The Best 2025 Bathroom Remodel Cost Estimator

Square footage

The size of your bathroom plays a significant role in determining the overall cost. Larger bathrooms require more materials, such as wall tiles, flooring, and fixtures, which can drive up expenses. However, small bathroom remodels can also be pricey if you're making significant changes to plumbing and electrical systems.

Here's a quick breakdown of average costs based on square footage:

• Small bathroom (40-60 square feet): $6,000-$12,000
• Medium bathroom (60-100 square feet): $10,000-$18,000
• Large bathroom (100+ square feet): $15,000-$30,000+

Types of bathroom

Here's a breakdown of average costs for different types of bathrooms:

Types of materials

The materials you choose can make or break your budget. For example:

• Flooring: Ceramic tiles are affordable, while natural stone like marble can be expensive.
• Wall tiles: Subway tiles are budget-friendly, but custom mosaic designs can add up costs quickly.
• Bathroom fixtures: A basic faucet might cost $50, while a high-end model could set you back by $500 or more.

Labor costs

Labor typically accounts for 40-60% of your total budget. This includes the cost of hiring plumbers, electricians, and contractors. Complex projects, such as installing a walk-in shower or relocating plumbing, will increase labor costs.

Plumbing and electrical work

If your remodel involves moving pipes, adding new outlets, or upgrading your electrical panel, expect to pay more. These tasks require skilled professionals and can significantly impact your budget.

Bathroom design and features

Dreaming of a spa-like retreat with a walk-in shower, heated floors, and custom cabinetry? These luxury features will increase the cost of your bathroom renovation. On the other hand, sticking to basic upgrades can help you save money.

Here is a cost breakdown of some basic bathroom fixtures:

• Bathtub: $600 to $1,120
• Toilet: $480 to $950
• Sinks: $460 to $1,500
• Vanities and cabinets: $450 to $1,660
• Bathroom lighting: $46 to $230 per light fixture
• Bathroom mirror(s): $75 to $150
• Paintwork: $60 to $110 (per 100 sq. ft.)
• Flooring: $580 to $1,060 (per 100 sq. ft.)
• Countertops: $65 to $260 (per linear foot)
• Towel bars: $50 to $100
• Grab bars: $40 to $70

Plan and budget wisely

• Set a clear remodeling budget - Determine how much you're willing to spend and stick to it.
• Prioritize must-haves - Focus on essential upgrades and avoid unnecessary splurges.
• Time it right - Remodeling during off-peak seasons (winter season) can sometimes get you better pricing.

Hire bathroom contractors smartly

• Get multiple bids - Compare contractor quotes to ensure you're getting the best price. Don't always go with the cheapest-quality matters.
• Use a handyman for small jobs - Instead of hiring specialized trades for minor tasks, a handyman may be more cost-effective.

Keep the bathroom layout the same

• Avoid moving plumbing fixtures - Relocating pipes for sinks, toilets, or showers is expensive.
• Work with existing electrical - Rewiring and adding new circuits in your bathroom can add to the cost.

Read more: Breaking down plumbing costs

Reuse and repurpose materials

• Refinish instead of replacing - Reglaze or repaint bathtubs, tiles, and cabinets instead of buying new ones.
• Keep the existing bathroom vanity if it's in good condition - Repaint, reface, or replace just the doors for a fresh look.
• Consider using remnant stone for the bathroom countertops - Leftover slabs from fabricators can be much cheaper.

Shop smart for materials

• Look for sales and discounts - Home improvement stores and online retailers often have deals.
• Buy floor models - You can find vanities, sinks, and tubs at steep discounts.
• Use affordable alternatives - Consider luxury vinyl instead of real wood, or porcelain instead of natural stone.

DIY where possible

• Paint yourself - A fresh coat of paint can transform the space.
• Install fixtures and hardware - Swap out bathroom faucets, towel bars, and lighting without hiring a pro.
• Simple demolition tasks - If safe, remove old tiles and fixtures yourself to save on labor costs.

Consider prefabricated options

• Prefabricated shower or tub kits - These are often cheaper and easier to install than custom tile work.
• Stock cabinets - Custom cabinetry is pricey; opt for pre-made vanities or IKEA-style options.

Be strategic with bathroom tiles

• Limit high-end tiles - Use expensive tiles as accents and go budget-friendly for the rest.
• Install tile partially - Tile only where necessary (e.g., inside the shower, not the entire wall).

Optimize lighting efficiently

• Keep existing light placement - Moving electrical points adds costs.
• Use LED light fixtures - Long-lasting and energy-efficient, these help save on future electricity bills.

Check for rebates and incentives

• Water-efficient fixtures - Some states offer rebates for low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads.
• Energy-efficient upgrades - Look for incentives on LED bathroom lighting or ventilation fans.

Bathroom renovation vs. remodel: what is the difference?

Renovation and remodeling have different meanings. Bathroom renovation involves updating existing features without changing the layout or structure. It enhances appearance and functionality without major changes.

Bathroom remodeling, however, involves larger changes such as altering the bathroom layout or structure. This could mean expanding the space, relocating fixtures, or converting a bathtub into a walk-in shower. It's more extensive and costly.

How often should you remodel your bathroom?

Bathrooms, being one of the most frequently used spaces in a home, typically require a significant remodel every 10 to 15 years, depending on the quality of materials, usage, and maintenance. Factors like lifestyle changes, accessibility needs, energy efficiency, and real estate value can also prompt a remodel.

Signs like worn tiles, leaky showers, or outdated fixtures often indicate it's time for a renovation. Homeowners may also consider smaller updates, such as redecorating or replacing fixtures, every 3 to 5 years to keep the space fresh and functional.

How much do bathroom remodeling professionals charge, on average?

Labor costs usually account for 40% to 60% of the total budget, with professionals charging $80 to $150 per hour depending on their expertise and location. Remember, it's important to get multiple quotes and clearly define the project scope to ensure accurate pricing.