How much do walk-in tubs cost?

Walk-in tub prices vary depending on the size, type, brand, level of customization and features you select.

While you can buy basic soaker tubs from online or brick-and-mortar retailers for starting prices of around $2,000 to $5,000, these tubs are often basic models without popular features like hydrojets or quick drain features. They also often have shorter warranties that last from one to three years, while most premium walk-in tub manufacturers offer much longer warranties.

Purchasing a premium walk-in tub may cost $15,000 or more, but this figure includes a home inspection, installation and the cost of any changes that may need to be made to your plumbing system. If you choose to buy a tub and have it installed yourself, models that feature hydrotherapy average $5,000 to $7,000, while special models like bariatric or combination (air and water) walk-in tubs start closer to $10,000 and can cost up to $20,000 or more.

How much does it cost to install a walk-in tub?

Walk-in tub installation costs range from about $700 to $3,000, though most average $1,500 or less. If installing your walk-in tub requires you to get larger pipes or a wall surround, installation costs will go up. You’ll also have to pay for labor costs, which may or may not include the removal of your old tub.

Most walk-in tub companies provide an in-home consultation so you can get an accurate estimate of the costs based on your situation. Because this is a major purchase for most homeowners, many companies also offer financing options or flexible payment terms to make it more accessible.

Compare walk-in tub prices

There are several types of walk-in tubs, each with its own pros, cons and price point. Check the chart below to see price ranges for various types of walk-in tubs.

Are walk-in tubs covered by Medicare?

Medicare doesn’t consider walk-in bathtubs to be durable medical equipment (DME) and will not cover the tub or installation costs except in a few extreme cases, such as accommodating somebody with a spinal cord injury. Some Medicaid plans provide reimbursement, but you’ll need to file a claim with details about why the walk-in bathtub is medically necessary. The odds of Medicaid reimbursement are stronger when a walk-in tub is an absolute necessity. In most cases, a written description outlining your medical diagnosis and why you need a walk-in tub is required for consideration.

Does Medicaid cover walk-in tubs?

You’re more likely to fund your walk-in tub purchase through Medicaid than Medicare, but Medicaid coverage varies from state to state. To determine if you can get help paying for a walk-in tub, research your state’s Medicaid waiver policies or contact your Medicaid authority directly.

Are walk-in tubs tax deductible?

If so, you may be able to claim it as a Medical or Dental Expense. If you're the caregiver of an older person and decide to install a walk-in tub, you may be able to claim the tub’s cost under the Dependent Care Tax Credit.

While your walk-in tub may not be tax deductible or covered by insurance, you can often work out a payment plan with your walk-in bathtub company. Some companies even offer low-interest financing for qualifying customers.

Getting financial assistance for walk-in tubs

Purchasing a walk-in tub isn't cheap, but there are various other avenues you can explore for financial assistance:

Walk-in tubs are only tax deductible if they're purchased because of medical safety reasons.

• If you're a veteran, check with the Department of Veterans Affairs to see if they offer programs that help with paying for walk-in tubs.
• Look at home modification grants available in your area. Some states offer non-Medicaid financial assistance programs for older adults and people with disabilities.
• Some nonprofit organizations serving mobility-challenged communities may also offer assistance. Check with local charities and aid groups to see if you qualify for help buying a walk-in tub.

Don’t let the upfront price of a walk-in tub discourage you. While the expense is considerable, a walk-in tub is an investment in your safety and comfort.