At a Glance: Chicago Bathroom Remodel Costs in 2026
Planning a bathroom renovation is exciting until you start researching costs and find prices ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 with no clear explanation of why. This guide breaks down real bathroom remodel costs for Chicago homeowners in 2026, based on the types of projects completed in condos, townhomes, and single-family homes across the city and suburbs.
Quick Cost Summary
Powder Room and Half Bath Updates: $12,000 - $20,000 (2-3 weeks)
Mid-Range Full Bathroom Remodel: $20,000 - $32,000+ (3-4 weeks)
Luxury Primary Bathroom Renovation: $32,000 - $55,000+ (4-5 weeks)
The biggest factors affecting your final price include the size of your bathroom, the materials you select (tile, countertops, fixtures), the scope of work (cosmetic refresh vs. complete gut renovation), whether plumbing or electrical needs to be moved, and building-specific requirements like condo HOA approvals and waterproofing standards.
Why Chicago Bathroom Remodels Cost What They Do
Chicago presents specific challenges that affect pricing. Older buildings throughout Lincoln Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, and similar neighborhoods often have outdated plumbing and electrical systems that need updating to meet current codes. Condo buildings require waterproofing that meets or exceeds building standards to protect units below. HOA approval processes add coordination time. Tight layouts in vintage buildings and high-rise condos demand creative solutions. And Chicago winters mean contractors face scheduling constraints that can affect availability and pricing during peak seasons.
These factors explain why bathroom remodel costs in Chicago often run higher than national averages published in home improvement magazines. Those averages typically reflect simple suburban builds with easy access, standard layouts, and no building requirements to navigate.
Powder Room and Half Bath Updates: $12,000 - $20,000
These projects update small bathrooms or powder rooms with a new vanity, toilet, tile flooring, lighting, and fixtures while keeping the existing layout intact.
What is typically included: New vanity with countertop and sink, new toilet, tile flooring installation, updated lighting fixtures, fresh paint, new faucet and hardware, and basic plumbing connections without moving fixtures.
Best for: Guest bathrooms in condos and townhomes, powder rooms that function well but look dated, and homeowners who want a refresh without major construction.
Timeline: 2-3 weeks from start to finish.
What affects pricing in this range: The vanity you select makes the biggest difference. A prefabricated vanity from a home improvement store costs significantly less than a custom floating vanity with quartz top. Tile selection also matters. Basic ceramic tile runs much cheaper than natural stone or large-format porcelain that requires precise installation.
Mid-Range Full Bathroom Remodel: $20,000 - $32,000+
This is the most popular choice for Chicago homeowners renovating their primary or secondary bathrooms. These projects involve more extensive work, often including layout modifications, custom tile work, and upgraded fixtures.
What is typically included: Complete demolition of existing bathroom, new tile floors and walls (often floor-to-ceiling in shower area), custom shower with glass enclosure or tub/shower combination, new vanity with countertop (often quartz or marble), all new plumbing fixtures, updated electrical and lighting, ventilation improvements, proper waterproofing (especially important for condos), and all permits and inspections.
Best for: Homeowners who want to significantly improve their bathroom's function and appearance, those dealing with outdated layouts, and anyone planning to stay in their home for several years.
Timeline: 3-4 weeks for most projects.
What pushes costs toward the higher end: Moving plumbing adds significant cost because it requires opening walls and potentially floors. Larger bathrooms obviously require more materials. Heated flooring, while not extremely expensive for the system itself, adds labor. Custom tile patterns like herringbone or intricate mosaics take more time to install than simple layouts.
Luxury Primary Bathroom Renovation: $32,000 - $55,000+
High-end bathroom renovations transform your space into a spa-like retreat with premium materials and custom features throughout.
What is typically included: Complete gut renovation, floor-to-ceiling custom tile installations, premium natural stone (marble, quartzite, travertine), frameless glass shower enclosures, freestanding soaking tub, heated flooring systems, designer fixtures from brands like Kohler, Brizo, or Waterworks, custom vanity with sophisticated storage, integrated lighting design, body sprays, rain heads, and luxury shower systems, and custom shower niches and built-in storage.
Best for: Primary bathrooms where homeowners want every detail elevated, those who value luxury materials and fixtures, and properties where high-end finishes match the overall home quality.
Timeline: 4-5 weeks or more depending on complexity and material lead times.
What drives costs above $55,000: Extremely large bathrooms, rare or imported stone that requires specialized installation, moving walls or significant structural work, custom cabinetry, high-end smart home integration, and radiant heating extending beyond the floor to walls or towel warmers.
What is Included in a Professional Bathroom Remodel
Understanding what should be included helps you compare quotes accurately. A comprehensive bathroom remodel in Chicago should cover everything from design through installation.
Design and Planning: Initial consultation, measurements, design concepts, material selection guidance, and detailed project planning.
Permits and Coordination: All necessary permits for plumbing and electrical work, condo HOA submissions if applicable, building coordination for water shutoffs, and ensuring work meets Chicago building codes.
Demolition and Prep: Careful removal of existing fixtures and finishes, protection of your home from dust and debris, disposal of all removed materials, and addressing any issues discovered during demo.
Construction: Proper waterproofing systems, all plumbing rough-in and finish work, electrical updates including lighting and ventilation, tile installation on floors and walls, vanity and countertop installation, fixture installation, and paint and trim work.
Final Details: Hardware installation, caulking and sealing, thorough cleaning, and a detailed walkthrough to ensure everything meets your expectations.
Warranty: Reputable contractors provide workmanship guarantees. Look for at least one year of coverage on labor.
Bathroom Remodel Costs by Chicago Neighborhood
While the project type determines most of your cost, where you live in Chicago can affect pricing due to building characteristics and logistics.
High-Rise Condos (River North, Gold Coast, South Loop, Streeterville): Expect costs toward the higher end of ranges. Strict building requirements, elevator reservations, work hour restrictions, and waterproofing standards all add complexity. The upside is that experienced condo contractors know how to navigate these requirements efficiently.
Vintage Buildings (Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square): Older buildings often reveal surprises once demolition begins. Outdated plumbing, original electrical, and creative past renovations can add scope. Budget a 10-15% contingency for vintage homes.
Townhomes and Single-Family Homes: Generally the most straightforward projects with fewer building restrictions. However, older single-family homes in neighborhoods like Bridgeport, Pilsen, or Andersonville may have the same vintage building considerations.
Suburban Projects (Oak Park, Evanston, Hinsdale, Naperville): Often more straightforward from a logistics standpoint, but material costs remain similar. Larger suburban homes may have larger bathrooms, which increases material costs.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
Beyond the main renovation costs, several factors can affect your final investment.
Permit fees in Chicago typically run $150-$500 depending on the scope of work. Your contractor should include this in their quote, but ask to confirm.
Material upgrades are the most common source of budget increases. That upgraded tile or fixture you fall in love with during selection can add thousands. Set your material allowances carefully upfront.
Unexpected conditions behind walls can add cost. Old plumbing that needs updating, water damage, mold, or electrical that does not meet code are all possibilities, especially in older homes.
Temporary accommodations are not a renovation cost per se, but if you only have one bathroom, consider how you will manage during the 2-5 week project.
HOA requirements in some condo buildings go beyond standard waterproofing. Some require specific insurance certificates, engineering reviews, or other documentation that may have associated costs.
How to Get Accurate Bathroom Remodel Quotes
Getting quotes that allow apples-to-apples comparison requires some preparation.
Know your scope before meeting contractors. Have a general sense of what you want: Are you keeping the layout or changing it? What level of finishes are you considering? Do you have inspiration photos?
Get at least three detailed estimates. A quality estimate breaks down labor, materials, permits, and timeline. Be wary of vague one-page quotes that do not explain what is included.
Understand payment structures. Reasonable payment schedules typically involve 25-30% at signing, with progress payments tied to milestones. Be cautious of contractors requesting 50% or more upfront.
Ask what is NOT included. Material selections beyond allowances, changes after work begins, and unexpected conditions should all be addressed in your contract.
Verify credentials. Any contractor working in Chicago needs a City of Chicago business license. For condo work, ask if they have completed projects in similar buildings and can provide references.
When Is the Best Time to Remodel Your Chicago Bathroom?
Timing affects both availability and sometimes pricing.
January through March is often the best time to schedule. Contractor availability is typically higher, and you can lock in your preferred timeline before the busy spring and summer season.
April through June is peak season in Chicago. Contractors fill their schedules quickly. If you want a spring or early summer project, start the planning process in January or February.
July through September remains busy but starts to open up toward fall.
October through December can offer good availability, though holiday schedules may affect timelines. Starting a project in early fall often means completion before the holidays.
For 2026, if you are reading this in February and want a spring renovation, now is the time to start getting estimates and booking your project.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Bathroom Remodel Costs
How long does a bathroom remodel take in Chicago?
Most bathroom renovations take 2-4 weeks from demolition to final walkthrough. Larger luxury projects may take 4-5 weeks or more. Condo projects sometimes take slightly longer due to building coordination requirements like scheduled water shutoffs.
Can I remodel a bathroom for under $10,000 in Chicago?
Realistically, a complete bathroom remodel in Chicago will cost $12,000 or more due to labor costs and building requirements. Under $10,000 typically only covers cosmetic updates like paint, hardware, and minor fixture swaps without touching tile, plumbing, or electrical.
Do I need permits for a bathroom remodel in Chicago?
Yes, any work involving plumbing or electrical requires permits in Chicago. A reputable contractor handles all permit applications as part of the project. Unpermitted work can create problems when you sell your home.
How much should I budget for a condo bathroom remodel?
Condo bathroom remodels in Chicago typically run at the mid-to-higher end of the ranges listed above due to building requirements, waterproofing standards, and coordination logistics. Budget $20,000-$35,000 for a full condo bathroom renovation with quality finishes.
What is the return on investment for a bathroom remodel?
Bathroom remodels typically recoup 60-70% of their cost at resale according to national data. However, the real value often comes from enjoying a functional, beautiful bathroom for years before you sell. For Chicago condos and townhomes, updated bathrooms can also help your property stand out in a competitive market.
Should I remodel my bathroom before selling my home?
It depends on the current condition. A dated but functional bathroom usually does not require a full remodel before selling. However, bathrooms with obvious problems (poor tile, old fixtures, visible wear) can turn off buyers. A mid-range refresh often makes sense; luxury renovations rarely recoup their full cost at sale.
Ready to Discuss Your Chicago Bathroom Remodel?
Wood Contracting specializes in bathroom remodeling throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. We have completed over 500 renovations in everything from South Loop high-rises to Lincoln Park greystones, and we understand what it takes to deliver quality results in Chicago's unique building environment.
Every project includes a detailed estimate with transparent pricing, all permit coordination, proper waterproofing, and a one-year workmanship guarantee.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your bathroom renovation project and receive a detailed estimate tailored to your specific space and goals.
