How much does a small bathroom remodel cost?
How much does a small bathroom remodel cost?
$100 – $500 average cost per square foot
$3,000 – $4,500 minor renovation cost (30 square feet)
$7,500 – $15,000+ full remodel cost (30 square feet)
Small bathroom remodel cost
A small bathroom remodel costs $100 to $500 per square foot or $3,000 to $15,000 for a 30-square-foot bathroom. The total cost of a small bathroom remodel depends on the bathroom size and the scope of the project. Minor cosmetic changes are much cheaper than major layout changes involving structural, plumbing, and electrical modifications.
| Project scope | Average remodel cost* | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Minor renovations | $3,000 – $4,500 | Cosmetic changes only |
| Partial remodel | $4,500 – $9,000 | Replacing fixtures; no structural work |
| Full remodel | $7,500 – $15,000+ | Major structural, plumbing, and electrical changes |
*Materials & labor for 30 SF bathroom
Minor renovations
Minor bathroom renovations cost $100 to $150 per square foot and focus on cosmetic changes and quick upgrades within the existing bathroom footprint. Projects in this category involve painting, updating faucets, hardware, mirrors, lighting, re-caulking, or swapping out a toilet or sink, without changing the layout or relocating plumbing.
Partial remodels
Partial bathroom remodels at $150 to $300 per square foot involve more substantial upgrades to fixtures and surfaces but do not alter the overall structure or move plumbing. This work includes replacing the vanity, shower or tub, flooring, wall tile, and moderate electrical and plumbing modifications for new components, using mid-range materials and finishes.
Full remodels
Premium remodels cost $250 to $500 per square foot and transform the entire bathroom space. Projects in this scope include reconfiguring the layout, moving plumbing and electrical lines, installing custom cabinetry, premium flooring and tile, luxury features, and fixing issues such as water damage or ventilation problems using high-end materials.
Small bathroom renovation cost by bath type
The cost of a bathroom remodel depends on the space's size, the extent of renovations, and the quality of finishes. A half-bath remodel with just a toilet and sink will cost less to update than a three-piece bath with a tub-shower combo or walk-in shower. The following table shows remodel costs for different bathroom types.
| Bathroom type | Average remodel cost | Common fixtures |
|---|---|---|
| Half-bath or powder room | $4,500 – $10,000 | Toilet & sink |
| 3-piece guest bath | $5,000 – $15,000 | Toilet, sink, and tub-shower combo |
| Small primary | $5,000 – $20,000 | Toilet, sink, and walk-in shower |
Powder room or half-bath remodel
Remodeling a half-bath costs $4,500 to $10,000 on average, depending on the extent of the work. Most half baths range from 15 to 30 square feet in size and include just a toilet and sink. Common renovations include:
Replacing the toilet and vanity sink fixtures
Upgrading the mirror and lighting
Retiling the floors
Painting or wallpapering the walls
A half-bath is the perfect place to try bold paint, fun wallpaper, or unique fixtures. Our small bathroom ideas can help inspire your next project!
Guest bathroom remodel
Remodeling a guest bathroom costs $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size and scope of the project. Most small guest baths include a toilet, sink, and a tub-shower combination. Upgrades may include:
Replacing the toilet, vanity, and tub-shower fixtures
Upgrading mirrors, lighting, and bathroom storage
Retiling the floors and tub-shower surround
Painting or updating the walls
When designing a guest bathroom space, be sure to include plenty of vanity storage for towels and toiletries so your guest feels comfortable, even in a small bathroom.
Small primary bedroom remodel
Remodeling a small primary bathroom costs $5,000 to $20,000, depending on materials and the project scope. Primary bathrooms often include premium or high-end fixtures and surfaces, providing a more luxurious feel. Upgrades may include:
Installing a new vanity with natural stone countertops
Replacing the tub with a walk-in steam shower
Adding high-quality tile or heated floors
Improving storage with built-in cabinetry or custom closet organizers
Average cost of small bathroom remodel by size
The average cost of a small bathroom remodel ranges from $3,000 to $15,000+, with costs increasing as square footage grows due to the extra tile and labor. Remodeling a small bathroom provides around 70% return on investment (ROI) and adds significant value to a home's resale price.
The table below shows costs to remodel a small bathroom by square footage.
| Bath dimensions | Bath size (square feet) | Average remodel cost |
|---|---|---|
| 3' x 5' | 15 | $1,500 – $7,500 |
| 4' x 5' | 20 | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| 5' x 5' | 25 | $2,500 – $12,500 |
| 5' x 6' | 30 | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| 5' x 7' | 35 | $3,500 – $17,500 |
| 5' x 8' | 40 | $4,000 – $20,000 |
| 5' x 10' | 50 | $5,000 – $25,000 |
The cost of tilework in a bathroom averages $10 to $50 per square foot for flooring, showers, and backsplash walls.
Ceramic tile costs $12 to $40 per square foot installed and is highly durable, water-resistant, and a favorite among homebuyers for its value-adding appeal.
Porcelain tile costs $15 to $50 per square foot installed, delivers the highest ROI for most homes, and is exceptionally durable and moisture resistant.
Marble flooring costs $10 to $40 per square foot installed and is considered a luxury upgrade that elevates perceived home value, though its ROI often trails behind porcelain or ceramic options.
Check out a detailed guide of the best bathroom floors to find moisture-resistant options and installation advice for your project.
Breaking down the cost to redo a small bathroom
The total cost to redo a small bathroom depends on the fixtures you replace and whether or not you change the bathroom layout. The table below shows common small bathroom fixtures and prices to help you calculate your project costs.
| Renovation | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| Bathtub installation | $800 – $4,600 |
| Shower installation | $2,000 – $9,000 |
| Glass shower doors cost | $400 – $1,900 |
| Sink installation cost | $200 – $1,500 |
| Faucet installation cost | $200 – $600 |
| Toilet installation cost | $120 – $800 |
| Countertops installation | $450 – $1,500 |
| Cabinetry installation | $500 – $3,600 |
| Refacing existing cabinets | $200 – $800 |
| Flooring installation cost | $100 – $600 |
| Floor tile cost | $100 – $600 |
| Hardwood floor cost | $150 – $600 |
| Bath fan installation cost | $150 – $550 |
| Mirror installation cost | $140 – $430 |
| Install light fixture | $150 – $1,500 |
| Install medicine cabinet | $150 – $400 |
| Install hardware | $50 – $300 |
| Painting walls costs | $150 – $400 |
| Retiling shower | $800 – $3,000 |
| Steam shower cost | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Shower pan installation cost | $500 – $3,500 |
| Bathtub or shower liner costs | $1,700 – $2,500 |
| Tub refinishing costs | $300 – $600 |
| Heated bathroom floor cost | $250 – $1,700 |
Several factors impact the total cost to remodel a bathroom:
Bathroom layout changes: Moving walls, plumbing, or electrical lines increases both labor and material costs, with significant impacts on the timeline and budget.
Demolition and disposal: Removing old fixtures and finishes can cost $600 to $2,000, depending on the amount of debris and local dumping fees.
Pre-existing damage: Discovery of mold, water damage, or structural issues during demolition often leads to additional repairs and higher overall costs.
Fixture quality: High-end tubs, sinks, and hardware raise material costs and sometimes require specialized installation.
Unique features: Adding steam showers, heated floors, or custom lighting improves functionality and comfort but adds both labor and material expenses.
Design fees: Hiring a professional interior designer costs $50 to $200 per hour in consultation fees but can result in a more functional and visually appealing space.
Permit fees: Required for plumbing, structural, or electrical work, permit fees add $200 to $800 or more to the total and ensure the work meets code.
Labor
Labor makes up 40% to 60% of a small bathroom renovation budget, with costs influenced by project complexity, contractor expertise, and local wage rates. Plumbers, electricians, tile installers, and general contractors may charge hourly or by the project. Any specialized work, such as moving plumbing lines, will increase labor expenses.
Materials
Material choices play a major role in the final cost, ranging from budget-friendly vinyl and prefab vanities to high-end natural stone, custom cabinetry, and luxury fixtures. Durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean materials cost more but may reduce long-term maintenance.
Small bathroom remodel FAQs
How long does a small bathroom remodel take?
A small bathroom remodel takes anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks. Cosmetic updates may be finished in 1 to 2 weeks, while a full remodel takes 3 to 4 weeks. Projects involving layout changes or custom work can take 4 to 6 weeks or longer.
How do you remodel a small bathroom with a shower?
Converting a small bathroom to include a walk-in shower modernizes the space and improves accessibility. A tub to shower conversion costs $2,000 to $12,000, depending on the shower size, type, material, and plumbing work needed.
Getting estimates from bathroom remodelers
These strategies can help you choose the best bathroom remodeling contractor near you for your small bathroom remodeling project:
Get at least three in-person estimates to compare.
Look for contractors with extensive experience remodeling small bathrooms.
Ask for references and review their portfolio of similar completed projects.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for 5+ years.
Avoid going with the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Confirm the contract specifies a precise beginning date, deadline, and schedule for each task.
Never pay in full before the project begins. Follow a payment plan based on milestones instead.
Questions to ask your contractor
Ask your bathroom remodeler these questions to ensure they are suited to your project:
How many bathroom remodels like this have you done before?
Can I see a portfolio of your past bathroom remodeling jobs?
Can you provide references with contact information?
Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
Who is the project manager, and will you use subcontractors?
What size is your crew, and what hours do they work?
What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
What does your warranty policy include?
How long with the remodeling project take, and when can you start?
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.