Bathroom remodeling in the D.C. metro area typically costs between $15,000 and $100,000 or more, depending on the size of the space, the scope of work, and the materials you choose. Most homeowners in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. spend somewhere in the $35,000–$65,000 range for a full bathroom renovation.
At Boss Design Center, we’ve completed bathroom remodeling projects throughout the D.C. metro area for over a decade. One thing we tell every client: the generic “average bathroom remodel” numbers you find online rarely reflect what projects actually cost in this market. D.C.-area costs run higher than national averages due to older housing stock, premium labor rates, and stricter permitting requirements.
This guide breaks down what you can realistically expect to spend, what drives those costs, and how to approach budgeting for your project.
Average Bathroom Remodeling Costs in the D.C. Area
Different sources report different averages, which underscores how much actual costs depend on project specifics:
Fixr’s 2025 data puts the average bathroom remodel in Washington, D.C. at about $19,080, with most projects ranging from $9,540 to $27,030. A simple cosmetic update might cost around $4,000, while an extensive renovation of a high-end primary bathroom could reach $80,000 or more.
Angi’s 2026 update found an average cost around $12,651, with a typical range of $7,000 to $18,000. This lower average likely reflects more small or mid-range projects.
Here’s the reality: these averages can be misleading. A condo owner doing a straightforward fixture replacement in a small bathroom might spend well under $15,000. A homeowner gutting and rebuilding a primary bath with high-end materials could invest several times more.
That’s why we only provide detailed pricing after evaluating a specific project and budget with the client. There’s no one-size-fits-all price for a D.C. bathroom remodel.
Cost by Bathroom Type
One of the biggest factors affecting cost is the type of bathroom and the scope of work. A powder room costs far less than a spacious primary bathroom, and a cosmetic refresh (where fixtures stay in place) is cheaper than a full overhaul.
Here’s what projects typically cost in the D.C. area, based on local design-build firm data:
| Bathroom Type | Light Refresh | Mid-Range Remodel | High-End Remodel |
| Powder Room (half bath) | $15,000–$20,000 | $20,000–$25,000 | $25,000–$35,000+ |
| Hall/Shared Bathroom | $25,000–$35,000 | $35,000–$50,000 | $50,000–$70,000+ |
| Primary Bathroom | $35,000–$45,000 | $50,000–$65,000 | $75,000–$150,000+ |
Typical ranges for NW D.C./Montgomery County projects
These numbers run notably higher than national averages. For comparison, the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report pegged a mid-range 5’x7′ bathroom remodel in the D.C. area at about $25,251. However, many local contractors find that figure too low for what homeowners actually spend here.
Most clients opt for nicer upgrades: even a small 5×7 bathroom with upgraded finishes typically ends up around the high $40,000s, and slightly larger or more thoughtful designs often range $58,000–$68,000.
Key Factors That Affect Bathroom Remodeling Cost
Understanding what drives costs can help you estimate where your project might fall.
Size and Layout
Larger bathrooms with more fixtures cost more. D.C. homeowners pay roughly $477 per square foot on average for bathroom remodeling, with typical projects ranging from $239 to $676 per square foot depending on finishes.
For context: a standard 40 sq. ft. full bathroom at $477/sq. ft. comes out to about $19,000 (near the average). A powder room might be half that size, reducing total cost. A large primary bath at 100+ square feet will require a bigger budget.
Scope of Work
The extent of the remodel has a huge impact. Simply replacing fixtures and surfaces while keeping the existing layout is far less expensive than a full gut renovation or floor plan change.
In D.C.’s older homes, true surface-level updates aren’t always possible. Many century-old bathrooms require gutting to update old wiring and pipes before new fixtures can be installed. When layout changes are involved (moving the toilet or tub, expanding the shower, reconfiguring the space), costs rise significantly due to plumbing, electrical, and potentially structural work. On average, relocating utilities in a D.C. bathroom adds around $2,800 to the project.
Materials and Finishes
The choice of materials, fixtures, and finishes greatly influences price. A freestanding soaking tub in D.C. averages about $8,900, while a standard alcove tub-shower combo can be under $1,500.
High-end options like steam showers, wall-mounted faucets, heated floors, stone tile, and custom glass enclosures all raise the price. Mid-range fixtures (like a quality Kohler toilet or ceramic tile) strike a balance between durability and cost.
Labor and Code Requirements
Labor costs in the D.C. area are relatively high and can constitute 40% to 60% of your total budget. Skilled trade labor (licensed plumbers, electricians, tile setters) is expensive, and D.C. has no shortage of work for contractors, which keeps prices up.
The D.C. metro’s older housing stock means many projects must address underlying issues: walls may need to be opened for new wiring, outdated plumbing brought up to code, or rotted subfloors replaced. Building codes now demand proper ventilation and waterproofing. If a bathroom previously vented into an attic (common in older homes), it must now vent outside, requiring new ductwork and an upgraded exhaust fan.
Tile Work and Design Complexity
Tile is typically the most labor-intensive aspect of a bathroom remodel, and the extent of tile installation is often underestimated as a cost driver.
Homeowners in our area love design upgrades like tiled shower niches, accent mosaics, or floor-to-ceiling wall tile. Each added detail increases labor hours and cost. Intricate patterns or large-format tiles can be more time-consuming to install.
Choosing a simple yet classic tile (white subway tile remains popular and cost-effective) and limiting elaborate patterns can help control the budget.
Permits and Project Management
In D.C. and the inner suburbs, you should account for permits and professional oversight. D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia jurisdictions typically require permits for bathroom remodels involving electrical, plumbing, or structural changes. Some condo buildings have additional regulations that add complexity.
Working with a design-build firm that handles everything (design, permits, construction, project coordination) costs more than a bare-bones contractor, but provides turnkey service. At Boss Design Center, our fixed-price contracts include all materials, permits, project management, construction, and weekly meetings, so clients know the total cost upfront with no surprise add-ons.
How to Control Bathroom Remodeling Costs
If you’re working within a budget, here are practical ways to manage costs:
- Keep the existing layout. Avoiding plumbing relocation is one of the biggest ways to save. If the toilet, shower, and sink can stay where they are, you eliminate thousands in rough-in work.
- Choose mid-range fixtures. You don’t need top-of-the-line everything. Quality mid-tier brands offer durability without the premium price.
- Simplify tile choices. Classic subway tile or large-format porcelain installed in a straightforward pattern costs less than intricate mosaics or specialty materials.
- Limit custom work. Stock vanities and standard-size shower enclosures cost less than custom-built options.
- Plan thoroughly before construction. Changes during construction are expensive. Selecting all materials and finalizing the design before work begins prevents costly mid-project decisions.
Return on Investment for Bathroom Remodeling
Bathroom remodels are consistently rated as one of the highest-ROI home improvements. According to the Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, a mid-range bathroom remodel in the D.C. region recoups roughly 60% of its cost in added resale value on average. Higher-end projects have a lower immediate ROI (around 34%), but they’re typically done for the homeowner’s comfort rather than pure resale.
In practical terms: if you spend $30,000 on a moderate bathroom renovation, you might expect the home’s value to increase by about $18,000 at resale.
But ROI isn’t only measured in dollars. A remodeled bathroom improves your daily life with better function, modern amenities, improved storage, and a more comfortable space. That’s why we encourage clients to remodel sooner rather than later. If you plan to stay in your home for several years, you get to enjoy the benefits every day rather than saving the investment for the next owner.
Getting an Accurate Estimate
Every bathroom remodel is unique, which is why ballpark figures can only tell you so much. A small powder room refresh with standard finishes might come in under $20,000. A large-scale primary bath renovation with layout changes and premium materials could run $75,000 or more. Most D.C. area projects fall somewhere in between.
The most reliable way to understand what your specific project will cost is to consult with a local remodeling professional who can evaluate your space, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed estimate.
Ready to Start Planning?
If you’re considering a bathroom remodel in Northern Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C., contact Boss Design Center to schedule a free consultation. We’ll discuss your vision, assess your space, and provide straightforward guidance on what your project would involve.
Visit our showrooms in McLean, VA or Bethesda, MD to see materials in person and explore what’s possible for your bathroom.
McLean Showroom: 1389 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA 22101 | (703) 382-1222Bethesda Showroom: 7220 Wisconsin Ave Suite 110, Bethesda, MD 20814 | (301) 200-9991
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