Is your bath out of date, too small, or looking a little worse for wear? If your tub has any cracks, peeling paint, or deep scratches, it might be time to invest in a new one. While it's easy enough to choose from the great array of available options, the bigger question is – how much does it cost to replace a bathtub? Let us break down the costs and components you need to consider so you can estimate how much a bathtub replacement will cost and where you need to begin to upgrade your bathtub for leisurely tub soaking.

So, How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Bathtub?

Since there is no schedule that suggests replacing your tub every number of years, it is often the aesthetics and your own discretion that determines when yours is in need of updating – whether that be due to old age or during a bathroom remodel. It's worth noting that the terms "bathtub replacement" and "bathtub installation" are often used interchangeably, but they are slightly different.

• A bathtub replacement entails the removal of an old tub in order to replace it with a new one – typically in the same location.
• A bathtub installation does not include a tub removal, only the installment. This usually occurs when the bathtub has already been removed or there is no existing bathtub.

While replacing a bathtub can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $10,500 or more – the price is dependent on a number of factors including the type of tub you choose, cost of labor, and any other potential plumbing that may be required. Since not every tub can fit every application, you will need to select the one that fits your space, budget, and needs. Here is some information to help you narrow down the most suitable options for your bathroom setup.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Your Bathtub Replacement

Type: While you may want to pick your tub based on aesthetics, bear in mind that some tub price points vary greatly based on designs. Alcove bathtubs for example, are one of the most popular and budget-friendly types in the USA, while corner tubs and walk-in tubs cost more than the average design due to the need for additional installation components and space requirements.

Read our guide How to Choose a Bathtub to get a better understanding of tub specifics to more easily narrow down exactly what style will work best for you.

Material: The type of material your tub is made from is a major component in the cost of your bathtub replacement. For the lower price point, acrylic and fiberglass tubs, which are lightweight and easy to manufacture, start at around $500 while copper models are more luxurious and costly to create, coming in at around $1,000 or more.
Size: Bathtubs as small as 59" or less typically cost around $650, 59" to 69" about $700, and anything greater than 70" is closer to $750 or more. The larger the tub, the greater the cost, the more space it will take in your bathroom, and potentially more labor. This is especially true if you select a bath that is larger than your previous one as it will require extra labor to resize the hole.

Features: Additional features you can select from include a soaking (around $600), whirlpool, or jetted (about $1,200). The first option is better suited to anyone who intends to take quicker standard baths, while the remaining two appeal more to those who prefer long spa-like sessions. There are further bells and whistles to choose from like lighted or heater-included options that start at around $1,000.

Add-Ons: Tubs require faucets, of which there are many kinds. There are also different installation options for each faucet – this includes freestanding, Roman tub (mounted to the tub surround), or regular wall mounts. It's also possible to get tub and shower faucets for dual-purpose usage.

Installation Cost: The cost of bathtub replacement varies based on whether you intend to DIY it or hire professionals. Hiring experienced labor is ideal – especially if yours is a specialty tub or your plumbing needs to be modified or relocated. Removal and disposal of the old tub also comes at a fee. Costs differ greatly so it's a good idea to do your research before selecting your contractor.

Tip!

If you do intend to DIY your bathtub replacements, read our step-by-step guide How to Install a Bathtub.

Bathtub Costs

If you simply want to base your bathtub installation on the cost of the tub, you can have a look at the prices and go from there. Once you set your budget, you will be able to see which of the features are most stand out to you and still within your price range (and will fit in your bathroom of course).

Under $500: Although this is the most limited selection, there is nothing wrong with baths in this price bracket. They will do the job if you are looking for something that is functional and cost-effective.

$500 to $1,000: This is the more popular price range and the baths occasionally will have a few added features. There are more styles and material options but they are still fairly straightforward.

$1,000 to $2,000: Our largest range of tubs falls into this bracket. These feature more designs than the previous – although they are still manufactured in the more standard acrylic and fiberglass materials, with the majority of them designed as freestanding models with extra features for you to enjoy.

$2,000 to $3,000: Most tubs in this price range require floor mounted faucets and typically have more luxury attributes such as air jets. You also begin to see walk-ins as well as lighted options here.

$3,000 to $4,000: Heading toward the higher price points, these tubs are made from the more choice copper material with whirlpool options. They are typically much larger in size too.

$4,000 & Up: These are the most opulent and unique of the range. They come in premium materials and even different colors, and are most suited to a particular lifestyle and location where budget and space are no issues

Hopefully we have provided some answers to the question "how much does it cost to replace a bathtub" and now you can get to purchasing the right one for you so you can give your bathroom an upgrade.

You Might Also Like: