How Much Does Bathtub Replacement Cost? [2026 Data]

How much it costs to replace a bathtub depends on the space available, your budget, flooring reinforcement, finishes, and the type of tub—but it averages $5,703. A simple bathtub replacement can go as low as $1,998, but if you're dreaming of a grand clawfoot tub to soak away your worries, it can go as high as $9,408 or more. This guide breaks down all of the factors impacting your new bathtub project.

Bathtub Replacement Cost by Type

Many tub styles balance aesthetics and utility to bring comfort and relaxation.

General-Purpose Tub 

A standard bathtub is one of the least expensive options, with costs ranging from about $200 to $800, depending on the tub material. General-purpose tubs are rectangular or oval-shaped and have a showerhead above. You may also need to install a surround for an additional $500 to $2,000. 

Jet and Whirlpool

Bathtubs with jets aid in soothing stiff muscles and sore joints. The average whirlpool-style tub costs $1,000 to $4,000. These tubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your needs. Heated jets require electricity, while other bathtubs do not. Additional work is required to install these tubs which may result in a more substantial remodel.

Clawfoot

Distinctive clawfoot tubs can reach prices of $10,000 or more, but you can find options that fit just about any price range. Depending on the material used, the job may require flooring reinforcement.

Soaking Tub

Deep-basined soaking tub costs range on average from $600 to $13,000. The price of soaking tubs, like other styles, is mainly determined by material and size. Because these are deeper than standard tubs, confirm ahead of time that the tub will fit your space.

Freestanding

Freestanding bathtubs have space to move around on all sides. They make for a distinctive element to your bathroom, especially if you’re accustomed to traditional built-in tubs. Freestanding tubs average $2,500, but ensure you have enough space before committing.

Walk-In

Walk-in tubs offer safety and comfort features, including a door, and allow for easier access for older adults and people with disabilities. They cost between $4,000 and $22,100 and can increase your home’s value. 

Accessible Bathtub 

While walk-in tubs offer one form of accessibility, accessible bathtubs can offer more features (including walk or slide-in functions). Most accessible bathtubs include a wider entryway to accommodate a wheelchair and additional features like a motorized entryway or a larger footprint. The cost of accessible bathtubs ranges from $4,000 to $12,000. 

Bathtub Replacement Cost by Material

The bathtub material is a major factor in how much it costs to replace a bathtub. 

Fiberglass

Fiberglass tubs are an affordable option. They’re lightweight and come in a variety of colors. You'll pay between $200 and $800 to install a new fiberglass bathtub. Unlike some other materials, fiberglass is not great at retaining heat.

Ceramic 

Adding a ceramic tub to your bathroom costs anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, with prices varying based on the colors and styles of ceramic tile you choose. Ceramic tubs offer unique bathtub design choices, but you will have to clean the grout and repair chips.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a popular material for families due to its resistance to bath toys and dog paws. Standard acrylic tubs will cost you $700 to $1,000, with high-end models approaching $14,000. For a lightweight, durable bathtub option, opt for acrylic.

Steel

Enameled steel is a lighter and more cost-efficient alternative to cast iron, with a price range of $200 to $1,000. However, steel drawbacks include the risk of chipping, and they can make a cacophony of sounds while filling.

Copper 

Copper bathtubs cost about $2,000 to $5,000. In addition to its chic appearance, copper is a durable, long-lasting material that’s resistant to mold and bacteria. This material also holds heat well, making it ideal for long, hot baths.

Cultured Marble

Stylish marble makes for a show-stopping bathroom. Installing a marble tub will run on between $2,000 and $5,000. Unlike acrylic, marble is heavy and susceptible to cracks. Ask your pro about extra care and reinforced flooring when you opt for marble.

Cast Iron

Porcelain enamel-coated cast-iron tubs come in a range of styles to fit your dream bathroom. They retain heat well, but cast iron is heavy and may require extra reinforcements. Cast-iron bathtubs cost between $400 and $14,000.

Granite 

If you want a bathtub that doubles as modern decor, you can install a granite tub for $10,000 to $20,000. This material is incredibly durable and long-lasting, but it can also be heavy and difficult to install.

Bathtub Contractor Cost 

The cost of labor to replace a bathtub is about $100 to $2,000, but costs go higher if you relocate plumbing lines, remove or install a heavy bathtub, or make repairs to subflooring.

Plumber Cost 

If you’re installing a different type of tub than the existing model or placing the new tub in a different spot in the bathroom, you might need some plumbing work. If so, you’ll need to budget about $400 to $1,900 to move plumbing lines and pipes.

Additional Bathtub Replacement Costs to Consider 

Removing the old tub and inserting the new one isn’t always as easy as it sounds, so keep in mind that additional costs can come up during the installation process. These costs include removing and disposing of the old tub, prepping and reinforcing the subfloor to hold the weight of the tub, electrical upgrades, and faucet installation, among others.

Old Tub Removal and Disposal

Removing and disposing of an old bathtub costs around $150 to over $4,500, depending on the type of bathtub. Fiberglass tubs, which are lighter in weight, cost $50 to $100 to remove. Hauling away a heavy cast-iron bathtub could cost $300 or more. Disposing of the old tub can cost $100 to $4,200.

Shower-to-Tub Conversion Cost

Converting a shower into a bathtub costs about $2,000 to $10,500. You’ll need to remove the shower—and since tubs are larger than showers—you might have to remove walls, relocate plumbing, or move electrical wiring to make room for a tub.

Subfloor Preparation and Reinforcement

Heavy tubs need structural support underneath, which can cost $300 to $800. Repairing floor joists costs $4,000 to over $12,000, depending on the condition of the existing floor joists. The cost of subfloor replacement due to damage under your old tub is $3 to $10 per square foot, but your bathroom remodeling project may not require it. 

Surround 

Installing a bathtub surround costs about $500 to $2,000. For bathtub-shower combos, you’ll want to install a surround consisting of waterproof panels to protect the drywall from shower water. 

Bath Liner

Bath liners cost about $6,400 on average, but they range from around $2,700 to over $10,200, depending on the size of your existing tub. A bath liner is a customized acrylic layer that fits over an existing tub to give it a new look and feel.

Faucets 

Adding a new faucet or other bathtub hardware costs about $50 for basic options to over $900 for hardware made from copper or porcelain. You can spend over $700 for high-end faucets, like waterfall or spa-style faucets.

Electrical Upgrades

Upgrades to an electrical panel cost $1,600 on average. You may also need to upgrade or add electrical wiring to your bathroom. This may be necessary if you install a jetted or whirlpool-style bathtub or a tub with high-tech features, like lighting or speakers. If you’re adding a jetted tub, you’ll need a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). 

Water Damage Repairs 

When you take out the old tub or shower, you may encounter water damage in the floors or walls. Water damage restoration costs about $3,850. Smaller cases cost around $450, while extensive damage and repairs can cost over $14,000.

Permits

If you need to relocate plumbing lines or electrical wiring, you’ll likely need to apply for building permits. Building permits cost about $50 to $500 for plumbing work and $10 to $500 for electrical work. Ask your contractors about the necessary permits, and don’t start work until you secure them, even if you’re DIYing.

Why You Should Hire a Bathtub Replacement Pro

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.

Here’s Why It’s Ideal to Hire a Bathtub Replacement Pro

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.

If You Want to DIY

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.

Bathtub Refinishing vs. Bathtub Replacement

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.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Bathtub 

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.

How to Save on Bathtub Replacement Costs 

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. 

Does Bathtub Replacement Increase Home Value?

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.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

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. 

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