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Cost guide · 7 min read

How much does a bathroom remodel cost?

What a bathroom remodel costs in 2026, how scope and size change the price, and where homeowners overspend.

Quick answer 2026 data
National average
$13,500
Typical range
$8,000–$25,000
Cost per unit
$120–$275 / sq ft
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The short answer

A typical bathroom remodel runs $8,000–$25,000, or about $120–$275 / sq ft. The national average is around $13,500. Your final price depends most on the size of the project, the materials you choose, and local labor rates.

Bathrooms pack a lot of plumbing, tile, and fixtures into a small footprint, so cost per square foot runs high. Most bathroom remodels cost $8,000–$25,000, averaging about $13,500, or roughly $120–$275 per square foot.

Cost breakdown

OptionDetailsTypical costNotes
Powder room / refresh $70–$130 / sq ft $3,500–$7,000 Fixtures & finishes
Midrange full bath Most popular $130–$220 / sq ft $10,000–$20,000 New tile, vanity, tub
Primary / upscale $220–$400 / sq ft $25,000–$45,000+ Walk-in shower, custom
Illustrative ranges. Your exact price depends on size, scope, and local rates.

What drives the cost

Plumbing changes

Moving the toilet, tub, or shower means opening walls and floors — one of the biggest cost drivers.

Tile & surfaces

Tile area, material, and pattern complexity drive both material and labor hours.

Fixtures & fittings

A basic vanity and tub versus a custom walk-in shower can differ by many thousands.

Your region

Skilled plumbing and tile labor rates vary widely by market.

Cost by region

Dallas, TX
$14,500
Below average
Atlanta, GA
$15,300
Below average
Chicago, IL
$17,000
Around average
Denver, CO
$17,800
Around average
Los Angeles, CA
$19,500
Above average
Boston, MA
$21,100
Above average

Common mistakes to avoid

Ignoring waterproofing

Cutting corners behind the tile leads to rot and mold. Proper waterproofing is not the place to save.

Moving plumbing needlessly

Keeping fixtures in their existing spots saves thousands. Relocate only when it truly matters.

Cheap exhaust ventilation

A weak fan traps moisture and ruins finishes. Size the fan to the room.

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Frequently asked questions

Most cost $8,000–$25,000, averaging about $13,500. Small powder rooms can be under $7,000; large primary baths can exceed $40,000.

Moving plumbing, the amount and type of tile, and fixture quality. Layout changes add the most.

Not usually. Custom tiled walk-in showers often cost more than a standard tub-shower once tile and glass are included.

A typical full bath takes 2–4 weeks; larger or custom jobs can run longer with tile and glass lead times.

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