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Salem Developments

The Biggest Cost in a Bathroom Remodel in 2023

A bathroom remodel is a significant investment, and understanding where the bulk of your expenses will go is important for planning and budgeting. In 2023, the typical range for a bathroom remodel is between $6,621 and $16,772, with the average cost being around $11,398. However, costs can reach as high as $28,000 for larger bathrooms with higher-end fixtures and more extensive work12.

Bath Remodel

The Largest Expense: Labor

The most substantial cost in a bathroom remodel tends to be labor, which typically accounts for around 50% of the total project cost. Labor costs can range from $50 to $75 per hour, and the total labor cost will depend on the size of your bathroom and the complexity of the work required. For example, if you have a larger bathroom or need to make significant changes to the layout, your labor costs will be higher3.

In general, you can expect to spend:

  • $600–$3,100 in labor for a budget of $1,500 – $4,800
  • $1,440–$4,400 for a budget of $3,600 – $6,750
  • $2,500–$8,800 for a budget of $6,300 – $13,500456.

Materials: The Second Biggest Cost

Materials are the second biggest cost in a bathroom remodel, accounting for about 45% of the total cost. This includes everything from tiles and countertops to fixtures and appliances. The total cost for materials will largely depend on the size of your bathroom and the quality of the materials you choose. For the average bathroom remodel, expect to spend between $1,000 and $9,000 on materials alone7.

Depending on your budget, you can expect to spend:

  • $1,420 on materials for a budget of $1,500 – $4,800
  • An unspecified amount (likely higher than the lower budget) for a budget of $3,600 – $6,750
  • An even higher amount for a budget of $6,300 – $13,500, as you might be able to choose some higher-end fixtures and features8910.

Other Costs: Permits

Permits make up around 5% of the total cost of a bathroom remodel. While this may not seem like a large portion, it’s still a significant amount that needs to be accounted for in your budget. You can anticipate spending between $175 and $2,000 to cover permits, with prices varying significantly by location111213.

The Cost Per Square Foot

The cost per square foot for a bathroom remodel is also a useful figure to consider. On average, a bathroom remodel costs $125 per square foot. However, this can vary based on your location and the specific materials and fixtures you choose14.

Conclusion

When planning a bathroom remodel, it’s important to understand where your money will be spent. Labor and materials are the two biggest costs, with labor generally being the most expensive part. Keep in mind that the size of your bathroom, the complexity of the work required, and the quality of the materials you choose will all significantly impact the total cost of your remodel. Always create a detailed budget before beginning a remodeling project to avoid unexpected expenses and to ensure a successful and satisfying result.