Small Bathroom Remodel Costs in 2024

Small bathroom remodel costs are usually manageable and can be an exciting way to refresh your home’s aesthetic and personal style. It can also offer a good return on your investment by increasing your home’s resale value. What’s more, a small bathroom remodel typically involves a manageable project cost and is less expensive than a larger or primary bathroom renovation. 

Still, a small bathroom remodel involves many decisions and moving parts. It brings up important questions, like which factors most impact the project cost, how to budget properly, and if you should do the work yourself. That’s why Modernize has created a cost guide specific to small bathroom projects. Read on for small bathroom remodeling costs by type and budgeting tips to save money on your project.

How Much Does a Small Bathroom Remodel Cost?

On average in 2024, the average small bathroom remodel cost is roughly $115 to $300 per square foot, or anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 in total. A half-bathroom remodel will typically cost less than remodeling a smaller full-sized bathroom, since work on the shower or bathtub is usually necessary.

When creating your project budget, think about small bathroom remodel costs in terms of square footage. The room size will dictate the type of fixtures and how much flooring, wall paint, and tile you need.

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What Factors Affect the Cost of a Small Bathroom Remodel?

The cost to remodel a small bathroom varies depending on the scope of the project, the square footage, and which fixtures and finishings are being replaced. Local labor costs are also a factor, which typically account for 45% of the final bill.

Elements that may be considered in a small bathroom remodeling project include but aren’t limited to the following:

Factors That Affect the Cost of a Small Bathroom Remodel

There are many items that affect the cost of a small bathroom remodel. Here are a few costs you may encounter when planning your new bathroom:

• Materials: Depending on the materials you choose for items such as tile, fixtures, countertops, etc., your small bathroom remodel can cost a lot more.
• Labor: Depending on your location, contractor expertise, and difficulty of installation for the materials and fixtures you choose, your costs can rise.
• Permit costs: A permit may be required depending on the scope of your project. Permit costs vary by city and range between $400 and $1,250 on average. 
• Types of shower or bath: Depending on the shower or bathtub you choose, you could pay more.
• Fixture quality: High-end materials and fixtures cost more and will increase your final remodel cost.
• Demolition: Costs for demolition and disposal of your bathroom’s old fixtures should also be taken into account and range from $500 to $2,000.
• Electrical: If your bathroom needs electrical rewiring or new outlets, expect to pay between $50 to $150 per hour for a professional electrician. 
• Bathroom design: A bathroom requiring structural work or fixture relocation may benefit from a professional design consultant. The average hourly cost of a design professional is $100 to $200, though many often quote per project.

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Small Bathroom Remodel: Costs and Types

Here’s a breakdown of the primary types of small bathrooms and how their remodeling costs may vary.

Half Bathroom Remodel

A half bathroom or powder room usually contains a sink and toilet, but no shower or bathtub. A half-bathroom remodel can start as low as $3,000 with minor upgrades.

A typical half-bathroom renovation includes:

• Installing a new vanity and toilet
• Replacing the flooring
• Repainting walls or adding wallpaper
• Swapping out light fixtures
• Installing new window coverings

Half Bath to Full Bath Conversion

On average, a bathroom expansion can cost as much as $10,000, while adding a brand new bathroom to your home costs as much as $30,000. Prices will vary greatly depending on your home’s layout.

Here is what is typically included in a bathroom conversion:

• All features listed in a half bathroom remodel
• Layout changes
• Relocating vanity and/or toilet
• Electrical alterations
• Use of a general contractor

Should I Add a Shower to My Half Bath?

Ready to create a full bath and potentially increase your home’s value? Learn more about its benefits and costs.

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Small Master Bathroom Remodel

Small primary bathrooms, or master bathrooms, are used regularly by the home’s residents and may warrant a larger budget for renovations. These projects typically start at around $5,000 and can go as high as $25,000 or more depending on the size of the project and the materials you choose.

A small primary bathroom remodel usually includes all of the improvements mentioned in a half bath remodel and more:

• Structural work to change the bathroom’s size
• Installation of higher-end countertops, flooring, tile, and light fixtures
• Professional bathroom design

How to Save Money on a Small Bathroom Remodel

While a small bathroom remodel typically costs less than updating a larger bathroom, it still requires a sizable upfront investment. Here are several Modernize-recommended tips for keeping your bathroom remodeling budget on track.

Create a Realistic Budget

How much should you budget for a small bathroom remodel? Start with the average costs of $3,000 to $15,000 on average, or between $115 and $300 per square foot. Then, use this guide for a general cost estimate and make changes based on your bathroom’s size, requirements, and fixture preferences.

Use the Existing Bathroom Layout

Knocking down walls and relocating plumbing and electrical fixtures can add thousands of dollars to small bathroom remodeling project. Keep your bathroom layout the same and upgrade features and fixtures to keep costs down.

Select Mostly Mid-Range Fixtures

While cheaper materials and fixtures will save you money upfront, opt for mid-range products for improved durability and less maintenance.

Splurge Selectively

A smaller bathroom means you can select some luxury products without breaking the bank, like hand-painted tiles or high-end hardware.

Do Some of the Work Yourself

Keep your wallet happy by doing the demolition, painting, light fixtures installation on your own.

Know When to Hire the Pros

Detailed and skilled work like electrical and plumbing should be performed by a professional. Their skills and expertise avoid expensive re-work costs and ensures safety and code compliance.

How to Find a Reliable Bathroom Remodel Contractor

Depending on the scope of work, a small bathroom renovation can be a realistic DIY project. But if you don’t have an extensive background in construction, a full-scale remodel can be time-consuming, expensive, and even dangerous if the work is not done properly and code-compliant.

What’s more, your project’s return on investment may be higher when you use a professional from the get-go. Seek out a professional with experience in small bathroom remodels, check referrals, get several quotes, and ask lots of questions. Let Modernize get you started. Find a local and reliable bathroom contractor through our network of professionals for a project estimate.

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