How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in 2026?
A standard bathroom remodel costs $6,000–$25,000 with a $12,000 average. Tile, plumbing relocation, and fixture choices drive most of the variation.
What’s included in a bathroom remodel
Demolition leads off, followed by plumbing rough-in adjustments, electrical updates to code (lighting and outlets), waterproofing, tile or surround installation, the vanity, toilet, fixtures, mirror, accessories, and paint. Permits and inspections are typically baked into the contractor’s quote.
When you’ll pay more than average
The $12,000 average assumes a standard 5x8 ft footprint with a tub-shower combo, a single vanity, and mid-grade tile. Walk-in showers with frameless glass, double vanities, heated floors, and natural stone tile push costs toward the $25,000 high end. Older homes often need new venting or rerouted drains to meet current code.
When you’ll pay less
DIY-friendly elements (paint, mirror, hardware swaps, even vanity installation) can save $1,500–$3,000 if you’re capable. Reglazing an existing tub instead of replacing it saves $1,000–$2,500. Keeping the existing tile and just refreshing fixtures lands many bathroom updates under $5,000.
Cost Factors
- Tub vs. walk-in shower
- Standard tub-shower combo costs $500–$1,500. A walk-in shower with glass enclosure runs $3,000–$7,500 installed. Replacing a tub with a shower adds plumbing work.
- Tile complexity
- Basic ceramic floor tile runs $5–$10/sq ft installed. Porcelain $10–$20. Mosaic shower walls or pattern work can hit $25–$50/sq ft due to labor.
- Plumbing relocation
- Keeping fixtures in place is cheapest. Moving the toilet adds $500–$1,200; moving the tub or shower drain adds $1,500–$3,500.
- Fixture tier
- Builder-grade vanity, toilet, and faucet sets run $500–$1,500 total. Mid-range $1,500–$4,000. Designer fixtures $4,000–$10,000+.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A standard remodel takes 3–6 weeks, with the bathroom unusable for most of that time. Tile cure times and inspection scheduling add days at multiple points.
Does a bathroom remodel pay for itself?
Mid-range bathroom remodels recoup roughly 55–65% at resale. Adding a second bathroom typically returns more than upgrading an existing one.
Do I need a permit?
Yes if you're moving plumbing or electrical, replacing the tub or shower, or modifying the venting. Cosmetic refreshes (paint, vanity swap, mirror) usually don't.
Last updated 2026-05-24.