Best Walk-in Bathtubs in South Carolina

Selecting a walk-in tub in South Carolina means looking at your current needs, available space and budget. Weigh the pros and cons of walk-in tubs, and keep safety and comfort front and center. Follow these steps to narrow your options:

1. Compare comfort and safety features

Look for features like sturdy grab bars, floors with good traction, anti-scald technology and efficient fill and drain systems. These elements make getting in and out of the tub safer and provide peace of mind, especially in retirement hubs like Hilton Head or Myrtle Beach that have a higher aging population.

Shirley from Mauldin wanted a walk-in tub because her husband had trouble getting in and out of a standard shower. Now she said, “He feels safer in there because he can sit down and it’s really helped him a lot.”

For comfort, heated seats and hydrotherapy jets can turn a daily routine into a soothing experience. Extras like aromatherapy or chromotherapy can further improve relaxation and well-being.

2. Consider tub design and materials

Pick a door that matches your needs and space. Outward-swinging doors are essential for wheelchair users, while inward-swinging doors are better suited to tight bathrooms. Materials matter too—gelcoat tubs last longer and fade less but cost more, while acrylic models are lighter but can scratch more easily.

In addition to mold-resistant acrylic, ensure your bathroom has proper ventilation—especially in coastal regions like Charleston, where humidity levels are consistently high.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Tub size affects both comfort and whether the model will fit in your bathroom. Standard tubs are about 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 40 inches high. Smaller tubs use less water, while larger or specialty models, like bariatric or two-seat tubs, require more space and a bigger water heater.

Christopher from West Columbia said that although he talked about hot water tanks with the rep, he didn’t fully comprehend how much of a difference it would make. “I have a water heater, but we're looking at 80 gallons of water versus a 40-gallon water heater, so I gotta get a new one.”

» MORE: What size water heater do I need for a walk-in tub?

4. Read reviews

Check what other South Carolinians say about walk-in tubs and their installers. Reviews can give you a sense of how reliable each brand is, and whether local crews show up on time, clean up after themselves and honor warranties. Focus on feedback about drain times, door seals and the durability of features over time.

5. Compare total costs

The price of a walk-in tub includes both the unit and installation. Expect to pay more for premium materials or advanced therapy features, and remember that older homes may need extra plumbing or electrical work.

Customers may be able to access financial assistance, like South Carolina's Community Choices Medicaid waiver, which can provide funds for specialized medical equipment and environmental modifications for eligible participants.

6. Prepare for installation

Most walk-in tubs are installed in one or two days, depending on your home’s layout. Renovations in historic homes may require extra time for bathroom expansion, plumbing or electrical work. In rural parts of South Carolina, like the Pee Dee region, labor costs may be lower, but the availability of licensed installers can be limited — potentially increasing wait times.

Before installation, check that your contractor is licensed or registered with the SC Residential Builders Commission. This can help you avoid installation errors that can lead to problems down the road, like leaky tubs and poor drainage.

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in South Carolina

When hiring a walk-in tub installer in South Carolina, first find out if installation is offered by the manufacturer. If not, choose a contractor who’s licensed and insured, with experience in bathroom remodels and accessibility upgrades. Always ask for credentials, request a written quote and check reviews to ensure your installer is reputable.

South Carolina's housing stock features many Lowcountry, Colonial and Plantation-style homes. While newer homes in suburban areas offer straightforward installations, older homes may have smaller bathrooms and require system upgrades.

Given the state's moderate cost of living and newer average home age, a realistic labor cost for a standard installation would be in the $2,000 to $5,000 range. In historic districts like downtown Charleston, installation may require approval from local preservation boards, so check with your city or county planning office before beginning work.

Walk-in tub prices in South Carolina typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $2,000 to $5,000.

Financial assistance for walk-in tubs

While Medicare Parts A and B generally don’t cover walk-in tubs, certain Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may provide partial reimbursement for home accessibility modifications. Be sure to check your plan’s guidelines for information on medical equipment and accessibility benefits.

The state's Community Choices Waiver can cover "environmental modifications" for eligible individuals. For those in rural areas, the USDA Rural Development Section 504 Home Repair Program is a key resource, offering grants up to $10,000.

If you’re a veteran, you might qualify for VA grants that pay for walk-in tubs. Medicaid may also help cover the cost of a walk-in tub in some cases — check the South Carolina Healthy Connections Medicaid website for more information.

» MORE: Aging-in-place modifications