How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost? (2026)
A guest bath remodel often costs $10,000 to $25,000; a primary bath $25,000 to $50,000. Cost per square foot and what changes the price.
Published Oct 27, 2026. 2 min read.
A small guest or hall bathroom remodel usually costs about $10,000 to $25,000. A mid-range primary bathroom runs about $25,000 to $50,000, and high-end primary suites can pass $100,000. A simple cosmetic refresh of a powder room can be done for a few thousand dollars.
Cost by bathroom size
| Bathroom | Typical size | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Powder room | 15 – 25 sq ft | $3,000 – $12,000 |
| Guest / hall bath | 35 – 50 sq ft | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Primary bath (mid-range) | 75 – 100 sq ft | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Primary suite (high-end) | 100+ sq ft | $50,000 – $120,000+ |
Cost per square foot
- Cosmetic refresh: about $80 – $120
- Mid-range remodel: about $150 – $250
- High-end: about $250 – $400+
Small bathrooms often cost more per square foot because plumbing, permits and setup cost the same whatever the room size.
What changes the price most
- Moving plumbing: relocating a toilet, shower or sink can add $1,000 to $5,000 per fixture.
- Tearing out the shower to the studs: waterproofing and tile labor often add $5,000 to $12,000.
- Tile and fixtures: upgrading tile, vanity, faucets and toilet together can double the budget.
- Hidden damage: rotted subfloor, old plumbing or mold. Keep 10% to 20% in reserve.
- Labor: often half or more of the total.
Don't skip the waterproofing line
The most important part of a shower is behind the tile: a waterproofing membrane or system on walls and floor, a properly sloped shower pan, and sealed niches. Every quote should name the waterproofing product. If it isn't listed, ask.
What a complete bathroom quote includes
- Demolition and disposal
- Waterproofing system named by product
- Tile (with allowance amount), vanity, toilet, fixtures
- Plumbing and electrical, including a GFCI outlet and exhaust fan
- Permit and inspections
- Payment schedule tied to finished stages
See bathroom remodel ranges in our cost estimator and compare bathroom quotes side by side.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A small bathroom often takes 2 to 4 weeks once work starts. Larger or custom projects can take 6 to 8 weeks or more.
Is a tub-to-shower conversion expensive?
It commonly costs several thousand dollars to over $10,000, depending on plumbing changes, waterproofing, tile and glass.
Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel?
Usually yes if plumbing, electrical or walls change. Cosmetic updates like paint or a vanity swap often do not. Check with your city.
Sources
Prices are national ranges for planning only. Your price depends on your home, your region and the contractor. This guide is general information, not professional, legal or insurance advice.
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