Cost to Full Bathroom Remodel in Chicago, IL (2026)
If you’re budgeting a full bathroom remodel in Chicago, most projects run $9,615-$38,462, 20% above the $18,000 national average. What moves that number most is usually one thing: Bathroom Size. On its own it can swing the cost by $4,000 - $20,000, so that’s the decision to slow down on before you sweat the smaller stuff.
Easiest place to save: Keep the existing plumbing layout - moving a toilet or shower drain even 2 feet adds $1,500-$3,000 in labor alone
In the Midwest (where Chicago sits): Chicago runs closer to average; smaller Midwest cities often 15-20% below national average.
$9,615-$38,462 in Chicago
20% above the national average · 1.20x cost multiplier
In Chicago, a full bathroom remodel runs $9,615 to $38,462 on average - about 20% above what homeowners pay nationwide. The Midwest market's labor costs account for most of the gap, with material pricing and local permitting fees adding to the spread. Use the cost table below to compare budget, mid-range, and premium options side by side.
Cost Breakdown in Chicago
| Line Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per sq ft | $144 | $264 | $421 |
| Materials | $3,488 | $8,175 | $19,620 |
| Labor | $5,077 | $11,356 | $21,376 |
| Permits | $436 | $654 | $1,308 |
| Total | $9,001+22% vs. national avg | $20,730+21% vs. national avg | $45,029+19% vs. national avg |
Budget
Stock vanity, builder-grade tile, alcove tub/shower combo, basic fixtures. Keeps existing layout.
Mid-Range
Semi-custom vanity, porcelain tile, separate tub and shower, mid-grade fixtures, minor layout changes.
Premium
Custom cabinetry, natural stone, freestanding tub, frameless glass shower, designer fixtures, full gut renovation.
Material Options
Material prices below are national averages; availability in Chicago may shift costs slightly.
| Material | Cost/Unit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic Tile (floor and walls) | $1-$4/sq ft materials | Budget to mid-range remodels, high-traffic bathroomsDurable, water-resistant, wide style selection, easy to clean |
| Porcelain Tile | $3-$10/sq ft materials | Mid-range to premium remodels, wet areas and floorsVery durable, low water absorption, can mimic wood or stone look |
| Natural Stone (marble, travertine, slate) | $10-$50/sq ft materials | Premium remodels where aesthetics are the priorityUnique beauty, adds home value, one-of-a-kind appearance |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (floor only) | $2-$6/sq ft materials | Budget remodels, rental properties, DIY-friendly projects100% waterproof, warm underfoot, easy DIY install, lower cost |
| Prefab Acrylic Tub/Shower Surround | $400-$1,200 unit cost | Budget remodels, rentals, quick turnaroundsFast installation, seamless surface, easy to clean, low cost |
Other Projects in Chicago
Chicago Estimate
Typical Range
$9,615-$38,462
vs. National Average
20% above national
Cost Multiplier
1.20x
Cost Per sq ft
$144-$421
This 1.20x estimate prices Chicago labor from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025) and applies a lighter regional adjustment to materials and permits, which vary less by metro than labor does. Actual bids vary by contractor, project scope, and timing.
See national average costs →