How much does it cost to replace a bathtub?Avg. range: $310-$2,420
By Thumbtack Staff•Last updated Jul 8, 2026
Last updated Jul 8, 2026
The national average cost to replace a bathtub ranges from around $310-$2,429, and most people pay around $735, according to Thumbtack data. Bathtub replacement costs can vary widely depending on the type of tub you select, the cost of plumbing (if you need to add new supply drains and lines), the cost of any construction and finish work necessary, and the cost of labor in your region.
Bathtub replacement cost
| National average cost range | $310-$2,429 |
|---|---|
| Low-end cost | $127 |
| High-end cost | 9,926 |
Replace an old, damaged or downright destroyed bathtub with the help of a bathtub installation specialist. Remove an old tub and replace it with a contemporary freestanding tub, a walk-in bathtub, a traditional bathtub, a combination shower/tub, a whirlpool tub or a soaking tub. If you’re ready to replace your broken or outdated bathtub, here are the cost factors to consider.
Type of tub
The tub you choose will have a direct impact on your replacement costs. Walk-in tubs (with installation) can cost 10 times as much as a standard tub with installation due to their unique electrical and plumbing needs as well as the added cost of the tub itself.
Freestanding tubs, which are trending right now, cost more than the standard soaking alcove tub that’s built into the wall. Freestanding tubs start around $650, while basic bathtubs can be found starting at $150. As one example of a high-end bathtub, Michael Big of Big Brothers Development in Skokie, Illinois, recently installed a freestanding Candide cast iron bathtub that cost approximately $11,000. The more luxurious the brand and the higher-end the materials, the higher your tub cost will be.
Installation costs
The cost of installation is another major factor in bathtub replacement. The regional cost of labor and the skilled work required for the job will contribute to the cost.
The customer had a double handle manifold in place and preferred a single handle manifold, so the company replaced it. The company needed to run all new plumbing and drains for new installation in a basement, which resulted in higher labor costs.
Walk-in tub and installation
Replacing your old tub with a walk-in bathtub is one of the pricier upgrades available. Walk-in tubs replace standard tubs to provide therapeutic soaking while also being safely accessible for those with limited mobility, thus facilitating in-home aging. The walk-in tub is a higher-priced fixture than a standard bathtub. The plumbing work is also more costly and the installation requires construction, electrical work and finish efforts.
Refinish your bathtub
If you decide to keep your existing bathtub but want it to look brand-new, an economical option is having your bathtub refinished. Your tub pro secures your bathroom, then thoroughly cleans the tub of any top layers. The surface is then smoothed with a special putty, then the pro etches the tub to fully prepare the surface for bonding with the primer. The specialty primer is applied, then an acrylic urethane is sprayed on. This final coat creates the pristine look of porcelain and provides a long-lasting, waterproof finish.
How it works.
Search.
Browse profiles, see prices and use filters to find pros who match your project.
Chat.
Contact the pros you like to discuss project details.
Hire.
Check pro availability and book appointments right in the app.
Find local pros for your project
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll show you pros right for the job, with prices.
How do we know these prices?
5m
Customers this year
300k+
Pros this year
20k
Projects a day