How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost? (2026 Guide)
A bathroom remodel costs between $3,000 and $50,000 nationally, depending on the size of the room, the materials chosen and how much of the plumbing moves. The national midpoint sits around $11,000 to $15,000 for a standard full-bathroom update. In the Denver metro, expect to pay 15 to 25 percent above the national average because of higher labor demand, active construction costs and material delivery.
A basic cosmetic refresh (new fixtures, paint, accessories) sits at the low end of that range. A full gut-and-rebuild with tile, a new shower pan and relocated plumbing sits at the high end. The single biggest driver of cost is whether the plumbing layout changes. Cost figures based on Zonda's 2026 Cost vs. Value Report and national homeowner survey data.
Bathroom remodel cost by scope.
Based on Zonda's 2026 Cost vs. Value Report and national homeowner survey data.
* National average estimates. Denver-area jobs typically run 15 to 25 percent higher. Prices confirmed before any work begins.
What drives bathroom remodel cost.
Tile and materials
Tile is one of the biggest variables. Basic ceramic tile runs $1 to $5 per square foot installed. Porcelain, natural stone or large-format slabs run $10 to $30+. A full tile shower on all three walls adds $2,000 to $8,000 to the job.
Fixtures and vanity
A builder-grade vanity with a basic faucet costs $300 to $600. A floating vanity with a vessel sink and premium hardware costs $1,500 to $5,000. Freestanding tubs alone run $800 to $4,000 before installation.
Labor and plumbing
Labor typically makes up 40 to 65 percent of the total cost. Moving a drain or supply line adds $500 to $2,000 per line. Converting a tub to a walk-in shower without moving drains adds $1,500 to $5,000 for the pan, walls and door. A skilled bathroom contractor will walk you through each phase so you have confidence in both the scope and the final price before any construction begins.
Permits
Most cities require a permit for plumbing, electrical or structural work. Permit fees range from $100 to $600 depending on the city. Skipping a permit can complicate a home sale later, so the cost is worth it.
Denver bathroom remodel costs.
Denver labor costs run 15 to 25 percent above the national average, driven by high construction demand across the Front Range. Tile setters and plumbers are particularly in demand, and scheduling lead times of 4 to 8 weeks are common.
Material costs are similar to the national average, with one exception: anything that ships by truck from the coasts (specialty tile, European fixtures, custom cabinetry) carries a freight premium that adds $200 to $800 to a mid-range job.
Colorado Springs and Fort Collins come in 5 to 10 percent below Denver. Boulder typically matches or exceeds Denver because of permit complexity and the higher cost of entry for contractors working in that market.
How to get the best price.
Get at least three quotes. Bathroom remodel prices vary by 20 to 40 percent between contractors for the same scope. The cheapest quote is rarely the best value. Ask what is not included so you can compare apples to apples.
Schedule in late fall or winter. Contractor availability peaks in November and February, which means lower labor rates and faster start dates. Summer is the most expensive time to book a remodel in Colorado. Bathroom construction permits also move faster in winter when demand on city plan-review offices is lower.
Keep the plumbing where it is. Relocating a toilet, tub or shower drain adds $1,000 to $3,000 to the job and extends the timeline. If the current layout works, keep it and put the savings into better finishes.
Ask for a line-item quote. A single lump-sum number makes it hard to spot where the budget is going. A pro who will not break out labor, materials and permits separately is harder to work with if the scope changes.
Bathroom remodel cost FAQ.
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
A cosmetic refresh with no plumbing work takes 1 to 2 weeks. A mid-range remodel with new tile, a new vanity and updated fixtures takes 2 to 4 weeks. A full gut-and-rebuild or a job with plumbing relocation takes 4 to 8 weeks. The biggest delay is usually tile curing time between stages.
What is included in a bathroom remodel quote?
A good quote covers demolition, disposal, rough plumbing, rough electrical, tile installation, drywall or cement board, fixture installation, paint and cleanup. Confirm that permits, material delivery and any subcontractor fees are also included. Some contractors price materials separately and pass through supplier costs at cost plus a markup. The details of each construction phase, including payment milestones and change-order procedures, should all appear in the written contract before work starts.
Does a bathroom remodel add value to a home?
Yes, though the return varies by project size. A mid-range bathroom remodel returns roughly 60 to 70 percent of its cost at resale, according to Zonda's 2026 Cost vs. Value Report. Upscale remodels return less on a percentage basis but make a home easier to sell at the asking price in competitive markets.
Can I remodel a bathroom in stages to manage cost?
Yes, and it often makes sense. Start with the plumbing and tile (the hardest to change later), then upgrade fixtures and vanity when budget allows. Doing it in stages does cost more overall because a contractor mobilizes twice, but it lets you spread payments over 12 to 24 months.
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