Best Walk-in Tubs in Austin, TX

Austin has the fastest-growing population of senior citizens in the nation, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Currently, there are about 81,000 people age 65 or older in Austin, though that number is expected to rise significantly in the coming decade. A third of Austin seniors live alone in neighborhoods like Barton Hills, Old West Austin and Georgetown.

Living alone leaves seniors at risk for falls, especially when in the bathroom. A study by the Texas Department of State Health Services reported 20,000 falls by senior citizens in just one five-year period. People with disabilities or limited mobility are also at risk for fall injuries in the bathroom.

Walk-in bathtubs in Austin help keep you or your loved one safe so they can live at home longer. Walk-in bathtubs have lower entries, slip-resistant floors and guardrails to help keep users safe while remaining independent. They also provide comfort and relaxation benefits.

Prices for walk-in bathtubs in Austin vary considerably depending on what type of tub you choose and which optional features you want.

• Soaker tubs: These standard tubs offer a seat and safety measures like slip-resistant flooring, guide rails and low step-in entries. They cost between $2,000 and $5,000.
• Hydrotherapy tubs: These bathtubs use high-powered water jets to loosen tight muscles and help your sore joints relax and heal. They cost between $3,500 and $7,000.
• Combination tubs: These tubs use air and water jets to offer different types of therapy for your body, including massage and hydrotherapy. They start at $5,000 and can cost up to $10,000 or more.

Walk-in tubs are a specialty product that not all Austin plumbers can install. The companies on our list usually provide installation as part of the cost of purchase. While many allow you to buy the equipment and handle the installation yourself, you should leave the job to the pros unless you have previous experience installing walk-in tubs.

All the walk-in tub providers on our list have discounts and special offers throughout the year, so do your research to make sure you receive the best deal. Don’t be afraid to ask sales associates about available discounts. Almost every company also offers financing to help lessen the financial impact of the purchase, but pay attention to the interest rates the companies provide to ensure it's a sound long-term option.

Remember that your walk-in bathtub is an investment to help you or your loved one live at home safely longer. Austin is one of the most expensive cities for assisted living, and facilities can cost up to $4,500 per month.

The city of Austin requires a permit for plumbing work, including installing a walk-in tub. The permit cost starts at $192.17 for homes up to 2,000 square feet. You also pay $2.67 for every square foot above that limit. The city of Austin provides a page for residential construction and remodeling permit information. You can also call the city to ensure you’re following the rules before starting any remodel, installation or construction.

Whether you’re using a contractor from the company you bought your bathtub from or hiring your own, you can check their licenses through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.