How Much Does it Cost to Install a Garage Door Opener in 2024?

Homeowners should expect to pay $355 on average to have a garage door opener installed. The typical price range for a new garage door opener is between $230 and $510.

Garage door openers are a simple and generally inexpensive way to add convenience to your home. They help protect your property and allow you to safely park your vehicle indoors at the push of a button.

In this cost guide:

• Average Costs
• Cost Estimator by Horsepower
• Cost Estimator by Type
• Other Factors That Affect Cost
• Related Services
• Cost by Location
• FAQ

Average Garage Door Opener Costs in 2024

National Average Cost	$355
Typical Price Range	$230 – $510
Extreme Low-End Cost	$140
Extreme High-End Cost	$1,005

The national average cost for a garage door opener is $355. The typical price range of garage door opener installation costs is between $230 and $510. Depending on the type of door opener and labor costs, you could spend as little as $140 or as much as $1,005 on installation.

Garage Door Opener Cost Estimator by Horsepower

When calculating the total cost of a garage door opener, it is important to factor in the weight of your garage door. Larger garage doors made from heavier materials will require a door opener with more horsepower that can handle the weight of the door. Single garage doors weigh at least 130 pounds, while high end double doors can weigh 350 pounds or more.

Garage door openers with less horsepower will cost less. Low-horsepower motors start at around $120, while more powerful motors can cost as much as $500. Below, we broke down the average cost of different horsepower ratings. 

Garage Door Weight	Horsepower
150 to 300 pounds	½ HP
Up to 300 pounds	¾ HP
Up to 400 pounds	1 –  2 HP

Horsepower	Average Cost
½ HP	$160
¾ HP	$255
1 –  2 HP	$345

Garage Door Opener Cost Estimator by Type

Chain Drive

Chain drive garage door openers typically cost between $145 and $320. They employ a metal chain to open and close the garage door. Chain driven openers are noisy due to the rattling of the chain but are also very durable.

Belt Drive

Belt drive openers cost between $165 and $350 on average. This type of opener uses a steel-reinforced rubber belt to move the garage door. These opener systems are quieter than other types but require regular maintenance.

Screw Drive

Screw driven garage door openers cost between $200 and $425. Screw drive openers use a metal rod that rotates like a screw to open and close the garage. These opener systems are quick and the only regular maintenance required is occasional lubrication.

Direct Drive

Direct drive garage door openers typically cost between $275 and $465. This opener type uses a motor to raise and lower the garage door. Due to the reduced amount of parts, there is essentially no noise or maintenance associated with this system.

Other Factors that Affect Cost

While the type of garage door opener is the most significant cost factor, it is important to consider the cost of labor and additional features. Some add-ons will be included in the total cost of your garage door opener but others may need to be purchased separately.  

Labor 

Garage door installers typically charge $65 to $90 per hour. Typically, professional installation takes two to six hours on average. Garage door opener replacement costs will be higher because the old system will need to be removed as well. If it is a new garage door opener system, you may also need to hire an electrician. 

Remote Controls and Keypads

Typically, garage door opener remotes are included with your new garage door opener purchase. However, if you’d like a few extra or you lose one they’ll cost you $20 to $40 on average. Similarly, a keypad may be included with your garage door opener purchase but if it isn’t expect it to cost between $30 and $60.

Sensors

Garage door sensors typically cost between $50 and $100. A federal law passed in 1993 requires that all garage door openers come with sensors to prevent doors from closing on people and causing injury. However, older garage doors may not have sensors installed, or you may want to update your sensor. 

There are two types of garage door sensors. Laser sensors detect motion and stop the garage door immediately. Automatic reverse sensors reopen the door if motion is detected.

Lighting

If your new garage door opener does not come with lights, expect to spend $50 to $150 on this added feature. These lighting systems turn on when the door is opened or closed to ensure you can get in and out of your vehicle safely. Some models also allow you to turn on the lights as needed.

Automatic Lock

The average price of an automatic locking system is $140. These systems provide more security for homeowners because they automatically lock the garage door when it closes. Some brands such as LiftMaster or Chamberlain offer automatic locking as a standard feature of their garage door openers.

Related Services

If you’re in the market for a new garage door opener, you may also be interested in a new garage or a new garage door. Below, we explain the cost associated with these related services.

Garage

If you’re interested in building a garag, expect to pay between $19,450 and $42,377. This includes the cost of construction, labor, and building materials. The national average cost for a garage is $30,914 but costs will vary depending on size and whether the garage is attached or detached. 

Garage Door

Replacing your existing garage door typically costs between $590 and $1,650. The national average cost is about $1,120. Whether the existing garage door is broken or you’re just looking to update the exterior of your home, a new garage door can increase the curb appeal of your property. The garage door installation cost will most likely depend on the material you choose.

Cost of Installing a Garage Door Opener by Location

Weather and geography aren’t huge cost factors when it comes to garage door openers. However, expect to pay more for this service in more populated areas as cost usually increases along with cost of living and demand.

FAQ

Final Thoughts 

Garage door openers add safety and convenience to your home. There are several different types of garage door openers that can be selected based on your budget and needs. The cost of your door opener will depend on labor and additional features such as remotes, keypads, sensors, and lighting.

It’s best not to attempt to install a garage door opener yourself due to the safety risk and the skill level needed to complete this project. If you want a garage door opener it’s best to reach out to your local garage door installer and inquire about their professional installation services.

Note: LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.

Main Photo by: Dave Dugdale / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0