How Much Does a Tub-to-Shower Conversion Cost? A Look at Industry Averages

You know you want to convert your tub to a walk in shower, but you have no idea how much that project will cost you. You’ve found some resources saying that you can complete this project for as little as $3,000, with others quoting as high as $25,000 and above. What do those numbers actually mean, and how can you build a budget around such a huge range?

At ZINTEX Remodeling Group, we’ve worked with homeowners across 12 states and counting to complete thousands tub-to-shower conversions. We have the industry expertise and hands-on experience to tell you not only what those different price ranges are going to get you, but how to make sure that your budget really aligns with your needs. Let’s dive into the breakdown of tub to shower conversion costs and budget-building tips.

Table of Contents

• The Cost of Pre-Fab Tub to Shower Kits
• The Cost of Mid-Range Tub to Shower Remodels
• The Cost of Deluxe Tub to Shower Conversions
• Is DIY Tub to Shower Conversion Worth the Upfront Savings?

The Cost of Pre-Fab Tub to Shower Kits

Pre-fabricated shower stall kits are where you're going to see the lowest upfront prices. Big box and home improvement stores market these kits as the affordable DIY tub-to-shower conversion options. These install kits can run as low as $3,000 and up to about $11,000, but that doesn’t paint the full picture. You can also expect to cover expenses related to:

• Demolition: Unless you do a lot of home improvement projects already, this means buying or renting tools most people don’t have on hand.
• Plumbing repairs: Depending on the age of your home and the date of your last bathroom remodel, there's a high probability that once you rip up that old tub, you’ll find that your plumbing needs some repairs. You can either take the risk and attempt those repairs yourself, or you can hire a plumber for about $750-$2,500.
• Waste disposal: You may need to schedule bulk waste pickup or rent a dumpster, both of which can cost upwards of $200.

The Cost of Mid-Range Tub to Shower Remodels

 What if you’d rather leave this work to the professionals? Once you move into the mid-range tub to shower conversions, you’re looking at a price range of about $11,000-$18,000. What you can expect from this kind of budget is: 

It’s also important to note that this price range covers all necessary labor for a mid-range tub to shower conversion. You aren’t paying extra for things like tools and waste disposal. Plus, with the right contractor, you get the added protection of warranties.

The Cost of Deluxe Tub to Shower Conversions

Finally, we’ve got the high end of the pricing spectrum. For a deluxe tub to shower conversion, expect to pay between $18,000 and $24,000 (or higher, depending on how many customizations or major structural changes your remodel involves). With this budget, you can enjoy:

If you’re upgrading a primary bathroom and looking for a transformation that meets your specific needs and aesthetic desires, this is probably the way to go. While you can get high-quality craftsmanship at either the mid-range or deluxe level, deluxe remodels come with all the accessories and upgrades you need to maximize functionality and beauty. 

Is a DIY Tub to Shower Conversion Worth the Upfront Savings?

When you’re in the early stages of planning a remodel, it’s not uncommon to experience a little bit of sticker shock. After all, there’s a big difference between $3,000 and $25,000. Why wouldn’t you go for the lower-priced option?

A DIY tub-to-shower install kit might be the right choice for you if:

• You have remodeling and/or plumbing experience as well as access to all the necessary tools
• You have no need or desire for any custom upgrades; in your opinion, the simpler, the better
• You’re flipping a property, and you’re not the one who will need to deal with the potential maintenance issues or faster deterioration

Now, how do you know that a DIY install kit isn’t the right choice for you? Those upfront savings aren’t worth it if:

• You’re looking to upgrade your bathroom with a shower solution that actually works for you, complete with storage and safety features
• You don’t have any experience with remodeling or plumbing, and you know that it’s best to leave that work to the professionals
• You want the financial protection of manufacturer and labor warranties
• You want to support your property value with a well-crafted and properly installed shower

Start Planning Your Walk In Shower Remodel

Now you know what the industry-wide price range is for tub to shower conversions. More importantly, you know what those different price points can buy. What’s next?

At ZINTEX, we offer tub to shower conversions at the mid-range and deluxe levels because we’re committed to durability, quality, and customization. Our top priority is to create the bathroom solutions that check every box you have, from function to aesthetics.

What's next? Check out our guide to planning your bathroom remodel to meet your future needs.