How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?

Should You Remodel Your Bathroom?

In 2023, Statista reported that the top three reasons for master bathroom renovations in the U.S. were homeowners disliking the outdated style, deterioration of the bathroom, and the desire to increase resale value.

Remodeling your bathroom is a smart choice if you need to address problems like mold, rot, or old plumbing. It can also make the space more functional, especially if your needs have changed, like planning for accessibility in retirement.

Other common reasons for a remodel include improving the layout, adding storage, and upgrading to water-efficient fixtures to reduce utility costs.

What Are the Key Cost Factors in a Bathroom Remodel?

When planning a bathroom remodel, knowing the key cost factors can help you budget more effectively. Here are the most common factors that can affect your estimate to renovate a bathroom.

Bathroom Size

Larger bathrooms typically cost more due to the extra materials, labor, and time needed for completion.

Bath remodeling prices can range between $70 and $250 per square foot.

Labor costs also increase with the size, as larger bathrooms often have more complex layouts and fixtures, requiring extra work from specialists like plumbers, electricians, and tile installers.

Bathroom Type

The type of bathroom significantly affects the overall cost of a remodel due to the size, features, materials, and complexity of labor involved.

• Type of Bathroom RemodelPrice Estimate
• Half-Bath/Powder Room$10,600 - $18,000
• Full Bath$18,000 - $30,000
• Primary Bath$30,000 - $42,400

• 

  Half-Bath or Powder Room

  
  

  This is usually a smaller bathroom with just a toilet and sink, making it the cheapest to remodel. Without a shower or tub, plumbing work is minimal, so costs typically range from $10,600 to $18,000. The main updates often include the sink, toilet, lighting, and flooring.

• 

  Full Bath

  
  

  This bathroom features all four fixtures - a toilet, sink, shower, and tub. Remodeling costs can vary greatly depending on the upgrades. It often includes replacing the tub or shower, installing new tiles, updating the vanity, and changing the lighting and fixtures. A full bath remodel typically ranges from $18,000 to $30,000.

• 

  Primary Bath

  
  

  Also called a master bathroom, this is the largest and most luxurious type, usually located in the master bedroom. It often includes double vanities, a spacious shower, a soaking tub, and high-end finishes. Due to its size and features, remodeling a primary bath can cost between $30,000 and $42,400.

Cost by Common Bathroom Remodeling Projects

The cost of redoing the bathroom will vary depending on the features you choose to update. Here’s a breakdown of prices for the most common projects.

• 

  Shower and Tub

  
  

  A shower remodel can range from $200 to $15,000 while adding or replacing a bathtub can cost $4,200 to $11,000 for bathtub renovation.

  The total cost depends on the materials (like acrylic or marble) and features (such as jets or a freestanding style).

  Tub-shower combos offer both bathing and showering functionality, often at a lower cost. High-end fixtures, custom tile work, and accessibility modifications further increase expenses.

• 

  Flooring

  
  

  Bathroom flooring can greatly influence the total cost of a remodel, as prices vary based on the materials you choose.

  On average, flooring costs range from $2 to $25 per square foot. Budget-friendly options include basic tiles or vinyl, while premium choices like custom-shaped ceramic tiles, marble, or heated flooring can drive up the price.

  Additionally, the size of the bathroom is important since larger spaces require more materials and labor, increasing the overall cost.

• 

  Paint or Wallpaper

  
  

  Painting is the more budget-friendly option, usually costing between $375 and $800 for a bathroom. On the other hand, wallpaper ranges from $5 to $11 per square foot, including both materials and labor.

  Wallpaper typically requires professional installation, which can drive up costs, while painting can be a DIY project, saving on labor. Additionally, paint is better suited for high-humidity areas since wallpaper may warp or peel over time in a bathroom.

• 

  Doors and Windows

  
  

  Replacing doors typically ranges from $300 to $1,400, depending on the style chosen. If you need to modify walls for new windows or doors, expect an extra cost of $120 to $200.

  Window replacements usually cost between $300 and $700 for simple styles, while more complex options can exceed $1,200.

  To keep costs down, you can consider using budget-friendly materials, repurposing existing frames, or replacing just the glass.

• 

  Sinks

  
  

  The cost of sinks in a bathroom remodel varies greatly, usually ranging from $300 to $4,000, depending on the material, design, and installation complexity.

  Materials like ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, acrylic, and stone can significantly influence the price. The type of sink, whether pedestal, wall-mounted, under-mounted, or part of a vanity, also affects the overall cost.

• 

  Faucets and Plumbing

  
  

  Key features like sinks, faucets, and toilets often need replacing during a remodel. Installing a new faucet usually ranges from $170 to $360. If plumbing lines need updating, expect an additional cost of about $800.

  Moving or adding pipes for new fixtures, such as a freestanding tub, can further increase expenses.

  Major plumbing changes, like altering the bathroom layout or moving fixtures, can significantly raise costs due to the complexity of modifying the existing plumbing. Skilled contractors are essential for these tasks to prevent potential issues. Additionally, incorporating new technologies, like smart fixtures, can add to the overall expenses.

• 

  Toilet

  
  

  Choosing a different style, like a wall-hung toilet instead of a floor-standing one, may need plumbing adjustments, which can increase costs.

  Moving the toilet to a new spot in the bathroom also adds expenses due to extra plumbing work. Installing in tight spaces, like lofts, can be more complicated and pricey.

  In older homes, outdated plumbing might need repairs, further driving up the overall cost. On average, you can expect to pay about $600, including installation, for a new toilet.

• 

  Cabinets and Shelving

  
  

  The cost of cabinets and shelving can range from as little as $300 to as much as $4,000, especially when choosing custom designs or high-end materials.

  Customizing cabinets or selecting premium materials like real wood will increase expenses. Similarly, opting for countertops made of marble or granite will be more costly than standard options like laminate.

  Choosing open shelving instead of closed cabinets can help cut costs, as shelving is generally less expensive and creates a sense of more space in the bathroom.

• 

  Countertops

  
  

  The cost of countertops can greatly influence the total expense of a bathroom remodel, ranging from $350 to $4,000 depending on the material.

  Basic options like laminate or granite are more affordable, while premium choices such as marble, glass, or custom concrete can be more expensive.

  Additionally, cabinets that pair with the countertops can add to the cost, especially if you opt for high-end materials like wood or go for custom designs. Therefore, material selection and customization are key factors that impact the overall remodel cost.

• 

  Ventilation and Lighting

  
  

  Proper ventilation is essential to prevent mold and water damage, while good lighting is necessary for both functionality and style.

  Installing a combined vent fan with a light costs around $400 on average, with high-end models going up to $425 and basic ones starting at about $130.

  Adding or updating light fixtures can range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the type and number of fixtures.

  These features not only improve the bathroom's comfort but also affect the overall remodeling budget.

Location

In major metropolitan or coastal cities, material and labor costs are generally higher than in rural or suburban areas. For instance, a bathroom remodel in Los Angeles can average around $25,600, while in Chicago, it might be closer to $13,600.

Factors like local labor rates, material availability, and permit requirements vary by region and can impact your final budget. To manage these costs, you should shop around and compare quotes.

Furthermore, it’s a good idea to leave some flexibility in your budget to handle regional cost differences or unexpected expenses.

Labor

Labor costs typically account for 40% to 65% of the total remodeling expense, or around $50 to $75 per hour, depending on the project’s complexity and the number of specialized tasks, like plumbing, electrical work, and tile installation.

For example, more complex remodels that involve moving plumbing lines or making structural changes will increase labor costs.

To keep expenses down, it’s often best to keep fixtures in their current locations, especially in smaller bathrooms or powder rooms.

Also, you should be prepared for unexpected challenges, such as moisture damage or outdated plumbing, which can further increase labor costs.

Additional Bathroom Remodel Cost Factors

Keep in mind that there are a few extra costs that can incur along the way. Let’s look at them below.

Floor Plan Changes

Changing the floor plan can significantly increase the price to redo a bathroom. Moving walls, and fixtures, or expanding the space often involves structural changes and adjustments to plumbing and electrical systems, resulting in higher labor expenses.

Flooring changes also impact the budget, depending on the material and bathroom size. For instance, luxury vinyl tile is more affordable than ceramic but differs in durability. Careful planning is key to balancing your budget with design goals.

Accessibility or ADA Compliance Features

Incorporating ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance features into a bathroom remodel can greatly affect the overall cost. Meeting ADA standards often requires adjustments to the bathroom’s layout, size, and installation of specific accessibility-focused fixtures.

Depending on the extent of the upgrades, the additional costs for remodeling could range from $100 to $18,000. Here’s what can impact your budget:

• 

  Widening Doorways:

  Doorways need to be at least 32 inches wide to accommodate wheelchairs, which might involve structural changes and add to the expense.

• 

  Toilet Adjustments:

  Installing a toilet at a comfortable height (17-19 inches) and adding grab bars for support may require new fixtures and reinforced walls.

• 

  Shower Modifications:

  Creating a barrier-free or curbless shower, adding grab bars, a hand-held showerhead, and built-in seating can significantly increase costs.

• 

  Sink Alterations:

  Lowering the sink height with knee clearance underneath and installing touchless or lever-style faucets may involve custom fixtures.

• 

  Non-Slip Flooring:

  Adding slip-resistant flooring enhances safety but adds to material costs.

Electrical Work

Electrical work also influences the overall cost of a bathroom remodel. The specific expenses vary based on the project’s complexity, scope, and bathroom size.

Electricians typically charge between $40 and $120 per hour. Adding elements like lighting fixtures, GFCI outlets (a safety requirement near water sources), exhaust fans, and heated flooring can increase costs. Incorporating advanced features, such as smart lighting or heated floors, will further raise your electrical expenses.

Water Damage Repairs

Water damage repairs can greatly impact the cost of a bathroom remodel, depending on how extensive the damage is.

Minor issues, like a small leak caught early, might cost between $150 and $500 to fix. However, more severe damage involving floors, subfloors, drywall, or structural elements can drive costs up significantly, ranging from $1,000 to $100,000 for extensive repairs, such as those caused by prolonged flooding or mold.

If mold and rot are discovered during the remodel, the expenses can increase further. Mold remediation alone can cost between $1,000 and $3,500.

Additionally, if water damage has affected plumbing or electrical systems, these will need repairs as well, adding to the overall labor and material costs.

Remodeling a Wet Area

Remodeling the wet area of a bathroom, including the shower, tub, walls, and flooring, can greatly influence the overall cost of the project. Since this area is constantly exposed to water, soap, and minerals, updating it often provides a solid return on investment (ROI).

If you’re thinking about converting your bathroom into a wet room, be prepared for a higher budget. Wet room remodels generally cost 20-30% more than traditional bathroom remodels, averaging between $11,000 and $18,000.

This added expense comes from the need for waterproofing the entire space, including walls and floors, as well as potential plumbing changes. The process involves creating a waterproof “tank” in the room to prevent water damage, which can be more complex, especially if you have a concrete slab foundation.

Permits

Permits for a bathroom remodel typically cost between $100 and $1,000, depending on the location and complexity of the work. They are important for ensuring that electrical, plumbing, and construction work meets safety codes.

While obtaining permits can add to the overall cost and potentially cause delays, they prevent future issues, especially during property sales. Skipping permits can lead to fines, extra costs for retroactive permits, or difficulties when selling the home​.

Bathroom Remodel vs. Bathroom Renovation

A bathroom renovation updates the room’s appearance and functionality without changing its layout or structure. It involves cosmetic changes like replacing fixtures, painting, or updating flooring. When talking about bathroom renovation cost, it’s generally less invasive and therefore more budget-friendly.

On the other hand, a bathroom remodel changes the structure or layout, such as moving plumbing, tearing down walls, or expanding the space. It’s more complex, and usually costlier, but necessary if the bathroom needs a significant overhaul for better use or accessibility​.

When deciding between a renovation and a remodel, you should consider your budget, the current condition of the bathroom, the desired outcome, and whether major structural changes are required to meet your needs.

How to Save Money on a Bathroom Remodel?

Here are some tips for you to help you save money on a bathroom remodel:

• 

  DIY Demolition

  If possible, handle the demolition yourself to reduce labor costs​.

• 

  Keep the Layout

  Avoid moving plumbing fixtures to save on the high costs of re-routing plumbing and utilities​.

• 

  Shop Secondhand and Online

  Find discounted or secondhand vanities and fixtures to cut costs​.

• 

  Refinish, Don’t Replace

  Instead of buying new fixtures, refinish items like tubs, cabinets, and countertops​.

• 

  Install Prefabricated Showers

  Opt for prefabricated showers or tubs instead of custom-built ones​.

• 

  Focus on Cosmetic Changes

  Small updates like painting, changing hardware, and adding new accessories can refresh the space affordably.

• 

  Reuse What You Can

  Keep existing items like tiles, drywall, or vanities if they’re in good condition. A simple paint job or re-grouting can make them look new again​.

• 

  Get Multiple Quotes

  If you’re hiring professionals, obtain multiple quotes to compare prices and potentially negotiate a lower rate​.

• 

  Shop Sales and Clearance

  Hunt for deals on last year’s models of fixtures and tiles or check clearance sections at local stores and online to find high-quality items at discounted prices​.

Should You DIY or Hire a Pro for Your Bathroom Remodel?

While DIY bathroom remodeling can save you money, it requires significant skills in plumbing, wiring, and tiling. Simple tasks like painting, replacing fixtures, or installing a faucet may be manageable for those with some experience.

However, more complex jobs, such as installing a shower or handling electrical work, are best left to professionals to avoid costly mistakes down the road.

On the other hand, a professional can handle complex issues, ensure the remodel meets building codes, and often provide warranties that offer peace of mind.

This option is particularly beneficial if the project involves extensive plumbing, electrical work, or structural changes, or if you have only one bathroom and need the job completed quickly.

When hiring a professional, don’t forget to look at their online reviews, ask them project-related questions, and get quotes from several different contractors.

You can always use a tool like HomeBuddy to help you quickly find a reliable local contractor and even get a free quote on your project.

Can You Remodel Your Bathroom Yourself?

Yes, you can remodel your bathroom yourself if you have the necessary skills and time. DIY remodeling allows cost savings, especially on labor, and full control over design choices.

You’ll need to gather essential tools, like safety equipment, hand tools, and plumbing supplies, and plan for tasks like demolition, plumbing, tiling, and painting. It’s best suited for small-scale projects, like painting or installing fixtures, if you’re confident in your abilities.

However, complex tasks, such as rerouting plumbing or electrical work, might require professional help. In fact, 86% of homeowners in the US hired professionals for a master bathroom renovation in 2023.

While DIY saves money, it’s time-consuming and can take months compared to 4-5 weeks for a professional remodel​.

Conclusion

A bathroom remodel usually costs between $10,600 and $42,400, with the average cost to remodel a bathroom being around $21,200. The final price depends on factors like the size and type of bathroom, bathroom features, the scope of the project, and labor.

While DIY can save you some money, hiring a professional ensures the job is done right the first time, avoiding stress, risks, or potentially costly repairs. You can use tools like HomeBuddy to find an expert local contractor for your bathroom remodeling project.

Frequently Asked Questions