Bathroom Remodel Cost Breakdown: What to Expect in 2026
Bathroom remodels are one of the most searched home improvement topics — and one of the most misunderstood when it comes to cost. Here's an honest breakdown based on real project ranges in the Edwardsville, IL area.
Three Tiers of Bathroom Remodels
New vanity, updated fixtures, fresh paint, new mirror and lighting. No tile work or layout changes. This is the fastest way to modernize a dated bathroom.
New tile (floor and shower), vanity with countertop, tub or shower replacement, fixtures, and lighting. This is the most common scope for homeowners who want a real transformation.
Everything down to the studs. New plumbing layout, electrical, waterproofing, tile, fixtures, vanity, lighting, ventilation, and finish work. This is for bathrooms that need a complete overhaul.
Where the Money Actually Goes
- Labor (40–50%) — Demolition, plumbing, electrical, tile setting, drywall, painting, and finish work
- Tile and materials (20–30%) — Floor tile, wall tile, shower tile, backer board, thinset, grout, and waterproofing membrane
- Fixtures and vanity (15–25%) — Vanity, countertop, faucet, showerhead, toilet, lighting, mirror
- Hidden costs (5–15%) — Mold behind walls, rotted subfloor, outdated plumbing that needs updating, permit fees
The Hidden Costs Most People Miss
Once you open up walls and floors, you often find surprises — mold, water damage, outdated wiring, or plumbing that doesn't meet current code. Budget 10–15% above your target for contingencies. A good contractor will flag these issues early and give you options before proceeding.
How to Save Without Cutting Corners
- Keep the existing layout — moving plumbing is expensive
- Choose porcelain tile over natural stone (looks great, costs less)
- Skip the heated floors unless it's a must-have
- Buy fixtures in mid-range brands (Moen, Delta) instead of luxury
- Don't skip waterproofing — it prevents far more expensive problems later
Planning a bathroom remodel? McMurray Enterprise LLC provides detailed, line-item estimates so you know exactly where your money goes. No surprises.
Get a Bathroom Estimate