How Much Do Hurricane Shutters Cost in 2025?
The average cost of hurricane shutters is $3,674
Most people pay an average of $3,674 for hurricane shutters, but you could pay between $1,475 and $5,884.
The total cost of hurricane shutters largely depends on the number of windows and the type of shutter.
Accordion hurricane shutters provide high protection at a mid-range cost, ranging from $15 to $30 per square foot.
Roll-down shutters have a top-end cost of up to $60 per square foot, while Bahama and colonial shutters have a top-end cost of about $35 per square foot.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
If you live along the coast—or in any storm-prone region—you’ll want reliable protection in place before hurricane season starts. Hurricane shutters cost between $1,475 and $5,884 on average, with an average cost of $3,674.
Depending on the shutter style, material, and window size, smaller projects may cost as little as $255, while more complex shutter installation projects can cost up to $11,000. Since this is typically a one-time project, establish a solid budget and plan to hire a professional for a safe, code-compliant installation.
Hurricane Shutters Cost Factors
Hurricane shutters are specially engineered to withstand high winds and the damaging effects of major storms. The total cost depends on factors such as the number of windows you have, your location, and the type of shutter material.
Number of Windows
The number of windows you need to cover will directly impact your total materials and labor costs. Most homes have between 10 and 15 windows, and larger homes have even more. Don't forget that standard entry doors and sliding glass doors may also need hurricane shutters or other storm protection.
Window Size
Hurricane shutters cost $2 to $60 per square foot. Shutters for most windows are about 24 inches wide by 42 inches tall, or about seven square feet.
Expect to see greater price variations if your windows don’t fall within average ranges. Standard window sizes encompass a wide range of dimensions and square footage, generally between 24 and 48 inches wide by 36 to 73 inches tall. Standardized sizes vary for different window types, including sliding windows, casement windows, picture windows, bay windows, and others.
Labor
Professional installation costs vary depending on the job's complexity and local labor rates. On average, you’ll pay between $45 and $100 per hour, and it takes about an hour to install shutters on each window. So, for a home with 10 to 15 standard windows, labor fees range from $450 to $1,500.
If your home has accessibility challenges or custom features, you might see higher labor costs. These include:
Multi-level homes
Non-standard window sizes or shapes
Electrical wiring considerations
Location
Where you live significantly affects labor rates for installation. In areas with a higher cost of living, like big cities, you'll likely pay more for labor than in rural areas. If you live in a storm-prone state like Florida, Texas, or North Carolina, local regulations may require the installation of storm shutters. This increases demand for contractors and can drive up labor rates.
Material
Shutter costs vary widely depending on the material you choose. Some styles are only available in specific materials—for example, accordion shutters are typically metal, while roll-down shutters are commonly made from polycarbonate. Here’s a breakdown of shutter types and their costs:
| Shutter Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Accordion | $15–$30 |
| Roll-down | $25–$60 |
| Bahama | $20–$35 |
| Colonial | $25–$35 |
| Storm panels | $10–$20 |
| Plywood | $2–$6 |
| Fabric | $5–$15 |
Permits
Depending on where you live, local regulations or your homeowner’s association (HOA) may require you to get a permit before installing hurricane shutters. Permits for hurricane shutters cost between $50 and $200.
Customizations
Custom designs and features add to the total cost of hurricane shutters. For example, motorized shutters add convenience but also incur a greater price per window, which includes wiring, motors, and wall switch installation. Custom-sized or shaped window shutters increase total costs, as do customized finishes, mounting hardware, and other details.
Insurance
Insurance companies may offer discounts for homes with hurricane shutters, offsetting some of the installation costs in the long term. In some cases, these insurance companies are required to offer discounts to homes in areas prone to storms. The total discount you’re entitled to depends on location, your home’s overall level of storm protection, home value, and the specific insurance company.
Hurricane Shutters Replacement vs. Repair
After years of facing high winds, your shutters can show wear. If you spot rusted track wheels, damaged locks, dented slats, or missing fasteners, a quick tune-up or minor repair usually costs far less than full replacement. On the other hand, excessive rust, repeated storm damage, or cracks and warping mean the shutters no longer provide full protection. When that happens, upgrading to new panels restores your home’s defense and lets you choose stronger materials or motorized features.
DIY vs. Hiring a Hurricane Shutter Pro
Installing your own hurricane shutters is a labor-intensive task, particularly if you live in a large home with many windows. It can also be dangerous if you’re installing them on a multi-story home and need to maneuver while on a ladder during the installation. You’ll still need to purchase each shutter, saving you only on labor costs. Hiring a professional hurricane shutter installer is a wise decision. They possess the expertise to complete the job thoroughly, efficiently, and safely. They’ll also be able to recommend the best type of shutters for your windows, so you can feel confident that your home is properly protected.
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
Yes. In hurricane-prone markets, buyers and appraisers place a premium on homes that already include hurricane shutters. By adding a proven layer of storm protection, you’ll boost curb appeal, reduce future insurance claims, and give the next owner one less project to tackle—all factors that can lift your home’s resale value.
Yes, you’ll want shutters on every window. Skipping even one opening creates a weak spot that high winds or flying debris can exploit, putting the whole house at risk. Full coverage gives you consistent protection, reduces the chance of costly repairs, and can even help you qualify for insurance discounts in hurricane-prone regions.
Most insurers reward storm-ready homes. By adding hurricane shutters, you lower the risk of wind and window damage, so carriers often shave 8% to 10% off annual premiums in hurricane-prone states. Those savings stack up year after year and help offset your upfront costs, all while reducing the odds you’ll pay out of pocket for post-storm window repairs.
Aim to have your shutters installed before hurricane season, which runs from June through November. Scheduling the work in the spring gives you plenty of lead time and allows you to avoid the late-season rush. If you haven’t finished by the time a storm watch is issued, you can still install them; however, earlier preparation offers more peace of mind and smoother scheduling with local professionals.
Yes, installing both hurricane shutters and storm windows provides the highest level of protection for your home. While storm windows can withstand hurricane winds without shattering, combining them with shutters adds an extra barrier against debris. Installing both systems will increase upfront costs—storm windows average $12,000 installed—but this dual approach shields your home from wind damage and reduces repair expenses after severe weather.
The main disadvantage of hurricane shutters is their cost, as they represent a significant upfront investment compared to other storm protection options. Another disadvantage is that some shutter styles require manual operation from the outside, which can present challenges for individuals with mobility issues. Additionally, shutters require regular maintenance, such as lubricating tracks and inspecting fasteners, to ensure they function correctly. Neglecting upkeep can lead to corrosion or damage, reducing their effectiveness when you need them most.
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