Key takeaways
- Typical cost: $6,600–$18,000 for a typical remodel.
- Typical remodel: $6,600–$18,000
- Per sq ft: $70–$250
- Small refresh: under $5,000
- Timeline: A typical bathroom remodel takes 2–4 weeks.
- Permits: Moving plumbing, adding circuits or installing an exhaust fan usually needs a permit.
Bathroom Remodel Cost at a glance
A bathroom remodel typically costs $6,600–$18,000, or about $70–$250 per square foot. Cosmetic updates can stay under $5,000; luxury primary-bath renovations can exceed $80,000.
| Item | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Typical bathroom remodel | $6,600–$18,000 | Mid-range finishes |
| Cosmetic refresh | Under $5,000 | Paint, vanity, fixtures, lighting |
| High-end primary bath | $80,000+ | Layout changes, custom tile, premium fixtures |
| Cost per square foot | $70–$250 | Higher for small baths with lots of tile |
| Demolition | $1,000–$2,300 | Removing tile, tub and vanity |
| Permits | $100–$1,000 | Varies by city and scope |
Prices run lowest in states like Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama and highest in Hawaii, California and Alaska. See the full breakdown and cost by state →
Bathroom Remodeling cost questions
- What is the cost of typical bathroom remodel? The typical cost of typical bathroom remodel is $6,600–$18,000. Mid-range finishes.
- What is the cost of cosmetic refresh? The typical cost of cosmetic refresh is Under $5,000. Paint, vanity, fixtures, lighting.
- What is the cost of high-end primary bath? The typical cost of high-end primary bath is $80,000+. Layout changes, custom tile, premium fixtures.
- What is the cost of cost per square foot? The typical cost of cost per square foot is $70–$250. Higher for small baths with lots of tile.
- What is the cost of demolition? The typical cost of demolition is $1,000–$2,300. Removing tile, tub and vanity.
- What is the cost of permits? The typical cost of permits is $100–$1,000. Varies by city and scope.
- What is the cost of water damage repair found during demo? The typical cost of water damage repair found during demo is $3.75–$7 per sq ft. Subfloor and wall repair.
- What is the cost of moving the floor plan? The typical cost of moving the floor plan is About $5,000 extra. Relocating toilet, shower or drain.
Types of bathroom remodels
| Type | What's included | Typical budget |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh | Paint, vanity, fixtures, mirror, lighting | Under $5,000 |
| Standard remodel | New tile, tub or shower, vanity, toilet, flooring | $6,600–$18,000 |
| Luxury / layout change | Moved plumbing, custom tile, freestanding tub | $25,000–$80,000+ |
Bathroom remodel steps
- Plan the layout and pick fixtures and tile.
- Pull permits for plumbing or electrical changes.
- Demolition and inspection for water damage.
- Rough-in plumbing and electrical; inspection.
- Waterproofing, cement board and tile.
- Vanity, toilet, fixtures, lighting, ventilation fan and final inspection.
Don't skip these
- Waterproofing behind shower tile — it's what prevents rot and mold.
- A vented exhaust fan sized to the room and ducted outdoors, not into the attic.
- GFCI outlets near water, required by code.
- Blocking for grab bars in the walls, even if you don't install them yet.
Common bathroom remodeling questions
How much does a small bathroom remodel cost?
A typical bathroom remodel costs about $6,600–$18,000 with mid-range finishes. A cosmetic refresh with paint, a new vanity and fixtures can stay under $5,000.
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost?
It varies widely: a prefab shower kit sits at the low end, while a custom tiled walk-in with glass costs much more. See our tub-to-shower conversion guide for details.
Can a bathroom be remodeled in a week?
A cosmetic update or a prefab tub-to-shower swap can be done in about a week. A full remodel with new tile and plumbing usually takes 2–4 weeks.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
Labor, custom tile showers, frameless glass and moving plumbing are the biggest costs. Keeping the toilet, tub and sink where they are saves the most money.
Does a bathroom remodel add value to a house?
It typically recoups part of its cost at resale, not all of it. Mid-range updates usually return a bigger share than luxury remodels.
Should I keep a bathtub for resale?
Many agents suggest keeping at least one tub in the home, especially for buyers with young children. Converting a second or primary bath tub to a shower is usually fine.
How do I prevent mold in a new bathroom?
Use a proper waterproofing membrane behind shower tile, vent the exhaust fan outdoors and run it 20 minutes after every shower.
What order is a bathroom remodel done in?
Demolition, plumbing and electrical rough-in, inspection, waterproofing, tile, then vanity, toilet, glass and fixtures.
Timeline, permits and DIY
How long it takes
A typical bathroom remodel takes 2–4 weeks. A tub-to-shower conversion can take about a week.
Permits
Moving plumbing, adding circuits or installing an exhaust fan usually needs a permit.
DIY or hire a pro?
Swapping a vanity, painting and replacing fixtures are DIY-friendly. Shower waterproofing, plumbing moves and electrical work are best left to pros.
Questions to ask contractors
Ask every bidder the same questions so you can compare quotes apples to apples.
- Which waterproofing system goes behind the shower tile?
- Will the exhaust fan vent outdoors, not into the attic?
- Who does the plumbing and electrical, and are they licensed?
- How long will the bathroom be out of service?
Maintenance that prevents costly repairs
- Run the exhaust fan for 20 minutes after showers
- Recaulk tubs and showers every 1–2 years
- Reseal grout once a year
Frequently asked questions
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A standard bathroom remodel usually takes 3–6 weeks of work. Small cosmetic updates can take a few days; layout changes take longer.
Do I need a permit to remodel a bathroom?
Usually yes when you change plumbing, electrical or ventilation. Purely cosmetic work often doesn't require one — check with your city.
Does a bathroom remodel add value?
Yes. Cost vs. Value data shows bathroom remodels typically recoup at least 60% of their cost, with mid-range remodels recovering up to about 80%.
Is a tub-to-shower conversion a good idea?
Often, for primary bathrooms and aging in place. Keep at least one tub in the home if you have young children or expect buyers with families.
What is the best flooring for a bathroom?
Porcelain tile is the most durable choice. Luxury vinyl plank is a waterproof, lower-cost alternative.
Should I replace or refinish my bathtub?
Refinish a structurally sound tub to save money. Replace it if it's cracked, leaking or you want a different size or style.
How do I prevent mold in a remodeled bathroom?
Waterproof the shower properly, install a vented exhaust fan, and run it during showers and for 20 minutes after.
In-depth bathroom remodeling guides
Bathroom Remodeling by city
Sources: NerdWallet — Bathroom remodel cost (2026). Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.