How much does it cost to install a washer and dryer?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Washers and dryers are an integral part of many homes, saving homeowners time and energy and giving clothes a thorough clean. These appliances have different settings to suit garments of all types and can wash loads of clothes at one time. While some consider them a luxury, others view them as a necessity. Costs vary depending on the size, temperature settings, number of cycles, noise levels, and additional advanced features.

The national average cost range to install a washer and dryer is $850 to $2,500. Most homeowners pay $1,100 to install a top-load washing machine with a capacity of over 3 cubic feet, a plastic tub, three temperature settings, and a matching dryer. Prices vary from $750 to install a stacked compact washer and basic 24-inch compact dryer to $4,000 for a high-capacity front-loading washer-dryer combo with Smart technology, extra wash cycles, and enhanced temperature settings.

Washer and Dryer Price

Cost of a New Washer and Dryer by Configuration

The average cost of a new washer and dryer by configuration ranges from $500 to $3,500. Washers and dryers can be purchased together or separately. In some cases, they are combined in a single machine. The washing machine and dryer you choose depend on your regular load size and the available space in your home. The cost of the appliances will also vary depending on the features offered. In the table and subsections below, you will see an example of the various configurations, their costs, and other details.

Stackable Washer and Dryer

Stackable dryer and washer costs range from $500 to $1,500 on average. Stackable washers and dryers are great for small or awkward spaces in your home. Because they are vertically configured, these models save space. All stackable washers are front-loading instead of top-loading and are available in a wide range of models, sizes, and price points. However, it can be difficult for shorter people to reach control settings or load in clothes when stacked vertically.

Stacked Washer and Dryer

On average, stacked washing machine and dryer units cost between $550 and $3,000. Apartment-size washer and dryer units come vertically attached and cannot be unstacked. Stacked washer and dryer units are sometimes more expensive, depending on their features. These units can also have top- or front-loading, although most will feature front-loading access for convenience. And since they are built for convenience, they do not have as many advanced features as side-by-side models, in most cases.

Side-by-Side Washer and Dryer

When you buy separate or matching sets that sit side-by-side, you can expect to spend between $600 and $3,500 for both units. Side-by-side washer and dryer units offer more designs and advanced features, including type, capacity, control settings, rinse cycles, and temperature settings. You can even find side-by-side models with smart settings that automatically adjust water and temperature levels. Side-by-side washers and dryers cost more upfront but pay for themselves with energy and water savings. However, these appliances require more room, so you need to be strategic when fitting them into a smaller room.

A Washer Dryer Combo

Washer-dryer combos range from $1,000 to $2,500. A washer-dryer combo is extremely convenient because it takes up much less space than installing two separate machines. For the most part, these appliances can wash clothes like a stand-alone washer. Use the wash or dry setting separately, allowing you to easily hand wash or air dry delicate items. However, using a washer-dryer combo can tack on extra time to your laundry day because the dryer has only about half the washer’s capacity. Additionally, the drying process uses a lot of water on top of the water used during the wash cycle.

Washer and Dryer Prices by Loading Option

You can expect to spend between $600 and $2,500, based on the loading style of the machine. This is the other big consideration in choosing a washer and dryer. Washers and dryers come in front load and top load models. However, not all styles are available in all formats. For example, stackable units will typically be front-loading, while side-by-side units can be front- or top-loading. Top-loading units are typically less expensive than front-loading machines, but they both have their pros and cons. In the table and subsections below, we will take a closer look at each option.

Top Load Washer and Dryer

The more affordable option is a top-load washer and dryer, ranging between $600 and $1,800. These units are typically cheaper to manufacture and have fewer advanced features or eco-friendly options. However, they offer plenty of load capacity with various sizes available. If you have a situation where you have limited front access, getting a top-load unit might be the way to go. It is also typically the more affordable option, but it will not offer as many features.

Front Load Washer and Dryer

A front-loading washer and dryer cost $800 to $2,500 for the set, depending on the size of the units, the features, and other elements. For example, while you might find a budget-friendly stackable front-loading set at the low end of the price range, you could spend that much per unit for high-tech, eco-friendly smart washer and dryer models that are available today. Front-loading washers are known to save water. They are often better for delicate items than top-loading agitator-style washing machines. Dryers are pretty similar across the board.

Average Cost of a Washer and Dryer by Capacity

The average cost of a washer and dryer by their capacity ranges from $500 to $3,800. There are many sizes available for washers and dryers. To find the right fit, consider your regular load size and available space. It is important to find the right fit based on your personal needs, whether you live alone in an apartment or have a family of five. If your machine is top-loading or front-loading, you need adequate space to open the doors.

Compact Washer and Dryer

On average, compact units cost between $500 and $3,000. The standard size for compact washing machine and dryer units is generally 2.3 to 2.45 cubic feet. When stacked, they are approximately 66 to 72 inches tall. Most apartment-size washers and dryers can also fit under the counter when placed together. These designs are great for small spaces like condos, mobile homes, ranches, and apartments.

Full-Size Washer and Dryer

Full-size washing machines and dryer units range from $700 to $2,200. The average washing machine and dryer are 27 inches wide each. When placed side by side, you need at least 54 inches of space. The washing machine and dryer height ranges from 38 to 43 inches, and the depth varies between 28 and 34 inches. If you have the space, these units are great because you can wash and dry more clothes at a time.

Large-Capacity Washer and Dryer

Expect to pay $1,600 to $3,800 if you need a large capacity washer and dryer set. Extra-large washers and dryers are great for larger families with big regular load sizes. They range from 4 to 5 cubic feet for washers and 9 cubic feet for dryers, and can hold up to 16 pounds of laundry. But these units need more space than average and compact washers and dryers, so be sure that you have the room allotted in your home before choosing one of these models.

Washer and Dryer Prices by Feature

You can expect to spend $400 to $2,300 on washers and dryers that have advanced features, based on the features present. Some washers and dryers are designed for quiet operation and energy efficiency. They may also have other premium features that make them a bit pricier than the average unit. Of course, the costs vary based on capacity and other factors, but the features make the biggest impact here. In the table and subsections below, we will look at the most popular premium features, what you can expect to spend on each, and what they offer.

Quiet Washer And Dryer

Typically, these units cost between $1,200 to $3,000, not including installation. Between your washer and your dryer, there is a lot of noise during the wash and dry cycles. A huge factor tying into noise reduction is vibration reduction. Front-loading washers are quieter because they fix balance issues by tumbling clothes at different speeds, so they do not clump together on one side. A quiet washing machine uses advanced balancing technology and high-tech internal components to mitigate vibrations.

Smart Washer and Dryer

Smart washer and dryer models cost between $1,600 and $3,400. As technology continues to advance, new washers and dryers come with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. You can start a load of laundry when you are not home. With Bluetooth washers and dryers, you can get the right clean for every load and keep track of your laundry cycle. Some Wi-Fi washer and dryer models pair with your smart home system and smart systems like Google Home or Alexa.

Energy-Efficient Washer and Dryer

These combinations cost between $1,600 and $3,800, not including installation fees. Ten percent of your home’s electricity usage goes into washing and drying clothes. When looking for an eco-friendly option, look for an ENERGY STAR washing machine and dryer. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ENERGY STAR washers use approximately 35 percent less water and 25 percent less energy than standard units. Given the average American family washes about 300 loads of laundry per year, this adds up. Models with an ENERGY STAR rating can save up to $370 in energy costs. Energy-efficient dryers use about 20 percent less energy than conventional models using sensor drying, steam cycles, and low heat settings. On average, they can save about $215 in energy costs in their lifetime.

Steam Washer and Dryer

Depending on the features and capacity, this combination costs between $1,650 and $4,400 for the unit only. Steam washers use steam to boost the washer drum’s temperature, causing fibers to absorb water and release deep stains. Additionally, the high-heat steam softens fabrics and releases wrinkles. Steam washers are eco-friendly and use less water during rinse cycles, on top of efficiently cleaning your clothes. Depending on the number of cycles and other additional features, you may spend more or less on the model you choose. Like the washers, steam dryers can also use a moist steam cycle to refresh clothing, release wrinkles, and soften fabrics. They offer solutions similar to dry-cleaning without having to pay the high price or make the trip. These dryers also have conventional hot air drying cycles, but the steam option is added as a premium feature. Steam dryers are also better at deodorizing laundry because the high-temperature moisture eliminates odors and kills bacteria.

Average Cost of a New Washer and Dryer Cost by Finish

The average cost of a washer and dryer ranges from $800 to $3,700 based on the finish of the units, not including installation. Consider your room’s decor and the cleaning and maintenance involved when choosing your dryer and washer units’ color and finish. In the past, laundry machines had fewer color options than kitchen appliances because they were usually tucked away. Today, that trend is changing as more people build functional and aesthetically pleasing laundry rooms.

White Washer and Dryer

On average, white washers and dryers cost between $800 and $3,700. Washers alone cost $300 to $1,700, and dryers are $500 to $2,000. White washers and dryers are a great choice for homes with small children because they do not show fingerprints or smudges, no matter how dirty they get. White appliances provide a classic, neutral look that can be spruced up and modernized to match your preferred aesthetic. You can choose all-white cabinetry to show off a flawless room or add splashes of color for a unique look. However, white washers and dryers can look outdated if you do not rework the room’s decor.

Black Washer and Dryer

For both appliances, expect to pay between $1,480 and $3,400 if you choose black models. When purchased separately, washers cost between $730 and $1,300, and dryers are $750 to $2,100. Black washers and dryers add a modern look to your space without being distracting or overwhelming. These low-maintenance finishes hardly ever show fingerprints or dirt build-up over time. This can be a good thing but makes it harder to see grime and spills, so clean black washers and dryers regularly, even if they do not look dirty.

Stainless Steel Washer and Dryer

Stainless steel washers and dryers cost between $1,550 and $3,100. You can purchase washers for $750 to $1,600 and dryers for $800 to $1,500. Stainless steel is a traditional choice for appliances and is great for more modern spaces. There often is not much variability between manufacturers for stainless steel, which means you do not need to commit to one brand to match your appliances. However, it can easily collect smudges and fingerprints, meaning you need to wipe it down consistently. However, many manufacturers are developing or have already released fingerprint-resistant stainless steel appliances.

Black Stainless Steel Washer and Dryer

Expect to pay between $1,650 and $3,700 for a black stainless steel washer and dryer. Washers usually cost between $800 to $1,800, and dryers cost $850 to $1,900. Black stainless steel is a popular finish for homeowners because of its sleek and modern appearance and low-maintenance cleaning. This finish is resistant to fingerprints, streaks, smudges, and water spots, making it the perfect fit. However, it is prone to scratching because of its colored acrylic coating.

Champagne Washer and Dryer

If you want to buy a set of champagne washers and dryers, expect to pay between $1,720 to $2,900. Washing machines alone cost between $850 to $1,800, and dryers cost $870 to $1,100. Champagne finishes for washers and dryers are a newer look for homeowners across the country. This unique finish can add an interesting splash of color to your laundry room but often costs more than your average unit.

Chrome Washer and Dryer

When bought together, chrome washers and dryers cost $1,850 to $3,200. If you purchase a washing machine by itself, expect to pay between $900 and $1,500. Dryers range from $950 to $1,700. Chrome is another up-and-coming finish that homeowners are choosing. This almost futuristic color adds a unique look to your laundry room. Chrome smudges but can also be cleaned easily. With regular cleaning, you can keep your appliances in top shape.

Washer and Dryer Prices by Brand

When you shop, you can expect to spend between $900 and $3,800 for the pair based on brand. An important step in finding the right laundry pair for your home is landing on a brand you can trust. There are countless names, all of which have unique benefits and drawbacks. The brand you choose depends on your location, budget, and style preferences. In the table and subsections below, we will look at the most popular brands, their price ranges, and other considerations.

Kenmore Washer and Dryer

The average cost of a Kenmore washer and dryer set ranges from $900 to $1,800 for both appliances. Washers cost between $500 and $1,200, and dryers cost $400 to $1,600 separately. Kenmore is a leading brand for washers, dryers, and other electric and gas appliances. They make several affordable models and have their own warranties and guarantees on various units. They can be purchased through various big-box stores like Sears and appliance dealers and installation companies.

Crosley Washer and Dryer

Typically, Crosley washers and dryers cost between $950 and $2,200. You can also purchase them separately. Washer prices range between $450 to $1,200, and dryers cost $500 to $1,000. Crosley laundry appliances are manufactured by large trusted brands like Whirlpool and provide products through independently owned distributors and retailers. They offer affordable and reliable washers and dryers with a 10-year limited warranty on products.

GE Washer and Dryer

GE units cost between $1,140 and $2,100. You can purchase a washer separately for $600 to $1,100 and a dryer for $540 to $1,000. GE offers many washing machines, including stackable and portable models. Additionally, they provide replacement parts and access to technicians who can service your new appliances. They offer top-rated appliances in many sizes, shapes, and colors. They also have several Wi-Fi-enabled models.

Maytag Washer and Dryer

Most Maytag washers and dryers cost between $1,200 and $2,500. Washers alone range from $500 to $1,200 and dryers from $700 to $1,300. Maytag is an affordable and reliable brand and is now owned by the Whirlpool Corporation. They offer a wide range of washers and dryers that focus on stain removal and convenience. They also incorporate modern styles and features, including a detergent dispenser that you do not need to fill up with every load and a drum that keeps clothes aerated if you forget to transfer them after a rinse cycle.

Frigidaire Washer and Dryer

Washers and dryers range from $1,230 to $2,200 from this brand. Washers alone cost between $630 and $1,200, and dryers are $600 and $1,000. Frigidaire washers and dryers are popular for their quality construction and advanced features, such as moisture sensors, pedestal drawers, and Smart home features. They offer laundry centers, many dryers, and top and front-loading washers. Frigidaire provides great value but, on average, offers smaller washers than other competitors like Samsung.

Whirlpool Washer and Dryer

On average, Whirlpool washers and dryers cost between $1,300 and $3,300. You can also purchase washers independently for $700 to $1,500 and dryers for $600 to $1,800. Whirlpool is one of the longest standing and most well-known brands in the industry. Whirlpool washing machines have features such as 6th Sense Live technology and the Smart Stats tool, which tracks the energy going into your appliances.

Samsung Washer and Dryer

Prices range between $1,320 and $3,400 for Samsung washers and dryers when purchased together. You can find washers for $650 to $1,600 and dryers for $670 to $1,800. Samsung offers modern washers and dryers with Smart technology, numerous wash cycles, steam cycles, and WiFi connectivity. Their appliances are designed to increase energy efficiency, vibration reduction, and convenience, making up for the higher cost compared to some brands.

LG Washer and Dryer

The price of LG washers and dryers ranges between $1,500 and $3,800. If you want to purchase a washer, the average range is between $700 and $2,000. You can find dryers that cost between $800 and $1,800. LG washing machines and dryers come in many colors and designs. They focus on steam technology through their LG True Steam to efficiently wash and dry clothes without wasting extra water. Additionally, their washers are built with a 6-motion washing cycle that mimics hand-washing movements.

Bosch Washer Dryer

Their washers and dryers range from $1,900 to $2,600. Washers alone cost between $900 and $1,200 and dryers between $1,000 and $1,400. Bosch currently serves homeowners from 70 primary locations throughout the United States. Their washers and dryers are known for being quiet and efficient. However, this makes them a bit slower than other competitors. Bosch offers reliable products that can be customized to meet different homeowner’s personal preferences.

Speed Queen Washer and Dryer

You can purchase Speed Queen washers and dryers that range from $1,900 to $3,100. You can also purchase washers alone that cost $1,000 to $1,600 and dryers for $900 to $1,500. Speed Queen manufactures dryers and washers across America. The company provides top and front-load washers and stackable units and protects them with a 3, 5, or 7-year standard product warranty. They offer their products through 3,200 independent.

Washer and Dryer Installation Cost

The cost to install a washer and dryer varies depending on if you have the hookups in place. If your project does have existing hookups and will not involve much plumbing or electrical work, expect to pay between $150 and $300 to install them. However, if you need to install new electrical lines, expect to pay between $40 and $120 per hour, depending on if the electrician you are hiring is an apprentice, journeyman, or master. For gas line installations, expect to pay between $75 to $130 per hour for a plumber, depending on how much work needs to be done.

Installation for stackable washers and dryers include additional components, such as a stacking tray. But overall installation costs remain consistent with your average side-by-side models if you do not have to do extensive plumbing and electrical work. The same goes for a laundry combo (all-in-one) installation.

Generally, your installation team also provides washing machine and dryer removal service so that you do not have to worry about disposing of your old appliances. Some companies do it for free, while others charge $80 to $150 to remove each appliance.

Install a Washer Dryer Hookup

Installing a washing machine and dryer requires hot and cold water lines, drain line or laundry sink, electricity, vent, and gas line for gas dryers. For all this work, you need to hire a plumber and electrician or a handyman. On average, a handyman may charge $50 to $100 per hour to install a washing machine and dryer hookup. If your new appliances are placed near existing plumbing lines and next to an exterior wall for proper venting, the project cost can range between $350 and $600.

For more complex installations where you need to extend plumbing lines and your appliances are not near an electrical panel or exterior wall, expect the washer-dryer hookup to cost between $700 and $2,000. While there is not a big cost difference to install washer-dryer hookups in garage spaces, you may have more flexibility in accessing pipes, which could lower the cost.

Cost to Relocate Washer and Dryer

The average cost to move washer and dryer hookups or the units themselves ranges from $350 to $2,000, depending on where the units are being relocated to and from and what kind of plumbing and electrical work is involved in the process. For example, the cost to move washer and dryer hookups to an adjoining wall in the same room might be as cheap as $350. At the high end, the cost to move the washer and dryer to the garage can be as much as $2,000 to install a brand new vent and drain lines along with relocating the hookups when moving them to an entirely different area of the home or a new home entirely. In the table below, you will see a list of the most common washer and dryer relocations and their costs.

Cost to Run Washer and Dryer

Annually, you can expect to spend between $150 and $250 to run washer and dryer units, depending on how many loads you do, as well as how much water, electricity, and/or gas are used throughout the year. The average U.S. homeowner spends about $12 to $20 per month on the use of a washer and dryer, or around $0.23 to $0.38 per week to cover the costs of electricity, water, and/or gas to operate these units. Those who do more laundry or have larger families could spend significantly more, while those who do less, such as single people who live alone and only do one load every week or two, will spend much less on their operating costs. Buying energy-efficient models can also reduce these costs, which you will see reflected in the table below.

Washer and Dryer Maintenance

Aside from any major repairs, you probably will not spend more than $100 to $300 on maintenance for your washer and dryer in their lifetime. The average washer and dryer units on the market today do not require a lot of regular maintenance or upkeep. Common repairs include worn seals, broken belts, or faulty electronic components. However, these instances are usually minimal, such as fixing a washer tub that’s off-balance or replacing a belt on a dryer when the existing one snaps. Washer and dryer maintenance and repair can be performed by appliance specialists, electricians, plumbers, and handymen familiar with washer and dryer units. The professional you need for the job depends on the work that needs to be done. It is usually best to get an inspection every few years or anytime you suspect something might be wrong to help prevent further damage.

Washer-Dryer Combo vs Separate

There are many considerations to make when choosing between an all-in-one washer-dryer vs separate units. Washer-dryer combos are extremely convenient and have a price of $1,000 to $2,500. Buying them separately can have a price between $440 and $5,500. In combo units, you can wash and dry your clothes all from one machine. When compared to separate units, the wash cycle for these models stands up to top competitors. However, many homeowners say they fall short because they have a smaller dryer. This can make laundry days much longer. Washer-dryer combos are usually ventless and use condensation rather than venting moist, hot air outside. Separate units are the most common household appliances and offer various advanced features, sizes, and more. If one machine begins to break down, you do not have to replace both. These washers and dryers take up more space than any other type, so take the proper measurements beforehand. However, you then have the benefit of choosing different models or units and only replacing one if there is a failure. Plus, laundry will be quicker because drying will not take as long.

Stackable Washer and Dryer vs Side-by-Side

Stackable washers and dryers are generally more cost-effective than side-by-side units with a price between $500 and $1,500. The price of a side-by-side combo is between $600 and $3,500. Stackable combinations are smaller and do not have many advanced features. The biggest advantage of these models is their compact size. Additionally, they are often quieter than side-by-side units. If you have the space for a side-by-side washing machine and dryer, you have more room to customize your appliances to meet your style and performance needs. These advanced units cost more upfront but pay for themselves in energy and water savings.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

New Gas Line Installation

If you are looking at gas dryer units, you need to have the right hookups. Installing new gas lines can cost between $15 and $25 per linear foot. However, expect to pay $800 to $1,000 for 100 linear feet for complex installations if you live in an area with high labor costs. You may also need to install a new gas line if you relocate the washer and dryer unit in your home or install a washer and dryer in a new home construction project.

Washer and Dryer Pedestal

On average, pedestals cost between $100 to $350. Pedestals sit beneath your washing machine and dryer to raise both units off the ground and offer additional storage space with built-in drawers. These can help if your units are low to the ground because they bring them to a more convenient height. You can choose pedestals with or without drawers and ones with various features and finishes, impacting the cost you pay. You may also get a discount for purchasing a set of appliances with pedestals included.

Countertops and Cabinets for a Washer and Dryer Space

If you plan to install about 4 to 5 feet of cabinets for front-load washers and dryers, expect to pay $400 to $1,400 for stock models and $2,500 to $7,500 for custom cabinets. For countertops, choose between laminate, stone, or quartz materials. Counters cost between $20 to $120 installed depending on the materials chosen. You may need to do a bit of additional laundry room remodeling when installing your dryer and your washer. New cabinetry and countertops enhance your space and make it more functional. You should typically add at least two to three base cabinets and a few above both units.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Measurements. When installing washers and dryers, measure your available space. After gathering precise measurements, add at least 2 inches on each side of both machines for clearance and about 6 inches for the pipes or wiring in the back. Additionally, you should leave about 48 inches of space in front of your units for easy use. Consider your washing machine and dryer’s orientation. Will they be stacked on top of each other or side by side? Make precise measurements and know exactly what they mean.
• Plan the installation. Whether you are stacking your units or placing them side by side, think about how the doors will open so that they do not interfere with each other. Some washers and dryers have a reversible door feature that allows you to customize your washing machine and dryer so that they fit your space perfectly. This is less common with front-loading models because the electrical parts in some are impossible to move. However, an arrangement could be made before delivery for your dryer door to be configured for an easier clothes loading or for a better fit in the laundry space.
• Sanitation. Washing clothes in water and detergent can remove dirt, but there is more to keeping your clothing safe and clean. National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Ratings ensure your washing machine and dryer properly sanitize clothing with additional antibacterial cycles that eliminate bacteria and germs. Certified washers and dryers must reduce 99.9 percent of microorganisms and prevent significant contamination to future loads of clothes.
• Regulations. Before you proceed with the installation, check your local resources for related building code regulations.
• Lifespan. Washers and dryers are typically given a lifespan depending on the load capacity. In terms of years, most of these appliances will last at least 10 years, with washers lasting to 15 years and dryers lasting as long as 13 years. Taking care of your appliances extends their lifespan, as can using them properly, such as making sure they are properly loaded and balanced before each cycle and that the lint trap on the dryer is clean.