A bathroom remodel costs $2,500 to $30,000 in 2026, with most homeowners spending about $12,140 — roughly $70 to $250 per square foot installed. Your total depends on bathroom size, finish quality, and whether you change the layout.
Cost by project type
| Project type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Small bathroom | $6,000 – $10,000 |
| Mid-range remodel | $15,000 – $22,000 |
| Primary / large bathroom | $18,000 – $80,000 |
| Per square foot | $70 – $250 |
| National average | ~$12,140 |
What drives bathroom remodel cost
Labor and waterproofing account for nearly half the budget. Moving a toilet or shower drain adds $2,500 to $5,000, and layout changes raise costs further. Premium tile, fixtures, and custom vanities push you toward the top of the range; cosmetic refreshes stay near the bottom.
Regional factors
Labor rates vary widely. High-cost metros such as Northern Virginia and Montgomery County, MD typically run 15–25% above national figures, while many Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky markets run slightly below. See your city page.
Ways to save
- Keep the existing layout.
- Choose porcelain over natural stone.
- Refinish rather than replace a sound tub.
- Compare at least three written estimates.
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Local costs
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bathroom remodel cost in 2026?
A bathroom remodel costs $2,500 to $30,000 in 2026, with most homeowners spending about $12,140, or roughly $70 to $250 per square foot installed.
What is the average cost of a small bathroom remodel?
A small bathroom remodel averages $6,000 to $10,000, depending on finishes and whether plumbing is moved.
What drives the cost of a bathroom remodel?
Labor and waterproofing account for nearly half the budget. Moving a toilet or shower drain adds $2,500 to $5,000, and layout changes raise costs further.
Sources: national bathroom remodel figures (range $2,500–$30,000, ~$12,140 average, $70–$250/sq ft, small/mid/primary ranges, drain-move cost) come from the BathEstimates 2026 cost guide. All other ranges (tub-to-shower, walk-in shower, bathtub replacement, city adjustments) are BathEstimates editorial estimates based on typical scope, materials and labor — not survey data. Always compare written quotes from licensed local contractors.