If you have ever wondered, “What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?” you are not alone. In a 2023 survey, homeowners discovered that certain features can devour up to 70% of the total budget (Luxury Marble). It might surprise you, but it often comes down to either the wet area (the bathtub, shower, walls, and floors) or labor costs, depending on how you plan your renovation.
Know the biggest cost factors
Bathroom remodels can easily stretch from $5,000 to over $50,000, with high-end projects topping $78,000 (This Old House). The final price depends on:
- Size and scope of the bathroom. Larger spaces mean more materials, bigger fixtures, and higher labor expenses.
- Location and local rates. If you live in a city with steeper costs, labor can be 30–50% higher compared to smaller towns.
- Product selection. Premium stone, custom cabinetry, or high-end fixtures raise your costs quickly.
Good news, though: if your budget is tight, there are still project options. Minor changes like painting or installing a new showerhead might run between $250 and $500, while more extensive updates can start at $5,000 if you keep the existing layout (Hunt’s Kitchen & Design).
Why the wet area often wins
The wet area includes the shower, tub, and surrounding materials. Many experts note that it can be the single most expensive zone:
- Waterproofing requirements. You are paying for moisture-resistant materials, proper insulation, and specialized workmanship to prevent future water damage.
- Premium fixtures. Freestanding tubs and multi-jet showers can quickly increase the total project cost.
- Structural considerations. Sometimes moving plumbing for a new tub or shower location involves demo, reconfiguring pipes, and patching floors or walls.
If you plan to upgrade your vanity at the same time, you may also want to learn more about how much you should pay for a vanity?. A few smart trade-offs—like choosing midrange tile over high-end mosaic—can free up money for a stylish vanity or updated lighting.
Remember labor is huge
Labor alone often represents 20–65% of a bathroom remodel (This Old House). That range shifts based on your home’s age, whether you need plumbing rerouted, and even how accessible your bathroom is for workers:
- Complex tasks. Electrical and plumbing upgrades could add thousands, especially if you move fixtures.
- Regional pricing. In cities with costlier home services, labor can easily push your bill beyond the national average.
- Surprise issues. Mold, water damage, or outdated wiring found mid-project can trigger expensive fixes.
While labor costs can be tough to reduce (cutting corners here may risk quality), you still have choices. Request multiple estimates, clarify the project scope, and confirm if you can handle less-skilled tasks like demolition or painting on your own.
Make wise vanity choices
If you focus on updating your bathroom vanity, it can become a big investment—especially if you opt for custom cabinets and premium countertops. Store-bought vanities range from $150 to over $3,399, while high-end custom pieces can exceed $3,000 in materials alone (Showcase Remodels).
- Solid or engineered wood. Higher-end solid wood vanities stand up better to moisture but cost more. Plywood is stable and often more budget-friendly.
- Vanity countertop. Choices such as quartz or marble can drive up the final price significantly. To learn more, check out what is the best vanity countertop?.
- Overall lifespan. For details on a vanity’s durability, see what is the average lifespan of a bathroom vanity?.
If you prefer a custom fit but do not want to overspend on installation, see how much does it cost to buy and install a bathroom vanity?.
Light recap and next step
Overall, the wet area wins the prize for big-ticket spending in many bathroom remodels. Yet labor can also outpace every other line item in certain cases. Design choices—from fixtures to vanity materials—will affect your budget just as much. Next time you plan a bathroom remodel, think carefully about which elements deserve the largest investment, and which can be scaled down without sacrificing comfort or style. A few careful decisions, plus a well-managed layout, may help you save money and still achieve a fresh, functional bathroom you will love.
