Experts In Your Home Blog

How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Bathroom? A Cost Guide

Written by The Experts Construction Team | Jun 27, 2025 3:33:58 PM

When it’s time to update your bathroom, one of the first questions that comes up is, “How much does it cost to renovate a bathroom?” 

Whether you’re remodeling the guest bath in your rental property or designing your dream primary bathroom, understanding the numbers is the key to planning a successful renovation.

A bathroom remodel can be one of the smartest ways to invest in your home, but it’s important to go into the process with a clear plan and realistic budget. In this guide, we’ll walk you through average costs, cost factors, budgeting tips, timelines, and more.

Looking for a quick estimate? Try our Home Renovation Cost Calculator to get a personalized breakdown based on your goals.

Average Bathroom Renovation Cost

Bathroom remodels come in all shapes and sizes. Below is a general bathroom remodel cost breakdown to give you an idea of what to expect as you create a renovation budget or request estimates for your project.

Minor Cosmetic Update: $8,000–$12,000

This typically includes: 

  • New paint or tile
  • Upgraded fixtures (like a new sink or faucet)
  • Lighting improvements
  • Replacing a vanity or refinishing a bathtub

It’s a great choice if your bathroom is functional but dated, and you want a fresh look without moving walls or plumbing.

Mid-Range Remodel: $13,000–$20,000

This level of remodel usually involves:

  • Replacing a bathtub or a shower
  • Installing a new toilet and vanity
  • Updating tile flooring and walls
  • Moderate upgrades to lighting, storage, and layout

This is the most common renovation type for homeowners who want an updated space with modern finishes and improved functionality.

High-End Renovation: $25,000–$40,000+

A luxury bathroom remodel may include:

  • Custom cabinetry and double vanities
  • Walk-in shower with frameless glass or freestanding tub
  • Heated floors and high-end tilework
  • Upgraded plumbing and electrical system
  • Layout changes or expansion

This is best for homeowners aiming for a spa-like retreat or investors upgrading premium properties.

 

 

Low-End

Mid-Range

High-End

Estimated Cost

$8,000–$12,000

$13,000–$20,000

$25,000–$40,000+

Scope of Work

Cosmetic updates

Functional upgrades

Custom design & layout

Includes

- Paint

- Fixtures

- Lighting

- New tub/shower

- Vanity

- Tile flooring

- Walk-in shower/tub

- Heated floors

- Luxury finishes

Best For

Budget-conscious updates

Family homes or rentals

Luxury bathrooms or resale value

 

What Affects the Cost of a Bathroom Remodel?

Every bathroom is different, which means your final cost depends on several variables. Here are the biggest factors that influence pricing.

Size of the Bathroom

The cost to renovate a small bathroom will be much less than a large master suite with a shower, tub, and double vanity. More square footage means more labor, more materials, and often more plumbing and electrical work.

Materials and Fixtures

The price difference between standard and luxury finishes is significant. A basic ceramic tile might cost $2–$5 per square foot, while high-end marble can run $15–$30+. The same goes for faucets, lighting, and vanities.

Plumbing or Layout Changes

If you're moving the toilet, shower, or sink, you’ll need to reconfigure plumbing, and that adds cost quickly. Keeping your existing layout is usually more affordable.

Labor and Permits

Skilled labor is one of the largest parts of your budget. Licensed contractors, electricians, plumbers, and tile installers all come at a cost, but they ensure quality and code compliance. Don’t forget permit fees, which vary by location.

Custom Features

Adding extras like a walk-in shower, built-in storage, heated towel rack, or radiant floor heating will push the budget higher, but they may also improve daily comfort and long-term home value.

Budgeting Tips for a Smooth Remodel

Bathroom renovations can get expensive quickly if you’re not prepared. Here’s how to keep your finances in check and your project on track:

  • Know Your Must-Haves: Start by listing what you need versus what you’d like. Focus your budget on essential updates first, then add upgrades if funds allow.
  • Build in a Contingency: Plan for an extra 10–20% in case of surprises. Hidden water damage, outdated plumbing, or material delays can lead to added costs.
  • Phase the Project if Needed: Can’t afford the full remodel right now? Talk to your contractor about tackling the project in phases.
  • Get Multiple Quotes: Every contractor has a different process and price range. Compare estimates, but don’t just go with the lowest number. Look for experience, communication, and a clear scope.

Taking time to budget thoughtfully can help you avoid financial stress and make smarter decisions throughout your renovation.

Bathroom Renovation Timeline Expectations

In addition to cost, it’s important to understand how long a bathroom remodel might take. Bathroom renovation timelines depend on the size of your space and the scope of work, but here’s what to expect.

Quick Refresh: 1–2 Weeks

This timeline applies to surface-level updates that don’t require major plumbing or structural work. 

A quick refresh might include painting walls, swapping out old faucets and fixtures, updating cabinet hardware, and installing a new vanity or lighting. These types of changes can dramatically improve the look and feel of your bathroom without the cost or downtime of a full remodel.

If all materials are on hand and no issues pop up, this type of update can often be completed in just a week or two.

Full Remodel: 3–6 Weeks

A more extensive renovation, including replacing showers, flooring, tilework, and plumbing, will take longer. Delays can occur due to material shipping, permits, or unexpected issues.

To keep things moving:

  • Order materials ahead of time so they’re available when the crew needs them
  • Avoid last-minute changes, which can lead to delays and extra costs

Planning ahead and sticking to the plan are two of the best ways to keep your remodel on schedule.

What Kind of ROI Can You Expect?

A bathroom remodel helps your space look better, but it also increases your home’s value and can make a big difference if you plan to sell or rent.

For Homeowners

According to national data, a mid-range budget bathroom remodel typically delivers a return on investment (ROI) of around 60%. High-end remodels may offer less ROI percentage-wise, but they can help your home stand out in the market.

For Investors

Upgrading a rental bathroom can:

  • Make your property more attractive to tenants
  • Support higher rent prices
  • Reduce turnover with a more comfortable living space

Just be sure your improvements align with your neighborhood’s rental market so you don’t over-invest in the area.

Why Work With a Professional Contractor?

With so many DIY videos online, it might be tempting to take on your bathroom remodel yourself. However, even “simple” bathroom renovations involve plumbing, waterproofing, and electrical work i.e., areas where small mistakes can lead to big problems.

Here’s why working with a licensed contractor like Experts In Your Home is worth it.

Avoid Costly Mistakes

Improper waterproofing or plumbing work can lead to serious problems like leaks, mold, and long-term water damage, often requiring expensive repairs. 

With Experts In Your Home, you can trust that everything is done correctly the first time. We follow industry best practices and local codes to make sure your remodel is built to last, saving you money and stress in the long run.

Get It Done Faster and Safer

Trying to manage a remodel on your own can drag on for weeks or even months. Our experienced team works efficiently to keep your project moving, using the right tools and safety procedures every step of the way. 

We also make sure all work meets local building codes and inspection standards, so you don’t run into problems later.

Gain a Trusted Partner

When you hire Experts In Your Home, you're not just checking a box — you’re gaining a partner who cares about the outcome. 

We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and provide honest advice from start to finish. We show up when we say we will, keep you informed along the way, and always treat your home as if it were our own.

Start Your Bathroom Remodel with Experts You Can Trust

A bathroom renovation is one of the most valuable upgrades you can make in your home, but the key to success is planning ahead and partnering with the right team.

At Experts In Your Home, we help homeowners across Northern California take the guesswork out of remodeling. Whether you're refreshing a small guest bath or building the primary suite of your dreams, we’ll walk you through the process with clarity, professionalism, and decades of hands-on experience.

Get a clear breakdown of your renovation expenses with our easy-to-use Home Renovation Cost Calculator.