Planning a bathroom remodel but wondering what real homeowners have actually spent? Whether you’re looking for a spa-like retreat, a stylish mid-range update or a practical refresh, understanding real costs will help you plan wisely.

In this guide we’re sharing three real-life bathroom remodels—each with a different budget, design vision and remodeling journey.

By reading these homeowner stories you’ll get a real-world look at bathroom remodeling costs from high-end luxury to budget-friendly updates—so you can set realistic expectations and plan with confidence.

What Determines the Cost of a Bathroom Remodel?

Before we get into these homeowner stories, let’s talk about what actually drives the cost of a bathroom remodel. Here are the primary factors:

• Material Selections: Marble tile or ceramic? Custom vanity or prefab? Your choices matter.
• Layout Changes: Keeping plumbing in place is more affordable than moving a toilet or shower.
• Labor Costs: Skilled trades—like tile setters and plumbers—account for a large portion of the budget.
• Hidden Costs: Water damage, outdated plumbing and permitting fees can add unexpected expenses.

Each of these factors plays a role in how much you’ll pay for your remodel. If you’re wondering what to expect for your budget check out our full guide:
How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in NH?

Three Real Bathroom Remodels & Their Costs

(Names changed to protect our client’s identities)

Jeff & Greg’s Luxurious Farmhouse Bathroom Remodel

Jeff and Greg own a beautiful 200-year-old farmhouse. As hardworking business owners, they spent years building their businesses. Meanwhile, their bathroom fell into disrepair. Finally, they decided to reward themselves with a bathroom remodel and create a space to relax and enjoy the life they built for themselves.

Jeff and Greg spared no expense! They went for a luxurious air tub under a gorgeous marble slab with matching marble tile surround above the tub and a rainfall shower. The floor was also marble and heated. A wall of glass tile accented the vanity with a medicine cabinet featuring built-in lights and a defogging heater. High-end faucets completed the luxurious look.

Jeff and Greg invested around $150,000 in this bathroom remodel and it turned out amazing! The result? A beautiful space to unwind and enjoy the fruits of their labor!

Mike & Amy’s Functional Family Bathroom Remodel

Mike and Amy love their old home, but their bathroom was a different story. Remodeled in the 90s with poor product choices and no ventilation, it had become moldy and outdated. They needed a bathroom remodel that was safe, clean, and durable but would also leave them with money for their kids’ college funds.

The remodel involved gutting the room, venting the fan, and installing new drywall. The old bathtub was replaced with a tiled shower stall and custom shower glass. They chose a heated porcelain tile floor for added comfort. Amy selected a solid wood vanity with a quartz vanity top and undermount sink. Quality-grade faucets were chosen for durability and style at a reasonable price.

Mike and Amy’s bathroom remodel cost $67,000. Now they have a beautiful, safe, and durable space without dipping into their kids’ college funds.

Amanda’s Practical Bathroom Remodel for Aging Parents

Amanda just inherited her parents’ home, a large house full of sentimental value, but in need of updates. With a small kitchen, two outdated bathrooms, and some necessary exterior repairs, she needed to prioritize her projects. Her goal was to create a safe, functional bathroom for her aging parents while staying within a budget.

Amanda’s remodel involved removing the tiny shower stall and installing a large fiberglass shower with grab bars. A comfortable toilet and tile flooring from a big box store provided both safety and style. The builder-grade vanity and top (also from the big box store) kept costs down. She chose the quality-grade faucets recommended by her plumber for the shower and vanity.

For around $40,000, Amanda was able to create a practical, safe bathroom for her parents and still have money left over to tackle other projects!

Hidden Costs That Can Catch Homeowners Off Guard

Many homeowners start their remodel with a budget in mind, only to find unexpected expenses along the way. Here are the most common hidden costs to prepare for:

• Structural Repairs: Water damage, mold and uneven subfloors can add thousands to the budget.
• Permits & Inspections: Varies by town from $500 to $3,000.
• Material Shipping & Delays: Custom vanities or specialty tile can have long lead times and extra freight charges.
• Change Orders: Mid-project design changes can increase both cost and timeline.
• Temporary Living Costs: If your only full bathroom is under construction you may need to plan for temporary accommodations.

Knowing these potential expenses up front can help you budget wisely and reduce stress.

For a deeper dive into hidden remodeling costs read: Hidden Costs in Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels: What Homeowners Need to Know

Labor vs. Materials: Where Does Your Money Go?

A common question homeowners ask contractors is: What percentage of my budget goes to materials vs. labor?

In a bathroom remodel, labor typically accounts for 70-80% of the total cost, while materials make up the other 20-30%. This is because:

• Bathrooms require plumbing, electrical, waterproofing, tiling, and many other specialized trades.
• Labor-intensive projects, custom tile work, moving plumbing, and wiring upgrades drive up costs.
• Investing in experienced professionals ensures quality workmanship and reduces the risk of costly mistakes.

Understanding how labor and material costs compare will help you make informed decisions for your remodel. Learn more in: How Much of My Remodeling Costs are Labor vs Materials?

How to Budget for Your Bathroom Remodel

Every homeowner has a different vision for their remodel, as Jeff & Greg, Mike & Amy, and Amanda have shown us. But no matter your budget, smart planning is key to a successful remodel.

Budgeting Tips:

Define Your Priorities: Consider your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.
Set a Real Budget: Align your budget with the type of remodel you want.
Get a Detailed Estimate: An all-inclusive fixed-cost quote will prevent surprises.
Plan for Hidden Costs: Always have a contingency fund for unexpected repairs.
Explore Financing Options: Home equity loans or financing through your contractor can open up new possibilities.

For a step-by-step guide to budgeting, be sure to read: How Do I Budget for a Bathroom Remodel?

What Does Your Dream Bathroom Remodel Look Like?

Which of these homeowner stories resonates the most with you?

• Are you dreaming of a magazine-worthy, luxury bathroom like Jeff & Greg’s with a $150,000+ investment?
• Do you need a quality-grade bathroom like Mike and Amy’s, balancing quality and cost within a $55,000 to $70,000 range?
• Is a functional, budget-friendly space like Amanda’s the right move, within a $40,000 to $50,000 budget?

No matter your budget, a well-planned remodel can transform your bathroom into a beautiful space to treat yourself or take care of your loved ones!

How to Get Started: Let’s Talk!

Your dream bathroom is within reach and we can help!

Whether you want a spa-like retreat, a family-friendly update, or a budget-friendly refresh we can help you plan smart and invest with confidence.

Schedule a consultation today and let’s create the bathroom of your dreams!