The average bathroom remodel costs between $10,000 and $35,000, depending on the size of the bathroom, the materials you choose, and your location. A basic cosmetic refresh can come in under $5,000, while a full gut-and-rebuild of a large master bathroom can exceed $50,000.
Before you call a single contractor, it helps to understand what drives the price — so you can set a realistic budget and recognize a fair quote when you see one.
Average Bathroom Remodel Cost by Project Size
| Project Type | Low Estimate | Typical Range | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh (paint, fixtures, accessories) | $1,500 | $3,000–$5,000 | $8,000 |
| Partial remodel (new vanity, toilet, flooring) | $5,000 | $8,000–$15,000 | $20,000 |
| Full remodel (gut & rebuild, mid-range materials) | $10,000 | $15,000–$25,000 | $35,000 |
| Luxury master bath remodel | $25,000 | $35,000–$55,000 | $80,000+ |
What's Included in a Full Bathroom Remodel?
A full bathroom remodel typically includes demolition of existing surfaces, updated plumbing and electrical (if needed), new flooring (tile, vinyl, or stone), new shower or tub surround, vanity and sink, toilet, lighting, ventilation fan, and finish work (paint, trim, hardware).
Labor typically accounts for 40–65% of total project cost, depending on your market. In high-cost-of-living cities like New York, San Francisco, or Seattle, labor can push total costs significantly higher than national averages.
Key Cost Drivers
- Materials: Tile, stone, and fixture quality drive the largest swings. Budget tile runs $2–$8/sq ft; premium stone can be $25–$50+/sq ft.
- Plumbing changes: Moving pipes is expensive. If you're changing the layout of fixtures, budget an extra $1,000–$5,000 or more.
- Shower vs. tub: A custom tile shower typically costs $3,000–$8,000 to install. A prefab shower unit is $800–$3,000 installed.
- Vanity: Stock vanities run $200–$800. Custom cabinetry can run $2,000–$8,000+.
- Permits: Most full remodels require permits, typically $200–$1,500 depending on the city.
Get Accurate Quotes for Your Bathroom Project
National averages are a starting point — your actual cost depends on your specific project and local market. Get up to 3 free quotes from vetted contractors in your area.
Get Free Bathroom QuotesHow to Know If a Quote Is Fair
The best way to evaluate any quote is to get at least two or three. A single quote gives you no baseline. Three quotes let you identify outliers — both suspiciously low bids (often a warning sign) and inflated ones.
When comparing quotes, make sure each contractor is bidding on the same scope of work. Ask for an itemized breakdown that separates labor, materials, and any subcontracted work (like plumbing or electrical). A reputable contractor will provide this without hesitation.
Questions to Ask Every Contractor
- Are you licensed and insured in this state?
- What does this quote include and exclude?
- Who handles permitting — you or me?
- What is the payment schedule?
- What is the estimated timeline, and what happens if it runs over?
- Who are your subcontractors for plumbing and electrical?