5x6 Bathroom Remodel Cost Guide

Remodeling such a small area requires careful planning to maximize utility while keeping costs in check. The size constraints mean that every design choice, from fixtures to storage, must balance aesthetics, functionality, and budget.

Costs Summary

The cost of remodeling a 5x6 bathroom varies depending on the scope, materials, and labor. Below is a breakdown of remodel types, average costs per square foot, total costs, and key details.

Remodel Type

• Budget Remodel: Focuses on basic updates like new paint, simple fixtures, and minimal structural changes. Ideal for refreshing the space without major renovations.

• Mid-Range Remodel: Involves replacing key fixtures (e.g., toilet, vanity, shower) with mid-tier materials and some layout adjustments.

• Luxury Remodel: Features high-end materials, custom fixtures, and extensive design changes, such as custom showers or premium tiling.

Average Cost per Square Foot

• Budget: $100–$150 per square foot

• Mid-Range: $150–$250 per square foot

• Luxury: $250–$500+ per square foot

For a 5x6 bathroom (30 square feet):

• Budget: $3,000–$4,500

• Mid-Range: $4,500–$7,500

• Luxury: $7,500–$15,000+

Average Total Cost

• Budget: $3,000–$5,000

• Mid-Range: $5,000–$10,000

• Luxury: $10,000–$20,000+

Details

The total cost depends on factors like material quality, labor rates, and whether you’re doing a partial or full remodel. Budget remodels prioritize cost-effective materials like prefab fixtures and basic tiles. Mid-range projects might include custom vanities or partial wall tiling, while luxury remodels often involve high-end fixtures, full wall tiling, and custom designs. Additional costs like permits ($150–$700) and demolition ($300–$1,000) also apply, especially for extensive renovations.

Bathroom Renovation Cost Estimator for Services

Here’s a detailed breakdown of costs for common bathroom remodeling services, based on the provided price ranges for a 5x6 bathroom.

Bathtub Replacement Cost

Replacing a bathtub in a 5x6 bathroom costs $800–$4,600. A prefab alcove tub/shower combo ranges from $450–$1,800, while a freestanding or clawfoot tub can cost $1,200–$10,000. Due to space constraints, alcove tubs are more common, offering a practical solution for small bathrooms.

Shower Installation Cost

Installing a new shower ranges from $1,000–$15,000. A prefab walk-in shower costs $2,000–$8,000, while a custom walk-in shower can run $5,000–$20,000. In a 5x6 bathroom, prefab showers are often chosen to save space and keep costs down.

Tub to Shower Conversion Cost

Converting a tub to a shower costs $1,000–$15,000, depending on the complexity and materials. This process involves removing the tub, reconfiguring plumbing, and installing a new shower base and enclosure. It’s a popular choice for modernizing small bathrooms.

Tub Liner Cost

A tub liner, which fits over an existing bathtub to refresh its appearance, costs $1,700–$2,500. This is a budget-friendly option for updating the tub without a full replacement, ideal for maintaining functionality in a small space.

Shower Pan Replacement Cost

Replacing a shower pan costs $500–$3,500. In a 5x6 bathroom, a prefabricated pan is typically used to keep costs lower, though custom pans can increase expenses due to specialized labor and materials.

Sink Installation Cost

Sink installation ranges from $200–$1,200, depending on the type. Drop-in sinks cost $200–$600, undermount sinks $200–$800, and pedestal sinks $600–$1,200. Pedestal sinks are popular in small bathrooms for their space-saving design.

Bathroom Faucet Cost

A new bathroom faucet costs $150–$600. Basic models are affordable, while high-end faucets with features like touchless operation or premium finishes push costs higher. In a 5x6 bathroom, a single faucet for the sink is typically needed.

Toilet Installation Cost

Installing a standard toilet costs $500–$1,000, while a high-end toilet with bidet features ranges from $1,000–$4,000. Space limitations in a 5x6 bathroom often favor standard models, though bidet toilets are gaining popularity for added comfort.

Bathroom Tiling Cost

Tiling costs vary by area:

• Floor Tiling: $200–$800 for 30 square feet, using basic ceramic or porcelain tiles.

• Wall Tiling (Partial): $400–$2,400, often used for a shower surround or backsplash.

• Wall Tiling (Full): $2,400–$4,800 for a high-end look covering all walls.

In a small bathroom, partial tiling is more common to save on costs, but full tiling can create a luxurious feel.

Flooring Cost

Flooring costs $200–$800 for a 5x6 bathroom, depending on the material. Ceramic or porcelain tiles are durable and budget-friendly, while luxury options like natural stone increase costs. Waterproof vinyl is another cost-effective choice for small spaces.

Vanity Cost

A basic vanity costs $500–$1,200, while a high-end custom vanity runs $1,500–$3,500+. In a 5x6 bathroom, a compact vanity is essential to maximize space, with custom options offering built-in storage for a premium look.

Cabinets Cost

Additional cabinets, if space allows, cost $500–$3,500, depending on whether they’re stock or custom. In a small bathroom, wall-mounted or narrow cabinets are practical for storage without crowding the space.

Bathroom Countertop Cost

Countertops cost $250–$3,000, depending on the material (e.g., laminate, quartz, or granite). In a 5x6 bathroom, a small countertop for the vanity is sufficient, with quartz being a popular mid-range choice for durability and style.

Lighting Cost

Lighting fixtures cost $350–$1,200. Simple recessed lights or a single vanity light keep costs low, while designer fixtures or layered lighting (ambient, task, and accent) increase expenses. Proper lighting is crucial in a small bathroom to enhance functionality.

Exhaust Fan Cost

An exhaust fan costs $150–$550. A basic model is sufficient for a 5x6 bathroom to manage moisture and prevent mold, though high-end models with features like humidity sensors cost more.

Bathroom Painting Cost

Professional painting costs $150–$1,500, depending on wall size and paint quality. For a 5x6 bathroom, costs are typically on the lower end, as the surface area is small. Moisture-resistant paint is recommended to withstand humidity.

Cabinet Hardware Cost

Cabinet hardware, such as knobs and pulls, costs $60–$1,200. Basic hardware is affordable, but premium finishes or custom designs can add a luxurious touch to vanities and cabinets.

Bidet Installation Cost

Installing a bidet toilet costs $1,000–$4,000, including the fixture and labor. In a 5x6 bathroom, a bidet toilet can be a space-efficient upgrade, though it’s a higher-cost option compared to standard toilets.

Mirror Replacement Cost

Replacing a bathroom mirror costs $140–$430. A simple framed mirror is budget-friendly, while custom or backlit mirrors add a modern, upscale look to a small bathroom.

Labor Costs

Labor is a significant portion of a 5x6 bathroom remodel, especially in a small space where precision is key. Below are the typical labor costs for various professionals.

Plumbing

Plumbing updates, such as rerouting pipes or installing new fixtures, cost $600–$1,700. Plumbers charge $75–$150 per hour. In a 5x6 bathroom, tasks like installing a new shower or toilet require skilled plumbing to ensure proper functionality within the limited space.

Electrician

Electrical updates, including new lighting or exhaust fan installation, cost $500–$2,500. Electricians charge $50–$130 per hour. In a small bathroom, electrical work is often minimal but essential for safety and code compliance.

General Contractors Charge

General contractors oversee the project and charge $50–$150 per hour or 10–20% of the total project cost. For a 5x6 bathroom remodel, their role includes coordinating trades, managing demolition ($300–$1,000), and ensuring timely completion.

Interior Designers Charge

Interior designers, if hired, charge $50–$200 per hour or a flat fee of $500–$2,000 for a small bathroom. They help optimize the layout and select materials, which is valuable in a compact 5x6 space to achieve a cohesive design.

Tile Repair Costs

Tile installation or repair costs $8–$14 per square foot. For a 5x6 bathroom, tiling labor for floors or walls ranges from $240–$420 for the floor (30 square feet) or $400–$2,400 for partial wall tiling. Skilled tile installers ensure durability and a polished look.

Final Cost of a Bathroom Remodel in 2025

The total cost of a 5x6 bathroom remodel in 2025 depends on the scope and quality of materials. Below are estimated costs for budget, mid-range, and luxury remodels, including materials, labor, and additional expenses like permits and demolition.

Budget Remodel ($3,000–$5,000)

A budget remodel focuses on essential updates to refresh the bathroom without major structural changes. This includes:

• Fixtures: Prefab alcove tub/shower ($450–$1,800), standard toilet ($500–$1,000), drop-in sink ($200–$600), and basic faucet ($150–$300).

• Finishes: Basic floor tiling ($200–$400), partial wall tiling ($400–$800), and professional painting ($150–$500).

• Other Costs: Basic mirror ($140–$200), exhaust fan ($150–$300), and lighting ($350–$600).

• Labor: Minimal plumbing ($600–$800), electrical ($500–$800), and general contractor fees (10–15% of project, ~$300–$500).

• Additional: Demolition ($300–$500) and permits ($150–$300).

This approach prioritizes cost-effective materials and minimal layout changes, ideal for a functional refresh.

Mid-Range Remodel ($5,000–$10,000)

A mid-range remodel upgrades fixtures and finishes for a modern, durable bathroom. It includes:

• Fixtures: Bathtub replacement ($800–$2,000), prefab walk-in shower ($2,000–$5,000), undermount sink ($200–$500), standard toilet ($500–$1,000), and mid-range faucet ($300–$450).

• Finishes: Floor tiling ($400–$600), partial or full wall tiling ($800–$2,400), and painting ($500–$1,000).

• Other Costs: Vanity ($500–$1,200), countertop ($250–$1,000), mirror ($200–$300), exhaust fan ($300–$450), and lighting ($600–$900).

• Labor: Plumbing ($800–$1,200), electrical ($800–$1,500), tile installation ($240–$420 for floors), and general contractor fees (15–20% of project, ~$750–$1,500).

• Additional: Demolition ($500–$800) and permits ($300–$500).

This remodel balances quality and cost, offering a modern look with durable materials.

Luxury Remodel ($10,000–$20,000+)

A luxury remodel transforms the 5x6 bathroom into a high-end retreat with premium materials and custom features. It includes:

• Fixtures: Custom walk-in shower ($5,000–$15,000), high-end bidet toilet ($1,000–$4,000), pedestal sink ($600–$1,200), and premium faucet ($450–$600).

• Finishes: Full wall tiling ($2,400–$4,800), high-end floor tiling ($600–$800), and professional painting ($1,000–$1,500).

• Other Costs: Custom vanity ($1,500–$3,500), premium countertop ($1,000–$3,000), custom mirror ($300–$430), designer lighting ($900–$1,200), exhaust fan ($450–$550), and cabinet hardware ($600–$1,200).

• Labor: Extensive plumbing ($1,200–$1,700), electrical ($1,500–$2,500), tile installation ($400–$2,400 for walls), interior designer ($500–$2,000), and general contractor fees (15–20% of project, ~$1,500–$3,000).

• Additional: Demolition ($800–$1,000) and permits ($500–$700).

This remodel maximizes luxury within the small space, using high-end materials and custom designs for a spa-like experience.

Remodeling a 5x6 bathroom in 2025 requires balancing space constraints with design goals and budget. Whether opting for a budget refresh, a mid-range upgrade, or a luxury transformation, understanding the costs of materials, labor, and services ensures a successful project. Plan carefully, prioritize key upgrades, and consult professionals to achieve a functional and stylish small bathroom.