Bathroom Remodel Cost Calculator
Get a realistic budget range for your bathroom renovation based on size, scope, and finish level. Uses 2026 national contractor averages.
Bathroom Remodel Cost by Size (2026 Averages)
Bathroom renovation costs vary significantly by size, but size alone doesn't determine price — scope and finish level often matter more. A small bathroom with a full gut renovation and premium tile can cost more than a large bathroom with a basic surface refresh.
| Bathroom Type | Budget | Mid-Range | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder room / half bath | $1,500–$4,000 | $5,000–$10,000 | $12,000–$20,000 |
| Small full bath (30–50 sq ft) | $3,000–$6,000 | $8,000–$15,000 | $18,000–$30,000 |
| Standard full bath (50–80 sq ft) | $4,500–$9,000 | $10,000–$25,000 | $25,000–$45,000 |
| Master bath (80–120 sq ft) | $7,000–$15,000 | $18,000–$35,000 | $40,000–$80,000 |
| Large master suite (120+ sq ft) | $12,000–$25,000 | $30,000–$60,000 | $60,000–$120,000+ |
What Drives Bathroom Remodel Costs?
Labor is the biggest line item. For a professionally contracted bathroom remodel, labor typically makes up 40–65% of the total cost. A tile setter, plumber, and electrician each have minimum charges, and small bathrooms don't cost much less in labor than larger ones for the same scope of work.
Moving plumbing adds significant cost. If your remodel keeps the toilet, tub, and shower in their current positions, costs stay manageable. Moving a toilet requires a licensed plumber and often means cutting into the subfloor — add $500–$2,000 or more depending on the complexity. Moving a drain is one of the most common sources of budget overruns in bathroom renovations.
Tile choice affects both material and labor cost. A simple 12×12 grid of ceramic tile installs faster and with less waste than a herringbone pattern in 3×6 subway tile. The tile itself may cost $2/sq ft vs $5/sq ft — but the labor difference between a straight lay and a complex pattern can be $3–$8 per square foot. Pattern complexity is where bathroom budgets quietly expand.
Waterproofing is mandatory in wet areas. A proper shower installation requires a waterproofing membrane (like Schluter Kerdi or RedGard) before any tile goes up. This adds $400–$750 to the project and is non-negotiable if you want the shower to last. Contractors who quote shower work without mentioning waterproofing are either including it silently or skipping it — always ask explicitly.
Cost Breakdown by Component
| Component | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Tile (floor + shower, installed) | $800–$4,500+ |
| Vanity (cabinet + countertop) | $300–$3,000+ |
| Toilet | $150–$800 |
| Bathtub | $400–$3,500 |
| Shower enclosure / door | $300–$2,500 |
| Faucets and fixtures | $200–$1,500 |
| Lighting | $150–$800 |
| Exhaust fan | $100–$400 |
| Plumbing labor | $500–$3,500 |
| Electrical labor | $200–$1,200 |
| Demo and disposal | $300–$1,200 |
How to Get the Most Accurate Estimate
Calculator estimates give you a planning range, not a quote. The only way to get an accurate number is to get at least three itemized contractor quotes for your specific bathroom. When comparing quotes, make sure each one includes the same scope — demo, waterproofing, tile installation, fixtures, and cleanup. A low quote that excludes waterproofing or disposal isn't a bargain.
Always build a 15–20% contingency into your budget before starting. Bathroom renovations routinely uncover hidden issues once walls are opened: rotted subfloor, outdated plumbing connections, missing waterproofing on an existing shower, or electrical that doesn't meet current code. These aren't rare surprises — they're common enough that professionals expect them.