Best Walk-in Bathtubs in Illinois

How to choose a walk-in tub in Illinois

To choose a walk-in tub in Illinois, consider your physical needs, bathroom layout and budget. Many Illinois homes were built before ADA-era design standards, so it's critical to focus on features that improve safety, accessibility and long-term comfort while fitting your available space. Here’s what to consider as you shop:

1. Consider comfort and safety features

Prioritize grab bars, textured flooring, anti-scald valves and fast-fill-and-drain systems. Threshold height and door width matter in tight Chicago bathrooms and sprawling rural homes alike.

For added comfort, look for heated seats and hydrotherapy jets. One Illinois customer told us that their walk-in tub “has helped [them] quite a bit physically.”

2. Choose your tub design and materials

Inward-swinging doors may be better for small Chicago-style bathrooms, while outward-swinging models work well in larger suburban homes or for wheelchair users. Gelcoat tubs offer better durability and color retention, which helps in hard-water areas of northern and central Illinois.

3. Figure out the right tub size and capacity

Most walk-in tubs measure around 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 40 inches high. But compact, bariatric and two-seat models have different dimensions. Some smaller models use 40 gallons, while larger tubs hold over 100. Make sure your water heater can handle the fill demand.

4. Consider the final cost

Basic tubs start at a few thousand dollars, while high-end models can reach $30,000 or more. Factor in additional costs for structural upgrades in aging homes, which can significantly affect total installation pricing.

5. Prepare for installation

Expect a one- to two-day install, but older Illinois homes often require added work. Door widening, updated plumbing, reinforced flooring or upgraded electrical panels may be necessary to meet code and performance needs.

» LEARN THE BASICS: How do walk-in tubs work?

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in Illinois

To hire a walk-in tub installer in Illinois, first ask if the manufacturer offers in-house installation, as this will simplify the process and ensure consistency. If not, seek out a licensed, insured contractor with a proven background in bathroom remodeling and accessibility upgrades.

Illinois has an older housing stock, with many Chicago bungalows and other early 20th-century homes featuring smaller bathrooms that often require remodeling and system upgrades. However, the common feature of a full basement is a significant advantage, providing direct access for plumbing modifications.

In Illinois, particularly in the Chicago metropolitan area, where labor rates are higher, a realistic average labor cost would be in the $2,500 to $6,000 range, as many projects will involve more than a simple tub swap.

Cost of a walk-in tub in Illinois

Walk-in tub costs in Illinois typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $2,500 to $6,000, with costs on the higher end when plumbing or electrical upgrades are needed.

Confirm whether permit fees or city code upgrades (common in Chicago) will affect your total cost.

Financial assistance for walk-in tubs

Walk-in tubs are not covered by Original Medicare, but some Medicare Advantage plans in Illinois may offer reimbursement for home modifications related to safety and accessibility. Always check with your plan administrator for details and eligibility.

The Illinois Home Modification Program provides grants to make private homes and rental properties more accessible for residents with disabilities. Additionally, the Community Care Program (CCP), managed by the Illinois Department on Aging, can provide services that include environmental accessibility adaptations.

Medicaid may also help cover the cost of a walk-in tub in some cases — check the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services website for more information. And if you’re a veteran, you may be eligible for a VA grant (like HISA or HSA) to help pay for a walk-in tub.

» MORE: How to get financial help for a walk-in tub