Bathtub to Shower Conversion Cost Calculator
Estimate your tub-to-shower conversion cost by conversion type and selected upgrades.
A bathtub to shower conversion costs $2,500 to $10,000, with a national average of $5,500. Use the calculator below to estimate your cost by size, quality tier, and location.
Last updated: March 25, 2026
Bathtub to Shower Conversion Cost Calculator
Estimate your tub-to-shower conversion cost by conversion type and selected upgrades.
Estimated Total
$5,500
Itemized Breakdown
This calculator provides estimates based on national averages adjusted for your region. Actual costs may vary significantly based on specific project conditions, contractor availability, material prices, and local market factors. Always get at least 3 quotes from licensed, insured contractors before starting your project.
Want the full picture?
Read our complete Bathtub to Shower Conversion cost guide with material comparisons, contractor tips, savings strategies, and regional pricing data.
Quick Cost Reference
Cost by Tier
Prefab shower unit, keep existing drain, new fixtures.
Custom tile shower, new drain, glass doors, recessed niche.
Walk-in, frameless glass, custom tile, linear drain, bench.
How This Calculator Works
This bathtub to shower conversion cost calculator estimates your total project cost from four inputs: project size, quality tier, the options you select, and your location. It combines material and labor rates for your chosen tier, adds typical permit costs, then applies a regional cost multiplier so the estimate reflects pricing in your state.
Estimates use 2026 cost data cross-referenced from multiple industry sources. Treat the result as a planning range, not a quote. Your final price depends on your specific scope, material choices, and local contractor availability, so collect at least three itemized bids before you set a budget.
What Affects Your Bathtub to Shower Conversion Cost
Prefab Unit vs Custom Tile
$800 - $10,000A prefab acrylic or fiberglass shower surround costs $400-$1,000 for the unit and can be installed in a day. A fully custom tile shower in the same footprint costs $2,500-$8,000 for materials alone, plus 3-5 days of labor. The tile option looks better and lasts longer, but it's a significant cost jump.
Drain Relocation
$500 - $2,000A tub drain sits at one end of the alcove; a shower drain needs to be centered or repositioned for proper flow. If the drain can stay close to its current spot, expect $500-$800. Moving it across the room or through a slab costs $1,500-$2,000 or more.
Glass Door Type
$400 - $4,000A basic framed sliding glass door runs $400-$800 installed. A semi-frameless pivot door costs $700-$1,500. A fully frameless hinged door runs $1,200-$2,500. Custom frameless panel systems for large walk-ins can reach $3,000-$4,500.
Shower Size and Shape
$500 - $4,000A standard 3x3 alcove shower conversion is the cheapest option. Expanding to a 3x4 or adding a corner entry point requires additional framing, more tile, and a larger glass enclosure. Every extra square foot of shower adds $100-$200 in tile and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bathtub to shower conversion cost?
A bathtub to shower conversion costs $2,500 to $10,000 for a typical project, with a national average of $5,500. Budget projects start around $1,200, and premium work can reach $18,000. Use the calculator above for an estimate matched to your size, quality tier, and state.
How does this bathtub to shower conversion cost calculator work?
It combines 2026 material and labor rates for your selected quality tier, adds typical permit costs and any options you choose, then applies a cost multiplier for your state. Adjust the inputs to see your estimate update instantly.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes. This bathtub to shower conversion cost calculator is free, requires no signup, and returns instant estimates.
Does the estimate include labor and permits?
Yes. Each estimate combines material and labor costs for your chosen quality tier plus typical permit fees. Your final price still depends on your specific scope and local contractor rates, so collect itemized quotes before budgeting.
How can I lower my bathtub to shower conversion cost?
Keep the drain in or near its current position - repositioning a shower drain adds $500-$2,000 depending on floor type Choose a prefab acrylic surround over custom tile if your main goal is function, not aesthetics - saves $1,500-$5,000
Free newsletter
Stay current on what renovations actually cost
Updates from CostToRenovate, when there is something worth sending. Free, no spam.