What Does the Average Bathroom Remodel Cost? Here's How to Budget (2024)

Remodeling a bathroom is a great way to update a home and increase its value. Whether a full-scale renovation or just a minor rehab, bathroom remodel costs vary based on the fixtures and finishes you choose. The good news is that a high-end look doesn’t always cost as much as you might think. Home improvement experts explain the wide range of bathroom remodel costs and offer ways to lower expenses without skimping on sophistication.

How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost?

The average bathroom remodel cost varies significantly by location, bathroom size, and extent of the changes. A modest remodel for a half bath or powder room can cost as low as $1,500. The higher range can exceed $20,000 for spacious build-outs that include new plumbing, tiling, and room additions.

On average, homeowners should expect to pay around $12,204 for a bathroom remodel, roughly the national average. Although several factors will ultimately determine bathroom remodel costs, a good rule of thumb is to budget at least $100 per square foot.

This price may differ if you live in a state where material and contractor costs are higher. Alex Capozzolo, founder of SD House Guys, says that in San Diego, California, the average cost to remodel a full bathroom is approximately $15,000 to $20,000, and the average cost to remodel a half bathroom ranges from $7,000 to $10,000.

In major metropolitan areas, labor prices are likely to be higher per hour than in rural or suburban areas. Yet, spacious bathrooms require more cabinetry, plumbing, tiling, and flooring work, no matter where you live.

Factors That Influence Bathroom Remodel Costs

Davin Eberhardt, home designer and founder of Nature of Home says that when estimating any home repair job, homeowners should consider direct costs, such as materials and labor, as well as indirect costs, such as overhead, permits, and design costs.

Capozzolo adds that many factors influence bathroom remodel costs. The size and layout of the room, labor costs, plumbing, electrical work, materials, fixtures, and availability of supplies and materials all factor into the final ticket price. For a complete bathroom remodel, cabinets, vanities, tiles, lighting, windows, and even paint may increase costs. Alternatively, you might be surprised to learn that sinks, toilets, showerheads, and faucets can be relatively inexpensive unless equipped with top-of-the-line technology or features.

How to Save on Bathroom Remodel Costs

Shopping around for fixtures and contractors or DIYing whenever possible can help homeowners save on bathroom remodel costs in the long run. For example, Eberhardt says homeowners can consider reusing existing fixtures or buying used ones to save money.

However, Capozzolo notes that it's important to keep in mind the quality of materials used "as this will affect the durability and longevity of the renovation." He recommends shopping around for prices on fixtures and finishes before deciding to upcycle old ones. Existing or resurfaced cabinets may benefit from fresh draw pulls and knobs.

In addition to opting for less expensive materials, homeowners can do some bathroom remodeling themselves to cut back on labor costs. "Labor costs can vary depending on the scope of the project and the contractor used," Capozzolo says. The typical range is $30-$80 per hour. To negotiate the best deals and lock in rates for all needed materials, homeowners should get several quotes from contractors and suppliers before starting work.

Remodeling a Bathroom on a Small Budget

For homeowners looking to remodel a bathroom on a small budget, you can do many inexpensive updates yourself. “Updating accessories such as soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, towel bars, towel rings, and robe hooks can be an easy and practical way to update the bathroom,” says Eberhardt. Adding or replacing hardware items is a weekend project that can freshen up a bathroom without breaking the bank.

Try hanging new wallpaper, retiling a backsplash, or refreshing textiles like curtains, rugs, and toilet seat covers. Accessories can also breathe new life into a bathroom. Capozzolo says hanging artwork, adding plants, replacing lighting, or swapping in a new mirror or medicine cabinet can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of a bathroom.

Ask contractors about the cost and time frame for required building permits with any major renovation. Remember, it’s essential to get these details right from the outset. Otherwise, you could be on the hook for hefty fines or long delays.

Bathroom Products We Recommend

When you shop for bathroom fixtures and accessories, we have tips to help you narrow down what will work for your design and budget. Start with the big items, like tile and wall colors or wallpaper, to set the tone and palette for the space. If you have room for a freestanding tub, make sure you can get the one you pick up the stairs and that your flooring will support its weight if your project is on the second floor. Choose shower fixtures and sink faucets and handles that complement the knobs and handles on your vanity—mixing metals is fine as long as the styles are similar. Make your bath a sumptuous escape with luxurious towels, soaps, and shampoos you love, and you'll look forward to getting ready each day.