How Much Does Bathroom Design Cost in 2025?
Bathroom design services cost an average of $8,000


Bathroom design costs average $8,000, and projects fall between $3,000 and $12,000 on average.
Professional bathroom designers charge between $50 and $250 hourly, depending on their experience and your region.
Bathroom size and selected materials impact overall costs, with high-end projects reaching $25,000 or more.
Consider setting aside additional funds for unexpected project changes.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Bathroom design costs $8,000 on average when you hire a professional to help with your design, with projects averaging from $3,000 to $12,000 based on complexity and finish selections. Basic design consultations can start as low as $500, while comprehensive luxury bathroom designs for high-end spaces may reach $25,000. Understanding what drives these costs helps homeowners budget appropriately for their renovation projects.
Bathroom Design Cost Factors
Bathroom design pricing varies widely based on project requirements, bathroom type, and overall dimensions. Knowing these categories helps homeowners estimate potential costs more accurately.
Budget Range
Bathroom design and remodeling projects range between basic, entry-level costs and updates, where designers may suggest simple layout adjustments or fixture swaps. High-end design services include more extensive consultation and planning.
| Budget | Cost Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $500–$3,000 | Basic layouts, simple material recommendations, limited revisions |
| Mid | $3,000–$12,000 | Comprehensive plans, visualization tools, detailed material specifications |
| Premium | $12,000–$25,000+ | Bespoke solutions, specialty features, extensive planning |
Bathroom Type
The type of bathroom influences its design needs and therefore overall cost. For instance, powder rooms are small and have limited fixtures, so design services are more affordable. En-suites and luxury bathroom designs have more elements and space to consider.
| Type | Design Cost | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Powder room | $1,000–$3,000 | Compact fixtures, accent elements, limited storage needs |
| Guest bathroom | $2,000–$6,000 | Practical layouts, moderate storage, standard fixtures |
| Primary bathroom | $4,000–$12,000 | Multiple fixtures, specialized lighting, premium materials |
| Luxury bathroom | $10,000–$25,000+ | Comfort features, specialty systems, custom elements |
Size
Designers often charge by the square foot. Smaller bathroom designs therefore cost less, but your designer may consider space-maximizing customizations. Large spaces may include elements like soaker tubs, partitioned areas, custom cabinetry, and more.
| Size (Sq. Ft.) | Cost | Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Small (20–40) | $1,000–$3,000 | Space-maximizing solutions, efficient layouts |
| Medium (40–80) | $3,000–$7,000 | Dual fixtures, improved storage capacity |
| Large (80–150+) | $7,000–$20,000+ | Multiple zones, specialized amenities |
Materials and Finishes
The materials selected for your bathroom significantly affect both design complexity and overall project cost. Selecting budget-friendly alternatives that mimic higher-end looks can help maintain visual appeal while keeping costs manageable.
| Quality | Cost Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $2,000–$5,000 | Standard ceramics, basic hardware finishes |
| Mid | $5,000–$10,000 | Engineered surfaces, quality fixtures |
| Premium | $10,000–$25,000+ | Natural stone, designer hardware, specialty items |
Labor and Location
Geographic location plays a role in design fees. Professionals in expensive urban centers charge more than those in smaller communities. Additionally, a designer's credentials, reputation, and demand influence where their rates fall within the $50 to $250 hourly range.
Scope
Project complexity directly impacts design costs. A straightforward refresh requires fewer hours than a complete reconfiguration with structural changes. Accelerated timelines or specialized requirements may also increase the professional time needed, affecting the final price.
Cost of Common Project Add-Ons
Factor in the potential for extra costs in your bathroom design budget.
Permits And Codes
Bathroom projects often require permit research and code compliance verification, which may cost $100 to $500 depending on your location and project complexity. Obtaining permits and complying with codes are important for both safety and future home sales.
Demolition and Disposal
Removing existing bathroom elements creates debris that requires proper disposal. These costs should be factored into early project estimates to avoid budget surprises.
Last-Minute Changes
Modifications during construction can significantly increase costs. Industry professionals suggest maintaining additional funds beyond the initial budget to accommodate unexpected developments or desired changes.
Does a New Bathroom Design Improve the Value of Your Home?
Thoughtfully designed bathrooms can enhance both daily living experience and potential resale value. Different features offer varying levels of return when considering future home sales. Classic design elements offer wide market appeal and strong return on investment, and basic comfort and lighting improvements improve comfort and ambience, often providing strong returns for relatively low investments. Luxury or specialized features may appeal more or less to potential buyers depending on your local market.
DIY Bathroom Design vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY bathroom design can save on labor, but plan to pay more for software and materials. Designing on your own may also take significantly longer than it would if you relied on a professional, especially if you encounter planning challenges. Without the right experience, DIY projects are also more likely to result in higher costs in case of mistakes.
Professional designers bring technical knowledge about space planning, building codes, and material applications that most homeowners lack. Designers coordinate with contractors, suppliers, and specialty tradespeople, potentially reducing the timeline and minimizing disruption during the renovation process. They can also sometimes provide access to trade discounts or exclusive products. While hiring local design services adds to your initial project investment, professional guidance may help avoid expensive errors or inefficient layouts that could cost more to correct later.
Budgeting for Bathroom Design Costs
Effective planning can help keep your bathroom design costs in check. Try these strategies:
Determine your project scope: Before consulting designers, assess your space dimensions, document existing plumbing locations, and identify specific functional improvements you need. This preparation helps designers provide more accurate estimates.
Evaluate must-haves vs. nice-to-haves: Prioritize essential elements like proper ventilation, water management, and adequate storage before allocating funds to aesthetic upgrades or luxury features.
Research financing options: Consider various payment approaches for your bathroom project, including renovation-specific loans, home improvement credit lines, or implementing changes in phases to distribute costs over time.
Bundle services: Inquire with your bathroom designer or contractor about bundling services, such as more extensive interior design or remodels, for discounted rates.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.