Written by
Kristen Cramer
Edited by
Tara Farmer
Fact-checked by
Tom Grupa
Shower installation cost
New shower installation costs$2,000 to $9,000, depending on the size, type, and materials. Shower replacement costs$1,000 to $8,000for a prefab shower stall. Walk-in shower installation costs$3,500 to $15,000. The average cost to install shower plumbing is$850 to $1,200.
| Shower type | Average cost to install |
|---|---|
| Walk-in shower | $3,500 – $15,000 |
| Prefab shower stall | $1,000 – $8,000 |
| Tub-shower combo | $1,400 – $4,000 |
| Add shower to a half-bath | $1,100 – $11,500 |
| Tub to shower conversion | $2,000 – $12,000 |
| Shower liner | $1,000 – $2,600 |
Average new shower cost
The following table shows the average cost to install a shower.
| National average cost | $5,400 |
| Minimum cost | $450 |
| Maximum cost | $20,000 |
| Average range | $2,000 to $9,000 |
* Cost data is based on 319 project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Get free estimates for your shower installation.
Search
Walk-in shower cost
A walk-in shower costs$1,000 to $8,000installed for a prefab stall or$3,500 to $15,000for a custom tile shower. Converting a tub to a walk-in shower costs$2,000 to $12,000. Walk-in shower prices depend on the shower size, material, and plumbing work required.
| Parts / service | Cost of labor and materials |
|---|---|
| Shower stall | $1,000 – $8,000 |
| Custom shower | $3,500 – $15,000 |
| Shower door | $400 – $1,900 |
| New faucet | $250 – $800 |
| Plumbing | $850 – $1,200 |
Cost to install tile stand-up shower
The cost to retile a showeris $7 to $25 per square footor$800 to $3,000on average. Costs depend on the shower size, tile type, and tile layout or design. Ceramic tile is the most budget-friendly and costs$1 to $8 per square footfor materials alone.
Stone or concrete walk-in shower cost
A cultured marble or stone walk-in shower costs$2,000 to $7,500installed. Cultured marble shower panels feature crushed stone particles blended in resin to replicate the look of marble slabs.
Retiling a shower with marble or natural stone tile costs$11 to $54 per square foottotal.
A concrete shower costs$1,200 to $2,400for a 3' x 3' stall. However, concrete is slippery, porous, and prone to staining. Corian or solid surface panels are a better option for showers and come in concrete look-alike styles.
Shower replacement cost
Shower replacement costs$2,000 to $9,000, depending on the shower size, materials, and plumbing work required. Replacing a shower insert costs$1,000 to $8,000, including labor and materials. Removing an old shower costs$70 to $800, depending on if it's tile or a prefab stall.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Remove old shower unit | $70 – $800 |
| Prepare surface | $200 – $900 |
| Shower pan / tray | $900 – $2,300 |
| Shower door | $400 – $1,900 |
| Installation labor | $350 – $1,000 |
| Prefab shower stall | $400 – $4,100 |
| Tile materials | $250 – $1,100 |
Compare local shower replacement costs.
Search
Cost to replace prefab shower insert
The average cost to replace a prefab shower insert is $1,000 to $8,000with installation. A prefab shower kit alone costs$400 to $4,100, depending on the material.
Fiberglass shower stalls are the least expensive but the least durable.
Acrylic is economical, more durable, and scratch-resistant.
Composite and solid surface shower stalls are the most durable but more expensive.
| Prefab stall material or type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $400 – $2,000 |
| Acrylic | $550 – $2,000 |
| Composite / solid surface | $700 – $2,400 |
| Cultured marble | $1,900 – $3,700 |
| Barrier-free / curbless | $2,000 – $4,100 |
*Without installation
Cost to replace tub-shower combo
Installing a tub-shower combo costs$1,400 to $4,000, depending on if it's a prefab tub-shower stall or a separate tub and shower surround.
Bathtub replacement costs $600 to $2,500 on average for a basic alcove tub.
The cost to install a tub surround is $600 to $3,500.
A walk-in tub costs $2,500 to $10,000 with a shower combo.
Having at least one bathtub in the home increases resale value.
Installing a bathtub liner costs$1,700 to $2,500to cover an old or damaged tub and shower surround with an acrylic liner instead of replacing it.
Cost to add shower to a half-bath
Adding a shower to a half-bath costs$1,100 to $11,500, depending on if the bathroom has enough space or if the walls need moving. The minimum bathroom size to accommodate three fixtures is5' x 7'.
The shower must be at least 30" x 30" to meet minimum code requirements.
Confirm the subfloor can support a shower. Additional reinforcement may be required.
Wall framing costs $3.00 to $4.50 per square foot to build new walls for a shower in a half-bath.
The cost to remove a wall is $500 to $2,000 for non-load-bearing.
Bathtub to shower stall conversion cost
Atub to shower conversion costs$1,000 to $15,000, depending on the shower size, type, material, and plumbing work.
Replacing a bathtub with a shower stall costs$1,000 to $8,000for the kit and installation.
Converting a tub to a tiled walk-in shower costs$3,500 to $15,000.
Cost to replace shower head and faucet
The average cost to replace a shower head and faucet is$250 to $800, depending on the style, features, and finish.
Standard shower heads cost$15 to $80for the fixture alone.
Rainfall and waterfall shower heads cost$20 to $400for basic models and up to$2,000for high-end models.
| Shower head type | Average cost (basic) | Average cost (high-end) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard / Speakman shower head | $15 – $80 | $100 – $220 |
| Handheld shower head | $15 – $160 | $400 – $1,000 |
| Rainfall /waterfall shower head | $20 – $400 | $400 – $2,000 |
| Dual shower head | $25 – $275 | $475 – $1,500 |
| Tile shower head | $60 – $200 | $600 – $2,000 |
| Full body shower system | $130 – $450 | $1,700 – $2,000 |
Full body shower system cost
A full body shower system costs$130 to $2,000, depending on the style and features. Full body shower systems are also called shower panels or shower towers and feature a waterfall showerhead plus 2 to 8 adjustable body spray jets.
Most shower panels feature adjustable water spray patterns. Some models also include a handheld shower head.
Cost to install shower plumbing
Installing shower plumbing costs$850 to $1,200to rough-in the shower drain and pipes for a first-time installation.Plumbers charge$45 to $150 per hourto connect the drain and install new fixtures when replacing an old shower with a new one.
Some shower installations require upgrading the water heater.New water heater installation costs$800 to $3,500.
Shower valve replacement
Shower valve replacement costs$225 to $575, depending on the type. Shower valves control the water pressure and temperature and come in three types. Shower valve repair or replacement may also require tile or drywall repair, depending on the accessibility.
Drywall repair costs $100 to $400 per hole.
Tile repair costs $10 to $50 per square foot.
Additional costs to install a new shower
Additionalshower remodeling costs,such as a new glass shower door and bench, can also be included in your bathroom remodel.
| Feature | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Shower door | $400 – $1,900 |
| Shower pan cost | $900 – $2,300 |
| Hot mop shower pan | $225 – $500 |
| Bath exhaust fan cost | $250 – $950 |
| Shower valve | $225 – $575 |
| Shower bench | $300 – $800 |
| Grab bars | $50 – $300 |
| LED lighting | $125 – $300 |
| Steam shower cost | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Handicap / senior accessibility | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Plumbing | $850 – $1,200 |
Hire a shower installer in your area.
Search
Labor cost to install a shower
The labor cost to install a shower is$350 to $1,000, not including the materials. Installing a new shower may also require hiring aplumberandelectrician near youto ensure the work is up to code.
Labor to install a shower stall includes:
Framing and setting backing board at existing plumbing rough-ins.
Securing the mortar and routing the plumbing connections.
Sealing the wall panels.
Installing a shower pan
Shower pan replacement costs$900 to $2,300, depending on if it's a premade shower tray or custom stone or tile pan. A shower pan is a solid, waterproof floor sloped to guide water to the shower drain.
Hot mop shower pan
A hot mop shower pan costs$225 to $500installed. Hot mopping uses asphalt and layers of felt to create a waterproof pan that is less puncture-prone than a vinyl membrane.
Shower door installation
Shower door installation costs$400 to $1,100for a framed door or$600 to $1,900for a frameless glass shower door.
Shower doors come in hinged, sliding, and bi-fold opening styles.
Stationary glass panels, also called shower screens, cost$300 to $1,000installed.
Handicap showers designed for seniors
Installing a handicap shower costs$3,000 to $6,000to meet ADA requirements. Handicap walk-in showers feature a zero-threshold curbless entry with a shower floor level with the bathroom floor. Barrier-free showers also provide wheelchair accessibility.
Other options to improve accessibility:
Installing a grab-bar costs $50 to $300 per bar, including labor.
Wall-mounted fold-down shower benches cost $100 to $500.
Converting a tub to a shower costs $2,000 to $12,000, depending on if it's a prefab stall or a tiled walk-in shower.
Cost to install a shower bench
Installing a custom, built-in shower bench costs$300 to $800, depending on the size and material. Wall-mounted fold-down shower benches cost$100 to $500on average. A shower bench improves accessibility for people with mobility issues and provides a footrest for leg-shaving.
Adding or replacing a bath fan
Thecost to install a new bathroom fanis$250 to $950and requires venting, ductwork, and electrical wiring. Replacing a bath fan costs$150 to $550. A bathroom exhaust fan vents moisture outdoors to reduce humidity, remove odors, and prevent mold and mildew.
Shower installation FAQs
What is the cheapest way to install a shower?
The cheapest way to install a shower is to use a fiberglass prefab shower stall with a built-in shower pan. Budget-friendly fiberglass shower stall kits cost$400 to $700. Using a shower curtain instead of a glass shower door also reduces costs.
What are standard walk-in shower sizes?
Standard walk-in shower sizes are:
34" x 34" or 36" x 36" for small showers
48" x 36" or 48" x 48" for mid-sized showers
60" x 36" or more for large showers
60" x 30" or 60" x 32" when replacing a standard alcove tub with a shower
A walk-in shower must be at least30" x 30"to meet minimum code requirements.
The ADA and the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommend a minimum of36" x 36"for improved accessibility and comfort.
What is a walk-in shower?
A walk-in shower is a standalone shower without a tub. Some walk-in showers are enclosed by a partial wall or a fixed glass shower screen and don't require a door or curtain. Walk-in showers can be built in any shape and typically have a low threshold or curbless entry.
Is it more expensive to install a shower or bathtub?
Installing a tub is cheaper than installing a shower. Bathtub installation costs$800 to $4,600, whereas shower installation costs$2,000 to $9,000.
How much does it cost to install a shower liner?
Installing a shower liner costs$1,000 to $2,600for a basic acrylic liner or$4,000 to $7,000for a custom liner with built-in soap dishes, shampoo shelves, and grab bars. A shower liner is a solid vacuum-formed piece designed to precisely mold to the contours of the existing shower.
Will Medicare help pay for a walk-in shower?
Medicarewill notpay for a walk-in shower. Medicare doesn't cover walk-in showers because they are not considered "durable medical equipment" since anyone in the home can use them. Medicare Advantage plans may reimburse part of the cost when prescribed by a doctor, but coverage varies.
Other financial assistance options for seniors:
Many states have programs to help senior citizens pay for home modifications.
The USDA provides grants to elderly residents in low-income rural areas for home modifications to improve safety.
Non-profit organizations like Rebuilding Together offer grants to seniors and people with disabilities to pay for home modifications.
Can I install a shower myself?
Installing a new shower is a complex project that requires plumbing experience and specialized tools. Replacing an existing shower with a prefab stall may be manageable as a DIY project, but a new shower installation needs a professional.
Incorrect shower installation may result in water leaks and damage.
Still have questions? Ask a shower installer.
Search
Hiring a shower installer
Before hiring ashower installer near you, remember to:
Get 3 to 5 estimates to compare.
Look for licensed contractors with experience installing showers.
Request references and ask to see a portfolio of their previous work.
Browse their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
For tile showers, look for licensed CTEF Certified Tile Installers (CTI) who are members of the National Tile Contractors Association.
Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for more than five years.
Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
Never pay in full before the project starts. Follow a payment plan instead for work completed.
Questions to ask
What kind of shower do you recommend for my bathroom and why?
How long have you been in business?
How many showers have you installed?
Can you provide references and a portfolio showing your work?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
What steps will you take to waterproof the shower?
Does the estimate include the shower pan, fixtures, doors, and all other required materials?
Does the estimate include demo, removing the old tub or shower, and hauling away the debris?
What additional costs should I expect?
What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
How long will the installation take?
How many people will be working on the project?
How soon will I be able to use the shower after the installation?
Is a warranty included, and if so, what does it cover?
FAQs
How much should a walk-in shower cost in 2023? ›
Due to the wide range of options, the cost of a walk-in shower spans from $1,000–$15,000, with an average cost of $6,700. * We'll go over the cost factors in more detail below.
What is the average cost to replace a shower? ›| Shower Type | Cost1 |
|---|---|
| Prefabricated shower | $200 - $8,000 |
| Walk-in shower | $400-$8,500 |
| Tub-shower combo | $3,000 |
| Bathtub-to-shower conversion | $1,200 - $3,600 |
If you also have to replace other parts of the sink's plumbing, such as the drain pipe, your costs may be much higher. A new bathtub faucet can cost between $35 and $3,500 and a new shower faucet and shower head averages between $25 and $3,000.
How much does it cost to change a shower to a walk-in shower? ›Remodeling a bathroom to include this type of shower is more popular than ever—especially in areas with aging populations, since they allow people with mobility issues to maintain independence. The cost of a new walk-in shower ranges from $3,500 to $15,000, with a national average cost of $9,000.
What is the cheapest way to redo a shower? ›Prefabricated shower inserts are the cheapest option as they are assembled in a factory and are easier to install in your bathroom. A walk-in shower is usually the most expensive as a lot of tile work and custom glazing is often involvedg.
What is the cost of labor to install a shower? ›Labor. You can expect to pay an additional $400 to $1,000 for a walk-in shower installation; note that this is on top of the cost of materials.
How long does it take a plumber to replace a shower? ›The good news is the project timeline for a complete shower replacement is generally short—anywhere from two to five days.
How long does it take to replace a whole shower? ›How Long It Takes to Replace Your Shower? On average, it will just take around three to five days to replace your shower. However, if there are other things you want to be done, like re-tiling or installing another handheld showerhead, then expect the process to last longer.
Will a plumber install a shower head? ›Most plumbers can install a showerhead for about $75 to $150. As with most home improvement projects, the cost depends on the job size. While the plumber is at your house, you may have them upgrade additional fixtures or complete other repairs.
Can a plumber replace a shower? ›if you just want a replacement shower in the same location as the old one, then a plumber who is competent with electrics is good for the job. On the other hand, an electrician who is competent to do the plumbing can also do the job.
How much does it cost to install a shower head and valve? ›
If you hire a handyperson near you, expect to pay around $165 for a shower valve replacement. You should bring in a licensed plumber if you're upgrading to a different system, and it will cost around $225 for a shower valve replacement with this pro.
Can you just replace a shower? ›But, is it possible to replace an electric shower yourself? The answer is yes. It's not the easiest job in the world, but with plenty of preparation, care and attention it is possible.
How much does it cost to install a toilet? ›On average, the cost to install a toilet ranges between $400 and $800. One-piece toilet labor costs range from $100 to $300. Two-piece toilets cost slightly more to install than one-piece toilets because of the additional labor. A two-piece toilet typically costs $200 to $300 to install.
What is the best tile for a shower? ›Porcelain tile is our number-1 choice for showers because of its diversity, durability, and water-resistance. Unlike some other tile materials, porcelain doesn't have any pores, which prevents the buildup of mildew and soap scum.
What is the cheapest option for a shower? ›Acrylic panels
Acrylic is one of the most cost-effective materials for your bathroom. Cheaper and with fewer problems than tiling, it can give you the look and functionality you're after at a fraction of the cost.
Are electric showers expensive to run? Following our calculations based on a 10-minute shower, you can expect to spend 73p per electric shower and 40p per gas shower. Overall, it's cheaper to run a gas shower.
How often should you redo your shower? ›Bathtub or Shower: Every 10-15 Years
The lifespan of your bathtub or shower depends on a few factors: the material it's made out of, how often it's used, and whether it has been refinished or reglazed.
We will always recommend that a professional plumber replace and install all showers in your home. You should only fit an electric shower yourself if you are competent and confident with DIY, as the shower will need to be connected to your mains electricity as well as your water supply.
Can anyone install a shower? ›The truth is that installing a shower isn't that complicated, and you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself. You shouldn't need to make any alterations to your plumbing to complete the job, and most of the tools you need will be provided in your new shower kit.
Is it cheaper to build a shower or buy one? ›Typically, prefabricated showers are much cheaper than tiled stalled shower stalls, often by many hundreds of dollars. Acrylic or fiberglass shower pans have some flexibility and will not crack if there is a small amount of flex to the subfloor.
How long does it take to install a walk in shower? ›
On average, a Premier Care bathroom installation takes around four days to complete. The installation time differs for everyone depending on the product, the fitting difficulty and any additional design features.
How long do shower pipes last? ›Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a life span of 80 to 100 years, copper lasts 70 to 80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24 to 50 years.
How long should a normal shower last? ›The average shower lasts about eight minutes. Since the average showerhead has a water flow of 2.1 gallons per minute, each shower uses more than 16 gallons of water!
How long should a shower last? ›If you like to linger in the shower for longer than 15 minutes, you might want to rethink your hygiene routine. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Edidiong Kaminska, MD, the recommended maximum shower time is about 5 to 10 minutes. This is enough time to cleanse and hydrate the skin without overdoing it.
Is it cheaper to replace a tub or put in a shower? ›There's a big difference in the cost to install a shower compared to the cost to install a tub. If you want to convert an existing room into a new bathroom or add new fixtures in place, the costs for installing a shower average between $815 and $930. A tub will cost you anywhere from $1,100 to $1,800.
Are walk-in showers a good investment? ›Walk-In showers are a good investment in a house. They are trending among house buyers, and they expand access to users of any type of mobility.
Are walk-in showers worth it? ›Walk-in showers are all the renovation rage these days, and for good reason: They're spacious (but still fit in a small space), elegant, and accessible. They're easy to keep clean, thanks to stain- and moisture-resistant tile. They offer a wide range of possibilities, from rainfall showerheads to steam baths.
Which is more expensive walk-in tub or walk-in shower? ›Cost. There's a big difference in the cost to install a shower compared to the cost to install a tub. If you want to convert an existing room into a new bathroom or add new fixtures in place, the costs for installing a shower average between $815 and $930. A tub will cost you anywhere from $1,100 to $1,800.
How much is the average American shower? ›The average American shower uses 17.2 gallons (65.1 liters) and lasts for 8.2 minutes at average flow rate of 2.1 gallons per minute (gpm) (7.9 lpm). Consider, if you will, the relevant calculations.
What are the downsides of a walk in shower? ›Cons of a Walk-In Shower
Taking hot showers in walk-in showers raises your bathroom's humidity and moisture levels, which leads to eventual mold growth. Homeowners should also note that water can splash on their bathroom's other parts as the walk-in shower is used, leading to a messy or slippery bathroom.
How big does a walk in shower need to be to not have a door? ›
How Big Should a Doorless Shower Be? A doorless shower layout requires a larger footprint than a standard tub or shower stall. Building codes may specify that a standard shower stall must be a minimum of 36 inches by 36 inches while the average doorless shower is about seven feet by four feet with many much larger.
What is the difference between a walk in shower and a roll in shower? ›A rollin shower is a shower with a floor leveled with the rest of the bathroom, very convenient for wheel chairs. A walk in shower is a normal shower that you walk to enter it .
What is the best size for a walk in shower? ›The average walk-in shower in the U.S. measures 60" x 30", though size options can vary widely, typically up to 60" x 42" for a rectangular shower and 42" x 42" for a square one. For smaller bathrooms, most experts recommend a shower enclosure no smaller than 36" x 36".
What is the best size for a shower? ›As for size, your shower should be at least three feet square and have a wide entry, so there's ample room to get in and move around. Designer Mary Jo Peterson, CKD, CBD and a universal design specialist in Brookfield, Conn., says 42 by 60 inches is even better, particularly for showers that have no door or curtain.
How do I keep water in my doorless shower? ›Install a Shower Splash Guard
Splash guards are small, triangular-shaped rubber fins that are placed along the corners where the shower wall meets the floor. They're typically glued in place or attached with self-adhesive strips and can stop water from leaking out the corners of the shower.