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 $820 to $2,500. Most homeowners pay $950 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 $670 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 Installation Costs | |
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National average cost | $950 |
Average range | $820-$2,500 |
Minimum cost | $670 |
Maximum cost | $3,000 |
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:
Combinations | Combination Cost (Appliance Only) |
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Stackable | $300 - $1,500 |
Apartment-Size/Stacked | $550 - $3,000 |
Side-by-Side | $600 - $3,500 |
Washer-Dryer Combo | $1,000 - $2,500 |
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. Stackable dryer and washer costs range from $300 to $1,500 on average.
Apartment-size washer and dryer units come vertically attached and cannot be unstacked. Stacked laundry centers can be top or front-loading and fit into smaller areas. Stacked washer-dryer combos can be more expensive, depending on the features. They are built for convenience, so they do not have as many advanced features as side-by-side models. On average, stacked washing machine and dryer units cost between $550 and $3,000.
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. These models cost between $600 and $3,500 on average.
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-dryer combos range from $1,000 to $2,500 on average.
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.
Capacity | Total Cost of Both Units |
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Compact | $500 - $3,000 |
Full-Size | $700 - $2,200 |
High-Capacity | $1,600 - $3,800 |
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. On average, compact units cost between $500 and $3,000.
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. Full-size washing machine and dryer units range from $700 to $2,200.
Extra-large washers and dryers are great for larger families with big regular load sizes. They range from 4 to 5 cubic feet and can hold up to 16 pounds of laundry. But these units need more space than average and compact washers and dryers. Expect to pay $1,600 to $3,800 for these larger models.
Washers and dryers come in many sizes to fit different spaces and accommodate diverse laundry capacities. The average washer and dryer units are 27 inches wide, so you need a minimum of 54 inches of space to install both. However, it is suggested to also include 2 inches of clearance on either side of both units to stop them from touching each other. This allows the air to circulate better and reduces noise during rinse and drying cycles.
Front-loading models typically wash up to three baskets in a single load. Top-loading washers can handle a bit more than that and have shorter wash times. In addition to the units, you can also add pedestals to increase their height and add extra storage space.
Dimensions | Total Cost of Both Units |
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46” | $450 - $800 |
50” | $760 - $2,400 |
54” | $800 - $2,100 |
58” | $1,250 - $2,300 |
60” | $1,300 - $2,500 |
62” | $1,550 - $2,700 |
64” | $1,600 - $3,000 |
66” | $1,700 - $3,300 |
Stackable washers and dryers are much taller than side-by-side because your washing machine and your dryer are on top of each other. These compact setups are ideal for small living spaces like apartments and condos. Stackable washer and dryer dimensions are similar to side-by-side units because the average width of stackable washers and dryers is approximately 27 inches. However, instead of taking up space horizontally, they stack vertically. The standard height for stackable washer-dryer combos is 72 inches. However, finding one under 72 inches high is not uncommon. When measuring for your laundry center, consider obstacles that may block your path. This includes navigating under door frames and overhangs and extra room to level your units with adjustable feet.
Height | Total Cost of Both Units |
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66” | $1,260 - $2,300 |
74” | $1,500 - $2,700 |
76” | $1,630 - $2,900 |
80” | $1,720 - $3,400 |
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.
Type of Finish | Cost of Both Units |
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White | $800 - $3,700 |
Black | $1,480 - $3,400 |
Stainless Steel | $1,550 - $3,100 |
Black Stainless Steel | $1,650 - $3,700 |
Champagne | $1,720 - $2,900 |
Chrome | $1,850 - $3,200 |
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. 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.
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. For both appliances, expect to pay between $1,480 and $3,400. When purchased separately, washers cost between $730 and $1,300, and dryers are $750 to $2,100.
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. 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.
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. 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 between $850 to $1,900.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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.
Brands | Total Cost of Both Units |
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Crosley | $950 - $2,200 |
GE | $1,140 - $2,100 |
Maytag | $1,200 - $2,500 |
Frigidaire | $1,230 - $2,200 |
Whirlpool | $1,300 - $3,300 |
Samsung | $1,320 - $3,400 |
LG | $1,500 - $3,800 |
Bosch | $1,900 - $2,600 |
Speed Queen | $1,900 - $3,100 |
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. 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 between $500 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 WiFi-enabled models. 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.
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. 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.
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. Washers and dryers range from $1,230 to $2,200. Washers alone cost between $630 and $1,200, and dryers are $600 and $1,000.
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. 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.
Samsung offers modern washers and dryers with Smart technology, numerous wash cycles, steam cycles, and WiFi connectivity. Their appliances are designed for increased energy efficiency, vibration reduction, and convenience. Prices range between $1,320 and $3,400. You can find washers for $650 to $1,600 and dryers for $670 to $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. 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.
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. 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.
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 dealers across the country. You can purchase Speed Queen washers and dryers that range between $1,900 - $3,100. You can also purchase washers alone that cost $1,000 to $1,600 and dryers for $900 to $1,500.
The cost to install a washer and dryer varies depending on if you have the hookups in place. If your project does 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 an hour, depending on if the electrician you are hiring is an apprentice, journeyman, or master. For gas line installations, expect to pay between $45 to $200 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.
Installing a washing machine and dryer requires hot and cold water lines, drain line 1 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 $25 to $150 to install washing machine and dryer hookups. 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.
Ten percent of your home’s electricity usage goes into washing and drying clothes. When looking for an eco-friendly option, look for ENERGY STAR washing machine and dryer units.
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 by using sensor 2 drying, steam cycles, and low heat settings. On average, they can save about $215 in energy costs in their lifetime. These washers cost between $800 and $1,800, and dryers are $850 and $2,000 each, not including installation fees.
As technology continues to advance, new washers and dryers come with WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities. You can start a load of laundry when you are not home. With Bluetooth washing machine and dryer units, you can get the right clean for every load and keep track of your laundry cycle.
Some WiFi washer and dryer models pair with your smart home system. Whether you need a Google home or Alexa washing machine and dryer, or anything in between, these models cost between $800 and $1,700 each.
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, washers cost between $850 and $2,300. Steam dryers generally range from $800 to $2,100, 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. Typically, these units cost between $800 to $2,000 each, not including installation.
There are many considerations to make when choosing between an all-in-one washer-dryer vs separate units. Washer-dryer combos are extremely convenient because 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. On average, these models cost between $1,000 and $2,500.
Side-by-side models are the most common household appliances and offer various advanced features, sizes, and more. They can also be installed separately. If one machine begins to break down, you do not have to replace both. Side-by-side washers and dryers take up more space than any other types, so take the proper measurements beforehand. These units cost approximately $600 to $3,500.
Stackable washers and dryers are generally more cost-effective than side-by-side units because they 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. On average, stackable units cost between $300 and $1,500.
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. Many types of side-by-side models range in cost from $600 to $3,500.
If you are looking at gas dryer units, you need to have the right hookups. Installing new gas lines can cost between $10 and $20 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.
Pedestals sit beneath your washing machine and dryer to raise both units off the ground and offer additional storage space with built-in 3 drawers. These can help if your units are low to the ground because they bring them to a more convenient height. On average, pedestals cost between $100 to $350.
You may need to do a bit of additional laundry room remodeling when installing your dryer and your washer. New cabinetry and countertops can also enhance your space and make it more functional. You should typically add at least 2-3 base cabinets and a few above both units.
If you plan to install about 4-5 feet of cabinets for front-load washers and dryers, expect to pay between $400 to $1,400 for stock models and $800 to $2,500 for semi-custom cabinets. For countertops, choose between laminate, stone, or quartz materials. Counters cost between $5 to $30 per square foot for laminate, while granite costs closer to $35 to $500 per square foot, plus $10 to $30 per foot for the installation.
A standard washer and dryer cost between $700 and $2,200, not including installation fees. It costs $1,600 to $3,800 for the extra space if you want to install high-capacity units.
On average, it costs between $820-$2,500 for an average front-loading washing machine and dryer with several temperature settings and rinse cycles, including the installation and units. Check with local contractors in your area to decide if you want to work with a plumber and electrician or a handyman.
Prices vary greatly if your project involves extensive plumbing or electrical work. On average, installing washer and dryer hookups costs between $350 and $600. However, it could be more if your appliances are farther away from your existing plumbing. We suggest getting multiple quotes from professionals in your area before choosing.
With proper maintenance, your units should last approximately 10 years on average. When installing a stacked washing machine and dryer, if one part breaks beyond repair, you must replace the entire thing.
On average, your washing machine uses 255 watts per hour and costs about $10 per year to run. Your dryer uses approximately 2,790 watts per hour and costs about $105 per year.
Cost to install a washer and dryer varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.