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How Much Does Bathtub Replacement Cost in Portland? [2025 Data]
Normal Range: $903 - $2,034
Replacing a bathtub in Portland, OR, costs between $903 and $2,034, on average, depending on the materials you choose. A bathtub installation pro can provide a quote for your specific project.
How we get this data
Photo: Brizmaker / Adobe Stock Photography
Photo: Brizmaker / Adobe Stock Photography
Cost Insights
The basic building permit from the City of Portland for a single bathtub replacement costs $60, but total fees can be more with added complexity.
The total labor cost for a simple drop-in bathtub replacement is $200 to $1,200, based on an hourly rate of $75 to $150.
More comprehensive bathroom changes, like subfloor repair, add as much as $2,000 to $8,000 to total labor costs.
Choosing water-efficient fixtures and eco-friendly materials can lower utility bills and cut water usage by 30% or more while aligning with the city's environmental values.
Bathtub replacement in Portland, Oregon costs $1,465 on average, with most homeowners spending between $903 and $2,034. The mix of charming Craftsman bungalows, mid-century ranches, and modern construction means every project brings its own considerations. Many Portland homeowners prioritize water efficiency and sustainable materials in alignment with the local eco-conscious culture.
Bathtub Replacement Cost Factors
Material choice drives the biggest cost variation, with basic fiberglass models starting around $300 and luxury options like granite pushing past $20,000. The Pacific Northwest's famously wet weather also plays a significant role, requiring proper ventilation and moisture-resistant materials to prevent mold and water damage in Portland, Oregon.
Bathtub Type
Many tub styles balance aesthetics and utility to bring comfort and relaxation. Here’s a look at the different types of tubs and their average costs.
| Tub Style | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard | $300–$1,200 |
| Soaking tub | $800–$3,000 |
| Jet and Whirlpool | $1,500–$7,000 |
| Freestanding | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Walk-in | $4,000–$22,100 |
| Accessible | $1,500–$12,000 |
| Clawfoot | $10,000+ |
Standard Tub
A standard bathtub is one of the least expensive options, with costs ranging from $300 to $1,200, 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 $800 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 $1,500 to $7,000, 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 $1,500 to $12,000.
Clawfoot
Distinctive clawfoot tubs can cost $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 you choose is a major factor in how much it costs to replace a bathtub.
| Material | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $200–$800 | Lightweight; affordable | Doesn’t retain heat |
| Ceramic | $5,000–$10,000 | Unique design | Can chip |
| Acrylic | $700–$1,500 | Lightweight; durable | Discoloration |
| Steel | $200–$1,000 | Lighter than cast iron | Loud; can chip |
| Copper | $2,000–$6,000 | Durable; mold-resistant | More costly |
| Cultured marble | $2,000–$5,000 | Stylish | Heavy; can crack |
| Cast iron | $400–$14,000 | Durable | Heavy |
| Granite | $10,000–$20,000 | Aesthetic | Heavy; difficult to install |
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 mold-resistant material well-suited for Portland’s famously wet weather. Standard acrylic tubs cost $700 to $1,500, 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 about $2,000 to $6,000. 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, are extremely durable, and are great at resisting mold, moisture, and bacteria. However, cast iron is heavy and may require extra reinforcements. Cast-iron bathtubs cost between $400 and $14,000.
Pro Tip
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
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.
| Additional Projects | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Tub removal and disposal | $50–$300+ |
| Shower-to-tub conversion | $2,000–$10,500 |
| Subfloor prep and reinforcement | $300–$800 |
| Surround | $500–$2,000 |
| Bath liner | $2,700–$10,000 |
| Faucets | $50–$900 |
| Electrical upgrades | $1,600 |
| Water damage repairs | $450–$14,000 |
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 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 $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 $10,000, 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), which costs an average of $210 to install.
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 an average of $3,850. Smaller cases cost as little as $450, while extensive damage and repairs can cost over $14,000.
Bathtub Refinishing vs. Bathtub Replacement
Depending on its current condition, you may 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.
Bathtub Replacement Pro Costs
Hiring bathtub replacement professionals in Portland means working with licensed contractors who navigate the city's specific permitting requirements and building codes.
Labor
When deciding who to hire for a bathroom remodel, you’ll find that Portland bathtub installers charge $75 to $150 per hour, depending on experience and complexity. The total labor cost to replace a bathtub is $200 to $1,200. Portland's strong union presence and competitive labor market influence these rates, particularly for licensed master plumbers with extensive experience.
Costs go higher if you relocate plumbing lines, remove or install a heavy bathtub, or make repairs to subflooring. If you’re installing a different type of tub than the existing one or placing the new one in a different spot, you might need some plumbing work. Budget $400 to $1,900 to move plumbing lines and pipes.
Permits
The City of Portland requires permits for any in-building plumbing work. A basic tub swap requires a $60 fee per fixture, but building permits cost anywhere from $60 to $200 for plumbing work, depending on the project. Add $10 to $500 for electrical work. All building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical permits in Portland include a 12% surcharge applied by the State of Oregon.
Ask your contractors about the necessary permits. Unpermitted work can complicate future home sales and violate city ordinances.
Moisture Management
With over 150 rainy days each year, Portland's notoriously wet weather makes bathroom ventilation and moisture control critical. Inadequate ventilation turns bathrooms into breeding grounds for mold and mildew, particularly around tubs and showers.
When replacing your bathtub, seriously consider upgrading your exhaust fan if the current one underperforms or predates energy-efficiency standards. A quality ventilation system costs $300 to $1,500 installed, but it protects your investment by preventing moisture damage and avoiding the higher cost to demo a bathroom if there is significant water damage later on.
Sustainability
Portland's strong environmental culture means many homeowners prioritize sustainability when replacing bathtubs. Water-efficient fixtures reduce consumption without sacrificing comfort. Modern low-flow faucets and showerheads (if you're doing a tub-to-shower conversion) can cut water use by 30% or more compared to older fixtures.
Does Bathtub Replacement Increase Home Value?
Bathtub replacement offers solid returns in Portland's competitive housing market, where updated bathrooms consistently rank among buyers' top priorities. The typical return on investment (ROI) for a bathtub replacement is 50% to 75%.
Homeowners recoup the greatest bathroom remodeling cost with midrange soaking or alcove updates, not ultra-luxury installations. East Portland neighborhoods and emerging areas often see stronger ROI percentages as buyers seek move-in-ready homes that don't require immediate work.
Sustainability matters too. Portland buyers actively seek water-efficient fixtures and eco-friendly materials. Highlighting these features in listings resonates with the city's environmentally conscious market.
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.
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.
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