The price to remodel a mid-range bathroom can run as little as $2,500 to $30,000 or more, depending on the scope and type of remodeling job. A mid-range bathroom remodel costs an average of $25,000, according to recent cost data published by the Journal of Light Construction (JLC).
After a bathroom remodel, homeowners enjoy comfort, convenience, and the satisfaction that their new bathroom features more modern fixtures and design elements. This guide explores the factors that influence the cost of remodeling a bathroom, as well as the benefits and potential red flags.
Cost data in this article was sourced from the JLC 2024 cost report and 2025 Angi pricing data.
Key Takeaways
- A mid-range bathroom remodeling job costs an average of $25,000 but can cost as little as $2,500 depending on design, materials, and scope.
- The JLC 2024 cost report estimates a return on investment of 73.7% for a mid-range bathroom remodel.
- Remodeling a wet surface area, such as the bathtub or shower, can cost between $200–$15,000, depending on the type and the materials.
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Average Bathroom Remodeling Cost
The average bathroom remodeling cost depends on a lot of factors, including the scope of the job and the materials you use. According to the JLC, a mid-range remodel of a bathroom costs an average of about $25,000. A major, upscale bathroom remodeling job costs an average of $79,000.
Jim Fuson, owner of 21st Century Home Inspections, says that bathroom remodels can get complicated. “The sky’s the limit on bathroom design. If we’re going from just your traditional single-person shower, and now we want a two-person shower with dual shower heads and all the little toys inside, you may end up looking at increasing your water heater storage capacity.”
Projects like this might involve a new tankless water heater, additional electrical work, or radiant heat floor installation, which all increase your overall cost.
How Much Do Common Bathroom Remodeling Projects Cost?
The table below shows an item-by-item breakdown of estimated costs for a bathroom remodel:
| Bathroom Project | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bathtub installation | $215–$14,700 |
| Shower installation | $390–$17,000 |
| Cabinetry | $200–$600 per unit |
| Faucets | $170–$360 |
| Toilet | $375 |
| Vinyl or laminate flooring | $1–$14 per square foot |
| Radiant floor heating | $15–$60 per square foot |
| Light fixture installation | $150–$930 |
| Countertops | $1–$190 per square foot |
| Vent fan installation | $400 |
Remodel Cost by Type of Bathroom
Because size is such a significant determiner of cost, here’s a breakdown of the estimated cost to remodel or renovate bathroom types and how long remodels typically take to complete. The total cost usually ranges from $100–$200 per square foot.
| Type of Bathroom Remodel | Average Cost | Average Time |
|---|---|---|
| Half-bath remodel | $1,500–$15,000 | 5–7 days |
| Guest bath remodel | $3,500–$20,000 | 10–14 days |
| Primary bath remodel | $7,000–$30,000 | 15–25 days |
| Wet room installation | $2,000-$30,000 | 10-30 days |
What Are The Most Common Cost Factors of a Bathroom Remodel?
In addition to your bathroom’s size, the areas you choose to renovate and your selected materials can go a long way in determining the final price tag. The most expensive material costs are the wet area, bathroom vanity, countertops, and tiling.
Below, we break down the most common cost factors for a bathroom remodel.
Remodeling a Wet Area
The bathroom’s wet area is the portion of the room that is waterproofed because it’s designed to withstand the damp, humid conditions found in a bathroom. Typically, this encompasses the bathtub, shower, or combination of the two, as well as the walls and floors around it. It’s also usually the most expensive part of a bathroom remodeling project.
Because there are so many projects related to the wet area, the time and expense of this renovation can vary greatly. It might take just a few hours if you’re just having the tub refinished or a liner installed. However, large projects like converting all or part of a bathroom into a wet room can take several days to several weeks since they involve substantial demolition.
Read more: How to Design a Bathroom Wet Room
Shower Remodels
Why remodel or replace your shower? Because it’s old and out of style, floor or wall tiles are broken or cracked, the shower head and fixtures no longer work as well as they should, the pipes and drain are out of date and faulty, or because you’re feeling your age and you need to install a safer showering environment.
Factors that influence the cost of a shower remodel include the materials you choose, the scope of the job, the type of fixtures and features you choose, and the type of shower you choose (a corner standup shower or a double shower, for example).
Bathtub Remodels
A bathroom remodeling job often entails the complete replacement of an old or broken bathtub. This might mean repairing or replacing plumbing fixtures and pipes or simply removing an old tub and dropping a new tub into the same spot. Factors that influence the cost of a new tub include the type of bathtub you choose, the scope of the renovation job, and the materials required for the job.
On average, a new bathtub installation costs about $5,600. That price can rise or fall depending on the tub type. For example, a free-standing bathtub or a whirlpool tub might cost considerably more than a standard, all-purpose bathtub.
Updating Cabinetry
Replacing, upgrading or refinishing your bathroom cabinets is typically not as expensive as many other parts of the project. Cabinets can cost $200–$600 per unit, and you can install ready-to-assemble cabinets yourself. Of course, more durable material costs more, and a high-end custom vanity can cost $10,000. Remember that bathroom cabinetry needs to withstand more humidity than cabinets in other rooms.
Updating Countertops
Cabinets usually go hand-in-hand with countertops, and you’ve got a choice of materials here, too. Bathroom countertops don’t have to stand up to the same level of use as kitchen countertops, so you have a few more options.
The least expensive materials are laminate, tile, and sealed wood, though these may be difficult to clean or be susceptible to damage. Granite, marble, and solid surface materials like quartzite are more expensive and durable, but some need to be properly sealed and may show stains.
Changing Faucets and Plumbing
Faucets in the bathroom are a relatively minor expense, and you can change them yourself for a few hundred dollars. This hardware is available in zinc, stainless steel, and brass in several finishes. Chrome-finished plastic is also available, and though it’s the least expensive option, it’s not recommended because it’s often flimsy and lacks durability. Good hardware will come with a substantial, even lifetime, warranty.
Although the faucets themselves are inexpensive, making substantial changes to the plumbing isn’t. When you start tinkering with your bathroom’s layout and its existing plumbing—changing the location of the toilet or tub, for example—you’ll need to hire a licensed plumber to do the work. Plumbing work typically costs $45–$200 an hour.
Toilet Upgrades
Depending on your old toilet’s condition, you may decide it’s time for an upgrade. A new toilet costs an average of $375 for the unit itself and the installation, though you may be able to find a bargain model as low as $100 if you install it yourself. You could look into higher-end models like dual flush toilets, bidets, or smart toilets.
Installing New Flooring
Bathroom flooring is another factor that provides many options, including some that can save you a lot of money. Natural stone and hardwood are higher-cost options, but new options in vinyl and laminate flooring can mimic their appearance at a much lower price. Floor tile made of ceramic or porcelain is another popular option, and it can be inexpensive, though tiles are harder to install and keep clean because of the grout.
All these options are priced by square footage, so the larger your bathroom, the higher the material and labor costs. If you want a more luxurious bathroom floor, you can opt for a radiant heating system under the tile work. The cost range for such a system is typically $15–$60 per square foot.
Replacing Light Fixtures
New light fixtures for your bathroom require relatively low costs. If you’re just swapping out existing fixtures, you can often do this yourself for an affordable price. However, moving lights around or adding new ones means you’ll need to hire an electrician. Electrician costs can range between $50 and $200 an hour. Electrical work, particularly in an area with so much water around, should be completed by a professional. Even general contractors usually employ subcontractors for this job.
Ventilation
Ventilation is essential to ensure that your bathroom can dry between uses so that mold and mildew don’t become a problem. Typically, this takes the form of an exhaust fan. Replacing this fan costs between $240 and $550, but if you need to install one from scratch, you must also install ductwork and vents. For this, you should hire a professional, driving the price closer to $1,000.
The cost of bathroom vents usually depends on the quietness of the fan, the size of your bathroom, and the type of light provided, if there is one. Quieter fans that move a greater amount of air and come with LED lighting will generally be more expensive.
Other Potential Bathroom Renovation Projects
The above is not an exhaustive list of bathroom renovation options. Here are some other factors that can go into a primary bathroom remodel:
- Bidet
- Hardware (drawer pulls, towel racks, toilet paper holder)
- Hot tub
- Medicine cabinet
- Mirrors
- Sauna
- Shower doors or curtains
- Tub and shower wall surrounds
Additional Bathroom Remodel Cost Considerations
There are a few costs that come with a remodel that many forget to include in their budget. Keep the following expenses in mind when estimating how much your remodeling project will cost.
Permits
Although cosmetic renovations don’t require a permit, more extensive remodeling projects do. Changes such as adding new windows, installing new plumbing, moving an outlet, and replacing a water heater typically require permits.
You may also need a permit if your remodel’s total cost exceeds a certain amount. Since building codes vary from city to city, make sure to check with your local planning or building department when designing your new bathroom and setting your budget. As the homeowner, you are responsible for the permits, though some contractors will assist you with applying for them.
Accessibility
If you need to make your bathroom more accessible, note that ADA-accessible appliances are often more expensive and may take up more space. For example, a top-of-the-line walk-in tub or roll-in shower will likely cost more and be bulkier than a standard tub or shower. Reduced-mobility features such as grab bars and shower seats make your bathroom safer but also add to material and labor costs.
Geographical Location
Where you live also affects material and labor prices. The cost of a bathroom remodel in one state may be a couple thousand dollars higher or lower in your area. Ensure you get a detailed estimate of your specific project before assessing your budget.
Disposal of Materials
In some cases, homeowners are responsible for material disposal during and after the project. Depending on how much construction and replacements your project involves, you could be left with fixtures you no longer need, flooring that’s been removed, or an entire wall to get rid of. Make a plan with your contractor ahead of time to see who will be in charge of disposal and what the best method is. If you can’t safely and properly dispose of the materials yourself, you may need to hire a junk removal company to take them away.
Not all materials can go to your local waste dropoff center, so research where your county requires each material to be taken. Note that work performed in houses built before 1978 may release asbestos and lead dust, which must be removed and disposed of by a professional.
What hidden costs should I budget for?
Should You Remodel Your Bathroom?
Remodel or renovate your bathroom within your budget if it has become dangerous, whether through cracked or broken tile, slippery surfaces or electrical hazards.
The decision to remodel your bathroom comes down to your budget and tolerance for disruption to your daily life. On the one hand, bathroom remodeling often has a substantial return on investment (ROI) when it comes to your home’s value. However, not everyone has remodeling money in the budget. Let’s look at some benefits of remodeling.
Return on Investment (ROI)
According to the JLC’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range bathroom remodel costs an average of $25,251 and recoups an average of $18,613 for a 73.7% ROI. Universal design and upscale remodels cost more and have a lower ROI (49.4% and 45.1%, respectively), but they still add resale value to your home.
Assume there will be unforeseen expenses that affect ROI. We recommend planning a 30% cushion in your budget. And while bathroom remodeling has a strong ROI, other projects can add more value, such as window and siding replacement (62.9%–88.4%) or a minor mid-range kitchen remodel (96.1%).
Improved Safety
If you have an older home, a home that wasn’t designed well, or a resident in your home with limited mobility, a bathroom remodel can remove safety issues. You may need to relocate electrical outlets farther away from water sources, add more lighting or ventilation, or make the layout or fixtures more user-friendly for your housemates.
Katie Loughmiller, Ph.D., associate professor at Kansas State University’s Department of Architectural Engineering and Construction Science, emphasizes the long-term value of an ADA-compatible design. “For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, a bathroom remodel can provide an opportunity to upgrade to an ADA-compatible design. By incorporating zero-entry showers, ADA-compliant toilets, and grab bars, you ensure continued accessibility as residents age.”
Better Energy Efficiency
Older appliances and light fixtures could be adding an unnoticed burden to your home’s energy usage. Installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and shower heads will help you conserve water, and updating light fixtures to LEDs could lower your electricity bill.
Alecia Taylor, interior designer at CabinetNow.com, says, “An updated bathroom not only improves functionality and safety (especially in aging-in-place remodels) but also enhances energy efficiency with modern fixtures like low-flow toilets and LED lighting.”
More Storage
A common bathroom complaint is minimal storage, which often results in a bathroom that’s cluttered or not functional. Remodeling to add more cabinetry or create a more usable layout can improve your bathroom’s appearance and functionality.
Updated Design
Bathrooms can become outdated quickly. There’s also a lot of personal preference that goes into designing a bathroom. A great bathroom remodel can freshen up the room, bring it up to date, and make it a space you enjoy being in if your existing room isn’t your style. This is not only a win for you but for your home’s value and future buyers.
What are the biggest benefits of remodeling a bathroom?
How To Save on Bathroom Remodel Costs
While some costs in a remodeling project aren’t negotiable, there are some areas where you can save money using these tips:
- Solidify your remodel plan with your contractor in advance so you don’t end up with costly surprises or redos.
- Consider the aspects you can do yourself, such as painting, to avoid paying for extra labor.
- Do some research or talk to your contractor about material dupes that are more cost-effective.
- Don’t rework the room’s layout if you don’t need to. Keeping the existing footprint can save you thousands.
- Refinish the sink and shower instead of fully replacing them.
Expert Advice
Outside of tackling some of the easier cost-cutting strategies…working with your designers to find fixtures for industry professional prices, the best strategy you can take is to work with a contractor on day one for costs estimates and budget adjustments as the design takes place. Having a real-time estimate on your design strategies will help you determine where you can cut costs.
Opt for refinishing existing fixtures (such as bathtubs or cabinets) and focus on updating elements like cabinet doors rather than replacing entire units. Keeping the original layout of the bathroom is a big cost-saver.
What’s the Difference Between a Bathroom Renovation and a Bathroom Remodel?
Some people use the terms “renovation” and “remodeling” interchangeably, but there are notable differences that affect your investment level and whether you should hire a contractor.
Bathroom Renovation
A renovation is less intensive than a remodel and includes mostly cosmetic changes. This could be putting in new flooring or fixtures, painting the cabinetry, or installing a new mirror. The bathroom layout remains the same, and there’s no major construction. For that reason, bathroom renovation costs are less than a remodel, and you can often manage a renovation yourself.
Bathroom Remodel
A remodel is more construction-heavy and could include knocking down walls, flipping the layout, or installing new appliances and cabinetry.
These projects usually require plumbing and electrical expertise and are best left to professionals, making them more expensive.
Can You Remodel Your Bathroom Yourself?
There are a lot of projects in bathroom remodeling that can be DIY-friendly, while others may require a professional. You may still be wondering whether to hire a professional contractor or interior designer or manage the project yourself. Here’s a quick summary of each option’s pros and cons.
DIY Bathroom Remodeling
As with any do-it-yourself home project, the decision to forego professional help should be made based on your experience with tools and your aptitude as an amateur builder or interior designer. There is a lot to be said for the satisfaction that comes with performing a complex remodeling task on your own or with limited assistance, and the upfront cost savings could be significant. However, for every plus you might find, you’ll find as many or more potential drawbacks.
Pros
- Saves you money on labor and other installation costs
- Allows you to maintain control over the schedule, scope, and expenses of the project
- Avoids days or weeks of sharing your home with a work crew
Cons
- Will likely take days or weeks longer to complete than if a pro did it
- Comes with more mistakes unless you’re an experienced builder or handyman
- Requires a trained professional for major ancillary tasks such as plumbing or rewiring
Professional Bathroom Remodeling
Hiring a professional home designer or builder to conduct your bathroom remodel might cost more, but the benefits often outweigh the cost savings. That said, if you are experienced and confident in your ability to complete complex home improvement projects, you can consider taking advantage of the potential cost savings.
Pros
- Takes fewer days or hours to complete
- Allows you to learn about more options during an initial consultation with a pro
- Gives you peace of mind with a professional’s warranty or guarantee
Cons
- Could cost substantially more than a DIY job
- Delays caused by scheduling conflicts or logistical problems could crop up
- Feels like your home has been taken over by a work crew for days or weeks
Is Remodeling Your Bathroom Worth It?
Remodeling your bathroom is worth it if you value modern bath amenities or if you intend to sell your home in the near future. It might also be worth it if someone who lives in your home requires assistance or is unable to safely use standard bathtubs, showers, sinks, or toilets.
With an above-average ROI and other potential benefits, many homeowners find that renovating their guest or primary bathroom is right for their home. If you’re intimidated by the average cost of a bathroom remodel, know that some choices can bring the price down. For example, you might consider an inexpensive bathroom flooring option that looks expensive, or you can refinish your tub instead of replacing it.
You can reduce labor and plumbing costs, which are typically the most significant part of a home improvement project, by avoiding substantial changes to the plumbing and electrical system of the bathroom. Finally, while you can’t always plan for the unexpected, intentionally having some extra room in your budget will significantly reduce your stress level.
FAQs About Bathroom Remodel Costs
What is the difference between a full bath remodel and a partial bath remodel?
Typically, the difference is the same as between a bathroom remodel and a renovation. In other words, a full bathroom remodel makes substantial changes to the layout and plumbing of a primary or guest bathroom, usually including the wet area. On the other hand, a partial bath remodel makes changes to features like cabinets, fixtures, and walls while leaving the general layout intact. As you might expect, a partial remodel costs less than a full remodel.
Where can I find bathroom remodel ideas?
You can approach the idea phase of the remodeling process in several different ways, but it’s usually a good idea to consider functionality first. Thus, think about what your current bathroom lacks. It might be proper lighting, sufficient storage, or an efficient layout. Then, start looking at different bathroom styles to see what appeals to you.
Check out our list of bathroom remodeling tips for some ideas.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
When it comes to remodeling, the highest single cost is labor, which usually accounts for 20%–65% of the final cost. However, if you’re looking at the tangible items within a bathroom, the wet area (tub, walk-in shower, and wall surrounds) is the most expensive part. A tub alone can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars.
What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel?
A full bathroom remodel costs an average of $25,000, depending on the size of the bathroom and the scope of the job. Keep in mind that this number might change if you’re remodeling your bathroom specifically to help with the resell value of your home because you can count on recouping a percentage of that after the sale.
Do bathroom remodels increase a home’s resale value?
Bathroom remodels typically do increase a home’s resale value. According to the Journal of Light Construction, a mid-range bathroom remodel costing $25,000 can increase a home’s selling price by about $18,000 for a recouped cost of 73.7%.
