How Much Does It Cost To Remodel a Bathroom (Updated for 2024)

If you’re considering a bathroom remodel, the first question you will probably ask is how much it’s going to cost. While it’s a fair question, the answer depends on what type of renovations you need. Smaller renovations can cost $3,000, an average renovation can cost $12,500, and a larger renovation can cost as much as $35,000. We explore the key factors that impact the cost of bathroom renovations and provide some general estimates to help you plan your budget. Whether you’re looking to improve your comfort or safety or want to increase the value of your home, understanding bathroom remodeling costs is an important first step.

How Much Does the Average Bathroom Remodel Cost?

The national average cost for bathroom remodeling is $12,500. However, the exact cost will depend on the type and extent of your bath renovations and the materials you choose. You may only pay $400 for a new toilet but could easily spend $5,000 or more on a luxury model.

While many factors contribute to the overall cost of renovations, here are the four big expenses to consider when budgeting for any bathroom remodeling project:

• Type and extent of renovations – In terms of renovation costs, the biggest factor is what you have done. Cosmetic updates are less expensive than remove-and-replace remodeling. Major layout changes will cost more and you may need to hire a structural engineer or architectural services company. If you want a luxury bath, the sky is the limit. The square footage is also a factor.
• Labor costs – Installation and labor are usually the next biggest expense in a bathroom remodel. Your total costs include demolition, plumbing updates, electrical work, and installing new fixtures and finishes.
• Materials – The cost of materials is another major consideration in your bathroom remodel. High-end products can add up quickly, but budget-grade materials are usually less durable and do not add much value to your home.
• Fixtures – Fixtures include your toilet and bathtub or shower, as well as smaller items like your sink. Although technically separate, plumbing fixtures, vanities, cabinets, and flooring generally fall under the same classification.

It’s a good idea to get estimates from multiple contractors and to set a budget before starting your bathroom remodel to ensure that you stay on track.

Average Bathroom Renovation Costs

Here are the average costs for the most common bath renovation services.

• Shower installation: $250 – $16,000
• Tub installation: $4,500 – $12,000
• Sink installation: $250 – $700
• Sink faucet installation: $200 – $400
• Toilet installation: $400 – $5,000
• Cabinet installation: $350 – $45,000
• Countertop installation: $500 – $4,500
• Ventilation installation: $150 – $450
• Lighting installation: $200 – $1,000
• Door installation: $400 – $1,500
• Bathroom painting: $75 – $150
• Towel rack installation: $150 – $600
• Showerhead installation: $150 – $175
• Cabinet hardware installation: $5 – $250 per piece
• Bidet installation: $50 – $2,000

However, these are only rough estimates. The exact costs will depend on the materials you choose, your location, and other factors.

Types of Bathroom Renovations and How Much They Cost

There is a wide range of how much your bathroom renovations will cost depending on the type of remodeling you choose.

Wet-Area Cosmetic Upgrades

Wet-area upgrades are a cosmetic bathroom renovation that covers your existing bathtub or shower. These are usually called bath liners or fitters since they line or fit over your existing shower or tub.

Most wet-area upgrades are made of acrylic materials that resist scratching, cracking, and warping. These materials are easy to clean and normally have an anti-microbial coating to prevent mold and mildew. However, they are also available in other materials like natural and artificial stone.

These cosmetic upgrades range from $1,000 to $3,500 on average, depending on the material and the options you choose. Additionally, you can convert an existing bathtub into a walk-in shower or vice versa.

Although some companies will do other renovations like installing a new vanity or flooring, most only do renovations to the shower or tub area. Talk to the individual bathroom remodeling company for specifics about costs and services.

Remove-and-Replace Renovations

Remove-and-replace bathroom remodeling involves taking out existing fixtures and replacing them with all new items. However, the extent of the renovations can vary from project to project.

For example, you can just replace an existing toilet and bathtub or take out the vanity, cabinets, and flooring as well. However, remove-and-replace bath remodeling usually does not include structural changes like moving plumbing or walls.

Also called a full, rip-and-replace bathroom remodel, you can expect these types of renovations to cost between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the extent of the work and the materials you choose.

Bathroom Redesign

A bathroom redesign is similar to remove-and-replace, but it usually includes changing the floor plan, layout, or structure of the room. Commonly, this involves turning the bathtub or toilet or changing the size of the bathroom.

The overall cost depends on the extent of the changes and what it takes to reconstruct the room afterward. On average, you can expect a bath redesign to cost from $11,000 to $25,000. But prices can vary widely depending on your options.

Bathroom Installation

While not necessarily a renovation, you can also install a new bathroom. This includes anything from adding a half-bath in your basement to completely constructing a new bathroom somewhere in your home.

Installation includes framing out the space, running all new plumbing and electrical lines, putting into all-new fixtures, and finishing the space. While the total cost will depend on the size of the bathroom, the complexity of installation, and the materials you choose, expect the price to range from $5,000 to $15,000 on average. Luxury installations will typically cost more.

What Factors Determine How Much It Costs To Remodel a Bathroom?

Size of the Room

The size of your bathroom is one of the biggest factors influencing the total cost. Remodeling a small powder room or half-bath will be significantly less expensive than renovating a large master bathroom. A larger space requires more materials, more fixtures, and more labor, all of which can increase costs. For example, tiling a small bathroom might take a few days, while a large master bath with a separate shower and tub could take weeks. Additionally, larger bathrooms often include more amenities, such as double vanities or extensive cabinetry, further increasing the cost.

Layout or Structural Changes

If you’re planning to make significant changes to the layout of your bathroom, such as moving walls or relocating plumbing fixtures, you will need to account for additional expenses. Structural changes often necessitate hiring a structural engineer or an architect to ensure the modifications are safe and comply with local building codes. Moving water pipes and sewage lines can be particularly costly and complex, as it requires skilled labor and can involve extensive demolition and reconstruction. The need for professional assessments and specialized labor can substantially increase the overall cost of your remodel.

Labor Costs

Labor and installation costs vary widely depending on the bathroom project’s complexity and the contractor’s expertise. High-quality contractors with extensive experience may charge higher rates, but their work is often more reliable and long-lasting. It’s essential to obtain multiple bids from different contractors to compare prices and ensure you are getting a fair deal. Labor costs can include everything from demolition and plumbing to electrical work and tiling. Complex projects requiring specialized skills will generally result in higher labor costs.

Fixtures

The type and quality of fixtures you choose for your bathroom remodel will impact the total cost. Fixtures include everything from toilets and sinks to bathtubs and showerheads. High-end fixtures, such as a luxury soaker tub or a high-efficiency toilet, can be expensive. Even smaller items, like faucets and towel racks, can add up quickly if you opt for premium brands and materials. Shopping around for deals and comparing prices can help you find fixtures that fit your style and budget.

Countertops

Countertops are a significant factor in the cost of a bathroom renovation project. Materials such as granite or marble can be expensive but add considerable value and aesthetic appeal to your home. Other options, like quartz or solid surface materials, offer durability and style at a slightly lower cost. Laminate countertops are the most budget-friendly but may not offer the same longevity or visual appeal as natural stone. The choice of countertop material will directly affect the overall cost of your remodel.

Vanity and Cabinets

The vanity and cabinets you select for your bathroom remodel can also influence the total cost. Custom cabinets, tailored to fit your space and style, tend to be more expensive than stock options available at home improvement stores. However, custom cabinets can provide a unique touch and maximize storage in ways standard cabinets cannot. The materials used for cabinets, such as solid wood versus particleboard, also impact the cost. Investing in high-quality cabinets can enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom.

Flooring

The type of flooring you choose will have a substantial effect on the total cost of your bathroom remodel. Stone or ceramic tiles are popular choices due to their durability and easy maintenance, but they are also among the most expensive options. Other flooring materials, such as vinyl tiles or sheets, laminate planks, and engineered wood, offer more affordable alternatives that can still provide a stylish look. The flooring cost will include the materials and the labor for installation, which can vary based on the design’s complexity and the subfloor’s condition.

Plumbing

Plumbing costs can be a significant part of a bathroom remodel, especially if you plan to move fixtures or upgrade to high-end options. Using existing pipes and drains is the most cost-effective approach, but if you need to relocate plumbing features, the costs can quickly add up. This work often requires skilled plumbers who charge higher rates for their expertise. Additionally, upgrading plumbing fixtures to more efficient or luxurious options can increase costs but may provide long-term savings on water bills.

Ceilings, Doors, and Walls

The cost of repairing, replacing, or installing new ceilings, doors, and walls will also impact your overall budget. Most bathroom remodels involve some degree of wall work, whether it’s patching up holes from removed fixtures or installing new drywall. If you’re changing the bathroom’s layout, you may also need to adjust the position of doors or even add new ones. Ceiling updates might include adding recessed lighting or upgrading ventilation systems, both of which can add to the expense. The quality of materials and the extent of the work required will determine the final cost.

Lighting

The lighting fixtures you choose can significantly affect the total cost of your bathroom remodel. Common choices include recessed lights, vanity lights, and ceiling-mounted fixtures. High-end or decorative lighting options can be more expensive, but they can also enhance the ambiance and functionality of your bathroom. The cost will include the price of the fixtures and the labor required to install them. Ensuring proper lighting is essential for aesthetics and practicality, especially in a space where tasks like shaving or applying makeup are performed.

Painting

Painting is another factor in the cost of a bathroom remodel. While it might seem like a small expense compared to other aspects, hiring a professional painter can be costly. Getting multiple bids and asking for references can help you find a painter who offers quality work at a fair price. The type of paint you choose can also affect the cost; for example, moisture-resistant paints are more expensive but necessary for a bathroom environment to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial in a bathroom to reduce moisture and improve air quality. Installing a new fan or venting system can increase the total cost of your remodel. The installation’s complexity, whether it involves running new ductwork or upgrading an existing system, will affect the final expense. A well-ventilated bathroom helps prevent damage to walls, ceilings, and fixtures caused by excess moisture, making it a worthwhile investment despite the additional cost.

Permits and Inspections

Depending on your local regulations, you may need to obtain permits for your bathroom remodel. This can add to the cost of your project, so it’s essential to factor it into your budget. Permit requirements vary by location, so contact your local housing authority to determine what is needed in your area. Inspections are typically required to ensure that the work complies with building codes and safety standards, adding another layer of cost and complexity to your remodel.

Your Location

The cost of a bathroom remodel can vary depending on your location. Labor, installation, and material costs may be higher in some areas due to local market conditions. Urban areas or regions with a high cost of living often have higher remodeling costs than rural or less expensive areas. Researching the local market and getting quotes from contractors in your area can help you understand what to expect and budget accordingly.

Furniture and Decor

Lastly, don’t forget to factor in additional costs for furniture, accessories, and decor for your new bathroom. Items such as towel racks, mirrors, shelving, and decorative elements can add up. Reusing existing items will save money, but they might not fit your remodeled bathroom’s new style. Budgeting for these finishing touches is essential to complete the look and functionality of your bathroom remodel.