How much does a walk-in tub cost?
How much does a walk-in tub cost?
$4,000 – $18,000 standard walk-in tub cost (with installation)
$8,000 – $25,000+ luxury walk-in tub cost (with installation)
Average walk-in tub cost
A walk-in tub costs $3,000 to $13,000 for the unit only or $4,000 to $18,000 with installation, depending on the brand and features. Complex projects or tubs from high-end luxury brands cost $6,000 to $20,000+ for the unit or $8,000 to $25,000+ installed. Extensive accessibility renovations may also raise costs.
| Quality | Average tub price | Average installed cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard tubs | $3,000 – $13,000 | $4,000 – $18,000 |
| High-end tubs / complex installations | $6,000 – $20,000+ | $8,000 – $25,000+ |
Walk-in tub prices by type
Walk-in tubs offer different features and price points. Tubs with air or water jets can improve blood circulation. ADA-compliant tubs are useful for seniors or those with mobility issues.
Standard walk-in tubs often include a hand-held showerhead, but a shower-tub combo is perfect for those who sometimes shower but prefer the support of a seated bath. A walk-in tub with shower combo costs $2,500 to $10,000.
The table below shows the average prices for various types of walk-in tubs and features.
| Type | Price range* | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Basic soaking tub | $3,000 – $6,000 | Safety; accessibility |
| Walk-in tub & shower combo | $2,500 – $10,000 | Bathe or shower with a seat |
| Walk-in tub with hydro jets | $5,000 – $12,000 | Deep-tissue massage; pain relief |
| Walk-in tub with air jets | $5,000 – $11,000 | Gentle massage; circulation |
| Air & hydro jets | $6,000 – $13,000 | Versatile therapy; relaxation |
| Portable walk-in tub | $6,500 – $9,000 | Rollable; no permanent install |
| Two-person walk-in tub | $7,700 – $20,000 | Dual seating; accessibility help |
| Bariatric / handicap tub | $5,000 – $13,000 | Wide seats; ADA compliant |
| Luxury walk-in tub | $8,000 – $25,000+ | Advanced features; custom options |
*Price for the tub only; does not include installation labor cost.
Cost of a walk-in tub by brand
The table below shows some of the most popular walk-in tub brands and prices. Some brands, like Meditub, are only available through authorized sellers. Others are for sale at popular retailers like Home Depot or Lowe's or through local tub installers.
| Brand | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| Kohler | $7,000 – $25,000+ |
| Safe Step | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| American Standard | $4,000 – $12,000 |
| Ella’s Bubbles | $4,800 – $15,000 |
| Jacuzzi | $11,000 – $20,000+ |
| Meditub | $4,000 – $8,500 |
Kohler walk-in tub prices
A Kohler walk-in tub costs $7,000 to $25,000 or more installed. This premium price includes luxury features, durable construction, and advanced hydrotherapy jets, perfect for homeowners wanting customizable options and ADA-compliant safety features.
Safe Step walk-in tub cost
Safe Step walk-in tub prices range from $5,000 to $12,000 with installation. They’re known for safety features, like anti-slip floors, grab bars, and quick-fill technology, as well as their therapeutic options such as hydrotherapy and aromatherapy.
American Standard walk-in tub cost
American Standard walk-in tub prices are $4,000 to $12,000 installed. This brand offers affordable options without sacrificing quality. Features include massaging jets, quick-drain technology, and a lifetime warranty.
Both American Standard and Safe Step have the Arthritis Foundation’s Ease of Use Commendation, which recognizes products designed to be easy for people with arthritis and other physical limitations.
Ella’s Bubbles
Ella’s Bubbles walk-in tubs cost $4,800 to $15,000. Innovative details like dual seats and two-person tubs set this brand apart. Ella’s Bubbles also offers hydrotherapy and wide doors for extra accessibility, blending modern design with enhanced functionality in every model.
Jacuzzi
A Jacuzzi walk-in tub costs $11,000 to $20,000 or more with installation. Renowned for luxury, Jacuzzi includes premium hydrotherapy, heated backrests, and customizable massage option for homeowners seeking ultimate comfort and cutting-edge features.
Meditub
Meditub walk-in tub prices range from $4,000 to $8,500. As one of the most affordable brands, Meditub offers basic safety and mobility features, including easy-entry doors and ADA-compliant seating. This brand is ideal for budget-conscious homeowners who still want the benefits of a walk-in tub.
Factors that affect the cost of a walk-in tub
Walk-in tub installation costs vary widely. The following factors influence the final bill:
Tub size and style: Larger tubs with more water capacity or uniquely styled tubs cost more due to increased materials and manufacturing complexity.
Features and accessories: Adding air or water jets, heated seating, aromatherapy, or chromatherapy increases costs. Grab bars cost $100 to $350 if installed separately.
Installation complexity: Changes to plumbing, electrical work, or removal of the old tub require more labor and may increase installation costs.
Water heater upgrade: High-capacity tubs may require a newer, larger, or tankless water heater. Replacing a water heater costs $1,400 to $5,600 with installation.
Location: Costs differ significantly by region and the availability of professional installers.
Extension panels: Extension panels cost $250 to $300. Walk-in tubs that are shorter than a regular bathtub may require extension panels to hide the open space at one or both ends of the tub.
Repairs & maintenance: Walk-in tubs require cleaning, which you can do at home by using the tub’s self-cleaning system or periodically running the jets with cleaning fluid. Professional repairs for jets, doors, or surface damage can cost $250 to $800+ based on the problem.
Bathroom remodeling
Widening doors, reinforcing floors, or relocating fixtures may be necessary for accessibility. Bathroom renovation costs $100 to $500 per square foot to expand or change the layout if the tub doesn’t fit into the bathroom’s current floor plan.
Some companies charge extra for fixtures like faucets, drains, and shower heads. A new faucet costs $200 to $600. Luxury features like jets or lighting increase costs but create a more luxurious bathing experience.
Labor
Electricians cost $50 to $130 per hour to connect the tub’s motor to power air jets and water jets. A walk-in tub may require new plumbing with larger pipes to reduce fill and drain times. The average plumber costs $350 to $2,000 to upgrade pipes and drains.
Cost to replace tub with walk-in shower
A walk-in shower provides more accessibility than a standard bathtub and can cost less than a walk-in tub. A tub to shower conversion costs $3,500 to $15,000 on average or $1,000 to $8,000 when using prefabricated shower stall kits. Shower stalls can be curbless or flush with the floor.
Pros and cons of walk-in tubs
Walk-in tubs are a great option for seniors or people with mobility issues, allowing them to stay independent. They can also offer relief for joint pain, arthritis, and stress. However, they cost much more than regular bathtubs, and users need to sit in them while they're filling up and draining.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Alternatives
If a walk-in tub is cost-prohibitive or is not the right option for you, consider affordable alternatives like chairs, benches, or a bathtub lift.
| Alternative | Price range |
|---|---|
| Basic shower chair | $30 – $80 |
| Sliding or swivel shower chair | $230 – $600 |
| Wall-mounted folding shower chair | $670 – $800 |
| Transfer bench | $50 – $400 |
| Bathtub lift | $350 – $3,000 |
FAQs about walk-in tubs
What is a walk-in tub?
A walk-in tub is a bathing fixture designed for those seeking safer, easier access than a standard bathtub. It features a low step threshold, door, seat, and often jets or extra features for therapy and comfort. Walk-in tubs improve bathing independence and reduce the potential for slipping or falling.
Does Medicare cover walk-in tubs?
Medicare does not cover walk-in tubs. However, the tub may be tax-deductible as a medical expense if your doctor prescribes it. Occasionally, Medicaid waiver programs or other local aid might offer partial help. Always verify with your provider and local agencies.
Other financial assistance options include:
State-level programs to help senior citizens pay for home modifications.
USDA grants for elderly residents in low-income rural areas to make home modifications.
Grants from non-profit organizations like Rebuilding Together for seniors and people with disabilities.
Discounts and rebates from walk-in tub manufacturers for people with specific medical conditions.
Do walk-in tubs leak?
Walk-in tubs have watertight doors and seals, but leaks can occur due to worn door gaskets, installation errors, or faulty plumbing connections. Regular maintenance and correct installation prevent most leaks. Worn seals or loose fittings are the most common causes of leaks.
How long does it take to fill or drain a walk-in tub?
Walk-in tubs take 6 to 15 minutes to fill, depending on the brand, faucet, plumbing, and water pressure. Bathtubs with a quick-fill faucet take 3 minutes to fill. Walk-in tubs take 5 to 10 minutes to drain on average, or 2 minutes for tubs with a speed drain feature.
How long does it take to install a walk-in tub?
Installing a walk-in tub takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the bathroom layout, plumbing, electrical requirements, and whether major remodeling is needed. If the installation is straightforward, professionals can often complete the work in a single day.
Are walk-in tubs worth it?
A walk-in tub may be worth it if you're looking for a tub with age-in-place features or accessibility. It may even raise resale value for buyers looking for homes in retirement-focused communities or homes appealing to older adults.
Getting estimates from bathtub installers
Follow these tips when getting estimates from walk-in bathtub installation companies near you:
Get at least three itemized estimates when comparing bids to avoid unexpected charges.
Verify credentials and experience.
Always check insurance, licensure, and the number of years in business.
Look for companies with positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Be wary of large upfront payments. Pay as they complete work, according to the contract.
Questions to ask walk-in tub installers
Asking the right questions ensures they complete your project to your satisfaction and on budget.
What experience do you have with walk-in tubs?
Will you remove and dispose of my old bathtub?
Are you insured and licensed in this area?
Who is supervising the installation?
Will you use subcontractors?
What are the start and completion dates?
Do I need permits for this job? Who will get them?
What is included in your warranty?
How is payment scheduled?
Can I see pictures of similar installations you’ve completed?
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.