Kitchen and bathroom remodel costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
Bathtub replacement costs $2,104 to $9,756, and your tub type and material drive your total.
Your tub material and style steer your budget, from fiberglass or acrylic options to granite or clawfoot tubs.
Budget for old tub removal, subfloor reinforcement, electrical upgrades, new faucets, and building permits when planning your bathroom remodel project.
Hiring a local bathtub installation professional reinforces your subfloor, follows building codes, and delivers a clean, watertight finish.
In 2026, the national average cost to replace a bathtub is $5,929, based on 4,360 verified projects from Angi Pros. Most homeowners pay between $2,104 and $9,756, with the spread driven by tub type, material, and installation complexity. If you're going with a basic swap, costs can start as low as $220, while a high-end clawfoot or custom tub can push the total up to $15,000 or more.
Bathtub style is one of the biggest drivers of replacement cost, with prices ranging from $200 for a basic standard tub to $10,000 or more for a clawfoot model. Here's how bathtub replacement costs compare by tub style:
| Tub Style | Average Cost Range in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Standard | $200–$800 |
| Soaking tub | $600–$13,000 |
| Jet and whirlpool | $1,000–$4,000 |
| Freestanding | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Walk-in | $4,000–$22,100 |
| Accessible | $4,000–$12,000 |
| Clawfoot | $10,000+ |
A standard bathtub is one of the most affordable replacement options, costing $200 to $800 depending on the material. These rectangular or oval tubs typically include a showerhead above, and you may also need to budget $500 to $2,000 for a surround.
Jet and whirlpool tubs cost $1,000 to $4,000 and come in a variety of shapes and sizes suited to different bathroom layouts. Because heated jets require electricity, installation typically entails additional electrical work, which can turn it into a more substantial remodel.
Clawfoot tubs are a distinctive, high-end choice that can cost $10,000 or more, though options are available across a range of budgets. Depending on the material, your pro may need to reinforce the flooring before installation.
Soaking tubs range from $600 to $13,000, with material and size being the primary cost drivers. Because these tubs are deeper than standard models, confirm your bathroom can accommodate the dimensions before committing to a purchase.
Freestanding bathtubs average $2,500 and create a distinctive focal point in any bathroom, particularly if you are upgrading from a traditional built-in tub. Before purchasing, confirm you have enough open floor space on all sides to accommodate the design.
Walk-in tubs cost between $4,000 and $22,100 and are designed with safety features, including a built-in door, to provide easier access for older adults and people with disabilities. Beyond comfort, these tubs can also increase your home's resale value.
Accessible bathtubs cost $4,000 to $12,000 and go beyond walk-in tub features by offering walk-in or slide-in functions, wider entryways for wheelchair access, and options like motorized entryways or a larger footprint. If your household has specific mobility needs, these added features make accessible tubs worth the higher investment compared to a standard walk-in model.
When replacing a bathtub, material costs range from $200 for a basic fiberglass or steel tub to $20,000 for a premium granite installation. The table below compares average costs across eight bathtub materials, from the most affordable to the most premium:
| Material | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $200–$800 |
| Ceramic | $5,000–$10,000 |
| Acrylic | $700–$1,000 |
| Steel | $200–$1,000 |
| Copper | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Cultured marble | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Cast iron | $400–$14,000 |
| Granite | $10,000–$20,000 |
Fiberglass is one of the most budget-friendly bathtub materials, with installation costs running $200 to $800. These tubs are lightweight and available in a variety of colors, though they do not retain heat as well as heavier materials like cast iron or copper.
Ceramic tubs cost $5,000 to $10,000, with the final price depending on the colors and tile styles you select. They offer distinctive design flexibility, but plan for ongoing grout cleaning and occasional chip repairs as part of routine maintenance.
Acrylic tubs are a popular family choice because of their durability against everyday wear, with standard models costing $700 to $1,000 and high-end versions reaching up to $14,000. Acrylic is lightweight and resilient, making it a practical option for busy households.
Enameled steel tubs cost $200 to $1,000, making them a lighter and more affordable alternative to cast iron. Keep in mind that steel tubs are prone to chipping and can be noticeably loud when filling with water.
Copper bathtubs cost $2,000 to $5,000 and offer a combination of style and performance that justifies the investment. Copper is naturally resistant to mold and bacteria, retains heat exceptionally well, and is built to last, making it a strong choice for homeowners who prioritize long soaks and low maintenance.
Marble tubs cost $2,000 to $5,000 and create a striking, upscale look in any bathroom. Unlike acrylic, marble is heavy and susceptible to cracking, so ask your pro about reinforced flooring and proper care before moving forward.
Cast-iron bathtubs cost between $400 and $14,000 and come in a wide range of styles, offering excellent heat retention and a rigid, noise-free experience. Because cast iron is heavy, your pro may need to add structural reinforcements before installation.
The best part of a cast iron tub is the lack of noise and high rigidity. There’s no flex or anything like that.
Granite tubs cost $10,000 to $20,000 and serve as a dramatic design statement while delivering exceptional durability and longevity. The material's weight makes installation complex, so budget for additional labor and potential structural reinforcement.
Labor to replace a bathtub often runs $100 to $2,000, though costs rise when the job involves relocating plumbing lines, handling a heavy tub like a cast-iron tub, or repairing subflooring beneath the old unit.
If you are switching to a different tub type or relocating the tub within your bathroom, plumbing work will likely be required, adding $400 to $1,900 to move the lines and pipes.
Bathtub replacement often involves more than swapping out the tub itself, and additional costs can add up quickly once the project is underway. Here are some additional costs you might want to consider when planning your bathtub replacement budget:
| Additional Bathtub Replacement Factor | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Tub removal and disposal | $150–$4,500 |
| Shower-to-tub conversion | $2,000–$10,500 |
| Subfloor prep and reinforcement | $300–$800 |
| Surround | $500–$2,000 |
| Bath liner | $6,400 |
| Faucets | $50–$900 |
| Electrical upgrades | $1,600 |
| Water damage repairs | $450–$14,000 |
| Permits | $10–$500 |
Removing and disposing of an old bathtub costs between $150 and $4,500, with the tub's weight and material determining the range. Lighter fiberglass tubs cost $50 to $100 to remove, while hauling away a heavy cast-iron tub can run $300 or more, and disposal alone can add $100 to $4,200 on top of that.
Converting a shower into a bathtub costs $2,000 to $10,500, reflecting the scope of work required to accommodate a larger fixture. Depending on your bathroom layout, the project may require removing walls, relocating plumbing, or moving electrical wiring.
Structural support for heavy tubs costs $300 to $800. If the floor joists beneath are compromised, repairing floor joists costs $4,000 to $12,000 depending on their condition. If the subfloor itself is damaged, the cost of subfloor replacement runs $3 to $10 per square foot, though not every project will require this level of repair.
Installing a bathtub surround costs $500 to $2,000 and is especially important for bathtub-shower combos, where waterproof panels protect the drywall from ongoing moisture exposure.
Bath liners cost an average of $6,400, though prices range from $2,700 to $10,200 depending on the size of your existing tub. A bath liner is a custom-fitted acrylic layer installed directly over your current tub to refresh its appearance without a full replacement.
New bathtub faucets and hardware range from about $50 for basic options to over $900 for copper or porcelain finishes. Specialty styles like waterfall or spa-style faucets typically run over $700.
Upgrades to an electrical panel cost an average of $1,600, and you may also need to add or upgrade bathroom wiring if you are installing a jetted, whirlpool, or feature-rich tub with lighting or speakers. Jetted tub installations require a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for safe operation.
Removing an old tub can reveal hidden water damage in the floors or walls, and water damage restoration costs average about $3,850. Minor cases start around $450, while extensive damage can push costs over $14,000.
Projects that involve relocating plumbing or electrical wiring will likely require building permits, with building permits costing $50 to $500 for plumbing work and $10 to $500 for electrical work. Confirm which permits apply with your contractor before any work begins, even if you plan to handle portions of the project yourself.
While DIY bathtub replacement might seem doable, this project often involves plumbing adjustments, subfloor repair, and heavy lifting. A licensed bathtub installation pro near you can handle the job safely, efficiently, and comply with building codes.
Installing a new tub takes skill, precision, and the right equipment—especially for heavy models like cast iron or walk-in tubs. Hiring a pro is best for the following reasons:
Bathtub pros know how to reroute or adjust pipes without leaks or pressure problems.
Contractors can detach, haul away, and dispose of heavy tubs that weigh hundreds of pounds.
A pro ensures subfloors are reinforced and waterproofed before installation to prevent costly water damage.
A bathtub installer can remove and replace a tub within one to two days.
Licensed plumbers handle required permits and follow local building codes for plumbing and electrical upgrades.
Pros safely connect GFCI-protected outlets and circuits for whirlpool or spa tubs.
Professional installation maintains manufacturer warranties, which DIY work can void.
While bathtub replacement pros should handle the majority of the switch, homeowners can assist with minor DIY tasks:
Clear the bathroom of objects around the tub.
Identify the location of your water shut-off valves in case the pro needs assistance.
Consider caulking the new tub yourself to save money.
In some cases, you can refinish your bathtub rather than replacing it, but there are a few factors to consider. Refinishing involves sanding the tub and coating it with primer and paint to remove any small dents or scratches and give it a clean and fresh appearance. Bathroom contractors can complete the refinishing process in a day and it costs around $480.
If your bathtub is severely damaged or has major leak issues, it might not be in good enough shape to refinish, making bathtub replacement a better option. If leaks have damaged the flooring or surrounding wall, you'll need to make repairs and remove mold. Depending on the new tub, you might need to reroute plumbing to make the bathtub replacement work. Bathtub replacement is another job for a qualified bathroom contractor and possibly an electrician or plumber.
If your bathtub has seen better days, it could be time to replace it. Here are some signs it's time for a new tub:
Cracks or chips
Mold or mildew
Leaks
Stains
Dull finish
Out of date color or features
Inaccessible
Calling a bathroom contractor to give you a quote on the cost of a new tub is a good first step if you think it's time for a new one. They can offer recommendations, assess the condition of your existing tub and the surrounding walls and flooring, and give you an estimate of the materials and labor it would take to install a brand-new tub.
Replacing a bathtub is a big project, but it doesn't have to come with a big price tag.
Choose simple bathtub styles and materials: You can still renovate your bathroom into a serene, spa-like space with a general-purpose tub made from less expensive materials like fiberglass or acrylic.
Consider refinishing versus replacing: If your bathtub has a few chips and stains, you could save money by refinishing or reglazing the surface rather than tearing out the tub and installing a new one.
Stick to prefab: Customizing each element can add hundreds or even thousands to the cost of replacing a tub compared to buying prefabricated elements.
Maintain the bathroom layout: You'll spend more time and money relocating plumbing, adding electrical wiring, and removing walls to rearrange where your tub, toilet, and vanity will go.
DIY when you can: You can save some costs by completing parts of the project yourself, like removing the old tub or shower or installing the tub surround.
Bathroom renovations are a good way to increase your home value, and bathtub replacement falls under this category. Not only will you enjoy your time in the bathroom more, but the cost recovery on bathroom renovations—according to the 2022 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors® —is 71% . Most homebuyers want at least one bathtub in their new home, so replacing a damaged or out-of-date tub can help attract buyers and increase home value.
Consult your bathtub pro about the best materials for your project, such as fiberglass, acrylic, cast iron, or a luxury model like granite or copper.
Let your pro know if you’re converting a shower to a tub or moving the location altogether.
Provide details on your tub's drain position and whether you’ll need wiring for jets or lighting.
Note any previous water damage or structural issues that might require repair.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed over 30,000 real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.
Jason has helped me with multiple household projects, with the most recent being new door installation. He has always showed up on time and organized and has done an incredible job! Jason is very professional and he's now my go-to for anything around my house that needs to be fixed or...
Huff Garage Rescue, LLCCole has been handling plumbing and general contracting for our four properties over the past three years, and he’s always done a great job. Most recently, he installed a sink and countertop in our retail store where none existed before, and it turned out exactly how we needed. He’s...
ANB Renovations LLC1st Choice Renew is simply the best! We hired them for a complete home renovation, and they transformed our space into something truly amazing. The team attention to detail and commitment to quality were evident throughout the project. They were easy to work with, very responsive, and always...
Save A DimeThis company went above and beyond with their work, chimney sweeps are usually pretty messy, but the clean up was spot on.!! Josh explained every thing that he was doing, and the things that he was checking to make sure the chimney was safe for me and my family. He was very professional,...
Supreme brick & chimneyCustom Paint Jobs LLC turned our outdated bathroom into a modern masterpiece.
Custom Paint Jobs, LLCExcellent customer service and knowledge. I was recommend to him from my neighbour. My front door and window came in great and were installed beautifully perfectly, I m very satisfied with their excellent work, so decided to order one more big bow window for my living room. I cant wait for...
Window Depot USA of Central OhioIf I could give 10 stars for Kitchen Tune Up, I would. I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Kitchen Tune Up and the entire team involved in the process of my kitchen project. They went above and beyond as far as service and quality with my cabinets, paint, countertops, and...
It was wonderful working with Yordy and his team. They were very professional and are experts in what they do. They have completed the work on time, with better quality and with in fairly reasonable price. We just started with backsplash work , but liking his work, we went on to provide...
Flooring SolutionsWe were having 2”x 2” tile installed . There was a small installation error and the new additional replacement tile was from a different lot and the colors didn’t match. Joe assured us that he would rectify everything , which he did without hesitation. We decided to go with the 18” x 36” tile...
CarifaTileThey work that 360 did on my kitchen cabinets is nothing short of amazing. I still cannot believe the difference from before and after. Jon and Jeff were both so incredibly professional throughout the whole process and their communications with me were constant and consistent. These guys...
360 Painting ColumbusFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
We’ll cover the cost of replacing a shower or bathtub drain, whether you can tackle this repair yourself, and what other projects to consider along the way.
Most homeowners will eventually need to replace bathroom hardware. This guide breaks down bathtub faucet installation costs, so you can upgrade your bathroom.
Bathtub refinishing costs are relatively inexpensive and can make your bathroom look like new. Our guide gives you the information to learn more about this process.
From whirlpool tubs to bathtubs that are freestanding to gorgeous cast iron clawfoot tubs, consider a luxury tub the statement piece of your bathroom.
Expand your DIY skills by learning how to install a bathtub in your existing bathroom and how to remove an old tub. Follow these steps to get started.
Looking to refresh that old tub and breathe new life into your bathroom? Learn how to hire a bathtub installation pro for the best results.
