How much does shower installation cost?
How much does shower installation cost?
$1,000 – $8,000 prefab shower stall insert cost
$3,000 – $20,000+ custom tile shower cost
Average shower installation cost
New shower installation costs anywhere from $1,000 to $20,000+ for the materials and professional labor. Prefab shower replacement costs less when installing the same style unit with no structural modifications. The cost to install a new shower varies widely based on location, type, size, features, and whether it's a prefab or custom installation.
| Project type | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Basic prefab shower stall | $1,000 – $8,000 |
| Custom walk-in shower | $3,000 – $20,000+ |
| Standard tub-shower combo | $2,000 – $4,500 |
| Tub-to-shower conversion | $2,000 – $12,000 |
| Accessible / barrier-free shower | $3,000 – $6,000+ |
| Steam shower | $2,900 – $6,800+ (prefab) $4,000 – $16,500+ (custom) |
Walk-in shower
A walk-in shower costs $1,000 to $20,000+ installed. Prefab walk-in showers offer the most budget-friendly option. Custom tile installations cost significantly more due to waterproofing, tile work, and specialized labor requirements.
Prefab shower stall
One of the most economical choices, a prefabricated shower insert costs $1,000 to $8,000 installed, depending on your chosen material, shower size, and any customizations. These units come as complete kits with walls, base, and sometimes doors included. Installation involves minimal construction work, making them ideal for quick bathroom updates.
Custom tile shower
Tile shower installation costs vary widely, ranging from $3,000 to $20,000+ depending on the shower size, tile material, and design complexity. Custom installations require waterproofing, backer board installation, and skilled tile work. Natural stone, luxury ceramics, and intricate mosaic designs cost the most. Additionally, labor costs increase significantly with detailed patterns or small tiles.
Tub-shower combo
A bathtub-shower combo costs $2,000 to $4,500 to install on average. These units maximize bathroom functionality by combining bathing and showering options. Prefab combo units cost less than custom installations. Adding features like jets, grab bars, or premium fixtures increases the total investment.
Accessible / barrier-free shower
Barrier-free showers cost $3,000 to $6,000+ to meet ADA requirements and provide wheelchair accessibility. These installations feature zero-threshold entries with shower floors level with the bathroom floor. Curbless showers require specialized drainage systems and waterproofing to prevent water from flowing into adjacent areas. The installation involves sloping the shower floor toward the drain and creating seamless transitions.
Steam shower
A steam shower costs $2,900 to $16,500 and offers a luxurious spa-like experience at home. These specialized units create warm steam for relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Steam showers require additional electrical work, waterproofing, specialized controls, and proper ventilation systems. Most steam showers feature enclosed designs with sealed doors to contain moisture and heat effectively.
Shower replacement cost factors
Multiple factors influence your final shower installation cost:
Location: Labor rates vary by location, with contractors charging more in major cities and areas with a higher cost of living. Material availability and delivery charges also vary depending on where you live.
Site conditions: New construction installations don't have demolition and disposal costs but may involve framing and additional prep work.
Prefab vs. custom: Ready-to-install, prefabricated showers are the most budget-friendly. Custom builds tend to cost much more, but they also offer much more flexibility.
Size and design
Smaller showers cost less to install than larger ones that require more materials and labor. A standard walk-in shower measures 32" by 32" to 36" by 36", but custom sizes can be designed to fit your space. Custom sizes may need special-order components, increasing both material and installation costs.
The following table shows how shower size affects installation costs for different materials and styles.
| Shower size | Prefab shower cost* | Custom tile cost* |
|---|---|---|
| Small (32" x 32") | $1,000 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Standard (36" x 36") | $1,500 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Large (48" x 36") | $2,500 – $6,000 | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Luxury (60" x 40") | $4,000 – $8,000 | $8,000 – $20,000+ |
*Including labor and materials
Materials and finishes
Material selection dramatically impacts your project cost. Tile prices range from as little as $2 per square foot to as much as $25 per square foot before installation. Acrylic costs more than fiberglass in most cases, but it also offers better durability and damage resistance. Premium materials like natural stone, high-end ceramics, and solid surface have higher-than-average prices.
Shower wall material options include prefab panels, standard ceramic tile, luxury tile, or natural stone slabs.
Shower base materials range from basic fiberglass to custom stone or tile.
Plumbing requirements
Adding new plumbing costs $450 to $1,800 per fixture. Simple installations using existing plumbing connections keep the pricing at the low end. Moving plumbing lines, upgrading water pressure, or installing multiple shower heads increases the project complexity and cost. Performance showers with body sprays may require water heater upgrades as well.
Labor and installation complexity
Labor costs range from $500 to $2,000+ for most shower installations, depending on the location and complexity. Simple prefab installations require minimal labor, while custom tile work demands skilled craftspeople who often charge premium rates for their expertise. Detailed mosaic patterns, waterproofing, and electrical work for specialty features also increase labor time and costs.
Your shower installation may involve several professionals:
Plumbers charge $45 to $200 per hour.
Electrician rates range from $50 to $130+ per hour.
Professional painters charge $25 to $75 per hour.
Handypersons charge $50 to $80 per hour.
Permits and inspections
Most shower installations require permits, especially when moving plumbing or electrical lines. Fees vary anywhere from $50 to $2,000, depending on your region and the scope of the project. Most contractors handle any necessary permit applications to ensure the installation complies with all building codes.
Additional costs
Beyond the shower unit and installation, several additional expenses may apply to your project and significantly impact the total cost. A basic shower head may cost as little as $125 installed, while some luxury options cost in the thousands. A bathroom fan adds $250 to $950, but proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture damage and mold growth.
The table below shows the cost of several common shower components.
| Component | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Basic shower head installation | $200 – $900 |
| High-end showerheads / comprehensive fixture upgrades |
$650 – $1,500+ |
| Built-in shower bench or shelving | $250 – $1,000 |
| Shower pan cost | $500 – $3,500 |
| Shower door cost | $400 – $1,900 |
| Bathroom fan cost | $250 – $950 |
| Grab bar cost | $100 – $350+ each |
Shower installation FAQs
How long does shower installation take?
Most shower installations take 2 to 4 hours for simple door replacements, while complete shower installations take 1 to 3+ days, depending on the size, type, and site conditions. Custom tile work extends the project timeline to 1 to 2 weeks depending on the complexity.
Will Medicare pay for a walk-in shower?
Original Medicare does not cover walk-in tubs or showers because they are not considered medically necessary equipment. In rare cases, reimbursement may be possible with a doctor’s prescription and documented medical need, but this is uncommon.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer coverage for bathroom modifications, including walk-in showers, but rules vary by plan. You can also explore Medicaid, veteran benefits, or nonprofit programs for financial help.
Check for state-specific assistance programs and USDA Rural Development loans or grants to help pay for home modifications for seniors. Non-profit organizations like Rebuilding Together also offer grants for home safety upgrades.
Can I install a shower myself?
While basic prefab shower installation may be possible for an experienced DIYer, plumbing and electrical work require professional expertise. Additionally, many manufacturers require professional installation for a valid warranty. Hire a qualified installer to ensure your new shower is safe, up to code, and will last for years to come.
When should I replace vs. repair my shower?
If your shower is over 15 years old or if the shower repair costs exceed 50% of the replacement cost, replacement often provides better value.
Getting estimates for shower installation
When searching for a shower installer near you, be sure to:
Compare detailed estimates from at least three licensed contractors.
Choose from contractors with specific experience installing showers.
Look for licensed CTEF Certified Tile Installers (CTI) and members of the National Tile Contractors Association for tile projects.
Request itemized estimates showing labor, materials, and any additional costs.
Verify the contractors' licenses, insurance, and references from recent projects.
Ask for timeline estimates and warranty information.
Compare proposed materials and installation methods in addition to pricing.
Check HomeGuide and Google for reviews from previous customers.
Ensure the estimates include demolition, disposal, and cleanup costs.
Clarify who obtains permits and handles inspections.
Don't pay in full before the project starts. Instead, pay in installments for the completed work.
Questions to ask a shower installer
Asking the right questions will help you choose the best contractor and avoid surprises during your shower installation:
What type of shower do you recommend for my space and budget?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured in this area?
Do you handle permits and inspections, and are these costs included?
What warranties do you provide on labor and materials?
What does the estimate include, and what additional costs might come up during the project?
How long will the installation take from start to finish?
What happens if you discover unexpected plumbing or structural issues?
Can you provide references from similar projects completed within the last year?
What brands and materials do you recommend and why?
How do you handle cleanup and debris removal?
What payment schedule do you require, and do you offer financing?
How do you protect the rest of my home during construction?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.