Bathroom Renovation Cost: What You Need to Know in 2025
Raleigh ProConnect- April 2, 2025
A bathroom remodel sounds simple until the costs start stacking up. This guide breaks it all down so you can budget smarter and stress less.
Renovating a bathroom is one of those home projects that sounds simple enough until you’re knee deep in tile samples, have three plumbing estimates, and asking yourself if that dual flush toilet is really worth it.
Whether you’re just giving your powder room a facelift or fully gutting your master bathroom, the first question is always the same: How much is this going to cost me?
The answer, though, is always different.
To fully understand how much it’ll cost you to renovate a bathroom, you first need to figure out a few things:
- The size of your bathroom – Are you renovating a half bath or a full bath?
- Any layout changes – Will everything stay where it is, or are you moving fixtures around?
- Labor – Who’s doing the work? You, a contractor, or both?
- Materials and finishes – Are you looking to save with standard options or go all out and spend money on premium upgrades like marble countertops or designer tile?
Each decision you make will impact your overall cost.
For example, hiring a general contractor will cost more than DIYing everything, but you’re also paying for experience, project management, and less stress when it comes to permits and lining up any trade work needed.
Add in layout changes and expensive materials like quartz countertops or custom bathroom cabinets, and that number can start to climb faster than you’d think.
But before you start panic-Googling “budget-friendly bathroom remodels,” take a breath.
This guide is here to walk you through what to actually expect when it comes to bathroom renovation costs.
Whether you’re updating an old bathroom in the fixer-upper you just bought or just trying to make that old tub match the floors before listing your home, we’ll break down each part of the remodeling process and explain what affects the price, where you can save, and where it might be worth spending a little more.
We’ll cover everything from light cosmetic updates with budget materials to full-on luxury renovations with skylights, energy upgrades, a new vanity, and everything in between.
You’ll also find our calculator below that’ll let you build your own remodel estimate.
Just enter a few quick details about your space, choose the features you plan to upgrade, and select the materials you want to use for each one. Based on your inputs and location, it’ll give you a personalized cost so you know what to expect before you start calling contractors.
Let’s get into it.
What’s Typically Built Into the Price of a Bathroom Remodel?
When you start getting quotes for a bathroom remodeling project, it can sometimes feel like everyone’s speaking a different language.
One contractor might give you a number that seems too good to be true; another sends over a spreadsheet that looks like it belongs in a finance meeting. So what exactly are you paying for?
Most quotes will be broken down into a few core buckets: labor, materials, fixtures, and construction costs. The more detailed the quote, the easier it is to spot where your money’s actually going (and where it’s not).
Here’s what’s usually included in bathroom remodeling costs:
Demolition & Prep Work
This is the teardown phase. This might include things like pulling up old flooring, ripping out an old tub or bathroom cabinets, and anything else that needs to be replaced.
This initial work can be fast and cheap or loud, messy, and surprisingly expensive. It all depends on the size of your bathroom and how much of it needs to be removed.
If you’re doing a full gut job, expect higher labor costs here. And keep in mind that additional expenses might come up once the walls are opened, especially if there’s mold, asbestos, or wood rot. That’s why it’s always a good idea to add a contingency percentage to your overall budget.
Also, make sure you talk to your contractor about the cleanup and construction removal. This is usually included in the overall cost, but if it’s not, you’ll want to factor in hiring someone else into your budget.
Plumbing & Electrical Work
If your remodel includes moving plumbing fixtures (like relocating a toilet, bathtub, or sink), adding new lighting, or installing extra outlets, expect to see some added costs for licensed tradesmen.
This is where the cost of construction can really start to show up in your estimate.
Why? Because moving things around usually means rerouting water lines, adjusting drain pipes, or running new electrical wiring behind the walls.
And on top of potentially having to use a separate contractor to take care of each one, all of this type of work needs to be permitted and inspected to make sure everything is up to code and safe.
Materials & Fixtures
This is where most of your design decisions come into play. It includes all the visible parts of your bathroom. The things you touch, see, and use every day.
Your choice of materials and fixtures will have a big impact on your total budget because it all depends on the level of finish you’re going for.
Everything from the type of flooring you choose (vinyl, ceramic tile, etc.) to the vanity, countertops, toilet, faucets, mirror, and even the paint on the walls falls under this category.
Installation
This is the meat of your costs. It includes all the labor needed to install every major fixture and surface in your new bathroom.
Most of this will come down to the labor rate your contractor charges, but the real difference in price will be determined by how labor-intensive the work is.
For example, installing a basic drop-in sink and faucet is pretty straightforward. But if you’re doing a wall-mounted vanity, a freestanding tub, or a walk-in shower with custom tile work and built-in niches, the labor time (and cost) will increase.
Keep in mind that higher-quality materials take more time and care to install, which means higher labor costs.
For example, detailed tile patterns or heavy countertops made from stone or marble can be more labor-intensive than simpler options. The more precision the work requires, the more you’ll pay for the time and skill it takes to do it right.
Finish Work
Finish work is the last phase of your bathroom renovation. This is the detail work that ties it all together, making everything look like a real bathroom again instead of a construction site.
At this point, all the major components are installed: the toilet’s in, the shower’s tiled, the vanity’s mounted, and the electrical work is done.
Now it’s time for the finishing touches:
Installing baseboards and trim
Hanging mirrors or medicine cabinets
Mounting towel bars, hooks, and toilet paper holders
Caulking seams and corners
Final paint touch-ups and cleanup
Making sure everything looks clean, aligned, and polished
The work behind this phase of your bathroom renovation project can really impact how your bathroom looks and feels when it’s all done. A rushed or sloppy finish job can make even the most expensive renovation look cheap.
Now, depending on the type of renovation you plan on doing, prices can be scaled up or down. And in the next section, we’ll break down how all of these variables translate into total project costs.
How Much Does it Cost to Renovate a Bathroom?
Alright, let’s talk numbers. Because at some point, you’re probably going to wonder if the cost to renovate your bathroom is even worth it—or if you should just live with that old tub for one more year.
The truth is, bathroom remodel costs vary from home to home and person to person. It all depends on the project scope, the materials you choose, and who’s doing the work.
The best place to start is with a rough estimate based on your bathroom size, the quality of materials and finishes you want, and how much of the work you plan to do yourself.
A small bathroom with budget-friendly finishes might come in under $5,000, while a master bath with high-end materials and a new layout could easily push past $40K.
Here’s a quick snapshot to help you gauge average bathroom remodeling costs in 2025:
Average Cost Estimates Based on Real Bathroom Remodeling Projects
| Bathroom Type | Low Budget | Mid Range | High-End |
| Half Bath (Powder Room) | $3,000 to $5,000 | $6,000 to $9,000 | $10,000 to $15,000 |
| Full Bath (Standard) | $8,000 to $12,000 | $13,000 to $20,000 | $21,000 to $30,000 |
| Master/Primary Bath | $15,000 to $25,000 | $26,000 to $40,000 | $40,000 to $60,000+ |
| New Bathroom Addition | $25,000 to $35,000 | $36,000 to $50,000 | $50,000 to $75,000+ |
Note: These numbers vary by location, labor rates, and whether you’re hiring a general contractor or managing multiple subs yourself.
Let’s put some realistic numbers to common scenarios:
Average Half Bath vs Full Bath Remodel Cost
Average Cost of a Half Bath (Powder Room) Remodel: $3,000–$15,000
- Budget Finish: $3,000 — This is if you keep the layout the same, go with budget-friendly options, and do some of the work yourself. It includes things like basic ceramic tile, a single-flush toilet, a basic faucet, and a simple vanity from a big-box store.
- Mid-Range: $7,500 — This includes upgraded flooring (like high-quality ceramic or waterproof vinyl), a better-quality vanity, more stylish plumbing fixtures, improved lighting, and a fresh coat of premium paint. You’re not spending on luxury, but you’re stepping up from the basics.
- Higher End: $15,000+ — Expect to spend this if you’re choosing premium materials like marble or natural stone flooring, adding designer wallpaper, a custom sink or floating vanity, high-end fixtures, and pendant lights. Costs also increase if you’re moving plumbing lines or adding special touches like wall paneling.
Average Cost of a Full Bath (Standard) Remodel: $8,000–$30,000+
- Budget-Friendly: $8,000 — This is a simple refresh where you keep the layout as-is and go with affordable, off-the-shelf materials. Things like a new prefabricated bathtub-shower combo, standard ceramic tile, a basic vanity, new faucet, and a fresh coat of paint. Labor costs are lower because you’re not moving anything around.
- Mid-Range: $16,500 — This tier upgrades most materials and includes some minor layout adjustments. You might go for a nicer cement or limestone tile for the floors, a larger vanity with solid surface or wood butcher block countertops, a more efficient toilet, better lighting, and upgraded hardware. This is where design and function start to come together.
- Higher End: $30,000+ – A full gut and remodel with major layout changes (like moving the toilet or separating the shower and tub), radiant heat flooring, beadboard or wainscoting on the walls, custom cabinetry, dual vanities, premium plumbing fixtures, and recessed lighting.
Average Cost of a New Bathroom Addition: $30,000–$60,000+
Adding a brand new bathroom where there wasn’t one before is a whole different animal. Now, you’re looking at heavy construction, with everything being built from scratch. Some things to consider:
You’ll need permits for full plumbing and electrical runs, framing, insulation, and drywall.
All new flooring, lighting, ventilation, cabinetry, fixtures, and finishes.
Higher upfront costs because of structural work, foundation tie-ins (if needed), and extra labor for trades.
If you’re planning this as part of a larger renovation or addition, the cost of construction might be shared across rooms, which can help with your overall cost. But even with that, small upgrades can add up fast.
- Budget-Friendly: $42,000 — This includes standard construction and permitting, a basic but functional bathroom layout, and mid-grade materials. Expect vinyl or basic ceramic tile flooring, a prefabricated shower-tub combo, a single vanity with standard hardware, and contractor-grade lighting and paint. It’s a solid budget if you’re adding a small bathroom in a basement, converting your garage to a living space, or adding an ADU and want to keep the design simple.
- Mid-Range: $48,000 — This level gives you more flexibility with design and better materials. You’ll have better finishes, like solid surface countertops, a separate tub and shower (one might be prefabricated), upgraded lighting, double vanity, tiled shower, and higher-quality labor. You’ll get a clean, functional, and stylish new bathroom that feels custom without going full luxury.
- Higher End: $60,000+ — With this kind of budget, you’re likely working with an interior designer and a full-service contractor to build a large, fully customized bathroom. This is where premium materials come in, along with custom cabinetry, a spacious walk-in shower with multiple shower heads, a separate soaking tub, a dedicated water closet, skylights, and high-end fixtures throughout. You might also include built-in storage like recessed shower shelving, an attached linen closet, or even furniture-grade built-ins that add both function and style. And don’t forget about the smart features like heated floors, voice-activated lighting, or motion-sensing toilets.
While it’s tempting to look for a general number, you can see the actual cost for your bathroom remodel is going to come down to what you want, what you need, and where you’re willing to spend vs. save.
Below, you’ll be able to plug some of this into our Bathroom Remodel Cost Estimator so you can start to get a feel for what your project might actually run you from start to finish.
Bathroom Remodel Cost Estimator
- Start with your bathroom size in square feet. This sets the baseline for labor and material estimates.
- Choose your state to auto-fill your local labor rates (you can adjust this if needed).
- Move through each step to choose which elements you want to add to your project and pick the finishes that match your style and budget. For example, if you plan on replacing the flooring in your bathroom, you’ll check yes, and a drop-down will appear to choose the type of flooring you want with the average cost for the material per square foot.
- When given options like “budget,” “mid-range,” or “premium” on some of the elements, choose the level of finish that fits your project. The higher the finish, the higher the cost, but also the more long-term value.
- Don’t forget to add a contingency buffer (10–15% is common) at the end to cover any unexpected costs that might come up during the remodel.
- When you’re done, hit Calculate to get your total cost estimate from start to finish.
Bathroom Remodel Cost Calculator
How Much Should You Spend on a Bathroom Remodel?
So how much should you be spending on a bathroom remodel? Well, a lot of that depends on why you decided to start the project in the first place.
Are you updating an old hallway bathroom to make it more livable? Trying to increase the resale value of your home? Or have you finally decided to create the master bathroom of your dreams?
Here’s a good way to approach your spending based on each type of project:
For Resale
Stick to budget-friendly materials most buyers will like, such as a framed mirror from a box store and brushed nickel or matte black finishes. Remove anything with outdated, bold colors and go with clean, neutral tones instead. Upgrade to more durable hardware, improve the lighting, and add storage where you can. Focus on solid, practical upgrades over trendy designs.
For Your Forever Home
Spend where it improves comfort, function, and energy efficiency. Think about any layout upgrades you may want, like a new double vanity, opening up the space with more natural lighting, or installing a specific type of shower or bathtub you’ve always wanted (like dual rain showerheads or a soaking tub).
For Investment Properties
Don’t overdo it. Maximize your return on investment with smart design, standard finishes, and reliable materials that won’t blow up your final cost. Use durable, easy-to-clean surfaces and modern fixtures. The goal here is low maintenance, high utility, and a clean, modern look that photographs well and holds up over time.
No one can tell you exactly how much you should spend on a remodel. However, industry experts, including the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), suggest spending at least 5% to 10% of your home’s value on a full bathroom remodel.
So if your home is worth $400,000, you might want to spend between $20,000 and $40,000, depending on your goals. Less if you’re just updating a small bathroom. And potentially more if it’s a primary, master bathroom or full-on expansion.
Remodeling Tips to Stay Within Budget
1. Know Your "Must-Haves"
If you care more about the new countertop than fancy shower jets, prioritize accordingly. You don’t need it all. Start by figuring out what you actually want out of this remodel, like more storage space, a better shower experience, or a style upgrade. Having a clear list of your non-negotiables makes it easier to cut costs elsewhere and budget around those priorities.
2. Stick with Your Current Layout
Keeping the plumbing where it is can save you thousands of dollars. Layout changes are one of the most expensive parts of a remodel.
As soon as you move a toilet or reconfigure the shower, you’re opening walls, rerouting pipes, and pulling permits. Unless your current layout is completely dysfunctional, try to work with what you have. Leave it alone and upgrade around it.
3. Pair High-Cost and Low-Cost Elements Together
Splurge on the faucets you use every day and save on things like mirrors or basic cabinets. Get ceramic tiles that mimic pricier styles. Pair a Corian or granite countertop with a more affordable prefab vanity.
Mixing and matching like this gives you that upscale feel without the high-end price tag—and frees up more of your budget to invest in durable, high-use upgrades that matter long-term.
4. Don’t Fall for the “Just One More Thing” Trap
“What if we added a skylight?” or “Maybe we should move the toilet after all…”
It’s easy to get tempted mid-project. But even small changes can create a domino effect that leads to more materials, more labor, and more costs.
Try and stick to your original project scope and budget unless there’s a really good reason to pivot. Scope creep is one of the fastest ways to blow your budget.
5. Get Multiple Quotes from Different Contractors
Always, always get more than one bid. And when you do, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. One contractor might include all the necessary permitting and waste removal on their quote; another might not.
Ask for itemized quotes so you can see exactly what’s covered. Itemized quotes make it easier to see where you can substitute materials or show where there might be room for negotiations.
When to Spend and When to Save
Here’s where you should consider spending more:
- Plumbing fixtures – You want these to last. Cheap ones typically don’t.
- Lighting – Good lighting can make your bathroom more functional. Prioritize bright, well-placed lighting, especially if your bathroom doesn’t get much natural light.
- Countertops – You use them every day, so choose durable materials. Quartz, granite, or even sealed butcher block are stylish, low maintenance, and future-proof.
And here’s where you can save:
- You don’t need tiling on the entire bathroom walls – Focus on high-impact areas like the shower or vanity backsplash.
- Instead of buying that high-end, smart toilet, a solid mid-range dual-flush toilet will do the trick.
- You more than likely don’t need an interior designer unless the layout of your bathroom is complex. Most of the time, you’ll be able to lean on your general contractor or suppliers for design guidance.
Bathroom Remodel Ideas
You don’t need a massive footprint or an unlimited budget to pull off something that looks and feels amazing.
Here are some bathroom remodeling ideas to spark your project:
1. Upgrade the Essentials
Sometimes, a bathroom can feel brand new just by updating a few key elements:
- Swap your old sink for a floating vanity to open up floor space.
- Install a dual-flush toilet to save water and modernize the look.
- Replace that standard mirror with one that has built-in lighting or anti-fog tech.
- Update your bathroom lighting with a wall sconce or dimmable LED fixture for better ambiance.
- Add a statement wall with peel-and-stick wallpaper or vertical paneling for a low-cost way to bring personality into the space.
2. Go Vertical
If you’re tight on square footage, think more vertically:
- Add bathroom cabinets above the toilet.
Hang floating shelves above the toilet or next to the vanity for easy access to everyday items.
- Mount towel hooks instead of bars to save wall space.
- Go with a frameless mirrored cabinet that runs floor to ceiling to double as both storage and a full-length mirror.
3. Try a Layout Refresh (Without Moving Plumbing)
Believe it or not, you can create a better floor plan without blowing your budget:
- Convert a bathtub to a walk-in shower using existing drain lines.
- Shift lighting to highlight focal points, like a large wall mirror or tile feature.
- Switch to a wall-mounted toilet to give your bathroom a more modern look and free up floor space without needing to reroute pipes.
- Replace bulky storage cabinets with open shelving or a recessed cabinet between studs to declutter the layout.
- Use oversized tile or consistent flooring throughout to create the illusion of a wider, more open space.
4. Play With Finishes
Finishes are where your bathroom’s personality really shows. Focus on how materials, colors, and textures work together.
- Pair warm metallics like brushed brass or champagne bronze with creamy neutrals for a modern, spa-like feel.
- Matte black fixtures pop against a glossy white sink, bright tile floors, or deep green walls—mixing matte and gloss adds contrast without feeling busy.
- Try mixing metals, like a copper showerhead and warm gold hardware. As long as you keep them in the same tone family, this can add a sophisticated look.
- Balance textured tiles on a shower wall with smoother finishes on the floor or vanity to keep the space grounded.
- Don’t overlook natural elements: wood tones, stone tiles, and woven accessories can bring warmth and depth to your bathroom.
Finishes don’t have to match. They just need to feel intentional. Pick two to three core colors or textures you love and repeat them throughout the room. This is an easy way to tie everything together and make your bathroom feel both well-thought-out and well-designed.
5. Build for the Future
If you’re planning to stay in your home for the long haul, it’s smart to future-proof your space:
- Go for energy-efficient lighting and low-flow toilets.
- Choose slip-resistant tile flooring that looks great but adds extra safety over time.
- Install a comfort-height toilet—it’s easier on the knees now and later.
- Place additional outlets near the vanity, mirror, or storage areas for all your toiletries and gadgets.
- Add in extra shelving or cabinetry for storage that can be reconfigured later as your needs evolve.
- Install grab bars or a curbless shower now—even if you don’t need them yet.
The future you will thank you.
6. Make it Yours
The best remodels reflect you. Even small details make a big impact:
- Use an unexpected type of sink, like a vessel bowl or an integrated trough sink.
- Add a bold accent wall with paint or tile.
- Incorporate open shelving for plants, candles, or everyday essentials.
- Explore unconventional storage options like vintage ladders for towels or repurposed furniture.
- Add elements from multiple design styles (industrial hardware in a traditional space or vintage pieces in a modern bathroom).
- Prioritize elements based on your daily routine. That could be a built-in makeup station, a backlit shaving mirror, or Bluetooth speakers.
When you intentionally choose every detail and go beyond what’s considered the standard, your bathroom becomes uniquely yours.
Bathroom renovation costs can be intimidating, but they don’t have to be overwhelming.
Whether you’re updating a half bath on a budget or creating the master bathroom of your dreams, the key is knowing what to expect, where to spend, and what matters most to you.
With the calculator above as your guide, you can plan smarter, budget better, and feel more confident in every decision.
The best bathroom renovations aren’t necessarily the most expensive ones. They’re the ones that make your life easier, reflect your style, and bring you joy long after the dust has settled.
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