2026 HOME PROJECT COST GUIDE

Bathroom Remodel Cost Calculator

Estimate a bathroom renovation using room size, editable cost-per-square-foot assumptions and project complexity. Then pressure-test the result against tile, waterproofing, plumbing, fixtures, ventilation and electrical scope.

Calculate bathroom costFree planning estimate · No account required
BATHROOM COST EXAMPLE

80 sq ft bathroom remodel

$9,600–$20,000

Using the estimator’s current editable assumption of $120–$250 per sq ft before complexity adjustments, an 80 sq ft bathroom produces this starting planning range. It is not a contractor quote.

Use the bathroom cost calculator

How much does a bathroom remodel cost in 2026?

Quick answer: ProjectCostWise currently models bathroom remodeling at an editable $120–$250 per square foot starting assumption. For 80 sq ft, that equals $9,600–$20,000 before complexity adjustments. Actual bids depend on local labor, materials and the exact scope. See how the calculation works.

How to calculate bathroom remodeling cost

A useful early formula is bathroom square footage × cost per square foot × complexity adjustment. Square footage gives you a scalable starting point, while complexity helps account for projects involving plumbing relocation, extensive tile, custom showers, hidden damage or premium finishes.

Small bathrooms are not automatically inexpensive. Several trades may still need to mobilize, and waterproofing, plumbing and electrical work can carry meaningful fixed labor even when the room is compact.

Bathroom remodel cost per square foot

Per-square-foot pricing is best used as a planning tool rather than a guaranteed market price. Two bathrooms of identical size can have very different budgets if one keeps the existing layout and the other moves plumbing, rebuilds a shower and adds premium tile.

What affects bathroom renovation cost?

  • Tile coverage, pattern and material
  • Shower or tub system and waterproofing
  • Vanity, countertop, toilet and fixture quality
  • Plumbing relocations or drain changes
  • Ventilation, lighting and electrical upgrades
  • Hidden moisture damage or subfloor repair

Three bathroom remodeling scope levels

Cosmetic update

Keep plumbing locations and focus on paint, hardware, lighting, fixtures or selected surface updates.

Standard remodel

Replace the vanity, toilet, tub or shower finishes, tile and lighting with moderate plumbing or electrical work.

Major renovation

Relocate fixtures, rebuild the shower, add extensive tile, repair water damage or use premium custom finishes.

Keep plumbing in place or move it?

Keeping the toilet, shower, tub and vanity near their existing plumbing locations can reduce complexity. Relocating drains, supplies or vents may require additional demolition, trade labor, inspections and repairs to surrounding finishes.

Compare with 2026 ProjectCostWise benchmarks

See the 2026 Home Project Cost Benchmarks for the modeled planning assumptions used across ProjectCostWise project categories and how those assumptions differ from observed contractor-bid data.

Questions to ask bathroom contractors

  • What waterproofing system is included?
  • Are tile and fixture allowances clearly stated?
  • Which plumbing and electrical changes are included?
  • What happens if hidden water damage is discovered?
  • Who handles permits and inspections when required?
  • How are change orders priced and approved?
READY FOR YOUR NUMBERS?

Calculate your bathroom remodel cost

Enter your ZIP code, project size and complexity, adjust the assumptions if needed, and use the resulting range to prepare for contractor bids.

Open the free cost estimator

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bathroom remodel cost?

ProjectCostWise currently uses an editable planning assumption of $120–$250 per square foot before complexity adjustments.

How do I calculate bathroom remodeling cost?

Multiply the planned bathroom square footage by low and high cost-per-square-foot assumptions, then adjust for complexity and scope.

Why can small bathrooms still be expensive?

Plumbing, waterproofing, tile and electrical work have setup and labor costs that do not shrink directly with room size.

Does moving bathroom plumbing increase cost?

It can. Moving drains, supplies or vents may add plumbing labor, demolition, repair and permit requirements.

PLAN FIRST

Estimate, compare, then request real bids

ProjectCostWise planning estimates are educational and adjustable. They do not replace an onsite inspection or a contractor’s written proposal.