Bathroom Renovation Costs: Navigating Your Mid-Range Makeover
The investment required for a mid-range bathroom remodel can vary significantly, ranging from as little as $2,500 to upwards of $30,000, depending on the project’s complexity and specific type of renovation. According to cost data published by the Journal of Light Construction (JLC), the average cost for a mid-range bathroom remodel is approximately $25,000.
In fact, our 2025 homeowners survey indicates that a remarkable 53% of homeowners are planning to remodel or renovate their bathrooms in the upcoming year. Post-renovation, homeowners typically experience enhanced comfort, improved convenience, and the satisfaction of a modernized bathroom featuring contemporary fixtures and design elements. This guide will delve into the various factors that influence the cost of a bathroom remodel, as well as highlight the key benefits and potential pitfalls to consider.
Key Takeaways:
- A mid-range bathroom remodeling project typically averages around $25,000 but can be as low as $2,500, contingent on design choices, material selections, and overall scope.
- The cost to remodel a guest bathroom can fall anywhere from $3,500 to $20,000, while a primary bathroom remodel may range from $7,000 to $30,000.
- The JLC 2024 cost report estimates a return on investment (ROI) of 73.7% for a mid-range bathroom remodel, whereas a high-end remodel shows an ROI of 45.1%.
- Renovating wet surface areas, such as the bathtub or shower, represents one of the more significant expenses, potentially costing between $200 and $15,000, depending on the type and chosen materials.
- Minor upgrades, like installing new faucets ($170–$360) and modern light fixtures ($150–$930), can considerably refresh your bathroom’s aesthetic without a hefty price tag.
Average Primary Bathroom Remodel Costs:
- Low-End Cost: $7,000
- Average Cost: $18,500
- High-End Cost: $30,000
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Understanding Average Bathroom Remodel Costs and ROI
The average cost of a bathroom remodel is influenced by numerous factors, including the project’s extent and the materials selected. According to the JLC, a mid-range bathroom remodel in 2024 cost an average of approximately $25,251. This represents a slight increase from the 2023 average of $24,606 but remains below the post-COVID 2022 peak of $27,164.
Compare average bathroom remodeling costs and their potential ROI below:
| Bathroom Remodel Type | Average Cost | Bathroom Remodel ROI |
| Mid-range | $25,251 | 73.7% |
| Universal Design | $40,750 | 49.4% |
| High-end | $78,840 | 45.1% |
Note: The cost data in this article was sourced from the JLC 2024 cost report and 2025 Angi pricing data.
Jim Fuson, owner of 21st Century Home Inspections, highlights the potential complexities of bathroom remodels. “The possibilities for bathroom design are limitless. If you’re upgrading from a traditional single-person shower to a two-person shower with dual shower heads and all the latest features, you might even need to increase your water heater’s storage capacity.”
Such ambitious projects might entail installing a new tankless water heater, undertaking additional electrical work, or integrating radiant floor heating, all of which will naturally increase your overall expenditure.
The JLC bases its estimated cost for a mid-range bathroom remodel on a hypothetical 35-square-foot space, assuming the installation of:
- A 30-by-60-inch porcelain-on-steel tub
- A 4-by-4-foot ceramic tile tub surround
- A single-lever temperature and pressure-balanced shower control
- A standard white toilet
- A solid-surface vanity counter with an integral sink
- A recessed medicine cabinet with integrated lighting
- A ceramic tile floor
- Vinyl wallpaper
A significant, upscale bathroom remodeling project carried an average cost of $78,840, slightly more than 2023’s approximately $76,000 but still less than the pandemic-influenced peak of nearly $83,000 in 2022.
Its estimate for a major bathroom remodel is based on a hypothetical space measuring 35–100 square feet and the installation of these features:
- A 42-by-42-inch neo-angle shower with ceramic tile walls and an accent strip
- A recessed shower caddy and body-spray fixtures
- A frameless glass enclosure
- A freestanding soaker tub with high-end faucets
- A stone countertop with two sinks
- Two mirrored medicine cabinets with lighting
- A water closet featuring a one-piece toilet
- A humidistat-controlled exhaust fan
- Large ceramic tile flooring
- Electric in-floor heating
Common Bathroom Remodeling Project Costs: An Itemized Breakdown
Below is an estimated item-by-item breakdown of costs for various bathroom remodeling components:
| Bathroom Project | Cost Range |
| Bathtub Installation | $215–$14,700 |
| Cabinetry | $200–$600 per unit |
| Countertops | $1–$190 per sq ft |
| Faucets | $170–$360 |
| Light Fixture Installation | $150–$930 |
| Radiant Floor Heating | $15–$60 per sq ft |
| Shower Installation | $390–$17,000 |
| Toilet | $375 |
| Vinyl or Laminate Flooring | $1–$14 per sq ft |
| Vent Fan Installation | $400 |
Remodel Cost by Bathroom Type
Given that size significantly influences bathroom remodel costs, here’s an estimated price breakdown for renovating different bathroom types, along with typical completion times. The total cost generally ranges from $100 to $200 per square foot.
| Remodel Type | Average Cost | Average Time |
| Half-Bath | $1,500–$15,000 | 5-7 days |
| Guest Bath | $3,500–$20,000 | 10-14 days |
| Primary Bath | $7,000–$30,000 | 15-25 days |
| Wet Room Installation | $2,000–$30,000 | 10-30 days |
Factors Influencing Bathroom Remodel Costs
Beyond your bathroom’s size, the specific areas you choose to renovate and your selected materials heavily dictate the final price tag. The most substantial material costs typically come from the wet area, bathroom vanity, countertops, and tiling.
Below, we detail the most common cost drivers for a bathroom remodel.
Remodeling the Wet Area
The bathroom’s wet area refers to the waterproofed section of the room designed to endure damp, humid conditions. This typically includes the bathtub, shower, or a combination thereof, along with the surrounding walls and floors. It is also usually the most expensive component of a bathroom remodeling project.
Given the multitude of projects associated with the wet area, the time and expense of this renovation can fluctuate wildly. A simple tub refinishing or liner installation might take only a few hours. However, extensive projects like converting all or part of a bathroom into a wet room can span several days to weeks, as they involve considerable demolition, not to mention the significant time, effort, and expertise required to design a wet room.
Shower Remodels
Why consider a shower remodel or replacement? Perhaps your current shower is outdated or out of style, its floor or wall tiles are damaged, the showerhead and fixtures are malfunctioning, the pipes and drain are old and faulty, or you need to install a safer showering environment due to age or mobility concerns.
Factors that impact the cost of a shower remodel include your chosen materials, the project’s scope, the type of fixtures and features you select, and the specific shower configuration (e.g., a corner stand-up shower versus a double shower).
Bathtub Remodels
A bathroom remodeling job frequently involves the complete replacement of an old or damaged bathtub. This might necessitate repairing or replacing existing plumbing fixtures and pipes, or simply removing an old tub and dropping a new one into the same footprint. Factors influencing the cost of a new tub include the type of bathtub you select, the scope of the renovation, and the materials required.
On average, a new bathtub installation costs around $5,600. This price can increase or decrease based on the tub type. For example, a free-standing bathtub or a whirlpool tub could be considerably more expensive than a standard, all-purpose bathtub.
Updating Cabinetry
Replacing, upgrading, or refinishing your bathroom cabinets is typically less expensive than many other parts of the project. Cabinets can cost between $200 and $600 per unit, and you can even install ready-to-assemble cabinets yourself. Naturally, more durable materials come at a higher price, and a high-end custom vanity can reach $10,000. Remember that bathroom cabinetry must be designed to withstand higher humidity levels than cabinets in other rooms.
Updating Countertops
Cabinets often go hand-in-hand with countertops, offering a wide array of material choices. Bathroom countertops generally don’t face the same rigorous use as kitchen countertops, providing you with a few more options.
The most budget-friendly materials include laminate, tile, and sealed wood, though these might be more challenging to clean or prone to damage. Granite, marble, and solid surface materials like quartzite are pricier and more durable, but some require proper sealing and may be susceptible to staining.
Changing Faucets and Plumbing
Faucets in the bathroom represent a relatively minor expense, and you can often replace them yourself for a few hundred dollars. This hardware is available in zinc, stainless steel, and brass with various finishes. Chrome-finished plastic options are also available and, while the least expensive, are generally not recommended due to their flimsy nature and lack of durability. High-quality hardware should come with a substantial, even lifetime, warranty.
While faucets themselves are inexpensive, making significant alterations to the existing plumbing system is not. When you begin to modify your bathroom’s layout and relocate existing plumbing – for example, moving a toilet or tub – you’ll need to hire a licensed plumber to perform the work. Plumbing work typically costs $45–$200 per hour.
Toilet Upgrades
Depending on the condition of your existing toilet, you might decide it’s time for an upgrade. A new toilet costs an average of $375 for the unit and installation, though you might find bargain models as low as $100 if you handle the installation yourself. You could also explore higher-end options such as dual-flush toilets, bidets, or smart toilets.
Installing New Flooring
Bathroom flooring offers numerous options, including some that can lead to significant cost savings. Natural stone and hardwood represent higher-cost choices, but modern vinyl and laminate flooring alternatives can replicate their appearance at a much lower price point. Ceramic or porcelain floor tile is another popular option that can be inexpensive, though tiles can be more challenging to install and maintain due to grout lines.
All these flooring options are priced by square footage, meaning a larger bathroom will result in higher material and labor costs. For a more luxurious bathroom floor, you might consider opting for a radiant heating system installed beneath the tile work. The typical cost range for such a system is $15–$60 per square foot.
Replacing Light Fixtures
Installing new light fixtures in your bathroom generally incurs relatively low costs. If you are simply swapping out existing fixtures, you can often manage this yourself for an affordable price. However, relocating lights or adding new ones necessitates hiring an electrician. Electrician costs can range between $50 and $200 per hour. Electrical work, particularly in an area with so much water, should always be completed by a qualified professional. Even general contractors typically subcontract this task.
Ventilation Solutions
Proper ventilation is crucial to ensure your bathroom can thoroughly dry between uses, preventing issues with mold and mildew. This typically involves an exhaust fan. Replacing an existing fan costs between $240 and $550, but if you need to install one from scratch, additional ductwork and vents will be required. For this, hiring a professional is recommended, which can drive the price closer to $1,000.
The cost of bathroom vents usually depends on the fan’s quietness (measured in sones), the size of your bathroom, and whether it includes integrated lighting. Quieter fans that move a greater volume of air and feature LED lighting will generally be more expensive.
Other Potential Bathroom Renovation Projects
The aforementioned list is by no means exhaustive for bathroom renovation options. Here are some additional factors that can contribute to a primary bathroom remodel:
- Bidet installation
- New hardware (drawer pulls, towel racks, toilet paper holder)
- Hot tub integration
- Medicine cabinet upgrades
- Mirror installation
- Sauna addition
- Shower doors or curtains
- Tub and shower wall surrounds
Understanding Additional Bathroom Remodel Costs
Some costs associated with a bathroom remodel can easily be overlooked, but it’s crucial to factor in every potential expense that might impact your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when estimating your remodeling project’s total cost.
Permits
While purely cosmetic renovations generally do not require a permit, more extensive remodeling projects often do. Changes such as adding new windows, installing new plumbing, relocating an electrical outlet, and replacing a water heater typically necessitate permits.
You might also require a permit if the total cost of your remodel surpasses a certain monetary threshold. Since building codes vary from city to city, always consult with your local planning or building department when designing your new bathroom and finalizing your budget. As the homeowner, you are ultimately responsible for securing the necessary permits, although some contractors will assist you with the application process.
Accessibility Enhancements
If your remodel involves making your bathroom more accessible, be aware that ADA-compliant appliances are often more expensive and may require more space. For instance, a top-of-the-line walk-in tub or a roll-in shower will likely cost more and be bulkier than standard options. Features designed for reduced mobility, such as grab bars and shower seats, enhance safety but also contribute to material and labor costs.
Geographical Location
Your geographical location significantly impacts both material and labor prices. The cost of a bathroom remodel in one state might be thousands of dollars higher or lower in your specific area. Ensure you obtain a detailed estimate tailored to your particular project before assessing your budget.
Material Disposal
In some instances, homeowners are responsible for material disposal during and after the project. Depending on the extent of construction and replacements involved, you could be left with unwanted fixtures, removed flooring, or even an entire wall to discard. Plan with your contractor in advance to determine who will manage disposal and the most appropriate method. If you cannot safely and properly dispose of the materials yourself, you may need to hire a junk removal company to haul them away.
It’s important to note that not all materials can be taken to your local waste drop-off center; research where your county requires each specific material to be taken. Be particularly aware that work performed in houses built before 1978 may disturb asbestos and lead dust, which must be removed and disposed of by a certified professional.