How Much Does a Skylight Cost? [2024]

Skylights can let more natural light into rooms and reduce your reliance on electricity, but how much does it cost to install a skylight? Cost depends on the type of skylight you choose and other factors. 

Read this guide to find out:

• What are the most popular types of skylights?
• How much does it cost to put in a skylight?
• What factors affect skylight installation cost?
• How much does an acrylic skylight cost?
• How much do tubular skylights cost?
• How many skylights do I need?

What are the most popular types of skylights?

Skylights aren't a one-size-fits-all home improvement. Skylights can be square, rectangular or other shapes and are available in a range of sizes with different features that can make them suitable for different homes and budgets.

Options include:

• Fixed skylights (usually made of acrylic or glass)
• Retractable skylights (manual or electric operation)
• Tubular skylights
• Dome or pyramid skylights
• Ventilated skylights
• Custom skylights

Your skylight installer can recommend which type of skylight is the best fit. Higher-quality skylights may have features less expensive skylights don't, including timber frames, protective coatings and double glazing, but these will cost more to supply and install.

Read more: 6 reasons to install a skylight

How much do skylights cost?

The cost of skylights can be anywhere from $150 - $2,000 or more per skylight, depending on their size, features and the materials they are made from. Expect to pay anywhere from:

• $150 - $1,200 for a tubular skylight
• $350 - $750 for an acrylic skylight
• $2,000+ for custom glazing

Skylights must be installed by professional skylight installers, as many steps have to be taken to make sure they don't leak and provide the light you need in your home. This will be an additional cost.

How much does it cost to put in a skylight?

Skylight installers may charge by the hour, plus a service fee. Prices range from:

• $45 - $70 per hour for skylight replacement
• $85 - $95 per hour for new skylight installation

You may also be quoted a flat rate, which will vary depending on the job. Expect to pay between:

• $300 - $600 for standard skylight installation
• $850 - $1,300 for large skylights or more complex installations

A fixed price will give you more security that a project will stay within your budget. When you apply for quotes from local skylight installers, ask for a detailed quote so you can see what's included and make a fair comparison.

What factors affect skylight installation cost?

The cost to install a skylight will depend on a number of factors, including:

• Size of skylight: A roof may need reinforcing or alterations before a larger skylight can be fitted. Installers may also need to install gyprock in ceilings so the light can reach the room below. 
• Type of skylight: A simple tubular skylight can cost $300 to install, whereas a motorised dome skylight can cost $600 or more to install. 
• Type and pitch of roof: Some roofs are not suitable for skylights, while others may require extensive modification. A fixed skylight that costs $300 to install on a flat roof may cost $400 on a pitched roof. 
• New or replacement skylight: Installing a new skylight will cost more than replacing an existing skylight, as the hole and supports will already be present. Installing a skylight as part of a new build or renovation can be cheaper than retrofitting a skylight into an existing home, as the roof can be planned with this in mind.

 How much does an acrylic skylight cost?

Acrylic skylights are a cheaper option than glazed or double glazed skylights. They can also be cheaper to install, but still require a professional.

For a standard acrylic skylight, expect to pay: 

These are the costs of the skylight alone. Installing an acrylic skylight costs $300 or more, depending on its size and complexity.

Acrylic skylights are cheaper than glass skylights, but they can scratch and fade over time. They also don't have the heat-reducing capabilities of glass, which will reduce heat transference and could help you save on energy costs in the long term. 

How much do tubular skylights cost?

Tubular skylights are an alternative to standard skylights They collect light from the roof and reflect it into the home, and can be ideal for lighting hallways, walk-in closets and other small spaces.

They consist of 3 parts:

1. A roof-mounted clear dome
2. Tunnels of various lengths and widths
3. An interior cover that allows light in the room

Tubular skylight costs depend on their quality and the size of the skylight and tunnel. Expect to pay between:

• Basic tubular skylight - $150 - $350
• Mid-range tubular skylight - $450 - $850
• High-end tubular skylight - $600 - $1,200

The skylights themselves are commonly available in 250mm or 400mm diameters, while the length of the tunnel depends on the area you're trying to illuminate:

• A tunnel diameter of 15.5cm can illuminate a space up to 4m2
• A tunnel diameter of 23-25cm can illuminate a space up to 10m2
• A tunnel diameter of 32-45cm can illuminate a space up to 15m2

The size of the tunnel will affect the cost of tubular skylight installation, which ranges from $200 - $500. 

How many skylights do I need?

When choosing skylights for your home, keep in mind that more skylights may need to be installed to achieve the level of light you want. Often, 2 to 4 smaller skylights are installed together, so it can sometimes be more cost-effective to choose a single, large skylight instead.

Skylight installers can link multiple skylights together in different configurations to let in more light and achieve different effects in your rooms.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.