The average cost to install a toilet is $374
New toilet installation costs between $120 and $826, with the average cost being $374.
Factors like location, materials, labor, and brand choice can impact total expenses.
Labor rates range from $180 to $490 per hour, depending on the plumber’s experience and location.
Professional installation by an experienced plumber helps prevent future plumbing issues and costly repairs.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Thinking about swapping out your old toilet for something new? Homeowners spend an average of $374 on installation, with most totals falling between $224 and $533. Some projects run as low as $120 or as high as $826. Where you live, the model you pick, and any plumbing tweaks drive that range. Set a realistic budget and hire a licensed plumbing professional to ensure everything is code-compliant and leak-free.
The average cost to install a new toilet ranges from $224 to $533 or more, depending on factors such as labor rates, plumbing repairs, the type of toilet chosen, and any additional materials required.
Budget $373 for a licensed plumber or bathroom remodeler to handle the swap from start to finish. Rates can vary depending on their experience and specialization. Plumbers charge a fixed fee based on your project or an hourly rate, ranging from $180 to $490, depending on their level of expertise. They’ll handle tasks like removing your old toilet, installing the new one, adjusting plumbing connections, and ensuring everything works properly.
If you’re installing a toilet in a new location, you’ll first need rough-in plumbing—fresh water and waste lines that set the stage for the fixture. Copper is the most expensive option, while PEX and CPVC are more affordable. Keep in mind that rough-in plumbing may also require permits, which can add to your expenses.
If you're replacing an existing toilet or remodeling your bathroom, your plumber may need to adjust drain pipes, vent lines, and water pipes. Repairing a toilet drain pipe costs $670, while adding a new drain pipe incurs costs between $0.75 and $30 per linear foot, excluding labor. Relocating a toilet to a new location costs $3,000 on average.
Ground floor installations cost the least. If you're installing a toilet on an upper level or in a hard-to-reach area, expect the total costs to be higher.
If you’re swapping an existing toilet, pros charge $50 to $200 to pull and haul away the old unit, disconnecting supply lines and wax seals in the process. Your plumber will detach the plumbing connections and include disposal in their service. Tough wax seals or extra cleanup can increase the removal fee.
Brand name matters when it comes to toilet prices. A no-frills model might cost $400, while a premium label with the same flush technology can exceed $1,200.
Most new toilets ship with basic components, including flush and fill valves, mounting bolts, and gaskets. Plumbers often include additional fittings, hardware, and other materials in their total project estimate as part of a fixed fee structure. They can access these parts at wholesale prices, which can be 20% to 50% more affordable and sometimes better quality than retail.
Additional materials may include:
Closet bolts and covers
Toilet flapper
Toilet tank level
Wax bowl ring
Closet flange extension ring
While these factors don’t apply to every installation, consider the potential add-on expenses below when budgeting for toilet installation.
Factor in extra costs if the surrounding floor or drywall needs to be removed and rebuilt. Depending on the materials, replacing flooring costs $8 to $24 per square foot, and replacing a damaged subfloor adds more per square foot.
Drywall repair costs $50 to $100 per square foot, plus the cost of repainting the wall. These costs are common for wall-mounted toilets or for walls with water damage.
A routine swap can reveal hidden leaks or outdated parts that your plumber must correct before installing the new toilet. Consider padding your budget for plumbing upgrades or toilet repair costs.
Repair Type | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Backflow preventer | $20–$150 |
Wax ring replacement | $50–$200 |
Toilet handle repair | $50–$80 |
Valve replacement | $50–$150 |
Pipe replacement | $70–$700 |
A middle-of-the-night leak or holiday clog often requires an emergency plumber, and rush labor incurs a premium on the usual service fee. Whether it’s after hours, on a weekend, or a holiday, or you need a priority visit, it can cost significantly more than a standard service call.
The style and flush technology you choose drive the price of the toilet itself. Toilets are broadly categorized into three types: two-piece, one-piece, or wall-mounted. Within each style, toilets can vary widely in flushing mechanisms, design, and other features.
Toilet Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
One-piece | $800 |
Two-piece | $375 |
Wall-mounted | $700 |
High-level | $700 |
Dual flush | $500 |
Double cyclone | $400 |
Upflush | $1,000 |
Pressure-assisted | $600 |
If you’re wondering whether to patch the problem or start fresh, weigh the repair bill, the fixture’s age, and how often issues pop up. A good rule of thumb is that if repair costs exceed 50% of the price of a new toilet, it’s better to replace it. If your toilet is more than 10 to 15 years old or you’re experiencing frequent repair issues, investing in a new toilet can offer improved efficiency, enhanced features, and long-term cost savings.
If your toilet is still in good condition, repair may be a cost-effective alternative to replacement. If you’re only dealing with minor leaks or clogs, opting for repairs will help keep your expenses low.
If you’re looking to trim the final bill, try these money-smart tactics:
Get quotes from multiple contractors to find the best price.
Select a standard two-piece toilet without any additional features.
Schedule installation during off-peak seasons when plumbers may offer lower rates.
Combine multiple plumbing projects to receive a bulk discount.
Check for local rebates or incentives for installing water-efficient toilets.
DIYing your toilet swap can save on labor fees, but a misaligned wax ring can lead to leaks, water damage, and a more extensive repair bill later. Hiring a professional plumber ensures your toilet is installed correctly and complies with local codes. Professionals have the expertise to handle unexpected issues, such as plumbing adjustments or underlying problems. While the average labor cost for professional toilet installation is $373, it provides peace of mind and can prevent future expenses.
Consider your skill level, available tools, and willingness to handle potential challenges before undertaking a DIY project. In many cases, hiring a certified plumber near you can save time and prevent costly mistakes.
Contact a local plumber now to ensure a professional and hassle-free installation.
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.
Most plumbers need two to four hours for a straightforward install. They shut off the water, removed the old toilet, installed a new wax ring, secured the new unit, and reconnected the supply. As long as the flange and supply lines are in good shape, they can test-flush and clean up within that window.
Most toilets are expected to serve reliably for about 25 years. Premium models can surpass that mark, but wear on seals, flush valves, and glazing means they lose efficiency over time. Regular cleaning and quick repairs can extend the lifespan, while planning a replacement around the 25-year mark keeps water bills low and performance high.
Toilet repair bills swing widely. Quick fixes, such as a new flapper or wax ring, stay on the low end, while pipe swaps or flange rebuilds push costs higher, especially if you call after hours. Emergency labor rates stack on top of parts, so schedule non-urgent fixes during regular business hours whenever possible.
Start with size and rough-in: the toilet must fit your drain location and floor space. Next, balance the budget with features—standard two-piece models are affordable workhorses, while dual-flush or pressure-assisted options save water and offer stronger performance. Finally, match bowl shape, seat height, and finish to your comfort and décor. Weighing those three areas helps you select a fixture that not only looks good but also works well.