How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Bathtub?

Replacing an old, worn out, or damaged bathtub can refresh a bathroom's look and improve your home's value.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Bathtub?

Bathtub replacement costs typically range from $600 to $15,000 (≈5.7 months dedicated to affording this at $15/hour) or more, influenced by the tub type, size, materials, labor, and any additional remodeling considerations.

Here is an overview of typical pricing ranges for a standard bathtub replacement:

DIY replacements can save $500 to $2,500 (≈4.2 weeks of employment at a $15/hour wage) in labor costs but require advanced technical skills. Hiring professionals ensures correct building codes, safe installation, and access to quality tubs and materials.

According to Modernize, the cost to replace a bathtub ranges from $659 (≈1.1 weeks of continuous work at $15/hour - longer than most vacations) for a basic tub to $5,160 (≈2 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods) or more for luxury models. The average installation cost is approximately $2,075 (≈3.5 weeks of your career at a $15/hour job), with materials accounting for 86.4% of the cost and labor at 13.6%. Removal costs range from $100 to $500 (≈4.2 days of your career at $15/hour), while new tubs typically cost between $200 and $2,000 (≈3.3 weeks trading your time for $15/hour), depending on size and material. Installation costs add another $550 to $750 (≈1.3 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods) on average.

On HomeAdvisor, the national average cost for replacing a bathtub is $5,661 (≈2.1 months of continuous work at a $15/hour wage), with most homeowners spending between $1,976 and $9,347 (≈3.5 months of salary time at $15/hour). Basic replacements can start as low as $215 (≈1.8 days of desk time at a $15/hour wage), while high-end projects involving luxury tubs or significant modifications can exceed $14,700 (≈5.6 months of salary time at $15/hour). Removal costs range from $150 to $4,500 (≈1.7 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods), depending on the tub type and complexity of disposal.

The article on Badeloft states that the average national cost for replacing a bathtub is $4,400 (≈1.7 months of employment at a $15/hour wage), with prices ranging from $1,400 to $7,300 (≈2.8 months of continuous work at $15/hour - longer than most vacations). Regional differences play a role; for example, replacement costs in New York City average around $7,000 (≈2.7 months of your career at a $15/hour job), while in Denver they range from $1,800 to $3,000 (≈1.1 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods). Luxury tubs can cost up to $10,700 (≈4.1 months locked to your job at $15/hour) or more.

According to Angi, bathtub replacement costs average around $5,661 (≈2.1 months of continuous work at a $15/hour wage), with prices ranging from $1,976 to $9,347 (≈3.5 months of salary time at $15/hour). Materials such as fiberglass or acrylic are more affordable, while cast iron or granite tubs increase costs significantly. Labor costs for installation range from $100 to $2,000 (≈3.3 weeks trading your time for $15/hour), with additional expenses for plumbing adjustments or subfloor reinforcements.

Lastly, HomeGuide reports that the total cost of replacing a bathtub ranges from $800 to $4,600 (≈1.7 months of salary time at $15/hour) on average. Basic tubs cost between $200 and $1,000 (≈1.7 weeks working every single day at $15/hour), while jetted models are priced between $700 and $4,000 (≈1.5 months of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods). Labor costs for installation typically fall between $400 and $2,000 (≈3.3 weeks trading your time for $15/hour), while removal costs range from $150 to $750 (≈1.3 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods).

Factors That Affect Bathtub Replacement Cost

Several important considerations affect the total investment when replacing a bathtub:

Type of New Bathtub

The style and configuration of the new tub significantly influences cost:

• Alcove tubs - $400 to $1,500 (≈2.5 weeks of non-stop employment at $15/hour - more than most exam periods) - Most affordable and commonly used option. Basic tub surrounded by 3 walls makes for easiest replacement.
• Freestanding tubs - $1,000 to $5,000 (≈1.9 months of your working life at $15/hour) - More luxurious and dramatic, but requires extra open floor space. Additional costs for structural support.
• Clawfoot tubs - $1,200 to $6,000 - Vintage decorative look but heavy weight demands robust floor reinforcement.
• Whirlpool tubs - $1,500 to $10,000 - Installation involves added expenses of GFCI electrical work and specialized plumbing for powerful hydro-jet features.
• Walk-in tubs - $2,000 to $15,000 - Ideal for aging-in-place accessibility but most expensive due to heavy door assembly and drain relocation complexities.

Bathtub Sizing

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• Standard sizes - $500 to $3,000 - Common lengths of 60” to 72” have lowest material and labor costs for 1-2 person use.
• Oversized tubs - $1,000 to $6,000 - For two adults or soaking, extra-long and wide dimensions mean higher costs.
• Custom sizes - $3,000 to $15,000 - Unusually shaped small or large specialty tubs require expensive custom production and fitting.

Bathtub Materials

Material choice also affects overall project pricing:

• Acrylic - $500 to $2,000 - Lightweight but durable and affordable. Many color options. Easy DIY replacement option.
• Fiberglass - $300 to $1,500 - Most economical material but more prone to scratching over time.
• Porcelain enameled steel - $500 to $2,500 - Classic look and easy to clean but very heavy. Professional installation advised.
• Cast iron - $1,200 to $5,000 - Heaviest and most durable material but difficult for DIY. Luxury traditional styles.
• Stone resin composites - $2,000 to $10,000+ - High-end contemporary stone look. Costly but customized sizing.

Plumbing and Electrical Work

• Plumber fees - $500 to $1,500 - Necessary for removing old tub, handling drain relocation, and connecting new water supply fixtures and pipes.
• Electrician fees - $500 to $1,500 – Only needed for specialized tubs like air jetted whirlpool or heated baths requiring GFCI circuits. Most tubs use existing electrical.

Installation Labor

• General contractor - $1,000 to $5,000 - Manages process and tub installation labor, especially for complex surround rebuilds. More simple drop-in replacements need less oversight.
• Tiling contractor - $500 to $1,500 – Recommended to replace damaged or outdated surrounding tilework, which further adds to costs.

Permitting

• Permit fees - $50 to $500 - Building permits from local municipalities required prior to replacing a tub in many regions to ensure proper codes and inspections.

Additional Expenses

• Surround repairs - $300 to $5,000 - New tub often requires drywall repairs, tile replacement, or shower conversions if old walls and surfaces were damaged. Especially with material transitions.
• Plumbing modifications - $500 to $2,000 - Adjusting drain and water supply lines to fit new tub size and configuration. May require rerouting.
• Floor reinforcement - $200 to $1,500 – Potentially necessary when supporting a very heavy standalone or clawfoot tub. Avoiding leaks and collapse.

Type of Bathtub Replacement Project

Pricing overview for common tub replacement scenarios:

Standard Bathtub Replacement

For a basic like-for-like project with minimal changes, costs typically run:

• $1,500 to $5,000 - Simple swap of a standard 5-foot alcove tub with acrylic or fiberglass materials. Includes basic plumbing work and minor tile repairs.

Converting Bathtub to Walk-In Shower

Eliminating a tub for an accessible walk-in shower usually costs:

• $3,000 to $10,000 - Removing tub, building new shower pan, and waterproof walls adds expenses. Tile choices, shower niche, and glass doors impact cost.

Upgrading to a Luxury Soaking Bathtub

Installing a premium freestanding or jetted tub averages:

• $5,000 to $15,000 - Whirlpool tub installation requires electrical and specialized plumbing. Custom standalone tubs demand floor reinforcement and potential layout changes.

Ways to Save

Choose budget-friendly tub materials - Weigh cost vs longevity. Fiberglass or acrylic is affordable. Avoid overspending on premium materials for minimal ROI.

Shop end of season clearance sales - Check Home Depot, Lowe’s, and bath specialty retailers’ for discounted quality tubs as selection improves.

Perform basic demolition yourself - Homeowners can carefully handle removing old tub safely to save on labor. Just turn off water and disconnect plumbing correctly.

Get multiple installer quotes - Compare bids from at least 3 local contractors to find the best rate. Verify licenses and quality reputation.

Consider resurfacing over replacement - Bathtub reglazing costs $400 to $800 and avoids a full costly replacement. Results last 5-10 years.

Hiring Professional Installers

Bathtub replacement lends itself well to utilizing skilled trades for the best results:

Benefits of hiring professionals include:

• Access to quality durable tub brands not available to consumers
• Correct plumbing and electrical modifications to fit new tub
• Ensuring waterproofing and codes for safety
• Reduced risk of leakage or failed DIY installations
• Equipment to maneuver heavy standalone tubs into place
• Precision cutting of surround tiles and finishing for seamless transitions

While adding labor costs, most find the peace of mind and high-quality results worth the investment.

Final Words

For most standard projects, plan for costs between $2,000 - $5,000 depending on materials and modifications involved. Luxury standalone or jetted tubs cost $5,000+ with more complex installation considerations. DIY tub installs provide cost savings but require advanced skills. Pros deliver quality.

Bathtub resurfacing is a budget-friendly $400-$800 option extending tub lifespan 5-10 years. Careful planning allows homeowners to complete bathroom upgrades affordably and revive their dream space.

Replacing an outdated or damaged bathtub can renew a bathroom’s look and function. With smart planning considering configuration, materials, and hiring qualified professionals as needed, the project can be completed cost-effectively to enhance comfort and home value.

Answers to Common Questions

How often does a tub need to be replaced?

With proper care, a quality bathtub should last 15-20 years before needing replacement. Signs of age include persistent stains, chips and cracks, warped surfaces, and drainage issues.

How long does it take to replace a bath?

Most standard bathtub replacements take 1-3 days. More complex jobs involving relocating pipes or expanding the surround may take 5-7 days.

How to remove a bathtub without destroying walls?

Carefully cut sealant between tub and walls using a utility knife. Remove drywall screws securing tub. Then lift up slightly and detach plumbing fixtures. Finally, slide tub out avoiding sidewall damage.