If you’re planning to update a small bathroom, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: “What is the 5×10 bathroom remodel cost in 2026?” A 5×10 bathroom (about 50 square feet) is a common size in many homes, and remodeling it can dramatically improve comfort, style, and resale value. But costs can vary a lot depending on scope, materials, and labor.
This guide breaks down the cost to remodel a 5×10 bathroom, including average bathroom remodel cost ranges, line-item pricing, hidden expenses, and cost-saving ideas. By the end, you’ll understand what a realistic small bathroom remodel cost 5×10 looks like and how to plan a budget that actually works.
What Do We Mean by 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Cost?
When we talk about 5×10 bathroom remodel cost, we’re talking about the total price to renovate a bathroom that’s roughly five feet by ten feet without fully changing the footprint of the room. Most homeowners keep:
- the toilet in the same place
- the vanity on the same wall
- the tub or shower in the same general location
In other words, this is usually a bathroom remodel without layout changes. You’re upgrading finishes, fixtures, and possibly the wet area, but not moving walls or relocating all the plumbing.
A 5×10 remodel often includes:
- new shower or tub
- upgraded vanity and countertop
- new toilet
- new flooring
- updated lighting, ventilation, and accessories
- fresh paint and trim
Once you start moving drains, opening walls, or changing structure, you move into a more complex and expensive design-build bathroom remodel.
Average 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Cost in 2026
So, how much does a 5×10 bathroom renovation cost in 2026?
For most homeowners in the U.S., keeping the layout the same, the average 5×10 bathroom remodel cost falls into three typical ranges, based on finish level.
Basic 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Cost
A basic remodel focuses on refreshing the space with simple, functional materials. You’re not building a spa, you’re making it clean, updated, and safe.
This might include:
- replacing a dated tub/shower with a simple new unit or refinishing the tub
- installing a stock vanity with a prefabricated top
- swapping in a standard toilet
- installing budget-friendly flooring such as LVP or basic tile
- new paint and simple fixtures
In 2026, a basic small bathroom remodel cost 5×10 typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on local labor and the condition of the existing space.
Mid-Range 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Cost
A mid-range remodel aims for a more modern, stylish look with higher-quality materials, better storage, and more thoughtful design.
This often includes:
- replacing the tub with a walk-in shower
- tile or solid surface shower walls instead of fiberglass surrounds
- a new vanity with a quartz vanity countertop
- upgraded porcelain or ceramic tile flooring
- better lighting, fan, and accessories
For a mid-range remodel, the 5×10 bathroom remodeling price usually lands between $15,000 and $30,000.
Luxury 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Cost
A luxury remodel targets that spa-like bathroom upgrade feel. You’re maximizing comfort and aesthetics and often investing more for resale appeal.
A luxury 5×10 bathroom may include:
- custom tile shower with niches and benches
- frameless glass shower door
- custom or semi-custom vanity with high-end stone tops
- heated bathroom floor
- designer fixtures and layered lighting
Here, the 5×10 bathroom remodel cost can easily reach $30,000 to $50,000+, depending on materials, brands, and complexity.
Average 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Cost by Level
| Remodel Level | Typical Scope (No Layout Changes) | 2026 Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | Stock fixtures, simple finishes, limited tile | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Mid-Range | Tile/solid-surface shower, quartz vanity, better flooring | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Luxury | Custom tile, glass, heated floors, designer finishes | $30,000 – $50,000+ |
What Is the Most Expensive Part of a 5×10 Bathroom Remodel?
For most projects, the most expensive pieces of a 5×10 bathroom remodel cost are:
- The wet area (shower/tub and shower walls)
- Labor, especially plumbing and tile work
- Higher-end materials like stone, glass, and custom cabinetry
Even in a small space, labor makes up 40–60% of costs. That’s because skilled trades—plumbers, electricians, tile installers—are essential for a safe, long-lasting remodel.
Major Cost Components in a 5×10 Bathroom Remodel
| Cost Category | Typical 2026 Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition & Disposal | $800 – $2,500 | Depends on existing materials and access |
| Plumbing Updates | $1,200 – $6,000 | Higher if pipes move or are outdated |
| Electrical Work | $700 – $3,000 | Lighting, GFCI outlets, fan, code upgrades |
| Shower/Tub & Wet Area | $3,000 – $15,000+ | Big driver of overall 5×10 bathroom remodel cost |
| Flooring | $900 – $3,500 | From LVP to stone tile |
| Vanity & Countertop | $800 – $4,500 | Prefab vs semi-custom or custom |
| Fixtures & Accessories | $500 – $3,000 | Faucet, shower trim, towel bars, mirror, etc. |
| Painting & Finishing | $500 – $2,000 | Walls, trim, caulking, touch-ups |
Numbers are typical ranges, not quotes—but they give a realistic bathroom remodel cost breakdown.
Key Factors That Affect 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Pricing
Keeping the Existing Layout vs Moving Plumbing
One of the biggest cost drivers is whether you keep the same layout. A bathroom remodel without layout changes is far less expensive than one where you move the toilet, shower drain, or walls.
Keeping plumbing lines where they are saves on:
- demolition
- subfloor work
- new supply and drain lines
- patching and inspections
If you can achieve your goals while keeping the existing layout, you’ll see a more predictable bathroom remodel price range.
Age and Condition of the Bathroom
Older bathrooms often hide unpleasant surprises. Once walls and flooring are opened, you may find:
- water damage around tubs and toilets
- mold behind old tile or drywall
- outdated plumbing that isn’t to code
- tired electrical that can’t handle modern loads
These hidden bathroom remodel costs add to your total bathroom remodel expenses, which is why a contingency fund is crucial.
Level of Finish: Basic vs Mid-Range vs Luxury
Material choices affect cost more than many people expect. For example:
- LVP flooring costs far less installed than natural stone tile
- a prefabricated acrylic shower surround is cheaper than a fully tiled shower
- cultured marble or solid-surface shower walls cost less to maintain than grout-heavy tile
The more “custom” or “high-end” you go, the more your bathroom remodel investment increases.
Location and Labor Market
Your local bathroom remodel cost will be influenced by your city’s labor rates. High-demand markets with busy contractors will naturally see higher bathroom remodel labor cost than less competitive areas.
Cost by Level of Finish (Materials Only vs Labor + Materials)
| Remodel Level | Materials Only | Labor + Materials (Typical) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $3,000 – $6,000 | $8,000 – $15,000 | Prefab vanity, acrylic shower, LVP |
| Mid-Range | $6,000 – $12,000 | $15,000 – $30,000 | Tile shower, quartz vanity, upgraded fixtures |
| Luxury | $12,000 – $25,000+ | $30,000 – $50,000+ | Custom tile, glass, heated floors, premium brands |
This clearly shows why labor is 40–60% of total cost.
Shower, Tub, and Wet Area Costs in a 5×10 Bathroom
The wet area is usually the star of a bathroom—and the largest single driver of 5×10 bathroom remodel pricing.
Basic Shower or Tub-Shower Combo
A basic tub-shower combo with acrylic or fiberglass walls is the most budget-friendly option. The shower remodel cost or tub replacement cost in this tier usually includes:
- standard tub or shower base
- three-piece acrylic or fiberglass walls
- simple trim kit and showerhead
This is often part of a basic remodel and keeps your shower installation cost lower.
Walk-In Shower and Glass Door Cost
If you replace the tub with a walk-in shower, expect costs to rise. A walk-in shower cost in a 5×10 bathroom, especially with tile and a glass door, can rival the entire budget of a basic remodel.
Frameless glass looks amazing but sits at the upper end of frameless glass shower door cost. A more budget-friendly framed glass shower door cost or even a shower curtain can help control total cost.
A shower curtain is the lowest-cost option. Glass looks higher-end, but between shower curtain vs glass door cost, the curtain wins on pure budget, while glass wins on resale appeal.
5×10 Shower Remodel Cost by Type
| Shower Type | Average Cost Range | Best For | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tub + Shower Combo | $1,500 – $7,500 | Families, rentals | Practical + affordable |
| Prefab Shower Kit | $2,500 – $8,000 | Budget remodels | Fast install |
| Walk-in Shower | $6,000 – $15,000+ | Modern look | Accessibility + resale |
| Custom Tile Shower | $8,000 – $20,000+ | Luxury remodels | Fully customizable |
| Wet-Room Concept | $15,000 – $30,000+ | High-end designs | Spa-like experience |
Helps you compare common wet-area cost differences at a glance.
Shower Wall Material Costs and Options
Different shower wall materials carry different price tags and maintenance needs.
- Fiberglass shower walls cost less upfront but offer a more basic look.
- Acrylic shower walls cost a bit more but look cleaner and resist staining.
- Solid surface shower walls cost more initially but are grout-free, long-lasting, and low maintenance.
- Cultured marble shower cost is similar to solid surface, with a more classic, stone-like appearance.
- Tile shower cost tends to be highest due to labor and ongoing grout maintenance, but it gives a fully custom look.
If you want a high-end look on a budget, pairing a quality solid-surface system with a nice glass door is often more cost-effective than fully custom tile.
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Bathroom Flooring Costs in a 5×10 Bathroom
A 5×10 bathroom has about 50 square feet of floor area, so the bathroom flooring cost can add up quickly with premium materials.
- Luxury vinyl plank bathroom cost (LVP) is often the best balance of price, water-resistance, and comfort.
- Porcelain tile bathroom cost is higher due to more labor, but it brings excellent durability and timeless style.
- Ceramic tile flooring cost usually sits slightly below porcelain, with lots of design options.
- Natural stone tile bathroom cost is highest and requires ongoing sealing and maintenance.
If you add a heated floor mat, you’ll also need to factor in heated floor installation cost for materials and electrical labor.
Vanity, Countertop, and Fixture Costs
The vanity is the visual anchor of most small bathrooms and a big piece of bathroom upgrade costs.
Vanity and Countertop Pricing
A simple, prefabricated vanity with a built-in top carries a lower prefabricated vanity cost and installs easily. Upgrading to a higher-quality unit with a quartz vanity countertop cost more but improves durability, stain resistance, and resale appeal.
Custom vanities and stone tops bring your bathroom into the mid-range and luxury categories and increase your total 5×10 bathroom remodeling price.
Toilets, Faucets, and Accessories
Standard toilets and faucets are relatively affordable. However, designer fixtures, wall-hung toilets, and specialty finishes like matte black or brushed gold increase bathroom fixtures cost.
Don’t forget bathroom accessories cost: towel bars, robe hooks, shower niches, shelves, mirrors, and medicine cabinets. Individually they’re modest, but together they can become a notable part of the budget.
Cost Impact of Changing vs Keeping Layout
| Layout Choice | Cost Impact | Typical Price Range | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keep same layout | Lowest | $8,000 – $25,000 | No plumbing/drain relocation |
| Minor fixture shift | Moderate | $15,000 – $35,000 | Some plumbing rerouting |
| Full layout change | Highest | $25,000 – $60,000+ | Structural + plumbing changes |
| Add new fixtures | Very high | $30,000 – $70,000+ | New drains/vents required |
Bathroom Remodel Labor Costs for a 5×10 Space
Even with modest materials, the bathroom remodel labor cost can be significant.
Demolition and Disposal
Removing old tile, tubs, and drywall takes time, tools, and often special disposal. Your demolition and disposal cost reflects how heavy and stubborn the old materials are.
Plumber Cost for Bathroom Remodel
Plumbing is one of the most expensive trades. Plumber cost for bathroom remodel goes up when:
- pipes need to be relocated
- drains are moved for a new shower layout
- old galvanized or cast iron lines must be replaced
Electrician Cost for Bathroom Remodel
Modern bathrooms need good lighting, GFCI outlets, and proper fan ventilation. Electrician cost bathroom remodel covers bringing wiring to current code and adding circuits if needed.
Tile and Installation Labor
If you choose tile for floors or shower walls, tile installer cost and general bathroom installation labor cost will be major line items. Precision tile work is slow and requires skill.
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Hidden Bathroom Remodel Costs and Surprises
Even a small 5×10 space can hide big problems. Common hidden issues that affect bathroom remodel cost estimate include:
Water Damage and Mold
Long-term leaks from tubs, showers, or toilets can damage subfloor, studs, and drywall. Water damage repair cost and mold remediation bathroom expenses can easily add thousands.
Outdated Plumbing and Electrical
Old copper, galvanized, or polybutylene pipes may need full replacement. Knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring may not meet modern codes. Outdated plumbing replacement cost and bathroom electrical upgrade cost can both impact your budget.
Subfloor and Structural Repairs
If the floor feels spongy or uneven, you may need subfloor repair cost factored into your remodel. In extreme cases, structural repairs to joists or framing may be needed.
Planning ahead with a bathroom renovation budget that includes a 10–20% contingency helps you handle these surprises without panic.
Cost Comparison: Refinish vs Replace Items
| Item | Refinish Cost | Replace Cost | Best Budget Choice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bathtub | $300 – $1,000 | $1,500 – $7,500+ | Refinish |
| Vanity | Not typical | $600 – $3,500+ | Prefab replace |
| Floor Tile | Not typical | $1,500 – $6,000+ | Replace |
| Shower Walls | Not typical | $3,000 – $12,000+ | Acrylic/solid surface |
| Countertop | $200 – $500 | $800 – $3,000+ | Prefab quartz |
5×10 Bathroom Remodel Ideas on a Budget
You don’t have to spend at the luxury level to get a beautiful, functional bathroom. Smart choices go a long way.
Focus on High-Impact Areas
If your budget is tight, the biggest design wins come from:
- the shower and wet area
- the vanity and countertop
- the flooring
You can then choose more modest lighting, mirrors, and accessories to stay within your bathroom remodel budget planning.
Consider a Wet-Space-Only Bathroom Remodel
If the rest of the bathroom is in good condition, a wet-space-only bathroom remodel focuses on just the tub/shower area. This often includes new surround materials, fixtures, and sometimes a walk-in shower conversion.
This path reduces overall 5×10 bathroom remodel cost while upgrading the part of the room that wears out first.
Refinish Instead of Replace When Possible
Bathtub refinishing cost is much lower than full replacement. If the tub is structurally sound but ugly, refinishing can be a smart, cost-effective bathroom upgrade. If there are cracks, leaks, or serious staining, replacement is usually the better long-term choice.
Smart Material Swaps for Cost Savings
To get a high-end look on a budget, consider:
- LVP instead of stone tile flooring
- solid-surface or acrylic shower walls instead of full tile
- prefabricated vanity instead of fully custom cabinetry
These swaps control your bathroom remodel price range without sacrificing style.
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Is a 5×10 Bathroom Remodel Worth It?
For most homeowners, yes. A well-planned remodel of a small bathroom can offer:
- better daily function
- improved comfort and safety
- updated style
- increased resale value
Many markets see strong bathroom remodel return on investment, especially when the space is dated or failing.
If you’re asking “Is a 5×10 bathroom remodel worth it?”, consider both the financial ROI and the lifestyle upgrade: more storage, a brighter shower, and a room you actually enjoy using every day.
Typical Timeline for 5×10 Bathroom Remodel
| Remodel Phase | Typical Timeframe | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Planning & Permits | 1–3 weeks | Design, quotes, approvals |
| Ordering Materials | 1–6 weeks | Lead times vary |
| Demolition | 1–3 days | Remove old fixtures & finishes |
| Rough Plumbing & Electrical | 2–5 days | Code upgrades & layout prep |
| Shower & Flooring Install | 3–10 days | Tile or panels installed |
| Fixtures & Vanity Install | 1–3 days | Toilet, vanity, lighting |
| Finishing & Punch List | 1–5 days | Caulk, paint, final touches |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 5×10 bathroom remodel cost in 2026?
Most 5×10 bathrooms cost between $15,000 and $30,000 for a mid-range remodel without major layout changes. Basic updates can be lower, while luxury finishes and structural changes can push the project above $30,000.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel?
Labor and the wet area are usually the most expensive parts. Tile showers, plumbing changes, and high-end materials drive up bathroom remodel expenses more than paint and accessories.
How much does a small bathroom remodel cost in general?
A small bathroom renovation cost typically ranges from $8,000 to $50,000+, depending on finish level, hidden issues, and local labor rates. A 5×10 space with mid-range finishes usually falls in the middle of that range.
Can you remodel a 5×10 bathroom for under $15,000?
Yes, but you will likely need to keep the layout, choose budget-friendly materials, and limit custom tile work. Careful bathroom remodel budget planning and cost-saving material choices are essential.
Does keeping the same layout save money?
Absolutely. Keeping the existing layout avoids moving drains and water lines, which significantly reduces plumbing and electrical labor. This is one of the simplest ways to keep 5×10 bathroom remodeling price under control.
How long does a 5×10 bathroom remodel take?
Most 5×10 remodels take 3 to 8 weeks, depending on lead times, inspections, and the complexity of work. Wet-space-only projects are often faster than full gut remodels.
What adds the most value in a bathroom remodel?
High-impact upgrades like a modern walk-in shower, quality flooring, and a stylish vanity deliver strong bathroom remodel value increase. These elements are most visible to buyers and enhance everyday use.
Conclusion
The 5×10 bathroom remodel cost in 2026 depends on your finish level, material choices, and the condition of your existing bathroom. Basic updates can start around $8,000, mid-range remodels commonly sit in the $15,000–$30,000 range, and luxury spa-style transformations can exceed $30,000. By understanding cost drivers, planning for hidden issues, and choosing materials wisely, you can build a bathroom that fits your budget and your vision.
If you’re ready to turn your small bathroom into a more beautiful, functional space, your next step is simple: get a detailed, written bathroom remodeling cost estimate from a trusted local contractor, compare options, and choose the path that gives you the best mix of comfort, quality, and value.
