How Much Does Shower Installation Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

The cost to install a shower ranges from $390 on the low end all the way up to $16,931 for a large, high-end shower. However, most homeowners spend around $8,201 on a standard shower installation. A new shower can transform your bathroom into a functional and beautiful space. Whether you want to update an outdated shower, convert a tub into a shower, or install a luxurious steam shower, understanding the costs involved is essential for effective budgeting.

Shower Installation Cost Factors

The total cost of shower installation will vary depending on factors such as the size, design, and materials required.

Size

The size of your shower impacts the installation cost. On average, showers cost $240 per square foot, but this varies with materials and shower type. Standard walk-in showers are 32 by 32 inches, and tub-shower combos are 30 by 60 inches. If you need an ADA-compliant shower, it must be at least 36 inches square.

Design

Showers are available in many different designs, each varying in price. While most standard walk-in showers are square or rectangular, there are options in almost any shape or size. Choosing between a tiled or prefabricated shower will also affect the price. Prefabricated showers can be as low as $1,000, while a tiled walk-in shower can cost up to $17,500. The more customized your shower is, the higher the price will be.

Materials

The materials used in your shower will significantly affect the price. Low-end options such as porcelain tile range from $2 to $30 per square foot, while high-end materials such as cultured marble costs up to $65 per square foot. Prefabricated inserts are also available in fiberglass, acrylic, or plastic, costing between $400 and $2,000.

Additional Shower Installation Cost Factors

When installing a new shower, it’s important to consider additional costs, such as labor, demolition and removal, and permits.

Labor

Hiring a local shower installer costs about $60 per hour, depending on your location and the project's complexity. Tiling a shower alone ranges from $400 to $1,000. If your bathroom already has the necessary hookups, the installation will cost less since contractors have less prep work. But if they need to add fixtures or move pipes, labor can cost up to $1,600. You might also need to hire a local plumber, who charges between $45 and $200 per hour.

Demolition and Removal

When replacing an existing shower, contractors need to remove the old unit and debris. Removal costs range from $50 to $100, with cleanup averaging $250. If you require wall demolition or pipe replacement, costs will increase.

Permits

Depending on your project's scope, you might need a building permit to install a new shower. The average permit costs $250 but varies by state and city.

Shower Installation Costs by Type

When choosing a new shower, you can select from various types. Options like a standard walk-in shower are more budget-friendly, while deluxe steam showers or those with special features will be on the high end.

Walk-In Shower

A walk-in shower costs between $1,200 and $8,000, depending on size and materials. While the standard size is 32 by 32 inches, you can customize it to almost any dimensions. Adding high-end tile or special features will increase the price.

Tub-to-Shower Conversion

You can transform your bathtub into a walk-in shower for between $1,200 and $8,000. The plumbing fixtures and hookups are often already installed, reducing labor costs and making this a more budget-friendly way to install a shower.

Tub-Shower Combo

If you want to install a tub-shower combo, you can expect to pay $1,500 to $8,500. The price to replace a tub with a shower will be higher if you add special features, such as jets or a rainfall showerhead, while a prefabricated option keeps costs down.

Accessibility Showers

Installing an accessibility shower costs from $1,800 to $8,600. These showers provide added support for those with disabilities or the elderly, and due to their added features, they often cost close to $600 more than other showers.

Steam Shower

The cost to install a steam shower ranges between $2,800 and $7,100. They produce warm steam to provide a spa-like feeling in your home.

Shower Installation Costs by Part

The parts used in shower installation will significantly affect the price. You can keep costs down by choosing a standard, prefabricated unit with everything you need. However, if you want to customize your shower, adding special features and high-end materials will increase costs.

Shower Tiles

Shower tiles cost from $1,800 to $6,900, depending on the material and amount required. Ceramic options cost less than $1 per square foot, while high-end materials such as natural stone cost $15 per square foot.

Shower Pan

A shower pan is a waterproof barrier placed under the shower's tiled floor to catch water. On average, shower pans cost $900 to $2,000 and are available in various materials. If you’re replacing an old shower, you may be able to reuse the pan to cut costs.

Bathtub and Shower Liner

The average cost to install a shower and tub liner is $6,400. Liners attach to an old shower or tub to give it a new look and can reduce labor costs as they take contractors less time to install.

Custom Jets

Jets are a special feature that gives your shower a spa-like feel. You can choose from a prefabricated jetted shower, which adds an average of $900 to the total price, or a custom jetted shower, which can add $1,000 or more.

Custom Drainage

If you want to add a custom drainage hole to your shower, you can expect to pay an additional $750 to $1,300 in labor and materials. Adding a new drain requires custom plumbing, increasing labor costs.

Showerhead

Showerheads cost between $75 and $600, depending on the style you choose. Standard high-pressure heads are more affordable, while full-body showerheads are on the higher end.

Shower Replacement vs. Repair

Deciding whether to repair or replace your shower depends on your situation. Repairing your shower is less complex and can often be completed within a few hours to a couple of days. It's more cost-effective, ranging from $100 for minor fixes to $1,000 for full resurfacing. If you want to refresh the look of your current shower and keep costs down, repairing is often the best choice.

Replacing your shower is more complex, involving demolition and installation of a new unit. Removing your old shower might reveal issues like mold or plumbing problems, increasing costs. The total price depends on the materials and labor required. If you have a larger budget and want a brand-new look, replacement is the way to go. To decide what's best for you, consult a local professional who can assess your situation and provide expert advice tailored to your needs and budget.

Does Shower Installation Increase Home Value?

Installing a new shower can boost your home's value, especially if your bathroom is dated. Updating fixtures or refreshing your shower adds appeal for buyers. Many homeowners remove bathtubs and install walk-in showers, offering a return of about 55%. But keep in mind that removing the only bathtub in your home might deter potential buyers.

Budgeting for a Shower Installation

Installing a new shower doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some ways to save money without compromising on quality:

• Choose cost-effective materials: Opt for durable yet affordable materials like acrylic or fiberglass for your shower walls and base.

• Select a prefabricated unit: Prefabricated showers are less expensive and quicker to install than custom-built options.

• Limit custom features: Keep add-ons like custom jets, steam features, and high-end fittings to a minimum.

• Retain existing plumbing: Design your new shower around the existing plumbing layout to avoid the costs of moving pipes.

• Do some work yourself: If possible, handle tasks like demolition or painting to save on labor costs.

• Get multiple quotes: Compare estimates from several licensed contractors to find the best price for your project.

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. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project 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.