How Much Do Bathtubs Cost?

When creating your sanctuary for rest and relaxation, having a bathtub that matches your needs is crucial. Finding the perfect bathtub is an exciting venture and a large part of building a dream powder room where you can get the rejuvenation you need. 

Whether you’re trying to remodel your bathroom or simply going for a new aesthetic, buying a new bathtub requires decisions regarding style, materials, features, and size. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of a bathtub typically falls between $1,400 and $7,000 depending on the style, any repairs, and the complexity of the installation.

How Much Do Bathtubs Cost Near You?

Since bathtubs range in price depending on your location, it’s helpful to get a sense of standard prices across the country. Below are average costs for bathtubs for some locations in several regions around the US.

Bathtub Cost Breakdown

Whether you decide to go all-in on a full-on luxury spa oasis or err on the side of functional practicality, several factors will contribute to the total cost.

Style, Size, and Materials

The tub’s style, size, and material will affect the total cost of your bathtub (more on this below). The general rule of thumb is that the larger, more lavish the tub, the higher the price Material is also a key factor. Copper, ceramic, and granite will be more pricey than acrylic, steel, and fiberglass.

Removal and Installation

On average, the general cost to install a bathtub is $4,370 but ranges from $1,448 to 7,292.

Removing your current bathtub will also contribute to your total cost. The cost to remove a bathtub ranges from roughly $62 to $133. If you request to have the debris from your current bathtub hauled away, you can expect to pay around $12 to $13.

Labor

General labor for installing a bathtub typically ranges from around $490 to $590. 

If anything in your bathtub area is damaged or malfunctioning, you should request repairs when you get your new bathtub installed. These will range roughly from $300 to $800.

Faucets

Your swanky new tub might also warrant a faucet upgrade. There is a wide range of faucets available, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $50 and $900 depending on the style, material, and functions.

Floor Reinforcements

Replacing your old bathtub with a larger, heavier unit like cast iron will often require additional floor reinforcements for support. You should expect to pay somewhere between $100 and $300 for floor reinforcements.

New Water Heater

Also budget for a new water heater that can handle filling your tub with more warm suds if you’re planning a sizable upgrade. Typically water heaters cost roughly $800 to $1,600, depending on the model you purchase.

How Much Do Bathtubs Cost by Material?

Photo: Wollwerth Imagery / Adobe Stock

An attractive bathtub will pull your entire washroom together. The type of bathtub material you choose will affect the cost as well as the durability and install complexity.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass bathtubs are extremely lightweight and offer a range of color options. Fiberglass bathtubs typically range from $200 to $800. If you love a long soak, this material might be for you, since fiberglass doesn’t retain heat well.

Enameled Steel

Enameled steel is a budget-friendly alternative to cast iron tubs but is also prone to scratches and chips. These bathtubs usually cost somewhere from $200 to $1,000.

Acrylic

Standard acrylic tubs will cost you $700 to $1,000, with high-end models approaching $14,000. Acrylic is a very durable material resistant to scuff marks and discoloration, making it a great choice for toddler baths and dog baths.

Cast Iron

Cast iron bathtubs, on average, cost $1,300, with a range of roughly $400 to $14,000. This material is durable and heat-retaining—a perfect tub for long, peaceful soaks.

Cultured Marble

Cultured marble is made by combining pulverized marble with synthetic resins and dyes. A cultured marble bathtub tends to cost between $2,000 and $5,000, with labor fees usually accounting for $450 to $2,000 of the total cost. Cultured marble offers a chic, shiny aesthetic, but is not very resistant to scratches.

Copper

Copper bathtubs tend to be one of the most durable types, and are also one of the most expensive options, usually costing somewhere from $2,000 to $5,000. This material retains heat incredibly well and often is the most long-lasting of bathtubs.

Ceramic Tile

A ceramic tub is a unique choice that can work with almost any type of bathroom aesthetic. Ceramic tubs typically cost between $5,000 and $10,000 but vary depending on tile choice, size, and bathtub style.

Granite

Granite tubs are another unique choice and can be a very chic addition to your bathroom. These bathtubs tend to range from $10,000 to $20,000. Keep in mind that this tub type requires semi-frequent maintenance to ward off stains, discoloration, and chipping.

How Much Do Bathtubs Cost by Style?

Whether you’re trying to upgrade your bathtub to a spa-level tub, or are simply ready to replace your dated fiberglass tub, the style you pick will contribute to the final cost of your bathtub.

Shower Bath Combo

In a shower and bath combination, the bathtub surrounds are encased by a curtain or glass door which allows you to shower in your tub. This style typically costs between $300 and $2,000.

Soaking

If winding down in a long bath sounds like your kind of paradise, buy a soaking tub, stat. Though pricey, these tubs are a worthwhile investment if you are plagued with aching joints and sore muscles. These bathtubs tend to range from $600 to $13,000 and, on average, cost $1,000.

Clawfoot

Clawfoot bathtubs, on average, cost $2,000 but have a range of $600 to $10,000. This type of tub is freestanding and supported by four feet, which varies in style. There are many types to choose from, such as modern, vintage, minimalist, or art deco.

Freestanding

Freestanding bathtubs sit directly on the floor and typically don’t have feet or a platform as support. These bathtubs tend to cost between $750 and $12,000, with an average of $2,500. Freestanding bathtubs are usually larger than other styles and thus require a larger bathroom.

Whirlpool/Jetted

Think comfort, think jets. Whirlpool bathtubs include water jets that offer a seriously relaxed bathing experience. These tubs come in several different styles and sizes to suit your bathroom vision. 

These tubs are one of the more costly options and tend to range from $1,500 to $17,000 with an average price of $6,500, which includes the costs for the tub and installation. Know that the installation on these soakers is extremely lengthy (the average time ranges from six to 25 hours), especially if you want heated jets, which require electricity.

Walk-In

Walk-in bathtubs tend to range from $2,000 to $8,000 and are the most accessible type of tub for those who struggle to step into a regular bathtub. You can also further add to the accessibility level with grab bars or handgrips. The average cost of a walk-in tub is $5,000.

How Much Do Bathtub Surrounds Cost?

A bathtub surround protects the walls of a bathtub. It can also serve as a waterproofing exterior for your tub. The material of your bathtub surround affects the total cost of a bathtub.

Below are the average prices for common bathroom surround materials:

• Tile: $120–$6,000

• Acrylic: $300–$700

• Fiberglass: $400–$1,200

• Natural Stone:  $2,400–$24,000

• Quartz: $6,000–$12,000

FAQs About Bathtubs

Can I install a bathtub myself?

Typically installing a bathtub is a heavy-duty process and is not a DIY job unless you have advanced skills in plumbing, soldering, and carpentry. Keep in mind that mistakes during installation can result in serious accidents later. 

Depending on the type of bathtub you have, removal may be appropriate as a DIY project. A confident and experienced professional contractor can help you decide which projects are worth tackling yourself, and which are better left to the pros.

How long do bathtubs last?

Typically, bathtubs last from 15 to 30 years, but this may vary depending on how often you use your bathtub and the type of tub and material.