Why Are Walk-In Tubs So Expensive?
Certain materials or features can make them cost more
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Walk-in tubs can provide safety and comfort for both aging adults and their caregivers when mobility or balance is an issue. However, walk-in tub costs can range around $2,000 to $30,000. So, why are walk-in tubs so expensive, and what causes them to have such a huge price range?
Basic walk-in tubs start at around $2,000 while luxury tubs can cost up to $30,000.
Jump to insightWalk-in tub costs vary depending on safety and luxury features, material type and any required home modifications.
Jump to insightBefore investing in a walk-in tub, it's important to weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks.
Jump to insightTypical walk-in tub costs
Walk-in tubs typically start at around $2,000 to $5,000, according to our research, but costs vary widely depending on the type of walk-in tub. For example, Dominic Telymonde, vice president and business owner for Boca, a walk-in tub manufacturer, said that luxury models may cost from $15,000 to $30,000.
| Walk-in tub type | Typical price range |
|---|---|
| Walk-in soaking tub | $2,000 to $10,000 |
| Hydrotherapy walk-in tub | $6,000 to $15,000 |
| Walk-in tub with air bath | $7,000 to $15,000 |
| Combination air and water jet walk-in tub | $12,000 to $18,000 |
| Bariatric walk-in tub | $10,000 to $20,000 |
| Luxury walk-in tub | $15,000 to $30,000 |
| Two-seater walk-in tub | $10,000 to $30,000 |
| Walk-in tub with a shower unit | Adds $500 to $1,000 to your tub total |
What makes walk-in tubs so pricey?
Some of the biggest cost factors for walk-in tubs are size, material type and the installation requirements. These decisions come down to your needs and preferences as well as your bathroom’s capacity.
Size
A walk-in tub can measure around 3 1/2 feet deep. In comparison, a standard tub is usually a little over 1 foot deep. Walk-in tubs usually take up the same amount of space in your bathroom, but they’re much taller.
More features
Walk-in tubs feature all kinds of safety features and perks, like grab bars, quick fill and drain times, built-in seats, heated backrests and more.
Brand and model
The walk-in tub brand you choose also matters. There are cheap, do-it-yourself (DIY) walk-in tubs available, but even a basic walk-in tub will set you back a few thousand dollars. Luxury models are typically tens of thousands of dollars.
Pros and cons of walk-in tubs
While walk-in tubs can enhance safety and comfort, they also come with a few limitations that may not make them ideal for every situation.
Pros
- Improved safety features reduce the risk of falls
- Easier access for people with limited mobility
- Therapeutic features such as hydrotherapy and heated backrests
- Increases bathing independence for older adults
Cons
- Higher upfront cost compared to standard tubs
- Installation can be complex and expensive
- Filling and draining time may be longer than standard tubs
- Can take up a lot of bathroom space
» MORE: Pros and cons of walk-in tubs
What to consider when buying a walk-in tub
There are many walk-in tub costs to consider since there are so many customization options and features.
Installation costs
Installation costs are typically around a few thousand dollars, they’ll vary depending on how much work needs to be done.
“Walk-in tub installation costs range from about $2,000 to $4,000, though most average $3,000 or less,” Dominic Telymonde said. “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 the old tub.”
Tub type
The type of walk-in tub you choose will depend on your needs and how much you can afford to spend. There are bariatric tubs, hydrotherapy tubs and tubs designed for two people to use at the same time. Also, a larger tub will cost more than a standard-size walk-in tub.
Materials
Most walk-in tubs are made of either fiberglass or acrylic.
- Fiberglass: Usually lower in cost
- Acrylic: More durable and long-lasting, but higher cost
Features
Some features, such as overflow protection, are generally standard with walk-in tubs, according to Jamin Katzer, chief operating officer of Earth Saving Solutions, a general contracting company.
Some features you can add on include:
- Quick filling and draining technology
- Door modifications, such as doors that swing outward instead of inward
- Customized grab bars
- Heated seats and backrests
FAQ
Does Medicare or Medicaid pay for walk-in tubs?
Medicare doesn’t provide coverage for walk-in tubs since they’re not considered durable medical equipment (DME), or devices and equipment used to help manage health conditions. Medicaid also typically doesn’t provide coverage for walk-in tubs. Programs vary by state though, so it can be worth checking with your state office about coverage for walk-in tubs. For instance, you may be able to submit a claim for full or partial reimbursement for your walk-in tub if it’s medically necessary.
Can you get financing for walk-in tubs?
Many companies offer payment plans for walk-in tubs. Otherwise, you may be able to get assistance through government or nonprofit programs. For example, if you’re a veteran, you may be able to get a housing grant from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to modify your home because of a disability.
Alternatively, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) home repair program might help with loans or grants for accessibility modifications if you qualify. And Habitat for Humanity’s Aging in Place program may be able to help pay for a walk-in tub.
What are some alternatives to walk-in tubs?
If you don’t want to spend the money on a walk-in tub, some alternatives to consider include bath transfer benches or bath lifts. Transfer benches are typically more affordable, usually ranging from around $50 to $150, according to our research. Bath lifts are usually more expensive, typically ranging from around $200 to $500, though costs can be as high as $1,500 to $2,000.
Bottom line
Walk-in tubs have a lot of benefits when it comes to safety and convenience, but they come with a higher price tag than standard tubs. There are some ways to help offset the costs, but these options may not provide enough monetary support to make them accessible to everyone. If walk-in tubs are out of reach financially, you can look into other alternatives, such as bath lifts or transfer benches.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Medicare.gov, “Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Coverage.” Accessed Dec. 8, 2025.
- Habitat for Humanity, “Aging in Place with Habitat for Humanity.” Accessed Dec. 8, 2025.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants.” Accessed Dec. 8, 2025.
