.
Stair Railing Cost by Material
Several material options are available when installing a new stair railing, each varying in price. Wood is popular and the least expensive option, while glass is often the most costly.
| Railing Material | Cost per Lin. Ft. |
|---|---|
| Wood | $10–$40 |
| Stainless steel | $25–$110 |
| Cable | $60–$220 |
| Wrought Iron | $50–$120 |
| Glass | $100–$500 |
Wood
Wood railings cost between $10 and $40 per linear foot and are a popular choice for many homeowners. They're budget-friendly and easy to customize—you can paint or stain them to match your home's decor. However, if you're considering wood railings for outdoor use, remember that they may not be the best option since they're susceptible to water damage and pests.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel railings cost from $25 to $110 per linear foot. They’re popular for outdoor staircases due to their enhanced durability and easy maintenance.
Cable
Cable railings cost from $60 to $220 linear feet and are often seen in modern and farmhouse designs. Their wide price range is primarily due to the various cable materials and designs.
Wrought iron
Wrought iron railings cost between $50 and $120 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 railings are the most expensive option, costing between $100 and $500 per linear foot, but they offer a sleek, modern look for indoor and outdoor staircases. If you're aiming for an open feel and want to make your space look bigger, glass railings provide an unobstructed view that's hard to beat.
Budgeting for Stair Railing Installation
Even though installing a stair railing is a complex job that requires a skilled contractor, you can still cut down on costs with these budget-friendly tips:
Stick with a classic, premade design rather than an intricate or custom one.
If you're handy and have the right tools, consider removing and disposing of the old stair railing yourself.
Paint and finish the railing on your own to reduce labor costs.
Choose cost-effective materials like wood or aluminum instead of more expensive options like glass.
Don't forget to get quotes from multiple railing installers in your area. Comparing quotes can help you find the most budget-friendly option without compromising quality.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
On average, replacing a deck railing costs about $925. This includes all the materials and labor needed to install a new porch or deck railing system with a durable finish. For instance, adding a new handrail on your front steps costs around $80 per linear foot. This price ensures your new railing is safe, looks great, and meets building codes.
Balusters and spindles offer structural support to the railing and run from the footing to the handrail. While their names are often used interchangeably, these support posts differ in their footing design. Balusters rest on a step, floor, or deck, while spindles have a footing rail attached to the bottom of the posts.
Choosing the right contractor for stair railing replacement is determined by the project’s complexity. A general contractor provides professional expertise and precision for a design that involves custom curves or intricate details. For straightforward installations, a qualified handyman delivers efficient service. Hiring skilled professionals guarantees that the installation meets all safety and building code requirements while ensuring lasting quality.
If it's still structurally sound, you can update your existing stair railing without removing it. By repairing any damages and then painting or refinishing it, you can give your staircase a fresh new look. This approach saves time and money while ensuring your railing meets all safety and building code requirements.
Reusing your existing stair spindles is a practical option when they’re in good condition. Notifying your contractor in advance is essential to ensure the spindles are preserved during removal. After removal, refinishing the spindles with a fresh coat of paint or stain will match them with your new railing design while maintaining sustainability and a cohesive aesthetic.
Stair railing balusters are mandated to maintain a spacing of no more than four inches apart. This precise measurement prevents a four-inch sphere from passing through and ensures the railing system is secure. Maintaining this gap is essential for structural integrity and safety. Be sure to verify that your installation meets these requirements as specified by local building codes.
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- Fireplace Mantel - Install
- Interior Trim and Decorative Moldings - Repair
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- Exterior Shutters - Install or Replace
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