Best Walk-in Bathtubs in Memphis, TN

Memphis is full of parks, golf courses, shopping centers and music festivals, which makes it ideal for seniors in search of good weather and leisure activities. Unfortunately, the National Council on Aging reports that 1 in 4 Americans 65 or older fall each year, with most of these accidents occurring in the bathroom. Walk-in tubs help people with mobility issues make their homes safer and allow them to avoid the high cost of caregivers or an alternative living situation.

In general, walk-in tub prices in Memphis start at $1,500 and can go all the way up to $20,000 or more. The price mainly depends on the type of walk-in tub purchased, the material used and added features. For instance, the cost of a bariatric walk-in tub made of acrylic rather than fiberglass is higher because acrylic is a stronger and more durable material.

• Soaker walk-in tubs come with built-in seats, low entry steps and anti-slip floors. The standard cost range for these units is between $1,500 and $5,000.
• A bariatric walk-in tub is best for individuals weighing up to 600 pounds and typically includes a built-in safety grab bar and hand-held showerhead. These tubs cost $5,000 to $10,000.
• Luxury walk-in tubs generally come with premium additions like a silicone rubber-sealed door, hydrotherapy message system and aromatherapy kit. These units are priced around $9,000 to $20,000.

Customers should budget for installation and special features, such as hand-held showerheads and LED lighting. While most companies offer installation with their tubs, they may not build the cost into the price of the walk-in tub itself. On average, the installation of a walk-in tub in Memphis costs between $700 and $1,500. Shelby County requires homeowners to hire a licensed and registered contractor to install or convert a walk-in tub.

For seniors living in Memphis, a walk-in tub can be a more affordable option than assisted living. Facilities like The Mary Galloway Home, Kennington Point and Trezevant start at $3,499 per month on average. Individuals who care for an elderly family member might also be interested in making their home safer. While Medicare doesn’t cover walk-in tubs, it is possible to write these purchases off under the Dependent Care Tax Credit.

When selecting a walk-in tub company, make sure to discuss how it handles permits and what additional information it needs to submit an application. The Tennessee Planning & Development Division charges a $4 issuing fee for each permit and requires a minimum permit fee of $15, depending on the nature of the work expected.

While self-installation is an option, it’s best to hire a licensed or registered plumber unless you have previous experience installing bathtubs. Tennessee's Department of Commerce & Insurance allows customers to find and verify licensed professionals.