Walk-in Tub Installation Costs
A walk-in bathtub offers a seamless barrier that allows people to simply roll or walk into the tub without obstructions. These are necessary in homes of people with limited mobility and can be a great addition to a home where older adults live when they want to maintain independence but can’t handle a standard bathtub or shower anymore.
These tubs are unique because they require a door that is water-tight, so installation and maintenance is best done by a professional. Some of these tubs can be upgraded with whirlpool jets or other features, while some are standard soaking tubs.
Walk-in tub installation: by type of tub unit, mid-range materials, and labor.
| Item | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Economy soaking tub | $1,800 | $1,800 |
| 2. Other materials | $100-$500 | $100-$500 |
| 3. Labor Cost (approx. 4-hour installation) | $45 per hour | $180 |
| Total Cost | $2,080-$2,480 |
| Item | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Whirlpool tub | $4,000 | $4,000 |
| 2. Other materials | $100-$500 | $100-$500 |
| 3. Labor Cost (approx. 6-hour installation) | $45 per hour | $270 |
| Total Cost | $4,370-$4,770 |
| Item | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Air bath | $5,500 | $5,500 |
| 2. Other materials | $300-$600 | $300-$600 |
| 3. Labor Cost (approx. 4-hour installation) | $45 per hour | $180 |
| Total Cost | $5,980-$6,280 |
| Item | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Bariatric tub | $8,000 | $8,000 |
| 2. Other materials | $200-$400 | $200-$400 |
| 3. Labor Cost (approx. 5-hour installation) | $45 per hour | $135 |
| Total Cost | $8,335-$8,535 |
| Item | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Combination tub | $8,500 | $8,500 |
| 2. Other materials | $300-$500 | $300-$500 |
| 3. Labor Cost (approx. 6-hour installation) | $45 per hour | $270 |
| Total Cost | $9,070-$9,270 |
Other considerations and costs
- Labor rates average $45-$65 per hour for walk-in tub installation. The chart above reflects total costs, but you should get an estimate that includes a breakdown to ensure your labor rates are comparable.
- If you choose a whirlpool or air tub, expect to pay as much as double what you would pay for traditional installations, due to the motor and electrical wiring required.
- If the space needs to be modified or your plumbing or electrical needs upgraded, that will incur an additional cost.
Check out our guide if you need a loan for your home improvement project.
DIY considerations
- These tubs are a specialty item and require proper installation. Fortunately, most places that sell the tubs also offer installation services. This is, for the most part, not a DIY project.
- If you want to save on labor costs, you can remove your old tub and do as much prep work as possible before the new tub installation.
References
- Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
- Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
- Literature review of DIY Web sites.