How Much Does a Walk-in Tub Cost?

Walk-in bathtubs have high sides and accessible entry doors that make bathing safer and more comfortable for older adults or anyone with limited mobility. The average cost for a walk-in tub is $2,000–$5,000, not including installation. Luxury models can run $20,000 or more. This guide will break down the pros and cons of walk-in tubs so homeowners can decide if the cost is a worthwhile investment.

The cost of a walk-in tub can range from $2,000–$5,000, however, installation adds another $2,000–$10,000, raising the average total cost to between $4,000 and $15,000. Below are some of the factors that influence the overall cost of a walk-in tub.

A basic walk-in tub allows the bather to soak while sitting upright. However, some models have other features, such as air jets, water jets, or double doors. High-end tubs with more features are more expensive, as are two-person tubs. The table below breaks down price ranges for various walk-in tubs by type and feature, not including installation costs.

Most walk-in bathtubs are either made of fiberglass sprayed with a layer of gelcoat or acrylic reinforced by fiberglass. Acrylic tubs are more expensive, but they’re also more durable and popular. Not all brands or styles of tubs are available in both materials. Gelcoat tubs typically range from $2,000–$5,000. Acrylic tubs, on the other hand, cost between $3,000–$10,000.

As with most things, walk-in tub costs vary by the brand you choose. Exact tub prices are typically only available by quote and depend on the model and features. However, Safe Step tends to be toward the low end of the cost spectrum while Jacuzzi is at the high end. Kohler walk-in tubs come in the widest variety of price points. See price ranges for six popular walk-in tub brands below.

When considering overall walk-in tub installation costs, here are some factors to keep in mind.

As you might expect, replacing a bathtub costs more than lining or refinishing it. Installation costs vary by the type of walk-in tub since some require more sophisticated plumbing or fixtures. Standard tubs tend to be the least expensive, and tub/shower combos and bariatric tubs tend to be the most. Your bathroom’s current plumbing and layout may also determine the difficulty and cost of walk-in tub installation.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the expenses that may influence the price of walk-in tub installation:

• Installing a tankless water heater: $1,200–$3,500
• Moving water supply pipes/hardware: $500–$2,500
• Replacing drain pipe to accommodate quick drainage: $250–$2,500
• Replacing flooring or drywall: $1,000–$5,000
• Widening bathroom door: $1,500–$3,500

Converting a Shower to a Tub

Converting a shower to a tub isn’t as simple as removing the previous tub or shower and connecting the pipes to the new one. Walk-in tubs are taller than their standard counterparts, and the plumbing will need to be reconfigured to fill and empty the new tub properly.

Below are a few costs associated with converting a shower to a tub:

• Extension panels if the new walk-in tub is shorter in length than the previous one ($250–$300) 
• Replacing the tub surrounds or materials that prevent water damage ($200—$1,000)
• Your tub’s flange, or raised rim, may need to be replaced to fit the new fixtures better ($50–$150)

Doors

Walk-in tubs have doors that allow people with limited mobility to enter and exit without stepping over a high ridge. Inward-opening doors save space in the bathroom, but outward-opening doors offer more space inside the tub. All other features being equal, you’ll pay about $400–$600 more for an outward-opening door. 

The standard walk-in tub door is U-shaped, but larger and combination tubs may have S-shaped doors that are wider at the top. L-shaped doors have an even larger opening at the top, ideal for users who need caregiver assistance to get in and out of the tub. 

Because of these differences in function, you’ll rarely see a single tub model available in all three door shapes. For tubs of comparable size, you’ll probably pay $400–$600 more for an S-shaped door and $600–$800 more for an L-shaped door.

Extra Features and Upgrades

Many add-on features can upgrade the comfort, safety, and convenience of a basic walk-in tub. Typically, you have to order a model that already has these features rather than having them installed later on. And of course, they all cost extra. Here are a few of the features you can look out for:

• ADA-compliant seating
• Aromatherapy (built-in scent diffusers)
• Chromotherapy (built-in colored lights)
• Grab bars
• Heated seats and backrests
• Ozone sterilization that sanitizes the tub
• Slip-resistant floor

Plumbing and Electrical

Walk-in tub installation is not a do-it-yourself (DIY) job, so you’ll need to hire a plumber. You may need special pipes installed if you’ve chosen a tub with a fast-drain feature. Licensed plumbers charge between $50 and $150 per hour for jobs like this, depending on their experience level.

If your new tub has features such as air or whirlpool jets that require power to run, electrical work will be required to hook these up. A licensed electrician typically charges between $40 and $100 per hour. If your home is older, you may need a new electrical panel to power the tub.

Jim Fuson, owner of 21st Century Home Inspections, says electrical work and extra plumbing are two of the main hidden costs for walk-in tub installation. “Storage, water capacity, and tankless water heaters, those are some of the things to consider. It’s much more water than you get in a typical tub environment.”

Structural Support

Fuson says you may also need structural reinforcement underneath the new tub if the floor joints are not designed to support that much weight, increasing the project’s overall cost.

Remodeling

Because a walk-in tub can necessitate a layout change, you may find yourself remodeling the bathroom entirely. The total cost of a remodel depends on how extensive it is, but remodeling typically costs between $100 and $200 per square foot of bathroom space.

Space

Walk-in tubs are usually fitted into alcoves where existing tubs have been installed since this requires minimal changes to the existing plumbing. However, if you choose to put the walk-in tub in a different place, you’ll probably have higher labor costs. 

Tiling

Whether or not you decide to remodel your bathroom around the walk-in tub, you’ll likely need to replace some tiles in your tub surrounds. Professional bathroom tiling can cost anywhere from $7–$25 per square foot, depending on the price and size of the tiles.

There are a few ways to cut costs when buying and installing one of these tubs.

• Go minimalist: The price of extra features can add up quickly, so consider whether you need add-ons like chromotherapy lights or air bath jets.
• Minimize labor costs: Have the new tub installed in the same space as the old one.
• Look for payment plans: Many retailers allow you to pay in installments.
• Get multiple estimates: The prices of most walk-in tubs are only available by quote, so be sure to get several for comparison.
• Buy materials yourself: You’ll probably need materials such as tiles and tub surrounds in addition to the tub. If possible, purchase these yourself instead of going through the installation contractor.
• Look for local grants: Some areas of the United States offer home modification grants for elderly adults and people with disabilities to make their homes more accessible.

Free quote: Get your quote on a walk-in tub today

Medicare doesn’t typically consider walk-in tubs durable medical equipment. Walk-in tubs improve comfort, but Medicare will not cover their cost unless a doctor can prove that one of these tubs is necessary to treat a specific medical condition. In some states, those on Medicaid may be eligible for partial reimbursement for the price of the tub itself, but not the installation.

As for private health insurance, you’ll need to check the specifics of your policy. It’s unlikely that the insurance company will cover the cost of a walk-in tub unless a doctor can prove it’s medically necessary and likely to prevent future health problems. When possible, it’s a good idea to meet with an insurance agent in person, armed with documentation from your primary care provider.

Once you’ve set your budget, here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding between different types of walk-in tubs.

• What features do I need? Which features can I live without?
• Where in the bathroom will I install the tub?
• Do I want an inward- or outward-opening door?
• Will the tub size require me to upgrade my water heater?
• What safety features do I need (grab bars, scald prevention, low step, etc.)?
• Does the tub come with a lifetime warranty?

Most retailers and even some manufacturers offer installation for the walk-in tubs they sell. These contractors are likely to have extensive experience specific to these tubs, but they may not be the cheapest option. If you decide to hire your own contractor, here are some things to look for.

• Experience with installing walk-in tubs
• A plumber’s license (or bringing in a licensed plumber)
• Good customer feedback on online review sites
• Excellent Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating
• Itemized quote, contract, and warranty presented in writing

Free quote: Get your quote from walk-in tub installation pros today

Walk-in tubs can provide a safer and more comfortable bathing experience for people with disabilities or other mobility issues, but they’re expensive to buy and install. Don’t count on health insurance to cover some or all of the costs. Plan your budget carefully to determine whether a walk-in tub is worth the financial cost.

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