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Skylight Installation Cost Calculator
Skylight installation costs $1,000–$4,700 in 2026, averaging about $1,800 per skylight. A tubular (solar tube) skylight runs $500–$1,100; a fixed skylight $1,500–$4,000; a vented (opening) skylight $1,600–$4,700. Roof framing, flashing, and interior drywall work add cost. Use the calculator below for a figure matched to your roof.
Educational calculators — always consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions.
Sealed unit; light only, no ventilation. Most affordable and least maintenance. $300–$800 for the unit itself.
Most common residential size (e.g., 24"×24" or 22"×38"). Often fits between rafters without cutting.
Single installation. Full mobilization cost applies regardless of count; best value per unit when bundled.
Standard drywall light well, taped and ready to paint. Adds $200–$500 to the project.
Total installation cost
$1,700 – $4,400
1 skylight including unit, labor, and interior finish
Cost breakdown
Where Your Money Goes
Skylight installation requires cutting through rafters — always hire a licensed roofer. Flashing must be properly installed to prevent leaks.
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How it works
Choose skylight type
Fixed, vented (manual or electric), or tubular (solar tube) options.
Enter size and quantity
Standard sizes (2×4 ft, 2×6 ft) are cheaper than custom. Multiple units save on mobilization.
Add flashing and finishing
Includes interior drywall trim, interior finish, and leak-prevention flashing.
2026 Skylight Cost by Type
| Type | Typical Total (installed) |
|---|---|
| Tubular / solar tube | $500–$1,100 |
| Fixed skylight | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Vented (opening) skylight | $1,600–$4,700 |
Installed per skylight by type. National average estimate for 2026 (~$1,800 average).
Methodology & sources
The cost figures on this page are generated from a single, sourced cost-data file (Installed per skylight by type. National average estimate for 2026 (~$1,800 average).). Tubular (solar tube) skylights are cheapest; fixed are midrange; vented (opening) are the most expensive. Roof framing, flashing, and drywall work add cost. Last verified July 2026.
- HomeGuide — Skylight Installation Cost (2026) — retrieved 2026-07-13
- Angi — Skylight Installation Cost (2026) — retrieved 2026-07-13
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does skylight installation cost?+
Skylight installation costs $1,000–$4,700 per unit installed, depending on type. A fixed skylight runs $1,500–$4,000 including the unit, flashing kit, and labor. A vented (opening) skylight runs $1,600–$4,700, with electrically operated models sitting at the top of that range. Tubular skylights (sun tunnels) are the least expensive at $500–$1,100 installed. Interior finishing (drywall, paint) adds $300–$800 per skylight.
What type of skylight is best?+
Fixed skylights are the most affordable and leak-resistant — ideal for rooms needing light but not ventilation. Vented skylights add airflow and are great for bathrooms and kitchens. Electric vented skylights close automatically in rain and are worth the premium for ease of use. Tubular skylights are perfect for small dark spaces with limited roof access and are the least expensive option.
Do skylights cause leaks?+
Properly installed skylights do not leak. Most skylight leaks are due to improper flashing installation, not the skylight itself. Use manufacturer-matched flashing kits, proper step and counter flashing, and ice and water shield under and around the skylight. Quality brands like Velux offer 10–20 year warranties. Avoid budget skylights — quality units pay back in longevity and leak prevention.
Are skylights energy efficient?+
Modern double-pane, low-E skylights are energy efficient. ENERGY STAR certified skylights reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. South-facing skylights maximize winter solar gain. North-facing skylights provide consistent natural light without summer heat gain. Avoid east or west-facing skylights, which cause excessive afternoon heat gain. Properly sized and placed skylights can reduce lighting costs by 10–15%.
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Back to the calculator ↑Skylight Installation Cost Calculator is built and maintained by the RealCostIQ editorial team. Cost ranges and rates are checked against published industry data and contractor quotes, and revised when the underlying figures move. Read our data methodology or more about who builds this. Every calculation runs in your browser — no account, and none of your inputs are stored.
Cost ranges and rates here are checked against contractor quotes and published industry data. If a number still looks off, email Support@RealCostIQ.com and we'll review and fix it.