Know what your
bathroom remodel
actually costs.
Proprietary pricing benchmarks built on BLS labor data, FRED economic indices, and NKBA industry standards. Adjusted for your city. Updated quarterly.
25 Markets · 2026.Q1
25 Cities. Two Tiers.
Know before you commit.
Reviewed by Leonard Thompson, LC Thompson Construction Co..
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Common questions.
How much does a midrange bathroom remodel actually cost in 2026?
The national midrange average is $17,954 based on data across 25 metros. Your actual cost depends on three main drivers: metro area (Seattle runs 13% above national; Orlando runs 14% below), fixture grade (builder-grade saves $2,500–$4,000 vs. mid-grade), and whether you're changing the plumbing layout (layout changes add $5,500–$13,000). Use our calculator for a metro-specific typical range.
What is the "lowest reasonable price" and how is it calculated?
It's the price at which 15% of licensed contractors in your city already complete the work. It's not a lowball fantasy — it's a real number based on what competitive contractors actually charge. We calculate it using federal labor wage data for construction trades in your specific metro area, combined with regional material cost data.
How much of my remodel cost will I get back when I sell?
Nationally, you get back about 73 cents of every dollar you spend on a midrange bathroom remodel. But this varies dramatically by region: Seattle and Boston homeowners get back 80–87% because updated bathrooms are a buyer expectation. Sun Belt markets like Tampa, Orlando, and Phoenix only get back 59–68% because buyers prioritize outdoor living. Our city pages show the specific resale return for your metro.
Should I do a midrange or upscale remodel?
Run the numbers first. A midrange remodel ($15K–$25K) gets you back 70–87% when you sell, depending on your market. An upscale remodel ($45K–$75K) only gets back 36–56%. Unless comparable homes in your neighborhood already have $75K+ bathrooms, midrange is the smarter financial move. Our Budget Configurator lets you model both tiers.
How do I know if my contractor's quote is fair?
Enter the quote amount, your city, and project scope into our Quote Check tool. It compares your quote against the typical price range for your specific city. If the quote is above what most homeowners pay, you have strong grounds to negotiate. If it's below what even competitive contractors charge, verify the scope — they may be cutting corners or excluding permit costs.
Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel?
Any work that moves plumbing, modifies electrical circuits, or changes structural elements requires a permit in virtually every U.S. jurisdiction. Cosmetic-only remodels (paint, fixtures, tile on existing substrate) typically don't. Permit costs range from $75 to $950 depending on your municipality. If a contractor says "you don't need a permit" for work that clearly requires one, that's a red flag — unpermitted work can void insurance and create liability at resale.
What's the biggest hidden cost in a bathroom remodel?
Water damage behind walls. Roughly 30% of bathroom remodels uncover mold, rot, or outdated plumbing once demolition starts. Budget a 10% contingency minimum. The second biggest hidden cost is the layout change premium — moving a toilet or shower drain costs $1,500–$4,000 in plumbing labor alone because it requires cutting into the subfloor.
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A midrange bathroom remodel with licensed contractors typically takes 3–6 weeks for a full gut renovation, or 1–2 weeks for a cosmetic refresh (fixtures, tile, paint). Delays most commonly come from backordered tile or fixtures (order 6–8 weeks ahead), permit inspection scheduling (1–2 weeks in busy metros), and scope creep from hidden damage discovered during demolition.
Who reviewed the methodology.
All cost data and methodology reviewed by Leonard Thompson, Founder, LC Thompson Construction Co. · High-End Residential Builder · Jefferson City, MO (2001–2008).
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Free PDF with fair prices for your city and tips for negotiating. Updated every quarter.