Know what your bathroom remodel should cost
Most projects run $13,700 – $21,400. Answer six quick questions for an itemised range tuned to your ZIP code — the whole number, up front, before we ask for anything.
What bathroom remodel work costs in 2026
| Project | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh Paint, fixtures, mirror, lighting — nothing moves | $5,450 – $8,550 |
| Standard remodel New tile, vanity, tub or shower in the existing layout | $13,700 – $21,400 |
| Layout change Moving plumbing — the single biggest cost driver | $20,500 – $32,000 |
| Full gut renovation Down to studs, new everything | $25,300 – $39,500 |
| Tub-to-shower conversion Single-fixture swap with surround and glass | $7,500 – $11,700 |
Where the money goes
Labour
$5,600 · 32% of the job
Tile and surfaces
$3,000 · 17% of the job
Tub, shower and toilet
$2,650 · 15% of the job
Vanity and countertop
$2,100 · 12% of the job
Plumbing rough-in
$1,750 · 10% of the job
Electrical and ventilation
$1,400 · 8% of the job
Permits and disposal
$1,050 · 6% of the job
Questions homeowners ask
What is a reasonable budget for a bathroom remodel?
For a standard 5x10 bathroom keeping the existing layout, a mid-range budget of $14,000 to $21,000 is realistic. Cosmetic refreshes start near $7,000. A full gut with a layout change can pass $35,000.
Is $5,000 enough to remodel a bathroom?
It covers a cosmetic refresh — paint, fixtures, mirror, lighting and possibly a vanity swap — provided nothing moves and you are not retiling. It is below what most contractors will mobilise a crew for on a full remodel.
Can I renovate a bathroom for $10,000?
Yes, for a small bathroom on a budget finish with the layout unchanged. A 5x8 at budget level lands near $8,000 to $12,000. Moving plumbing or choosing premium tile will exceed it.
What is the average labour cost for a 5x8 bathroom remodel?
Labour is typically around 32% of the total. On a 5x8 mid-range remodel of roughly $14,000, that is about $4,500 — covering demolition, tiling, plumbing and electrical trades.