Shower Remodel Cost Guide

December 18, 2024
*Updated June 17th, 2025

Tired of dealing with an outdated, leaky, or cramped shower? A shower remodel could be the perfect solution to transform your bathroom into a beautiful, functional space. But before you start your remodel, it’s important to understand the shower remodel cost.

From materials and labor to design choices, many factors influence the overall price. In this guide, we’ll break down what influences the cost and help you plan a shower remodel that fits your budget.

Table of Contents

Factors Affecting Shower Remodel Costs

When planning to remodel your shower, it’s crucial to consider the various factors that influence the total cost. Each decision, from the size and type of shower to the finishes and layout, can drastically affect your remodel cost.

Size and Type of Shower

The size and type of shower you choose are significant factors that influence the overall cost of your bathroom remodel.

Cost Differences Between Sizes

Smaller showers, like a 32” x 32” standard shower, typically range between $400 and $1,500, making them a budget-friendly option. Larger or custom tile showers can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on materials, layout, and features such as multiple shower heads or a frameless glass enclosure.

Walk-In Showers vs. Traditional Showers

A walk-in shower remodel is increasingly popular for its modern design and accessibility benefits. These often require waterproofing, custom glass, and larger shower enclosures, placing the average cost of a walk-in shower between $2,500 and $8,000.

In contrast, traditional shower stalls with shower curtains or framed doors generally cost between $1,000 and $4,000. Choosing the right shower style for your lifestyle helps manage your shower remodel cost while enhancing your bathroom experience.

Shower-Tub Combos

If you’re not ready to give up your bathtub, a tub-shower combo can offer flexibility. Prefabricated shower and tub combos start at around $600 and can go up to $3,000 or more for models with acrylic finishes or natural stone accents.

Custom vs. Prefabricated Units

Custom Showers

A custom tile shower allows you to personalize your space with features like grab bars, shower niches, and shower pan upgrades. Expect to spend $5,000 to $10,000 or more for a custom-built shower remodel project.

Prefabricated Shower Kits

Prefabricated shower kits are cost-effective, with prices ranging from $500 to $5,000. These are ideal for a DIY shower remodel and faster installations, especially when trying to stay within a modest bathroom remodel budget.

Materials and Finishes

Tile Options

  • Ceramic tile: $1–$15 per square foot
  • Porcelain tile: $3–$30 per square foot
  • Natural stone tile (e.g., marble, travertine): $15–$50 per square foot

High-end tile work adds beauty and resale value but also increases the overall cost.

Glass Enclosures and Doors

  • Frameless glass: $800–$1,500
  • Framed shower doors: $300–$800

Your choice of shower glass can significantly impact both design and budget.

Fixtures and Hardware

Upgrade your shower head, fixtures, and hardware to enhance style. Basic chrome sets start around $50, while luxury options like rainfall showerheads or matte black fixtures can reach $2,000 or more.

Labor Costs

Labor often accounts for a significant chunk of your shower remodel cost:

  • Plumbing changes (e.g., plumb a new line): $600–$1,600
  • Water damage repair: $500–$5,000
  • Tile and waterproofing labor: $2,000–$5,000
  • Permits: $50–$2,000 depending on location and scope

Hiring a professional contractor ensures your bathroom renovation is up to building codes and reduces the risk of additional expenses from incorrect installations.

Additional Features

  • Built-in shelves or benches: $300–$1,000
  • Steam showers, lighting, or body jets: $1,000–$5,000
  • Accessibility features like curbless entries or non-slip floors: $500–$2,500

These shower remodel project upgrades can dramatically improve your home value but will also add to the cost.

Average Cost Breakdown

The average cost to remodel a shower falls into three main tiers:

  • Budget shower remodel: $1,000–$5,000 (basic prefabricated shower kits, minimal changes)
  • Mid-range remodel: $5,000–$10,000 (porcelain tile, glass doors, some plumbing work)
  • High-end remodel: $10,000–$15,000+ (custom tile, luxury fixtures, frameless enclosures, extensive plumbing)

These cost breakdowns help homeowners prioritize what matters most, whether it’s keeping a tight budget or building your dream shower.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

A DIY shower remodel can reduce costs, especially if you stick with prefabricated units or shower kits. But for plumbing or electrical work, it’s best to hire a professional to avoid long-term repair or safety issues.

Cost-Saving Tips

  • Stick to a standard shower size to avoid custom fees
  • Choose ceramic tile or acrylic panels instead of natural stone
  • Keep existing plumbing lines to avoid structural changes
  • Shop for materials during sales or clearance events

Conclusion

So, how much does a shower remodel cost? It depends on how big you go. Whether you’re making minor updates or planning a complete walk-in shower remodel, understanding the costs of materials, labor, and design choices helps you budget wisely.

No matter the scope, a smartly planned shower remodel will increase your bathroom’s comfort, appeal, and resale value.

Get connected with a local professional today!

FAQs

How much does a shower remodel cost?
The cost of a shower remodel ranges from $1,000 to $15,000+, depending on your materials, layout, and whether you opt for a custom shower or prefabricated shower kit.

How much does a walk-in shower remodel cost?
A walk-in shower remodel typically ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. A basic model with acrylic panels and a framed door is on the lower end, while custom tile with frameless glass and luxury fixtures is on the high end.

Can I remodel a bathroom for $5,000?
Yes. With smart choices—like using prefabricated shower kits, sticking with standard shower sizes, and doing some DIY—you can successfully remodel a bathroom for around $5,000.

Sources

Additional Bathroom Remodel Resources