A great way to upgrade your bathroom is by redoing your shower, and one of the first things to figure out about this project is the shower remodeling cost. Once you understand the shower remodel cost, you can plan your budget and really start thinking about your dream bathroom.
The average cost of a shower remodel is $7,000 in 2025. This is the shower remodeling price for most homes in typical areas across the country. The cost of a shower remodel changes quite a bit depending on your location and the size of the shower you’re planning, with kitchen and bath renovations like these providing some of the best value for homeowners.
Now you have an idea of how much a shower remodel costs, but if you want to dive deeper into the specifics of the cost to remodel a shower, we’ll walk through every component of a shower remodel with actual prices. You can use this detailed guide to get a much better estimate for your own shower remodel cost.
How Much Will Your Shower Remodel Cost?
In the US, typical shower remodels range from $2,000 to $9,000. The average cost of a shower remodel is $7,000 according to Angi‘s 2025 data. These figures vary dramatically based on your project scope, geographic location, and the materials you select.
Replacing an existing shower typically costs between $2,000 and $9,000. This price difference shows just how much your individual choices affect the bottom line. Simple updates using budget-friendly materials will cost significantly less than a complete overhaul featuring premium materials and high-end fixtures.
Labor costs account for 40 to 60% of a shower remodel budget. Professional contractors charge differently based on their experience, your location, and the complexity of your remodeling project.
Major Cost Factors for Shower Remodeling in 2025
Shower Size and Type
The square footage of your shower enclosure dramatically impacts cost. A standard shower measures around 36″ × 36″, while larger walk-in shower designs can measure 60″ × 36″ or more. Each additional square foot adds to material and labor costs.
Different shower types come with varying price points:
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Prefabricated shower kits: $200-$8,000
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Tub and shower combo: $3,000 average
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Walk-in shower: $350-$8,000
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Tub-to-shower conversion: $1,500-$8,000
Shower size matters not just for space but for what features you can include. Multiple showerheads, bench seating, or niches for toiletries require adequate space and add to the overall price.
Project Materials Make a Difference
The materials you select for your shower remodel dramatically impact both appearance and cost. Shower walls represent one of the biggest material decisions you’ll make. Prefabricated fiberglass walls offer the most budget-friendly option, typically ranging from $400 to $5,000. Acrylic options range from $500 to $2,500, while cultured marble costs $700 to $2,450.
For custom tile work, ceramic tile provides visual interest for $0.50 to $100 per square foot, while porcelain tile ranges from $0.50 to $30 per square foot. Glass tile costs $10.50 to $25 per square foot. For luxury appearances, natural stone commands premium prices between $5 and $50 per square foot, while stone slabs range from $40 to $65 per square foot. Solid surfaces cost $40 to $70 per square foot.
Don’t forget about shower doors, which significantly affect both function and style. Standard shower doors cost $600 to $1,350. Glass shower doors range from $540 to $1,320, while frameless glass doors create a sleek, modern look for $1,000 to $3,300.
The fixtures you select add the finishing touch to your shower. Basic showerheads and faucets start around $50, while premium options reach $900 depending on brand and features. Remember that these seemingly small details transform your daily shower experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
Labor Costs Breakdown
Professional contractors typically charge between $50-$130 per hour for electrical work, $45-$200 per hour for plumbing, and $30-$120 per hour for tile installation. Drywall installation costs $400-$650 for a 100-square-foot bathroom.
Labor costs include:
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Demolition of the old shower
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Plumbing adjustments ($600-$3,500)
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Waterproofing
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Installation of shower pan, walls, and fixtures
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Tile work (if applicable)
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Shower door installation
Stall installation ranges from $700 to $1,600. This explains why labor costs account for 40-60% of the total budget.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Taking the DIY project route saves money, especially if you have DIY skills in plumbing and tiling. The average DIY cost is $1,390, while professional installation averages $4,990.
Tasks suitable for DIY include:
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Demolition of the old shower
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Basic installation of prefabricated shower kits
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Installing shower curtains or simple doors
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Basic tiling (for those with experience)
However, certain aspects of shower remodeling require professional expertise:
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Plumbing adjustments
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Waterproofing (critical to prevent leaks)
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Complex tile patterns
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Custom glass door installation
Remember that mistakes in DIY shower installation can lead to water damage, which could result in costly repairs. Balancing your DIY skills against the risks helps determine if professional installation makes more sense for your situation.
Budget-Friendly Shower Remodel Options
Keeping costs manageable doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. These approaches help create a beautiful shower without a hefty price tag:
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Prefabricated shower kits offer complete solutions starting around $200-$8,000 plus installation costs of $400-$1,000, making them significantly more affordable than custom options.
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Partial remodels focus on updating just the worn elements while keeping functional components. Replacing showerheads and faucets refreshes your space for $50-$900.
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Strategic material choices like ceramic tile for walls with accent strips of premium materials deliver high-end looks without premium prices.
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Standard sizes avoid the custom surcharges that come with unusual dimensions or shapes. Working with standard shower dimensions reduces costs for prefabricated components.
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Maintaining the existing layout keeps plumbing costs down. Moving water lines or drains adds $600-$3,500 to your project total.
Premium Shower Remodeling Options
Creating your dream bathroom with luxury features naturally increases costs but delivers exceptional results:
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Custom showers designed specifically for your space allow for unique shapes and features, with full-body shower units ranging from $600 to $12,000.
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Natural stone slabs provide unmatched elegance but come with premium pricing ($40-$65 per square foot).
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Frameless doors offer sleek, modern aesthetics and typically cost $1,000-$3,300 installed.
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Multiple showerheads create spa-like experiences, adding $75-$250 to your project.
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Steam shower systems with digital controls range from $2,600-$6,050 but offer incredible convenience.
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Built-in benches enhance functionality and cost $100-$800.
These higher-end fixtures and features create stunning results but require careful budgeting to avoid unexpected cost overruns.
Shower Remodeling Costs in Northern Virginia
Expect shower remodeling costs to run slightly above the national average due to higher labor rates and material costs in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. The average shower remodel in Northern Virginia costs approximately $8,500, reflecting the region’s premium market conditions and skilled contractor availability. Local building codes and permit requirements in Fairfax, Arlington, and Loudoun counties may add to project complexity and timeline.
The region’s competitive housing market and affluent demographics drive demand for high-quality bathroom renovations that maintain or increase property values. Northern Virginia contractors typically charge premium rates for their expertise, but homeowners benefit from access to extensive material selections and experienced professionals familiar with local regulations.
Additional Cost Considerations
Several factors beyond the basic shower components can impact your total budget:
Demolition and Preparation
Removing an old tub or shower is typically included in project costs, but complications arise when contractors discover hidden problems behind walls. Water damage discovered during demolition adds $1,000-$3,000 depending on severity, as damaged framing, subflooring, or drywall requires replacement before installation begins.
Plumbing Adjustments
New plumbing installations range from $600-$3,500 depending on complexity and scope of changes required. Simple fixture replacements where existing plumbing lines remain in the same location cost less than relocating drains or supply lines to accommodate new shower designs.
Electrical Work
Adding or relocating outlets, installing exhaust fans, or upgrading lighting systems requires licensed electrical work that ranges from $100-$300 for basic fan upgrades. Modern shower remodels often include additional electrical components like recessed lighting, heated floors, or ventilation systems that improve comfort and prevent moisture problems. Older homes may need electrical panel upgrades or new circuits to handle increased electrical loads safely.
Permit Fees
Permit requirements vary by location, typically costing $50-$2,000 with a national average of $1,600 for comprehensive bathroom remodeling projects. Local building departments require permits for plumbing changes, electrical work, and structural modifications to ensure compliance with safety codes and building standards. Obtaining proper permits protects homeowners from liability issues and prevents complications during home sales when buyers request documentation of completed work.
Unexpected Issues
Setting aside 10-15% of your budget for unexpected discoveries like water damage, mold, or outdated plumbing provides financial security during your project. Older homes frequently reveal surprises once walls open, including asbestos materials, lead pipes, or structural problems that require immediate attention.
Cost Implications of Different Shower Types
Walk-In Showers
Walk-in showers have become extremely popular in 2025, with costs typically ranging from $3,000-$10,000. The price varies based on:
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Size (often 3’×5′ or larger)
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Threshold height (zero-entry designs cost more)
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Glass enclosure type
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Tiling complexity
Walk-in showers require a precise slope for proper drainage and waterproofing, and often include additional features like bench seating or grab bars.
Tub and Shower Combos
Tub and shower combinations remain popular for families with children or in homes with limited space. Costs typically range from $1,500-$5,000 depending on:
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Tub material and quality
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Surround materials
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Shower fixtures
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Glass doors vs. shower curtain
Replacing an existing tub/shower combo with a new version typically costs less than converting to a different shower type because the plumbing remains largely unchanged.
Custom Tile Showers
Custom tile installation represents a significant investment, ranging from $1,800-$6,800 based on material choices and design complexity. Ceramic tile costs $0.50-$100 per square foot, porcelain ranges from $0.50-$30 per square foot, while natural stone tiles command $5-$50 per square foot, depending on the specific material selected.
How to Save Money on Your Shower Remodel
Smart planning helps maximize your budget without sacrificing quality:
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Compare prices from multiple contractors. Gathering 3-5 quotes provides leverage and insight into fair market rates.
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Time your project during off-peak seasons when contractors may offer competitive pricing.
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Mix high and low materials strategically. Use premium materials in high-visibility areas and budget-friendly options elsewhere.
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Consider a partial DIY approach. Handle demolition yourself while hiring professionals for technical aspects.
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Shop sales and remnants for materials, especially tile and natural stone, where remnant pieces may offer significant savings.
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Reuse when possible. If your shower pan or plumbing is in good condition, focus updates on walls, doors, and fixtures.
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Avoid layout changes that require moving plumbing, which adds significant cost.
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Choose standard sizes for shower enclosures, doors, and fixtures to avoid custom pricing.
ROI and Home Value Considerations
Your shower remodel investment typically pays back 60-80% of its cost when you sell your home, with tub-to-shower conversions averaging around 60% return. These numbers look good on paper, but your actual return depends heavily on how well your upgrades match what buyers expect in your neighborhood and price range.
A beautiful new shower won’t add much value if the rest of your bathroom feels outdated or if you’ve over-improved compared to similar homes nearby. Buyers notice when renovations feel cohesive versus when one spectacular feature stands out awkwardly against older surroundings. Quality installation matters enormously here, as sloppy work or obvious shortcuts can actually hurt your home’s appeal rather than help it.
Think about broad appeal when making design choices, especially if you plan to sell within a few years. Highly personal style statements might thrill you, but could turn off potential buyers who envision something different. Walk-in showers with safety features like grab bars and built-in seating appeal to many buyers today, particularly as more people think about aging in place or accommodating family members with mobility needs. These practical luxury touches often deliver value beyond simple aesthetics.
Planning Your Shower Remodel Budget
Creating a realistic budget requires understanding all potential costs:
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Assess your complete project scope before starting
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Gather detailed cost data for materials and labor
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Include permit fees and potential temporary housing if needed
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Add a 15% contingency for unexpected issues
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Consider financing options if necessary
The difference between a $2,000 and $15,000 shower remodel comes down to your choices in materials, size, features, and labor approach.
Final Thoughts
The best approach involves being honest about your priorities and realistic about your budget. Maybe you splurge on that rainfall showerhead but choose standard tile for the walls. Or perhaps you invest in quality waterproofing and skip the fancy glass doors for now. Every choice shapes both your immediate costs and long-term satisfaction with the space.
Taking time to research options, understand cost implications, and plan thoroughly helps ensure your shower remodeling project delivers the results you want at a price you can manage. The perfect shower balances your dreams with practical realities, creating a space that enhances your daily routine and your home’s value for years to come.
Ready to start planning your shower transformation? OneStop Kitchen and Bath helps homeowners create beautiful bathrooms that work perfectly for their lives and budgets. Let’s talk about turning your shower ideas into reality with a consultation that explores all your options.
