How Much Does Bathtub Replacement Cost in Washington, D.C.? [2025 Data]

Average bathtub replacement costs in Washington, D.C. range between $1,047 and $1,937, with an average cost of $1,461. The premium housing market in D.C., coupled with strict building regulations, makes this project more expensive than in many other cities. The higher cost of living translates directly to elevated labor rates, while permitting requirements add administrative costs.

Bathtub Replacement Cost Factors 

The region’s premium pricing structure and complex regulatory environment factor heavily into bathtub replacement costs in Washington, D.C. Labor runs 10% to 20% above national averages, and material costs also trend higher due to urban delivery logistics and limited storage options.

Bathtub Type

Many tub styles balance aesthetics and utility to bring comfort and relaxation. These are average costs for various bathtub types.

Standard Tub 

A standard bathtub is one of the least expensive options, with costs ranging from $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. 

Soaking Tub

Deep-basin soaking tub costs range from $600 to $3,000. Like other styles, the price of soaking tubs is mainly determined by material and size. Because these are deeper than standard tubs, confirm that the tub will fit your space before purchasing.

Jet and Whirlpool

Bathtubs with jets help soothe stiff muscles and sore joints. The average whirlpool-style tub costs $1,000 to $4,000, and these come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your needs. Jets require electricity, so additional work is required to install these tubs, which means higher labor costs and possibly a more substantial remodel.

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 are larger and may include a wider, sometimes motorized, entryway. The cost of accessible bathtubs ranges from $4,000 to $12,000. 

Clawfoot

Distinctive clawfoot tubs can cost $1,000 to $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.

Bathtub Material

The bathtub material that you choose 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 $2,000 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 cost $700 to $1,000, with high-end models approaching $14,000. Opt for acrylic for a lightweight, durable bathtub option.

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 $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 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 can be heavy and difficult to install.

Additional Bathtub Replacement Costs 

Removing the old tub and inserting the new one isn’t always as easy as it sounds, and there are plenty of additional costs.

Old Tub Removal and Disposal

The cost to remove and dispose of an old bathtub depends on its type. 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.

Shower-to-Tub Conversion Cost

Converting a shower into a bathtub or a tub-to-shower conversion costs $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 $4,000. 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 $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 $6,400 on average, but they range from around $2,700 to over $10,000, 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 an average of $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.

Bathtub Replacement Pro Costs

When you hire a professional bathtub installer in Washington, D.C., expect to pay 10% to 20% more for labor compared to national averages. Permitting requirements through the Department of Buildings add time and expense to projects. Budget carefully and expect premium pricing for licensed, insured contractors who can navigate the District's regulatory landscape.

Labor

The labor cost to replace a bathtub is $900 to $2,400 on average, but complex projects in century-old properties or luxury condos can push costs significantly higher. When deciding who to hire for a bathroom model, look for pros with specific experience working on your particular housing stock. 

While replacing a bathtub usually doesn’t involve the cost to demo a bathroom, if you're relocating plumbing lines, expect to pay $400 to $1,900 for this specialized work. Competition for qualified tradespeople remains intense across the metro area, keeping rates elevated even during slower renovation seasons.

Urban Logistics

Delivering bulky items, like cast-iron tubs, requires careful coordination with parking enforcement, building management, and sometimes police for lane closures. Narrow rowhouse entries in neighborhoods like Logan Circle and strict delivery windows in modern condo complexes drive up handling fees.

If your property has challenging access, common in both historic rowhouses and modern high-rises, budget an extra 15% to 25% for delivery and positioning logistics.

Permits

The D.C. Department of Buildings (DOB) requires permits for bathtub installations involving plumbing work, electrical modifications, or building alterations beyond minor cosmetic updates. Use the DOB Permit Wizard or Citizen Access Portal to check requirements and apply online for your specific project.

Building permits cost $25 to $300 for plumbing work and $20 to $300 for electrical work. For larger projects or those declared as part of a broader bathroom remodel, the DOB uses a value-based building permit formula. Ask your contractors about the necessary permits, and don’t start work until you secure them, even if you’re DIYing.

Historic Preservation Review Board Approval

If your property falls within a designated historic district, including Capitol Hill, Georgetown, and Dupont Circle, you may need Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) approval before starting work that affects the building's exterior or significant interior features.

While standard interior bathtub replacement typically doesn't require HPRB review, projects involving structural changes, window modifications, exterior vent installations, or work on contributing buildings within historic districts require approval. This process can take up to 12 weeks and restrict material choices to preserve historic character.

Bathtub Refinishing vs. Bathtub Replacement

You may choose to refinish or replace your bathtub. 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 an average of $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. 

Does Bathtub Replacement Increase Home Value?

Washington, D.C. homeowners typically recoup 45% to 50% of their bathroom remodel costs for mid to upscale projects. In sought-after D.C. neighborhoods like Columbia Heights, buyers pay close attention to bathroom condition and quality. A new tub signals proper maintenance and reduces concerns about aging infrastructure.

When it comes to historic buildings, many bathrooms haven’t been updated in decades. Replacing a bathtub not only refreshes the bathroom, but it may also reveal outdated galvanized plumbing or lead service lines that also need upgrading. These repairs prevent bigger problems and provide prospective buyers with peace of mind. 

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 survey 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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