Front Door Replacement Cost in 2025

Front Door Replacement Cost: A Quick Snapshot

For a standard, single, pre-hung entry door, here's a general idea of what you can expect to pay. Prices were verified for June 2025.

Key Factors That Influence Price

Your final bill is a combination of the door itself and the labor to install it. Several variables can shift the price significantly.

Door Material

The material is the single biggest cost driver. Each has a unique balance of cost, durability, and maintenance needs.

• Steel: The most budget-friendly and secure option, but can dent and is prone to rust if scratched.
• Fiberglass: A popular mid-range choice that mimics wood grain effectively with low maintenance. It's durable and won't warp or rot.
• Wood: Offers unmatched classic beauty but comes at the highest price point and requires regular maintenance (staining, sealing) to prevent warping and rot.
• Composite: Made from a blend of materials like wood pulp and resins, offering a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood.
• Glass/Iron: Often used for high-end, custom designs, these doors are heavy, expensive, and prized for their aesthetic appeal.

Size and Style

A standard single door (36" x 80") is the baseline. Costs increase for:

• Double Doors: Can easily double the material and labor costs.
• Sidelights: Glass panels flanking the door.
• Transom: A window installed above the door.
• Custom Sizes: Non-standard heights or widths require custom fabrication, adding hundreds or thousands to the cost.

Pre-Hung vs. Slab-Only

This is a critical distinction.

• Slab Door: This is just the door itself. It's cheaper but requires precise work to fit into the existing frame, mortise hinges, and drill for hardware. It's only an option if your current door frame is perfectly square and in excellent condition.
• Pre-Hung Door: This is a complete system that includes the door, frame (jambs), threshold, and weatherstripping, all pre-assembled. While the unit costs more, it often saves on labor and ensures a perfect, weather-tight seal. Most full replacements use a pre-hung system.

Labor Costs and Location

Labor to install a front door typically runs from $230 to $800, but can exceed $1,300 for complex jobs. A standard pre-hung door installation takes a professional 4-6 hours. Labor rates vary by region, with higher costs in major metropolitan areas.

Upgrades and Customizations

• Hardware: A basic lockset might be $50, but a high-end smart lock can cost $300 or more.
• Glass Inserts: Decorative, insulated, or impact-rated glass will increase the price.
• Energy Efficiency: Doors with an ENERGY STAR rating feature better cores and glazing, which costs more upfront but can lead to savings on your energy bills and potential tax credits. For more details, see our guide on understanding energy efficiency tax credits.

Permits, Disposal, and Hidden Fees

• Permits: If you are altering the size of the opening, you will likely need a permit, which can cost $50 to $200. A like-for-like replacement often doesn't require one, but always check with your local municipality.
• Disposal: Your contractor will charge $25 to $100 to haul away and dispose of your old door and debris.
• Hidden Damage: If the installer discovers rot or structural damage in the wall around the old door frame, you'll face additional costs for repairs, which can range from $100 to over $1,000.

Cost Breakdown by Door Material

Here's how the installed costs compare across the most common materials for a standard-sized, pre-hung entry door.

Return on Investment (ROI) and Resale Value

A front door replacement isn't just an expense; it's one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. It consistently ranks as one of the home improvement projects with the highest ROI.

Cost vs. Value Report Data

According to the authoritative 2024 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling (a Zonda Media publication), a steel entry door replacement has a national average cost of $2,355 and adds an estimated $4,434 to the home's resale value. That's a staggering 188.2% cost recouped.

Regional ROI Variations

The return can be even higher depending on where you live. For example, in the South Atlantic region, the same steel door project recoups 199.1% of its cost. This incredible ROI is driven by the huge impact a new door has on curb appeal - the first thing potential buyers see.

Energy Savings & Tax Credits

A modern, well-sealed door prevents drafts and heat loss. Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified door can lower your heating and cooling bills. Furthermore, certain energy-efficient models may qualify you for federal tax credits, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars on the project cost.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Can you save money by installing the door yourself? Possibly, but it's a job that requires precision.

DIY Installation: If you're an experienced DIYer with the right tools (level, shims, pry bar, caulk gun, etc.), you can save the $230-$800 in labor costs. This is most feasible when replacing a slab into a perfect existing frame.

Professional Installation: For most people, hiring a pro is the best choice. A poor installation can lead to:

• Air and water leaks that damage your subfloor.
• Sticking or difficulty closing.
• Compromised security.
• Voided manufacturer warranties.

An expert ensures the door is plumb, level, and square, creating a perfect seal that maximizes energy efficiency and security. If your project is part of a larger remodel, you may also be interested in the cost to replace windows.