How Much Do Stair Railings Cost to Install in 2025?

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

On average, installing a stair railing costs $900, with homeowners paying between $500 and $1,300. 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.

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

Your pro will need to take out the existing railing first, and the more complex or larger the staircase, the longer—and pricier—that step becomes. Most installers charge $70 to $150 per hour for removal. If you’re handy and have the right tools, tackling this prep work yourself can trim the bill.

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

Plan to budget $70 to $150 per hour for a general contractor, with most installations taking five to 10 hours. Having a ballpark hourly rate helps you set an accurate labor budget. While DIY can be tempting, a seasoned pro guarantees the railing is safe and up to code.

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.

Wood

Wood railings run $10 to $40 per linear foot and remain a go-to budget option. You can paint or stain them to match your décor, but for outdoor stairs, weigh the risk of water damage and pests before committing.

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 per linear foot 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, but custom options can cost up to $900 for the same. This mid-range option is durable, timeless, and easy to care for. With proper coating, wrought iron railings are suitable for outdoor use.Overall, you'll pay more for wrought iron for its extreme durability and longevity of over a century.

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

Installing a stair railing is a skilled job, but you can still trim costs with these 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.