How Much Does a Shower Remodel Cost?
Expect to pay between $3,100 and $10,000 for your shower remodel, with the national average falling around between $6,000 and $7,500. This cost is for a full renovation of your shower, including materials and labor.
Projects at the lower end of that range often focus on basic updates and smaller showers. Projects at the higher end of the scale focus on larger showers, premium finishes, custom tile work, and glass enclosures. For any size shower remodel, additional plumbing, permits, or hidden damage behind the shower can drive the costs up.
How to Use This Shower Cost Calculator
Our shower cost calculator can help you determine a good ballpark cost for your remodel, but your local contractor will give you a firm quote.
Here’s how to use the calculator:
- Choose your shower style and size.
- Select your shower base.
- Note if you will be adding fixtures, such as showerheads.
- Provide your ZIP Code.
And that’s it! You’ll get an immediate ballpark figure for your shower remodel. Other factors will come into play, such as the labor rates in your area and any permits you might need. This calculator is great for giving you a general idea of how much it will cost to transform your shower.
Average Shower Remodel Costs in 2026
Cost by Shower Type
Shower remodeling costs rely heavily on the type of shower you have. Here’s what to expect.
- Freestanding Shower: Expect to pay between $3,400 and $12,400 or more, depending upon the size and type of tile, the customizations you prefer, and plumbing changes if necessary.
- Walk-In Shower: A walk-in shower costs about $3,000 to $10,200, on average. High-end finishes and customization can drive this price to the higher end of the spectrum.
- Shower/Tub Combo: You can expect to pay between $3,200 and $8,900; you’ll pay much less for prefab surrounds and more for custom tile or upgrades.
- Corner Shower: Space-efficient design and installation can run between $3,100 and $8,700.
- Tub to Shower Conversion: This is among the most affordable, as it makes use of your existing shower and tub. A basic conversion runs between $2,100 and $5,200.
- Shower Door: A frameless or semi-frameless shower door typically runs between $650 and $2,600.
Cost by Shower Size
The size of your shower plays a key role in your bottom line. As you might imagine, the larger the shower, the more expensive it will be. Here’s a brief rundown.
Here’s a brief rundown.
| Shower Size | Size in Inches | Estimated Cost | Typical Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 32” X 32” | $2,800 to $6,500 | Basic prefab or tile |
| Medium | 36” X 48” | $5,500 to $10,500 | Quality prefab, custom tile, glass door |
| Large | 48” X 60” or more | $8,500 to $15,000 and up | Walk-in threshold, frameless glass, built-in bench |
Remember that actual shower costs can vary based on the type of tile you choose, any plumbing or electrical that needs to be moved, and your design choices.
Fixture Installation Costs
In addition to the cost of the shower itself, you pay for fixture upgrades.
- Showerhead & Faucet: A basic faucet can run about $60, but the higher-end models can rise up to $1,100 or more.
- Shower Door: Expect to pay $500 to $1,700 for a framed or semi-framed door, or between $1,400 and $3,500 for premium frameless or specialty glass.
- Built-In Storage or Seating: A basic bench built into an acrylic surround can cost as little as $250, while serious seating and storage nooks can run up to $1,200 or more.
Plumbing Costs
Rerouting plumbing can add a significant line item to your shower remodel costs.
- Plumbing Updates: Expect to pay between $800 and $4,000 depending on complexity.
- New Valves or Fixtures: These typically run between $450 and $1,400; high-end pieces push the cost to the higher end.
Major relocation of drains or supply lines will cost well beyond what we have estimated here.
Labor Costs
Labor costs in your area will account for a large portion of the budget – in some cases, up to 50% of your total cost. Basic costs to expect:
- Tile Installation and Waterproofing: $2,000 to $5,000
- Demolition and Prep Work: $500 to $1,500
- Glass Door Installation: $300 to $800
Intricate tile patterns, large layout changes, and regional labor rates will all determine what your actual costs will be.
Shower Tile and Material Costs
The choice of tile can change your costs quite a bit. Though some tile can be quite affordable, high-end options can be quite expensive. Here are a few ranges to consider as you choose tile and other materials.
Cost to Tile Shower Walls
- Ceramic and Porcelain Tile: $15 to $50 per square foot
- Glass or Mosaic Tile: $20 to $100 or more per square foot
- Natural Stone: $40 to $200 or more per square foot
Cost to Replace Shower Floors
- Tile Floor Replacement: $700 to $2,000 or more
- Linear Drains: $200 to $1,500
- Shower Pan: $900 to $3,500
Keep in mind that all of these numbers include installation.
Additional and Hidden Costs
Remodeling the shower is often just one part of a bigger project. Once you see the new shower, you might want to remodel the whole bathroom. That leads to some significant costs. Here’s what to expect from costs for a full bathroom remodel:
| Remodeling Space | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Small Bath or Half Bath | $4,000 to $12,000 |
| Full Bathroom | $10,000 to $30,000 |
| Primary Bathroom | $25,000 to $50,000 |
| ADA-Compliant Bathroom | $15,000 to $45,000 |
However, even when sticking to a simple shower remodel, hidden costs can catch you by surprise. That’s why it’s a good rule of thumb to keep about 10% to 20% of the cost of the overall project in reserve.
- Water Damage: If there were leaks inside the walls or under the floor, you likely have some water damage that will need to be repaired.
- Plumbing Upgrades: The contractor might find corroded shower valves or pipes, drains that aren’t flowing properly, or problems with the plumbing not being up to code.
- Structural Repairs: Damaged or weakened subflooring or framing might need reinforcement before full installation is complete.
- Mold Remediation: The discovery of mold during demolition means remediation will be necessary to protect your health and keep your home safe.
How to Save Money on a New Shower
A few smart choices can give you a lovely, functional bathroom without overspending. Here are a few tips to keep your shower replacement as affordable as possible.
- Keep the Same Layout: Plumbing and electrical work can drive the costs up quite a bit. Keeping your existing layout will avoid the extra expenses.
- Go with Prefab: A prefabricated shower unit is easy to install and comes in a variety of styles.
- Choose Fixtures Wisely: Lower-end fixtures can still look fantastic and offer good durability.
- Do Small Updates: Rather than replacing the shower, consider other options, such as new tile, fresh grout, or updated glass doors.
- Watch the Seasons: Booking work during the off-season can lead to lower labor rates or promotional discounts.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Itemized bids from your local contractors can give you a very good sense of what the project will cost and where you might be able to save money.
How to Get Started With Your Shower Remodel Project
Though a do-it-yourself shower remodel might be tempting, you should only attempt this if you are very experienced with handling tools and have some past remodeling success under your belt. For most people, hiring a professional is the right way to go. To begin:
- Measure your shower and decide how you want it to look.
- Set a clear budget, remembering that extra 20% for surprises.
- Browse through materials and options to choose the ones that speak to you.
- Request quotes from contractors. Make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured.
- Confirm permit requirements, if any.
- Set a date to begin the work.
When you’re ready to start your shower remodel, Modernize can help. We’ll connect you with trusted local contractors for quotes, advice, and options tailored to your budget and timeline.
FAQs About Shower Remodel Costs
Do you have more questions about a shower remodel? Here are some common ones.
Does a Shower Remodel Increase Home Value?
It can, especially for mid-range updates that improve function and aesthetics.
Do I Need a Permit for a Shower Remodel?
If your project involves plumbing, electrical, or structural work, a permit might be required.
How Long Does a Shower Remodel Take?
A straightforward remodel usually takes up to a week. If you are going with a prefab shower, that time might be cut in half.
What’s the Cheapest Way to Update a Shower?
Save money by resealing grout, installing a new door, or refreshing the fixtures instead of remodeling the shower.
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