Bathroom Remodel
How Much Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost?
Average Cost: $2,000–$12,000 (installed)
A tub-to-shower conversion costs $2,000 to $12,000 installed for most U.S. homeowners. A prefab shower stall runs $1,000 to $8,000, and a custom tiled shower runs $3,500 to $15,000. The price covers removing the tub, installing the shower, new fixtures, and plumbing changes. Shower type, size, materials, and local labor rates decide where you land, and labor makes up 40% to 60% of the total.
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Table of Contents
- What Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost?
- What Is a Tub to Shower Conversion?
- Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost by Shower Type
- Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost by Shower Size
- Other Factors Influencing Cost
- Lower-Cost Alternatives
- DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Add Value?
- How Long Does This Project Take?
- Choosing the Right Contractor
- Tips for Saving Money
- Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost FAQs
- The Bottom Line
- Sources
What Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost?
Most homeowners pay $2,000 to $12,000 to convert a tub to a shower. Your final price depends on the type of shower, any repairs the space needs, the materials you choose, and labor rates in your area. A prefab shower stall costs $1,000 to $8,000 installed. A custom tiled shower costs $3,500 to $15,000.
| Conversion Type | Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| Tub cut (keeps the tub, adds a low entry) | $800–$1,800 |
| Prefab shower stall | $1,000–$8,000 |
| Custom tiled shower | $3,500–$15,000 |
Cost guides disagree on the average. Angi lists a $3,000 national average, with most projects between $1,500 and $8,000. HomeGuide lists a $7,000 average based on 81 member projects. Part of the gap likely comes from the mix of projects behind each number, since kits and simple swaps pull an average down and tiled showers pull it up. When you compare quotes, ask what each one includes: tub removal, repairs, waterproofing, the shower itself, the door, and plumbing.
For a quick estimate of your own project, try our shower remodel cost calculator.
What Is a Tub to Shower Conversion?
A tub to shower conversion involves removing an existing bathtub and installing a shower in its place. There are some companies that perform this service on its own, and others that replace tubs with showers as well as offering a host of other bathroom remodel services.
In this article, we will break down project costs with the assumption you are not performing other major bathroom remodels at the same time. If you are, then your costs could differ slightly. For example, your labor and plumbing charges may be a bit lower since you will already have contractors on site. Either way, this page is a good starting point as you evaluate project quotes.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost by Shower Type
The type of shower you choose has a large influence over your final project cost. These are broad national ranges that cover kits and custom builds. For comparison, HomeGuide lists a prefab stall conversion at $1,000 to $8,000 and a tiled walk-in at $3,500 to $15,000. Here’s a look at what to expect from least to most expensive:
| Shower Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-Fabricated | $1,200 to $8,000 |
| Corner | $1,500 to $6,000 |
| Framed | $1,800 to $6,500 |
| Walk-In | $2,500 to $15,000+ |
| Semi-Frameless | $2,800 to $8,000 |
| Frameless | $3,500 to $12,000+ |
Not sure which shower type you’re most interested in? You can visit our shower types page to learn more. Here’s a cheat sheet in the meantime:
- Pre-fab: A prefabricated shower kit can be purchased from a big box store and typically comes with a shower pan, shower surround (the wall panels), and either a shower curtain rod or door. These tend to be the most inexpensive option.
- Corner shower: Designed to fit into the corner of your bathroom, this shower sometimes has a curved glass door and is an excellent space saver. You can read more about when and why to choose this shower type in our guide to corner showers.
- Framed shower: Both a framed shower enclosure and a framed shower door have metal supports all the way around. You can learn more about framed showers by reading our guide.
- Walk-in shower: A modern, popular shower that can fit into both large and small bathrooms. It traditionally does not have a door. Our guide to walk-in showers can tell you more, and you can also read about how much a walk-in shower costs.
- Semi-frameless shower: Both a semi-frameless enclosure and door have metal supports on the top and bottom only. Our guide to semi-frameless showers has more information.
- Frameless shower: This popular and pricey shower has no metal supports at all. It gives bathrooms an open, airy look. You can read about frameless showers and their average cost in our guide.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost by Shower Size
Typically, homeowners choose a shower size that fits comfortably into the space where the tub once was. Most building codes require a shower floor of at least 30 by 30 inches. Here are the five most popular shower sizes chosen during this project as well as their average cost range. Angi lists lower averages for some standard sizes, such as $1,000 to $2,800 for a 32 x 32 stall and $1,200 to $4,200 for a 36 x 60 shower, so the top of each range below assumes tile and glass.
| Shower Size | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 32 x 32 inches | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| 36 x 36 inches | $1,200 to $5,500 |
| 36 x 48 inches | $1,500 to $7,000 |
| 36 x 60 inches | $2,000 to $10,000 |
| 42 x 60 inches | $3,500 to $15,000 |
This can be a little hard to visualize, so let’s look at each size in more detail below.
32 x 32 inches: $1,000 to $3,000
Suitable for small spaces, and typically the least expensive due to its compact size. The smaller the shower, the fewer materials needed and the less time it takes to install.
36 x 36 inches: $1,200 to $5,500
Slightly larger, this size provides more room while still being relatively affordable and fitting easily into the space left by the tub.
36 x 48 inches: $1,500 to $7,000
A popular choice that balances cost and space, fitting well in standard bathrooms. This shower size is chosen for many types of shower remodels, so you should have no problem finding materials for the space and contractors with the right experience.
36 x 60 inches: $2,000 to $10,000
This shower size fits the 60-inch-long alcove where most standard bathtubs sit, which makes it a common choice for conversions. It also offers quite a bit of space. That extra space means more materials and labor, so it is one of the more expensive tub-to-shower conversions.
42 x 60 inches: $3,500 to $15,000
This is the largest of the five sizes here. It allows for a luxurious showering experience with additional space for features like seating or a second showerhead. In addition to being the largest and most expensive option, it will also take the most time to complete.
We have a page dedicated to standard shower sizes if you’d like to learn more about all the sizes available as well as about which sizes are most typical for each shower type.
Other Factors Influencing Cost
Though the type and size of shower you choose have the largest impact on your final cost, there are several other variables to account for.
- Materials and fixtures: A prefabricated shower pan costs less than a ceramic tile floor, and ceramic tile costs less than natural stone. Aside from walls and floors, you will also need to choose a showerhead along with other hardware. Showerheads run $50 to $900, according to Angi.
- Labor costs: You may need to pay for a plumber to move water lines or for a professional to lay tile. Labor makes up 40% to 60% of the total cost, or $500 to $5,000 on average, according to Angi. Tile showers cost the most in labor because they take the longest to install.
- Permits and regulations: Depending on where you live, you may need to pull permits for your project. HomeGuide puts permits at $30 to $400, while Angi lists bathroom permits at $200 to $2,000, so ask your contractor or city what yours will cost.
- Custom features: Any custom add-ons like built-in shelves ($200 to $500 for a niche, shelf, or bench) or specialty tile can raise your costs.
- Unexpected repairs: If there’s water damage or other damage that requires repairing or replacing the subfloor, that adds to your final costs. Repairs and added plumbing can raise a project by $300 to $2,400, according to Angi.
Materials also vary widely in price. These are Angi’s average costs per square foot.
| Material | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass or acrylic insert | $0.75–$12 |
| Tile | $1–$17 |
| Cultured marble | $10–$35 |
| Cultured granite | $40–$64 |
| Quartz | $50–$100 |
How all these costs break down
Tub to Shower Conversion
Average Installation Cost
$2,000–$12,000
Cost Breakdown
- Materials 60%
- Labor 40%
The line items below come from HomeGuide. You will not need every item, since a prefab stall and a custom tile shower use different parts.
| Line Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tub removal and debris disposal | $70–$800 |
| Cleanup and repairs | $100–$1,000 |
| Prefab shower stall kit | $350–$4,100 |
| Custom tile (materials and labor) | $800–$3,000 |
| Custom shower pan (tile showers only) | $500–$3,500 |
| Shower door | $400–$1,900 |
| Shower valve | $225–$575 |
| Faucets and fixtures | $40–$500 |
| Plumbing | $500–$1,100 |
Garden tubs cost more to remove, at $400 to $800 for removal and disposal alone. Stall kits don’t include doors or fixtures, so add those to your budget. Accessibility upgrades add more:
- Curbless entry: A walk-in or curbless entry adds $1,000 to $4,000.
- Grab bars: Bars cost $50 to $500 each.
- Shower seat: A built-in or fold-down seat costs $100 to $600.
Lower-Cost Alternatives
A full conversion isn’t your only option. A tub cut conversion costs $800 to $1,800. Contractors remove part of the tub’s front wall, which leaves a low threshold and keeps the tub in place. It’s a cheaper way to make a tub easier to step into.
If you only want a fresh look, refinishing a bathtub costs $250 to $600, according to HomeGuide. If you would rather keep a tub, see what bathtub replacement costs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
You can save $1,000 or more by installing the shower yourself, according to Angi. A shower stall kit from a hardware store can bring a DIY project to as little as $1,200, and a tiled shower starts around $2,150. Those figures leave out tub removal, hauling, cleanup, and finishing touches.
Leave the plumbing to a licensed plumber. A drain installed incorrectly can let sewer gases back up into your home, and a mistake can cause water damage. Angi puts plumbers at $45 to $200 per hour. Before you start, read about what to expect from a DIY bathroom remodel.
Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Add Value?
It can, but it depends on your home. A converted shower can make a bathroom feel larger and can appeal to buyers who want easier access. Removing the only bathtub in the house can hurt resale, since families with young children and pet owners often want at least one tub.
If another bathroom has a tub, converting one tub to a shower is usually a safer call. Think about who is likely to buy in your neighborhood before you decide. If you are still deciding, read our bathtub vs. shower comparison.
How Long Does This Project Take?
Most conversions take one to three days, according to Angi. Installing a standard prefab shower takes the least time. Elaborate custom tile can take three or four days.
Some companies advertise themselves as “one day” tub-to-shower conversions. Typically, this is the only service offered, and their contractors work with a pre-selected suite of materials. Not only does that reduce the number of stores you need to go to for samples, but it also means the pros are very well-versed in this project and can get it done quickly. However, you may sacrifice customizations for convenience.
Other companies offer tub-to-shower conversions along with many other upgrades and remodels. If you want to replace your floors, your toilet, or your cabinets and sink in addition to swapping your tub for a shower, you may want to choose a more full-service contractor. However, it may take a few days to complete the project. For the full picture of a bathroom project, see our bathroom remodel timeline.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Regardless of the shower type and size, and regardless of which type of company you decide to hire, there are a few best practices to follow to ensure you get the right contractor at the right price.
- Look for licensed, insured contractors with experience in bathroom renovations. Check reviews and ask for references to ensure quality work. You also might be able to find recent examples of their work online or on their social media.
- Plan to get three to four quotes. Our research shows this is the best number for finding a good price. Be wary of any “too good to be true” prices, and ask for the quotes to be broken down so you can see what each contractor is estimating for each part of the project.
- Ask for their recommendation on shower type and size, materials you should use, and how to keep your project in your budget.
Questions to ask potential contractors
- What is your experience with tub-to-shower conversions?
- Can you provide references or examples of past work?
- What is the estimated timeline for the project?
- What is included in your quote?
- How much do you recommend setting aside for unexpected costs or repairs?
- Does the price include replacing the tub drain with a shower drain and waterproofing the walls?
Tips for Saving Money
- Go prefab: A prefab shower has lower material and labor costs than a custom one.
- Pick a standard size: A standard shower size costs less than a custom size.
- Skip high-end materials: Budget-friendly materials save money compared with stone or premium tile.
- Choose basic fixtures: A basic showerhead costs far less than a luxury model.
- Keep the plumbing in place: Reusing the existing drain location avoids added plumbing costs.
- Interview at least three installers: Several bids show you which prices are reasonable.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost FAQs
The Bottom Line
Converting your tub to a shower can enhance your bathroom’s functionality and look. With careful planning and an eye on costs, you can even add value to your home. Visit our full guide to shower remodels if you want to learn more about all the decisions and timelines associated with this project.
If you’re ready to start your tub-to-shower conversion project, you can visit our contractor directory to see pros available in your area. If you’d rather have us do the research for you, simply click below and answer a few questions about your project, and we will match you with up to four professionals.
