How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in NYC?

Are you planning a bathroom makeover? Whether you're considering a luxurious shower upgrade or a stylish new sink that enhances your décor, a bathroom remodel can rejuvenate your home.

From minor tweaks to a complete overhaul, every detail counts when it comes to showering your bathroom with the perfect blend of style and functionality. This article will guide you in understanding the costs, setting a budget, and finding smart ways to save on your bathroom renovation.

What Is the Average Bathroom Renovation Cost Based on Size?

When renovating your bathroom, the project can range from a simple shower upgrade to a full refurbishment. In New York, the average cost of remodeling a bathroom typically falls between $35,000 and $60,000. This cost can vary based on factors such as the size of the bathroom, the complexity of the project, the materials you choose, and other variables.

What is the Average Price per Square Foot for a Bathroom Remodel?

Another way to calculate the total amount you will spend on your bathroom remodeling project is to use the average price per square foot. This means figuring out the total area of your bathroom (length × width) and then multiplying that number by the average price per square foot in your area.

The average bathroom remodeling price ranges between $600 and $1200 per square foot. However, what you’ll have to spend on this project can greatly differ depending on the materials you select and how much work it will require to do the job.

What Are the Key Cost Factors That Contribute to a Bathroom Remodel?

To better understand the costs associated with a bathroom renovation, let’s break down some of the major expense categories:

Cost of Materials

The materials you select for bathroom remodeling are going to be the main determining factor of your overall bathroom remodel budget. Here are some common material costs:

• Tiles: The more intricate and unique your choice of tile, the higher the price you’ll pay. Tiles can cost you anywhere from $3 to $65 per square foot. Simple shapes are easy to fit together and not as expensive, while irregularly shaped tiles consume extra time and work to assemble, so they cost more. Tiles with intricate handwork will also mean additional cost.
• Fixtures: These are the functional parts of your bathroom like the sink, faucet, shower, or toilet. Their broad price range is between $250 and $10,000. Be sure to factor in the features and functionalities you want in any item. For example, a basic shower gets you clean, but there are also rainfall types with a wider shower area or even multiple spray settings.
• Cabinetry: This includes any storage units in the bathroom, usually placed under or above the sink. Custom cabinets are made to match your space, like a puzzle piece created to fit your bathroom. On the budget-friendly end, you can find basic vanity units starting around $250. However, if you're seeking a fully customized and luxurious solution, be prepared to invest anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. 
  
  The key components that make up a vanity are the cabinet base, countertop, sink, and faucet. They contribute to the overall cost. Factors like the vanity's size and any complementary accessories, such as floating shelves or additional storage cabinets, can further influence the final budget.
  

• Countertops: Countertops can cost you anywhere from $10 to $175 per square foot. These are the flat surfaces on your vanity and around your sink. Granite and marble countertops look beautiful but are more expensive. Quartz countertops are more affordable with a wide range of styles and colors. They are also known for being easy to clean and maintain, making them a popular choice for countertops in NYC.
• Lighting: This is a crucial consideration for both safety and atmosphere. Good lighting over the sink and vanity is essential so you can see well while getting ready. However, you may also choose for your lighting to be somewhat softer for a relaxing vibe or as an accent item to match your decor. The price of supplementing the lighting of your bathroom is usually between $200 and $1,000.

Cost of Labor

In a high-cost area like New York City, the average labor price can go above $15 per hour. Higher pay rates are quoted for the services provided by licensed professionals like plumbers and electricians, with an average of $30-45 per hour.

It is important to note that hiring licensed professionals when doing renovation work in New York City apartments is a must because they help comply with local regulations and guarantee good performance during the process. They’ve got the tools and know-how to get the job done right and will make sure everything is safe and up to code. This means your shower won’t leak and your lights won’t flicker.

Permitting and Inspection Costs

Plumbing permits, electrical permits, or an ALT-2 General Construction Permit from the New York City Department of Buildings can cost anywhere from some hundreds to several thousand dollars based on the nature of the job. The DOB will calculate the filing fee at the time of the filling. Further permit fees for inspections, documentation, and testing/probing are also added to the fees of the licensed professionals.

Make sure that your location is in compliance with your city codes and is up to date and acceptable. Talk to the authorities to see if you need a permit. Please don’t forget to obtain building permits because it is a mandatory step for security and safety.

The plumbing and electrical appliances team will do their work, and once they’re finished, inspection professionals will check its safety and its conformance with building codes. This is necessary for a quick confirmation that the bathroom satisfies all the regulations and functions properly.

Demolition and Cleanup Costs

Before your new bathroom design takes shape, the old one will need to be demolished. This can be a messy and time-consuming process, so many homeowners hire professionals to do the job. Removal of your old shower, tiles, and everything else that has to go is included in this. The average price for demolition may vary from $900 to $5,000 depending on your bathroom size and the material that needs to be broken down.

After demolition, the materials will need to be picked up and taken away. Your options here include a dumpster or a truck for bigger debris, depending on the demolished items. Debris pickup and removal may cost $200 to $1,000.

Plumbing Costs

Sometimes your dream bathroom might require rerouting the plumbing pipes to accommodate a new shower or vanity placement. This can be a more expensive undertaking, so it’s important to factor it into your bathroom remodel budget if it’s part of your plan.

Installing new pipes, faucets, a shower, and other plumbing fixtures may be part of your bathroom remodel. The cost will depend on the type of fixtures you choose and the complexity of the installation. The average price ranges from $1,000 to $15,000.

Electrical Costs

If you’re altering the design of your bathroom or adding new features like a heated towel rack, towel warmer, heated floors, recessed lighting, or spot lighting, this will require some rewiring. Only a licensed electrician should undertake this to guarantee safety since the outlets need to stay clear of water points like a shower or tap. Rewiring costs may start at $500 and go to $2,000 or more.

Items like sconces, exhaust fans, or pendant lights will cost more, but they add beauty to your bathroom. The most important thing to remember here is that you don’t always have to go for complex lighting systems the very first time. You can start with basic lighting and add more fixtures over time if needed. When it comes to replacing your current lighting fixtures, this can cost about $100 to $1,000+.

Budgeting Tips for Your Bathroom Remodel Project

The bathroom remodel budget factor is going to play a big part in your decision-making, as you’ll have to know what you will be spending on and what you’re getting involved in. Read our tips below to help guide your budgeting.

Setting a Realistic Budget

Before you begin the renovation process, calculate how much you can afford to spend and how it will affect the rest of your budget. Determine the amount that you will require immediately for the purposes of renovation and ensure that the available funds can meet all of the necessary requirements.

Also, it is essential to include an estimate for emergency and critical items that might be needed at a later stage of the project. This way, you can balance your finances throughout the renovation. Usually, the amount you spend on your bathroom renovation will be 5% - 10% of your home value.

Allocating Funds for Materials and Labor

After you arrive at a number for your bathroom remodel budget, you will need to determine how much will be spent on materials and work. As a general rule, After you arrive at a number for your bathroom remodel budget, you will first need to determine how much will be spent on necessary work like structural repairs, electricity, plumbing, and essential permits. This will help you to determine the total amount of money you will allocate to the decor fixtures.

As a general rule for mid-range renovation, most of the bathroom budgets are occupied by labor with 25-35% for decor fixtures, if you settle for a mid-range bath remodel. Decor can become the highest cost after labor if high-end materials with custom fixtures are used.

Planning for Unexpected Costs

Whatever you do, you will come to a point where, despite having planned everything beforehand, a surprise will inevitably happen during the renovation process. It is advisable to set aside 10% - 20% of your budget to accommodate any unforeseen expenses.

Methods to Cut Costs on Your Bathroom Remodel

While bathroom renovations can be expensive, there are several ways to save money without sacrificing quality or style.

DIY Where You Can

Demolition is labor-intensive, and you’ll get the best results in your bathroom remodel project by paying for a professional. However, if you’ve got skills and want to save some money, you could remove old cabinets or mirrors yourself.

Always know your capabilities and do only those things that you can after making sure they don’t demand a plumber’s or an electrician’s assistance. Safety always comes first!

Keep the Layout the Same

Adjusting plumbing fixtures is probably the most costly phase of bathroom remodeling. If the toilet, sink, and shower are in a good place, let them be. Keeping the original layout of your bathroom will save a good portion of the total cost.

Focus on Updates, Not Overhauls

Perhaps your bathroom does not need a complete transformation. For instance, you can give the area a new look just by doing some painting, changing the hardware (like toggles, towel racks, and handles), and replacing some parts like the faucet or the shower.

You can also do something creative such as revive old cabinets with new paint or install a new door mechanism. Sometimes even a small makeover can change the look.

Be Flexible with Materials

During a bathroom remodel, you might have to spend more on certain fittings like a mirror, a shower, or a Toto toilet with a bidet. This doesn’t mean you cannot look for cheaper price options for other items. You should also be cautious with your bathroom remodel decor options and work closely with the designer and builder to determine what the builder could offer in terms of discounts.

Bathroom Remodeling Made Easy With Modern Citi Group’s Expertise

At Modern Citi Group, we realize that bathroom remodeling is often considered a difficult and expensive home improvement project. However, with our custom solutions, you can get the bathroom remodel you want and still stay within your budget.

A bathroom remodel can transform your space and increase your home's value. The average price for a bathroom remodel varies, but our team will work with your budget to create a functional and beautiful space. We'll guide you through the process, from selecting a new shower to completing the full bathroom remodeling project. Whether you need a minor update or a complete overhaul, our expertise ensures a successful bathroom remodel that fits your vision and budget.

The more thought and effort you put into planning your bathroom remodel project, the less likely you are to face additional costs or holdups. Don’t let your dream bathroom be just a dream anymore. With Modern Citi Group’s expertise, you can make it happen today!