The cost of a bathroom remodel in Eastern Iowa can vary dramatically based on the size of your bathroom, the features of the renovation, and the finishes you choose. Bathrooms are some of the most customized spaces in any home. Every detail—from the type of shower you install to whether you move plumbing lines—affects the budget. Add in regional labor rates, material availability, and local housing market trends, and you start to see why no two projects cost exactly the same.
Bathroom Budget | Small Bath | Mid-Range Bath | Home Value | Shower/Tub Upgrade
In this StraightTALK guide, we’ll break down the cost of a bathroom remodel in Eastern Iowa for different scenarios: from a small bathroom update to a full-scale addition. We’ll also talk about how each option can impact your home value. We’ll give you real local examples, share ROI numbers, and outline key remodeling considerations to help you make confident decisions.
What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel?
A realistic budget for a bathroom remodel in Eastern Iowa ranges from $5,000 for a small bathroom update to $35,000 or more for a new tile bathroom. Where your remodel falls within this range depends on many factors, such as the size of your bathroom and any layout changes to your home. Many of these same cost-driving factors can also impact the timeline of your remodel, so be sure to factor both budget and schedule into your planning from the start.
Another reason for a wide budget range is your goals. Some homeowners are remodeling for resale, focusing on features with a strong return on investment. Others are creating a personal retreat with spa-quality finishes, heated floors, and custom tilework. Both are great reasons to upgrade, but the budgets will look very different.
Let’s talk about the most significant cost drivers and what they mean for your bathroom project:
1. How Bathroom Size Impacts Your Remodeling Budget
The larger the bathroom, the more it costs to remodel. A 5×8 bathroom might require a modest amount of wall tile, while a spacious master bath could require triple the amount or more. Added materials mean more labor to install them, and both add up in terms of budget. For example, a 5×8 hall bath refresh with mid-tier materials might come in at $10,000 to $20,000, while a 12×15 master bath with a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and dual vanities could easily run $55,000 or more.
2. How the Scope of Your Renovation Impacts Your Budget
Are you simply replacing the old fixtures with updated versions, or are you tearing the room down to the studs and starting over? Cosmetic updates, such as replacing a vanity, faucet, and lighting fixture, can be done for a fraction of the cost of a full-gut renovation that includes new flooring, a re-tiled shower, reconfigured walls, and upgraded ventilation. The more walls, floors, and fixtures you touch, the more the budget grows.
3. How Plumbing and Electrical Changes Impact Your Bathroom Budget
Not moving your plumbing and electrical systems is one of the easiest ways to keep costs down. Moving a toilet or relocating a shower usually requires new plumbing lines, which can add several thousand dollars to the project. Moving a toilet and shower to new positions in a bathroom typically costs $2,500–$5,000 in labor and materials. On the high end, if you’re adding luxury features like a steam shower or additional lighting zones, expect that electrical and plumbing work to push the budget upward.
4. How the Materials You Choose In Your Bathroom Change the Cost
The products you choose have a huge impact on cost. A vanity “off-the-shelf” might cost $600, while a custom-built vanity with quartz countertops could be $3,000–$5,000. Tile is another budget driver. A simple ceramic subway tile might cost $2–$4 per square foot, but marble can be $20+ per square foot. Even faucets and fixtures can range from under $100 to $1,000 or more for designer models. In Eastern Iowa, the availability of materials can also affect costs. Custom items may require extra time to build manually or ship, adding to the timeline and budget.
5. How Remodeling an Existing Bathroom Compares to Adding a New One
Adding a bathroom is an entirely different project from remodeling an existing one. When you build a new bathroom, you’re adding walls, insulation, flooring, roofing, plumbing, and electrical from scratch. So bathroom additions can climb into the $60,000–$70,000 range, especially if you’re adding square footage to your home. A remodel within an existing bathroom footprint is generally more budget-friendly.
StraightTALK Remodeling Tip
Watch out for hidden remodeling costs that can catch homeowners off guard. Surprises are more common than you think: water damage behind old tile, outdated electrical wiring that needs bringing up to code, or plumbing issues that aren’t visible until demolition begins. Building a 10% contingency into your budget can help you handle these issues without derailing your remodel.
How much should a small bathroom remodel cost?
A small bathroom remodel in Eastern Iowa typically costs $10,000–$18,000. These projects usually focus on maximizing every inch of space while improving both style and functionality. A 5×8 full bath (common in many homes) can get a major facelift with a new vanity, efficient storage, upgraded lighting, and a tub/shower combo that works for both quick showers and long soaks.
On the other hand, if you’re remodeling a hallway half-bath (a powder room with just a sink and toilet), the budget may be significantly lower, often landing between $2,000–$8,000. Half-baths require less plumbing work, have a smaller footprint, and use fewer materials. In many homes, these spaces are also a great chance to get creative with fun paint colors, patterned wallpaper, or statement lighting, because the smaller size means you can stretch a bit on finishes without breaking the bank.
For small bathrooms, tub/shower combos are one of the smartest design choices. They provide the versatility of both bathing and showering in a single footprint, making them ideal for family homes or resale. When paired with updated materials and fixtures, they feel high-end while retaining their functionality.
At Hometown Restyling, we often partner with Bath Planet to deliver durable, low-maintenance tub/shower solutions that look beautiful and install in far less time than traditional tile. Bath Planet systems come in a variety of colors, patterns, and configurations, allowing homeowners to get a stylish, customized look without the upkeep headaches that come with grout. For small bathrooms, especially, their sleek designs and built-in shelving can help you make the most of limited square footage, and make the room feel more spacious.
StraightTALK Remodeling Tip
Removing a tub in a family-friendly area and replacing it with a shower only may reduce resale appeal. If most buyers in your market expect at least one bathtub in the home, it may be worth keeping one in your remodel, especially in a full bath.
How much will a mid-range bathroom remodel cost?
A mid-range bathroom remodel in Eastern Iowa typically runs between $15,000 and $30,000. This type of remodel sits squarely between a basic cosmetic update and an upscale, luxury renovation. It will include high-quality but not extravagant materials. Think quartz countertops, semi-custom vanities, upgraded lighting, and tile floors and shower surrounds. A mid-range remodel that involves moderate layout changes, such as expanding a shower or reconfiguring a vanity area, may fall slightly higher on the cost spectrum.
Homeowners might replace an aging fiberglass shower with a tiled walk-in, add double sinks for convenience, or install new moisture-resistant flooring that complements the rest of the home’s style.
According to the Remodeling Impact Report from Qualified Remodeler, updated bathrooms consistently rank high on buyers’ wish lists. For many prospective homeowners, a recently remodeled bathroom can make a home feel move-in ready, which is a significant selling point. In competitive markets like Iowa City or Cedar Rapids, a home with fresh, functional bathrooms often sells faster (and sometimes for more) than a comparable home with outdated bathrooms.
One of the most impactful changes you can make in a mid-range remodel is adding a walk-in shower. The cost ranges from $5,000 for a simple tile version to $12,000+ for a premium, curbless design. A thoughtfully designed walk-in shower can feel like stepping into a spa: floor-to-ceiling tile, frameless glass panels, built-in benches for comfort, and rainfall or multi-function showerheads for a touch of indulgence.
Bathroom additions also carry strong appeal, particularly in multi-story homes where an extra full bath can dramatically improve convenience. You may also want to consider adding a bathroom, depending on your bedroom-to-bathroom ratio. If you have 4-5 bedrooms and only 2 bathrooms, it may be worth considering an addition. Or if it’s time to update your primary bedroom into a primary suite. Bathroom additions are typically pricier than renovations due to the added infrastructure for the addition (electrical, plumbing, walls, etc.), with the average addition coming in around $58,000.
StraightTALK Remodeling Tip
Prioritize waterproofing to avoid long-term damage. This step is so critical that, unless you are an expert, it’s best to hire a professional who understands bathroom construction inside and out. At Hometown Restyling, we take extra precautions with every bathroom project using proven moisture barrier systems, meticulously sealing all joints, and double-checking every layer before tile or fixtures go in. Your bathroom will look great on day one; but our attention to quality ensures it stays beautiful and functional for decades.
Will my bathroom remodel increase my home’s value?
Yes, most bathroom remodels will increase your home value, and in Eastern Iowa, bathrooms remain one of the most impactful updates you can make. Local real estate agents consistently note that in markets like Cedar Rapids, Marion, and Iowa City, buyers pay close attention to bathrooms when evaluating a home. An updated bathroom can make a listing feel move-in ready, while an outdated one can make even the rest of the house feel tired.
It’s also worth noting that while ROI (return on investment) is a helpful metric, it’s not the whole story for your home. Even if you don’t recoup every dollar at resale, you gain years of daily comfort and the satisfaction of living with a space you truly love.
Here’s what the numbers look like in Eastern Iowa, according to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report:
| Remodel Type | Avg. Cost | Avg. ROI | Value at Resale |
| Small Bathroom Remodel
(Ex: Refresh of a 5×8 hall bath) |
$15,000 | 58% | $8,700 |
| Mid-Range Remodel
(Ex: Upgrade of an 8×10 bathroom) |
$24,000 | 60% | $14,400 |
| Upscale Remodel
(Ex: Luxury master bath) |
$75,000 | 53% | $39,750 |
| Bathroom Addition
(Ex: Adding a new 100–150 sq. ft. bathroom with full plumbing) |
$58,000 | 55% | $31,900 |
StraightTALK Remodeling Tip
Match the scope of your remodel to neighborhood standards, but don’t forget your own wishes in the process. You’ll be living with this space for years, so it should reflect your style and meet your needs. The sweet spot is a design that feels like you, but still aligns with what future buyers in your area will appreciate.
Can I just upgrade my tub or shower without remodeling my whole bathroom?
Absolutely. You can replace just your tub or shower as a standalone bathroom upgrade without diving into a full remodel. For many Eastern Iowa homeowners, this is the perfect first step when you want to see a noticeable improvement in comfort and function without taking on the cost or timeline of a complete renovation.
Upgrading your tub or shower can change the entire feel of your bathroom. A new shower may make mornings easier, add accessibility features, and start as the foundation for a larger remodel later. We offer several options that will fit your needs and your goals – short and long-term.
Acrylic Shower Replacement – $10,000 to $15,000
An acrylic shower replacement is one of the fastest and most budget-friendly ways to update your bathroom. These showers are durable, low-maintenance, and available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. With Bath Planet systems, installation can often be completed in as little as one or two days, minimizing disruption to your home. So, as you can imagine, they’re a popular choice for busy households that want a quick upgrade without sacrificing quality.
Tiled Shower with Glass Doors – $25,000 to $35,000
If you want a more custom look, a tiled shower with frameless glass doors gives your bathroom a high-end feel and countless design options. You can incorporate niche shelving, built-in benches, decorative accents, and specialty tile layouts. The frameless glass makes the bathroom feel larger, and the tile will match your personal style, whether that’s classic subway or bold patterned ceramic.
Bath Planet Tub and Shower Options
As a Bath Planet partner, we offer shower and tub solutions designed to fit your specific needs:
- Walk-In Showers – Spacious, open designs with easy-to-clean surfaces and modern finishes.
- Tub/Shower Combos – Ideal for smaller bathrooms or family homes, these units combine bathing and showering in a single footprint.
- Barrier-Free Showers – Accessible designs ideal for aging in place or mobility concerns, with low or no threshold entry and slip-resistant surfaces.
All Bath Planet systems are built with durable, nonporous materials that resist mold and mildew, so they stay looking fresh with minimal upkeep.
If budget is a concern, you don’t have to wait to get the bathroom upgrade you need. Through Hometown Restyling’s home improvement financing, we offer flexible payment plans to fit a variety of budgets. Options include same-as-cash financing for shorter terms or low monthly payment plans for longer terms, making it easier to start your project now and pay over time. Financing can cover just the shower or tub upgrade, or be rolled into a larger remodel down the road.
StraightTALK Remodeling Tip
Choose timeless finishes if you’re upgrading in phases. Sticking with colors that fit with the rest of your home and classic tile or acrylic patterns will make it easier to match new vanities, flooring, and lighting when you’re ready to complete the remodel in the future.
Straight Talk Wrap-Up
In Eastern Iowa, bathroom remodel costs range from $2,000 for small updates like a shower replacement to $70,000+ for large bathroom additions. It’s a wide range, but it means that you can find the perfect fit of budget and dream bathroom that fits your home.
Bonus Consideration – Energy & Water Efficiency
When planning your remodel, consider incorporating eco-friendly upgrades. Low-flow showerheads and faucets, dual-flush toilets, and LED lighting can reduce utility bills while helping conserve resources. Over time, these features can save you money while making your home more sustainable. A win-win for your wallet and the environment.
Just remember, while ROI is a factor in your decision, your bathroom’s greatest value often comes from the comfort and convenience it brings to your life every day. So, start small with a shower replacement or go all-in on a dreamy spa-style retreat.
Want more StraightTALK? Learn more about our Hometown Restyling consultation process in the article below. Or better yet, let us know what questions you have, so we can get you straight answers!
