How Much Do Walk-In Tubs Cost?

Walk-in tubs cost breakdown

“So many people only think it's going to be going to the store and picking out a tub,” explained Travis Hargrave, owner of Hargrave’s Plumbing in Lafayette, Louisiana. “It's just not always that easy.” Oftentimes, it takes multiple trades — not just a plumber, but an electrician, sheet-rocker, painter and others, he added.

An in-home consultation is usually a free service that most walk-in tub companies offer. This can give you an accurate quote on the work that needs to be done, explained Eric Kozak, performance marketing leader at American Standard. “This service should be free of charge and takes about one hour to go through the scope of work and gather the dimensions that are needed to understand what types of products will fit into the bathroom and the work required to complete the installation.”

Walk-in tub cost factors

Below are common costs that can increase your total. Additional comfort features, such as massage jets and heated backrests, will add to the already high price tag for walk-in tubs.

• The tub unit price: $2,000 to $20,000 or more, from a basic soaker to a luxury tub
• Labor installation costs: $1,500 to $10,000, based on complexity
• Delivery and removal fees: $250 to $1,000
• Permits and inspections: $100 to $500
• Water heater upgrades: $800 to $3,000
• Wall repairs and new paint: $200 to $1,000 (adding on tile can come with a much larger price range than painting)
• Walk-in tub maintenance: $100 to $500 per year

Average cost by walk-in tub type

This chart gives an estimate of the breakdown of what you can expect to pay for your walk-in tub, based on the type of tub you get.

Costs by walk-in tub type

Installation and additional costs

More than just the sticker price, the installation and upgrades can easily double the total cost of a walk-in tub. And so-called “all-inclusive” quotes may hide extra fees for delivery, permits and the removal of your old tub.

Request and compare line-item quotes from at least three installers.

It’s a good idea to request a detailed, itemized quote from the installer. Some brands, like Kohler and American Standard, offer in-home consultations to identify all costs upfront. Some things, like permit and inspection fees, can delay installation if they aren’t received in advance.

“A walk-in bath is a more complex product than a standard bathtub, with components like motors, pumps, seals and heaters,” explained Neil Jochman, a senior manager with Kohler Services Sales & Call Center.

Potential water heater and plumbing upgrades

You’ll want to make sure your existing water heater can fill a 50- to 80-gallon tub. If your current water heater is less than 50 gallons, you may need an upgrade. This could cost $800 to $3,000. If your tub has multiple jets or a fast-fill feature, you’ll likely require a larger water heater.

Electrical or plumbing upgrades can cost $500 to $2,000.

“Flooring can affect drain access, waterproofing strategy, and the structural support of the tub. Tile over concrete is usually the easiest for plumbing work,” noted Shaylin King, owner of Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Tri-Cities in Pasco, Washington.

“Wood subfloors may require reinforcement to safely support the weight of the tub,” King added. If the bathroom subfloor has rotted or softened, it will need to be replaced before plumbing and installation can be completed.

Older homes may have galvanized or cast-iron pipes. These materials corrode over time and may need to be replaced. “The home may also have an outdated drain slope that doesn’t meet the modern drainage code,” said King. Electrical work or plumbing upgrades can cost $500 to $2,000.

If your bathroom layout is non-standard, expect higher costs. If your home has a slab foundation, plumbing reroutes may add $1,000 to $3,000.

New, used and alternative walk-in tub options

Jochman said that buying a used tub might save money up front, but there could be concerns with reliability in the long run.

New vs. used walk-in tubs

Used tubs can be easier for homeowners on a budget, but they can lack updated safety features like anti-scald valves and may void manufacturer warranties.

“There’s also the risk of leaks or mechanical failure with used products that could damage your home. New walk-in baths offer full manufacturer warranties, tested safety features, and the assurance that all components are in optimal condition,” said Jochman.

For a new walk-in tub, you can expect to pay about $3,000 to $20,000 or more. For a used walk-in tub, you can expect to pay about $1,000 to $5,000. If you go with a used walk-in tub, make sure you inspect it thoroughly.

Here are some things to keep in mind if buying a used walk-in tub:

• Inspect used tubs for cracks, leaks and missing parts.
• Confirm the manufacturer and model for parts availability.
• Ask for proof of age and usage history.
• Compare remaining warranty coverage.
• Confirm the tub hasn’t been modified or altered in ways that affect safety.

Walk-in tub alternatives: Other accessible bathing options

If you’re looking for an alternative to a walk-in tub, consider roll-in showers or modifying your standard tub. Below is a table comparing the three options by cost, installation timelines and major considerations.

A roll-in shower is different from a walk-in tub because it has a zero-threshold entry, but you can’t actually soak in it — it’s a shower only. Modifying your existing tub can include installing safety features such as grab bars and anti-slip surfaces.

Pro tip: Future-proof your bathroom

Choose the solution that accommodates a decline in mobility and reduces your risk for falls. If you use a wheelchair daily, a roll-in shower may be more practical. If you want full-body soaking and pain relief, a walk-in tub is a better choice.

» COMPARE: Walk-in tubs vs. walk-in showers

How to pay for a walk-in tub

You may be able to pay for a walk-in tub using insurance, including Medicare and private insurance, but coverage is rare. Financial assistance for walk-in tubs includes financing, payment plans and grants.

Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance

Walk-in tubs aren’t covered by insurance, including Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance. Medicare pays for durable medical equipment like wheelchairs and hospital beds, but this doesn’t extend to walk-in tubs.

You may qualify for some coverage if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, provided you have documentation of a health condition that deems a walk-in tub medically necessary.

Check with your state office about walk-in tub coverage if you have Medicaid, since programs vary by state.

Financing options, grants and discounts

Ask about zero-interest or deferred payment plans from reputable walk-in tub brands. Compare interest rates and total repayment plans. Always get all financing offers in writing — and avoid lenders who won’t provide clear terms.

Veterans might receive some assistance with home modifications, like walk-in tubs, through housing grants from the VA.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Home Repair Program may also be able to help with grants or loans if you have a lower income.

Ask about senior or military discounts.

Check with local nonprofits for home accessibility grants. Some community programs, like the Aging in Place program through Habitat for Humanity, are also an option to help offset some of the cost of a walk-in tub.

“When choosing a walk-in bath, it’s important to look beyond price and consider the long-term benefits,” said Jochman. “This is more than just a bathroom upgrade — it’s an investment. The right choice can help you age in place with confidence and even delay or avoid the need for assisted living.”

Did you know?

You may be eligible for home improvement loans through your bank or credit union. These loans can provide a way to finance the cost of a walk-in tub over time, often with lower interest rates compared to credit cards.

» MORE: 8 aging-in-place home modifications for seniors

Bottom line: What is the average cost of a walk-in tub?

Walk-in tubs help older adults and others with mobility issues and disabilities continue to live independently in their homes. But they are a steep investment.

Special models, like bariatric tubs, designed for people who are larger, or combination (air and water jets) walk-in tubs, start closer to $12,000 and can cost up to $20,000 or more if you add a shower unit.

When shopping for a walk-in tub, consider how accessory upgrades and bathroom remodeling may impact the final price tag. We’ll walk you through all the factors that go into the cost of a walk-in bath to help make your decision.