Cost to Primary Bathroom Remodel in Chicago, IL (2026)
If you’re budgeting a primary bathroom remodel in Chicago, most projects run $14,371-$53,893, 20% above the $25,000 national average. What moves that number most is usually one thing: Room Size (typically 80-200 sq ft). On its own it can swing the cost by $8,000 - $30,000, so that’s the decision to slow down on before you sweat the smaller stuff.
Easiest place to save: Limit plumbing moves - keeping all fixtures within 18 inches of existing drain and supply lines saves $2,000-$5,000
In the Midwest (where Chicago sits): Chicago is near the national average; most other Midwest cities run 10-20% below.
$14,371-$53,893 in Chicago
20% above the national average · 1.20x cost multiplier
In Chicago, a primary bathroom remodel runs $14,371 to $53,893 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 | $120 | $275 | $479 |
| Materials | $5,450 | $10,900 | $30,520 |
| Labor | $7,348 | $16,032 | $29,393 |
| Permits | $545 | $872 | $1,635 |
| Total | $13,343+21% vs. national avg | $28,894+21% vs. national avg | $65,908+19% vs. national avg |
Budget
Builder-grade updates to a larger primary bath: stock vanity, basic tile, updated fixtures, no layout changes.
Mid-Range
Semi-custom double vanity, porcelain tile, freestanding tub or large walk-in shower, mid-grade fixtures.
Premium
Custom cabinetry, natural stone, steam shower, soaking tub, radiant floor heat, designer lighting, full gut renovation.
Material Options
Material prices below are national averages; availability in Chicago may shift costs slightly.
| Material | Cost/Unit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Large-Format Porcelain Tile (24x24 or larger) | $4-$12/sq ft materials | Modern and transitional primary baths, large floor areasSeamless look, fewer grout lines, easy to clean, durable |
| Marble Tile (Carrara, Calacatta) | $10-$40/sq ft materials | Premium remodels where resale value and aesthetics matter mostTimeless luxury appearance, each piece unique, adds home value |
| Freestanding Soaking Tub | $800-$6,000 fixture | Primary baths as a design focal pointStatement piece, versatile placement, multiple finish options |
| Frameless Glass Shower Enclosure | $1,200-$4,000 installed | Walk-in showers in mid-range to premium primary bathsOpen feel, easy to clean, modern aesthetic, shows off tile work |
| Quartz Vanity Countertop | $50-$100/sq ft installed | Double vanities where durability and low maintenance are prioritiesNon-porous, no sealing needed, consistent pattern, very durable |
Other Projects in Chicago
Chicago Estimate
Typical Range
$14,371-$53,893
vs. National Average
20% above national
Cost Multiplier
1.20x
Cost Per sq ft
$120-$479
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 →