7 Types of Walk-In Tubs for Seniors
Wondering how to choose the right walk-in tub? Check out the table below for a quick overview of each, and read the full article for a more in-depth look at walk-in tub types.
| Walk-in Tub Style | Features | Average Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Soaker walk-in tub | The most affordable option, focused on safe, seated bathing. | $7,000 to $10,000 |
| Bariatric walk-in tub | Built for larger users, these require more space and stronger support, raising overall cost. | $12,000 to $20,000 |
| Walk-in tub shower combo | Ideal for users who want both options in one fixture; takes up more room than standard tubs and usually costs more to install. | $5,000 to $12,000 |
| Wheelchair accessible tub | Designed for roll-in access and usually requires more extensive bathroom modifications. | $8,000 to $15,000 |
| Lay-down walk-in tub | Slightly longer with option to lay down and stretch out. | $8,000 to $14,000 |
| Hydromassage walk-in tub | Uses water jets for muscle and joint relief or air jets for bubble therapy, increasing both tub and installation costs. | $10,000 to $18,000 |
| Two-person walk-in tub | Designed to accommodate two people or allow one person to lay down; these tubs are much larger. | $15,000 to $30,000 |
Now, let’s take a look at each tub type in more detail.
1. Soaker walk-in tub
- Best for: Anyone who wants all the safety features of a walk-in tub at the lowest price point.
The soaker is the most common walk-in tub type. For most people, it’s the right place to start. These tubs are deeper than a standard bathtub, allowing you to submerge comfortably to your shoulders. They come with all the standard safety features: grab bars, anti-slip flooring, a raised seat, and temperature protection.
We recommend starting here if you’re primarily looking for safer bathing and don’t have specific therapeutic or accessibility needs beyond that. If you later decide you want jets or a shower attachment, many soaker models can be upgraded.
Average installed cost: $7,000 to $10,000
2. Bariatric walk-in tub
- Best for: Bathers with larger bodies or anyone who would prefer a larger entry and seating area.
Bariatric tubs are designed for users who weigh between 300 and 600 pounds — roughly 50% larger than a standard walk-in tub in both length and width. They come with wider doors, larger seats, and reinforced construction, and include the same standard safety features as a soaker.
One thing to know before buying: bariatric tubs are large enough that they often require bathroom modifications during installation. We recommend measuring your bathroom carefully and discussing the footprint with your contractor before choosing a model.
Average installed cost: $12,000 to $20,000
3. Walk-in tub shower combo
- Best for: Households where multiple people will use the same fixture, or anyone who wants the option to shower.
A walk-in tub shower combo functions exactly like it sounds — a walk-in tub with an integrated shower. It’s deeper than a standard tub and has a low-threshold entry, but also includes a showerhead and either a curtain or acrylic surround for use as a shower.
We recommend this type for households where the walk-in tub will be shared with family members who prefer showering, or for anyone who values flexibility. The cost is comparable to a basic soaker, making it one of the better value options in the lineup.
Average installed cost: $5,000 to $12,000
4. Wheelchair accessible walk-in tub
- Best for: Anyone who uses a wheelchair.
Also called roll-in tubs, wheelchair-accessible walk-in tubs have entryways wide enough to allow a standard wheelchair to roll directly in. They feature outward-facing doors, lower seat heights (17 inches or lower), and extra-wide openings. Some models include lifts for even easier transfers.
If mobility is severely limited, we recommend getting a professional assessment before selecting a model — the right fit between the tub, the bathroom layout, and your specific chair can make a significant difference in both safety and usability.
Average installed cost: $8,000 to $15,000
5. Lay-down walk-in tub
- Best for: Bathers who need a low step threshold but have enough mobility to get up and down safely, or anyone with a condition that makes sitting upright uncomfortable.
Lay-down tubs are longer than standard walk-in tubs — typically around 60 inches — with an optional detachable seat that allows you to recline fully. They include the same standard safety features as other walk-in tub types and can be made to resemble a traditional alcove tub.
The main consideration here is space. Because lay-down tubs are longer than most standard tub openings, installation often requires bathroom modifications — factor that into your budget before choosing this type.
Average installed cost: $8,000 to $14,000
6. Hydromassage walk-in tub
- Best for: Anyone with chronic muscle pain, arthritis, joint issues, or poor circulation.
Hydromassage tubs — also called hydrotherapy or whirlpool walk-in tubs — use either water jets or air jets (or both) to provide therapeutic massage while soaking. Water jets deliver targeted pressure for muscle and joint relief; air jets produce a gentler, full-body bubbling effect. Combination systems offer both.
We recommend hydromassage tubs for anyone managing arthritis, back pain, or circulation issues — the therapeutic benefits are well-documented and often cited as a primary reason homeowners choose a walk-in tub over a standard accessible tub. Keep in mind that jets require regular cleaning to prevent buildup.
Average installed cost: $10,000 to $18,000
7. Two-person walk-in tub
- Best for: Anyone who bathes with a caregiver, or households where two people will regularly use the same tub.
Two-person walk-in tubs are larger than standard models and can often be customized so each side has different features — one side with jets for therapeutic use, for example, and the other with a simpler soaking configuration. Only a limited number of brands offer this type, so your options will be narrower than with other walk-in tub styles.
Two-person tubs are among the most expensive options in the category. We recommend them primarily when caregiver-assisted bathing is a regular need, or when two household members with different preferences will be sharing the same fixture long-term.
Average installed cost: $15,000 to $30,000
How to Choose the Right Walk-In Tub
The right walk-in tub is the one that matches your mobility needs, fits your bathroom, and works within your budget. Here’s how to narrow it down:
- Start with your mobility needs. If you use a wheelchair, start with wheelchair-accessible models. If you have chronic pain or arthritis, start with hydromassage. If your primary need is safer bathing without a specific medical condition, a soaker or shower combo will cover most of what you need at the lowest cost.
- Measure before you shop. Most walk-in tubs are designed to fit a standard tub space. Bariatric and lay-down models are the exceptions — both often require bathroom modifications that add meaningfully to installation cost.
- Set a realistic budget. Most homeowners don’t pay for a walk-in tub out of pocket. Factor in whether insurance, Medicaid, HSA/FSA funds, or financing will contribute. Many walk-in tub companies offer financing — ask about it early in the process.
- Get at least three quotes. Several major brands only provide pricing during an in-home demonstration. Plan ahead and compare quotes from three to four contractors, asking each about installation scope, warranty coverage, and timeline — not just the tub price.
Modernize can match you with up to four vetted walk-in tub contractors in your area who are taking on new clients and have tubs that fit your space and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Walk-In Tub Types
What is the most common type of walk-in tub?
The soaker walk-in tub is the most common type. It includes all standard safety features — grab bars, anti-slip flooring, a raised seat, and a low-threshold door — at the lowest price point in the category, averaging $7,000 to $10,000 installed. It’s a good starting point for most homeowners unless they have a specific therapeutic or accessibility need that calls for a different type.
What type of walk-in tub is best for arthritis?
A hydromassage walk-in tub is generally the best choice for arthritis. Water jets provide targeted pressure on joints and muscles, while air jets offer gentler full-body relief. Combination systems that offer both are available if you want flexibility. The warm water immersion itself also provides meaningful relief for arthritis symptoms regardless of jet type.
What is the difference between a walk-in tub and a roll-in tub?
A roll-in tub — also called a wheelchair-accessible walk-in tub — has a wider, flat entryway that allows a wheelchair to roll directly into the tub. Standard walk-in tubs have a door on the side that you step through after entering. Roll-in tubs are specifically designed for wheelchair users; standard walk-in tubs are designed for ambulatory users who have difficulty stepping over a high tub wall.
Do walk-in tubs come with showers?
Some do. Walk-in tub shower combos include an integrated showerhead and either a curtain or acrylic surround for use as a shower. Standard soaker, hydromassage, and other walk-in tub types do not include a shower by default, though some models allow a handheld showerhead as an add-on.
What is the average cost of a walk-in tub?
Installed costs range from about $5,000 for a basic shower combo to $30,000 or more for a premium two-person or luxury hydromassage model. The national average for a mid-range walk-in tub installation is roughly $8,000 to $12,000, including the tub, labor, and any required plumbing or electrical work.
How long does it take to install a walk-in tub?
Most walk-in tub installations take one to two days for a straightforward replacement in an existing tub space. Installations that require bathroom modifications — such as widening a doorway, reinforcing the floor, or relocating plumbing — can take longer. Ask your contractor for a specific timeline based on your bathroom layout before scheduling.
Are walk-in tubs covered by Medicare or insurance?
Medicare generally does not cover walk-in tubs as durable medical equipment. Some Medicaid waiver programs cover accessibility modifications including walk-in tubs for eligible individuals — coverage varies by state. HSA and FSA funds can typically be used for medically necessary accessibility modifications. Some homeowners insurance policies may cover partial costs if the tub is prescribed for a documented medical need. A tax professional can advise on deductibility.
-
Walk-in Tub Shower Combo
A walk-in tub is a wonderful addition to any home – especially one where residents want to age in place and hold onto their independence for as long as they... -
Walk-In Tub Cost
Walk-In Tub Cost at a Glance Average Total Installed Cost: $4,000 to $12,000 National Average: Around $7,800 Entry-Level Models: $2,500 to $5,000 (tub only) Luxury Models: $8,000 to $15,000+ (tub... -
Jetted Walk-In Tubs
What Are Jetted Walk-In Tubs? Jetted walk-in tubs are accessible bathtubs that feature a watertight door, built-in seat, grab bars, and slip-resistant flooring. Unlike basic soaking walk-in tubs, jetted tubs... -
Walk-In Tub Sizes
What’s the Standard Size of a Walk-in Tub? The standard size of a walk-in tub is 52 inches long x 20-25 inches high x 30 inches deep. That makes it... -
Kohler Walk-In Tub Cost
What Is the Cost of a Kohler Walk-In Tub? Kohler is a trusted name in home improvement, and its walk-in tubs are a popular option for homeowners who want a... -
American Standard Walk-In Tub Cost
Overview of American Standard Walk-In Tub Costs When researching walk-in tubs, you’ll quickly discover American Standard as a leading choice. With over 100 years of experience providing quality bathroom and...