A bathroom remodel is one of the smartest ways to upgrade your home—whether you’re creating a spa-like retreat, updating an old space, adjusting to a growing family or improving functionality with aging in place design. Not only will updating your bathroom improve your own satisfaction and comfort, but it also impacts your home value.
If you’ve started researching costs, you’ve probably seen a wide range of numbers. That’s because no two bathrooms—or homeowners—are exactly alike. Your total investment will depend on unique factors like the size of your bathroom, whether you’re changing the layout and/or plumbing and the materials and fixtures you choose.
This guide, created by our senior remodeling designers, will help you understand the main factors that influence the cost of a bathroom remodel, along with how many homeowners typically allocate their budgets.
Why Bathroom Remodel Costs Vary
While you can find lots of articles with “average” costs online, you should be aware that those figures are very rarely accurate. Furthermore, many companies use these tactics in ads to serve as click bait to reel you in only to give you the “real” pricing after you meet with them. Or worse, as infield change orders. They certainly do not accurately reflect the investment of a custom remodel.
According to Melbourne designer, Lindsey Schwartz, “One of the most common things we see is homeowners getting an initial quote from us, then choosing another company because the number looks lower up front. But more often than not, they come back and tell us — it ended up costing exactly what we originally said it would. The truth is, when you account for construction, materials, and labor accurately, the price is the price. Unfortunately, many companies don’t include everything— trades, materials, and other essentials — so the final cost is much higher than the initial quote. Here at S&W Kitchens, we prefer to be transparent from the very beginning. We give you the full price up front so there are no surprises later. It might feel high in the beginning, but it’s an honest number — and that means no hidden costs or nasty surprises down the road.”
We are here to tell you that every choice—from tile selection to plumbing upgrades—affects your overall investment. You have full control over how much your remodel will cost you. Educating yourself on how to make choices and decisions is the best way to know “how much will my bathroom remodel cost”.
So, let's dive in!
Common cost drivers include:
- Scope of work – A cosmetic refresh such as changing vanity, countertops, mirror, paint, lights is a much different project than a full gut remodel.
- Layout changes – Moving plumbing or walls adds complexity.
- Material choices – Are you looking for entry-level tile or luxurious, imported marble.
- Custom features – Built-in storage, steam showers, level entry shower, sauna, cold plunges, body sprays in showers, and more.
Average Investment by Product Category
Percentages are based on national averages and 3rd party sources for full bathroom remodels. Again, everything we do is custom so your allocations and categories may look different based on your unique priorities, materials, and project scope.
product category | % total investment | notes |
|---|---|---|
Cabinetry & Vanity | 10%-15% | Includes custom vanities, storage towers, and countertop surfaces. |
Countertops | 5%-10% | Natural stone, quartz, or solid surface materials. |
Plumbing Fixtures & Lighting | 25%-30% | Faucets, sinks, tubs, toilets, glass enclosures, and shower fixtures. Vanity lighting, recessed lights, and new wiring. |
Shower, Tub & Tile | 10%-15% | Includes tile, glass enclosures, waterproofing, and luxury upgrades like steam. |
Flooring | 5%-10% | Tile, stone, or heated flooring systems. |
Design, Labor & Installation | 40%-70% | Professional services to ensure a flawless, code-compliant finish. |
Typical Investment Levels
While the actual cost depends on your space and selections, most custom bathroom remodels fall into one of these categories:
1. Basic "partial" Remodel
If your bathroom has a solid layout and structure, a partial remodel is an option. In this scenario, you are keeping the existing footprint and only replacing some surfaces and fixtures as needed for a cleaner, more modern look.
Designer Lindsey Schwartz explains: “This is what we call a “partial remodel” and it’s all about maximizing what is already working in your unique space. Lighting and paint can make a huge difference in a bathroom with good bones that just needs a little updating. You’d be surprised how much impact something as simple as swapping older can lights for LEDs can have — it instantly brightens the space and makes it feel brand new.”
For this project, we kept the existing vanities and lighting fixtures but changed the tub, shower and flooring.
2. refresh remodel "Remove and replace"
A refresh remodel is one of the most common types of bathroom projects — ideal when the layout works well, but everything else needs updating. In this scenario, you’re keeping the existing footprint while removing and replacing all major surfaces and fixtures for a clean, cohesive new look. This type of remodel delivers a full transformation without the complexity or cost of moving walls or plumbing — perfect for homeowners who want a space that feels brand new without starting from scratch.
For this project, we kept the existing footprint intact but replaced everything else.
3. Major Remodel
This is a complete overhaul – ideal if you’re ready to start fresh and change the layout. We are gutting your space and making layout changes including moving plumbing and electrical. All new finishes, upgraded fixtures, custom vanity, and improved lighting. The result? A bathroom that not only looks brand new but feels tailor-made for your home.
4. Luxury Spa remodel
We are turning your space into a true retreat blending high end design with resort level comfort. This level of renovation often includes layout changes, custom cabinetry, and premium materials like marble, quartz, or natural stone. Indulgent features such as steam showers, soaking tubs, saunas, and cold plunges bring a spa experience home, while thoughtful lighting and finishes create a space that feels both restorative and beautiful.
For detailed examples, see our in-depth guide on bathroom remodeling. We break down four different sample budgets, from a basic refresh to a full luxury project. Read Your Guide to Bathroom Remodel Costs: 4 Sample Budgets.
Why Work with a Professional
Bathrooms are one of the most complex rooms to remodel—combining plumbing, electrical, waterproofing, and design in a relatively small space. At S&W kitchens, we’ve been remodeling bathrooms for over 48 years. Our team is knowledgeable, experienced and collaborative. You’ll have both a professional bathroom designer and a construction project manager working with you from beginning to end.
Our design-build team will:
- Provide an accurate estimate after seeing your space.
- Guide you through material choices and space planning for both style and performance.
- Manage the project from start to finish for a seamless, stress-free experience.
Start Your Bathroom Remodel
Every beautiful bathroom starts with a conversation. Our designers will help you explore your options, understand what impacts cost, and create a space that reflects your style and needs.
Schedule your design consultation and free estimate and let’s bring your dream bathroom to life.
Article Contributors: S&W Kitchens Designers Krista Agapito, Lindsey Schwartz and Larissa Hicks