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By the CHC Remodel team in Kirkland, WA · Last updated: October 26, 2026

A new bathroom can make your home more comfortable, easier to use and worth more. But prices online are all over the place. This guide shows the cost ranges CHC Remodel sees on its bathroom projects, where the money goes line by line, and simple ways to spend less without cutting quality.

Quick answer: In 2026, CHC Remodel estimates a Seattle bathroom remodel at $12,000–$18,000 for a small guest bathroom, $20,000–$25,000 for a mid-size full bathroom, and $25,000–$60,000 or more for a primary bath suite. The vanity, cabinets and fixtures take the biggest share, about 25–30% of the budget. Labor and permits take about 20–25%. Keeping the plumbing where it is is the easiest way to save.

Average bathroom remodel cost in Seattle (2026)

Bathroom typeTypical costWhat it usually includes
Small guest bathroom$12,000–$18,000New vanity, toilet, tub or shower surround, flooring, lighting and paint, with the same layout
Mid-size full bathroom$20,000–$25,000All of the above plus more tile, a better vanity and counter, and upgraded fixtures
Primary bath suite$25,000–$60,000+Larger space, custom tile shower, double vanity, stone counters, and sometimes a new layout or freestanding tub

These are CHC Remodel’s estimates, not quotes. Your price depends on size, finishes and whether anything moves.

A primary bathroom with a floating wood vanity, glass shower and freestanding tub
A primary bathroom with a floating wood vanity, glass shower and freestanding tub. Size, tile and layout changes move a bathroom between price tiers.

Where the money goes: bathroom cost breakdown

Here is the typical share of a bathroom budget, and what it looks like on a $22,000 mid-size bathroom.

Part of the jobShare of budgetOn a $22,000 bathroom
Cabinets, vanity and fixtures25–30%$5,500–$6,600
Labor and permits20–25%$4,400–$5,500
Countertops10–15%$2,200–$3,300
Plumbing and electrical10–15%$2,200–$3,300
Flooring and tile10–15%$2,200–$3,300

The rest of the budget covers smaller items like demolition, the exhaust fan, paint, mirrors and accessories.

The three biggest costs, explained

Cabinets and vanity

This line covers the vanity cabinet, sink, faucet, toilet, shower valve and trim, and any storage cabinets. It is usually the largest share because these are the parts you see and touch every day.

  • Stock vanity: set sizes, lowest price.
  • Semi-custom vanity: more sizes, colors and drawer options. This is a good middle ground for most homes.
  • Custom vanity: built to fit your exact space. It costs the most and suits odd-shaped rooms.
A double vanity with dark cabinets and a stone counter
A double vanity with dark cabinets and a stone counter. The vanity, cabinets and fixtures take the biggest share of most bathroom budgets.

Countertops

Bathroom counters are small, so you can often afford a better material than in a kitchen. Quartz is popular because it doesn’t need sealing and resists stains. A double vanity or an extra-long counter raises this line.

Labor

Labor pays for the skilled trades that build your bathroom: demolition, plumbing, electrical, waterproofing, tile setting, drywall, paint and installing the fixtures. Labor goes up with the amount of tile, with any plumbing that has to move, and with problems found behind the walls.

What makes a bathroom remodel cost more

  • Moving the toilet, shower or sink. New drain and water lines add plumbing work and time.
  • More tile. Floor-to-ceiling tile and detailed patterns take longer to install.
  • Custom glass and fixtures. Frameless glass shower doors and designer fixtures add up fast.
  • Hidden damage. Older bathrooms can hide leaks, soft subfloors or old wiring. You only find these when the walls and floor come up.

Smart ways to lower your bathroom remodel cost

  • Keep the plumbing in place. Leaving the toilet, shower and sink where they are avoids new lines and saves rework.
  • Choose large-format tiles. Bigger tiles mean fewer pieces and fewer grout lines, so installation goes faster.
  • Use a semi-custom vanity. You get the look you want without custom prices.
  • Spend where it matters. Put money into waterproofing, the shower and a good exhaust fan. Save on accessories and decor that are easy to change later.
  • Pick water-saving fixtures. WaterSense-labeled toilets use at least 20% less water than standard models, which lowers your water bill for years (EPA WaterSense).
  • Plan extra for surprises. Keep about 10–15% aside for anything found behind the walls.
Shoreline Bathroom Renovation
A bright white bathroom with a freestanding tub and vessel sink. Keeping fixtures in place and choosing simple finishes keeps costs down.

Planning a larger primary bath? Our custom bathroom planning guide covers layout, storage and lighting.

How CHC Remodel helps

CHC Remodel is a Kirkland-based remodeling company that works across Seattle and the Eastside, including Kirkland, Bellevue and Redmond. Our bathroom remodeling team of designers and craftspeople helps you set a budget, plan a layout that works, and choose finishes that fit your money and your style. We price from a clear scope, so you know what’s included before work starts. See our remodeling process, or read what homeowners say in our Google reviews.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a small bathroom remodel cost in Seattle?

CHC Remodel estimates $12,000–$18,000 for a small guest bathroom with the same layout.

How much does a primary bathroom remodel cost in Seattle?

Usually $25,000–$60,000 or more. The price depends on size, tile, the shower, and whether the layout changes.

What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?

The vanity, cabinets and fixtures, at about 25–30% of the budget. Labor and permits come next, at about 20–25%.

Does moving plumbing add a lot to the cost?

Yes. Moving a toilet, shower or sink means new drain and water lines and more labor. Keeping fixtures in place is one of the best ways to save.

Are large tiles cheaper to install?

Often, yes. Large-format tiles cover more area per piece, so there are fewer grout lines and installation is faster.

How much extra should I budget for surprises?

Plan about 10–15% extra. Bathrooms often hide water damage that only shows once the old materials come out.

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