Walk In Tub Cost Guide: How Much Does Walk-In Tubs Cost?

Are you exploring the walk in bathtub cost for a safer, more comfortable bathing experience? Whether you are planning a bathroom remodel for aging in place or simply want an accessibility upgrade, understanding the full price is key. The final bill for a walk-in bathtub includes both the tub price and the walk in bathtub installation cost, which can vary based on many factors. This guide breaks down every factor, from the type of tub and its features to walk in tub installation cost—including insights into popular brands like American Standard walk in tub cost—to help you make a confident and informed investment in your home.

Knowing the numbers upfront prevents surprises. The walk in tubs prices can range from a few thousand dollars for a basic model to over $25,000 for a luxury unit with all the bells and whistles. Let's explore what you can expect to pay in 2025 and what drives those figures.

Walk-In Tub Cost Breakdown (2025)

The first question most people ask is: What is the average cost of a walk-in tub? While the answer depends on many variables, we can provide clear price ranges based on recent industry data and real-world installation reports.

At-a-Glance: 2025 Cost of A Walk-In Tub

The total cost of your project will include the price of the tub and the labor costs for installation. Here is what you can generally expect to pay for different types of walk-in tubs.

Tub Type	Material Cost (Tub Only)	Installed Cost (All-In)
Basic Soaking Tub	$1,500 – $5,000	$3,000 – $8,000
Air Jet / Hydrotherapy Tub	$2,000 – $10,000	$4,000 – $12,000
Bariatric / Combo / 2-Seater	$4,000 – $15,000	$6,000 – $18,000
Luxury / Premium Tub	$7,700 – $20,000+	$10,000 – $25,000+

Average Installed Cost Range: $3,000 – $15,000
Typical "All-In" National Average: $13,100

These figures show that while a basic walkin tub can be relatively affordable, adding therapeutic features or requiring a complex installation will increase the cost of your walk-in tub significantly. It's important to evaluate both product features and installation complexity when budgeting for your walk-in tub.

Walk-In Tub Installation Cost Scenarios & Variables

The cost to install a walk-in tub is not one-size-fits-all. Your specific situation will heavily impact the total cost.

New Build vs. Retrofit: Installing a walk in tub in a new construction home is often cheaper. The plumbing and electrical systems are open and accessible, reducing labor time. A retrofit, on the other hand, involves the removal of your old tub or shower, potential wall demolition, and re-configuring existing pipes and wiring.
Small Bathroom Retrofits: Tight spaces present unique challenges. A contractor may need more time to maneuver the new walk-in tub into place, and you might need a custom-sized unit, which can impact the cost.
Urban vs. Rural Pricing: Labor rates vary by region. Expect to pay more for installation in major metropolitan areas where the cost of living is higher compared to rural locations. Permitting fees, if required by your municipality, also differ from one place to another.

Cost by Brand & Retailer of Walk-in Tubs

While we won't name specific companies, it's helpful to understand how different sellers structure their pricing.

Seller Type	Tub Price	Installation Approach	Value Proposition
Big-Box Home Improvement Stores	$1,600 – $8,300+	Sub-contracted local installers; fee is separate from the tub price.	Wide selection, frequent sales, and DIY options for the tub purchase.
Specialty Walk-In Tub Companies	$2,300 – $11,500+	Often all-inclusive, with their own certified installation teams.	Full-service experience, specialized features, and comprehensive warranties.
Online Retailers	$1,500 – $7,000+	You must hire your own plumber and contractor.	Lower upfront unit cost, but you are responsible for managing the entire installation.

When purchasing a walk-in tub, always clarify whether the quoted price includes installation, as this can significantly impact your total out-of-pocket expense. A low sticker price on the tub might initially seem like a great deal—especially from online retailers or big-box stores—but if the cost of hiring independent contractors, managing permits, or coordinating multiple service providers falls on you, those savings can quickly disappear. Conversely, while specialty walk-in tub companies may charge more upfront, their bundled pricing and turnkey service may offer better value and peace of mind in the long run. Always weigh the true cost of ownership—not just the tub itself.

What Drives Walk In Tub Prices?

Understanding the cost of a walk-in tub helps you decide which features are essential and where you can save money. Several key factors determine the final walk-in tub cost.

Tub Material: The shell of the walk-in tub is a major cost driver.

Fiberglass: The most affordable option. It is lightweight but more prone to scratches and color fading over time.
Acrylic: A popular mid-range choice. It's more durable than fiberglass, retains heat well, and has a non-porous surface that's easy to clean.
Cast Iron/Gelcoat: Premium materials known for extreme durability and a high-end finish. They are heavy and often carry the highest price tag.

Features and Add-Ons: This is where the cost of walk-in tubs can climb quickly.

Hydrotherapy (Whirlpool Jets): Powerful water jets that provide a deep-tissue massage. These systems require a pump and an internal plumbing network.
Air Jets: These produce a gentler, bubbling massage. An air jet system uses a blower to push air through dozens of small ports.
Heated Surfaces: Radiant heating in the seat and backrest keeps you warm while the tub fills and drains.
Advanced Features: Other upgrades include chromatherapy (colored lighting), aromatherapy, self-cleaning systems, and built-in audio entertainment.

Customization and Size: Not all bathrooms are the same, and not all users have the same needs.

Bariatric Tubs: These are wider and built with a more robust frame to support higher weight capacities.
Two-Seater Tubs: Designed for couples or assisted bathing, these models are larger and require more water.
Walk-In Tub Shower Combo: These versatile units include a shower head and enclosure, offering the benefits of both a shower and a walk-in bath.
Door Configuration: You can choose between inward and outward swinging doors, as well as left-hand or right-hand placement to fit your bathroom's layout.

Labor and Installation Complexity: The walk in tub cost of installation is a significant part of the budget.

Plumbing Updates: Your home's pipes may need to be re-routed or upgraded to accommodate the new tub's drain and faucet locations. A larger water heater may be needed to fill the tub efficiently.
Electrical Work: Tubs with jets, heaters, or lights require a dedicated GFCI-protected electrical circuit. This work must be done by a licensed electrician to meet safety codes.
Bathroom Modifications: This can include tile work, moving walls, widening doorways for accessibility, and installing grab bars. The removal of the old tub is also part of this process.
Permits: Some municipalities require permits for major plumbing and electrical work, which adds to the cost.

Real-World Cost Examples & Case Studies

To give you a clearer picture, here are a few anonymous scenarios based on homeowner reports.

Case Study 1: The Standard Retrofit

A couple in a suburban home wanted to replace their traditional tub with a mid-range walk-in tub with whirlpool jets. Their bathroom had good plumbing access.

Tub Unit Cost (Acrylic with Jets): $4,500

Labor Costs: $2,500

Demolition and removal of the old tub: $400
Plumbing adjustments: $800
New GFCI electrical circuit: $500
Installation and finishing: $800

Total Installed Cost: $7,000

Case Study 2: The Small Bathroom Challenge

A homeowner in a city apartment needed a compact soaker walk-in tub for a small bathroom. The installation was complex due to tight quarters and old plumbing.

Tub Unit Cost (Compact Soaker): $2,800

Labor Costs: $3,500

Extensive demolition to fit the tub: $700
Major plumbing upgrades: $1,500
Installation and custom tile work: $1,300

Total Installed Cost: $6,300

Case Study 3: The Luxury Upgrade

A family invested in a large, two-seater walk-in tub shower combo with all the features: hydrotherapy, air jets, heated seating, and chromatherapy.

Tub Unit Cost (Luxury Combo): $11,000

Labor Costs: $4,000

Demolition and structural reinforcement: $900
New, larger water heater and dedicated plumbing: $1,600
Complex electrical for multiple features: $700
Installation and high-end finishing: $800

Total Installed Cost: $15,000

These real-world case studies clearly demonstrate that standard walk-in tubs prices are influenced by more than just the tub itself. Factors like bathroom size, plumbing accessibility, and the need for demolition or electrical upgrades all play a role in determining the final cost. For example, a standard mid-range retrofit in a suburban home might total around $7,000, while small bathrooms with outdated infrastructure can drive installation costs higher—even when the tub unit itself is relatively affordable.

In contrast, luxury installations that include features such as hydrotherapy jets, heated seating, and chromatherapy lighting come with a premium price tag. These setups often require structural reinforcement, upgraded water heaters, and dedicated circuits, pushing total costs to $15,000 or more. Understanding the full scope of walk-in tub prices—from basic soaker models to high-end spa configurations—allows homeowners to budget wisely and choose the right solution for their needs.

Average Ongoing Costs & Ownership

The initial purchase is just the beginning. Owning a walk-in tub comes with a few long-term considerations.

Maintenance & Cleaning: Like any bathtub, regular cleaning is required. Tubs with jets need special attention. You should run a cleaning solution through the jet system monthly to prevent buildup. A bottle of specialized cleaner costs around $10–$20.
Water & Energy Use: A walk-in tub often holds more water than a traditional tub—typically 50 to 80 gallons. This can increase your water bill. Features like heated seats and water jets also consume electricity, which will have a minor impact on your energy bills.
Warranty Coverage: A good warranty can save you from expensive repair costs. Most walk-in tub brands offer lifetime warranties on the door seal, a 10-15 year warranty on the tub shell, and a 1–5 year warranty on components like pumps and jets. Always read the fine print to understand what is covered. Extended coverage may be an option for an additional cost.

Financing and Insurance

The high upfront price of a walk-in tub can be a barrier for many. Fortunately, there are ways to manage the expense.

Does Medicare or Medicaid Cover the Cost?

This is one of the most common questions. Generally, Medicare does not consider a walk-in tub to be "durable medical equipment" (DME) and will not cover the cost. The primary purpose of a tub is seen as personal hygiene, not medical treatment.

However, there is a small exception. If a doctor prescribes the tub as medically necessary for a specific condition (e.g., for hydrotherapy to treat a severe mobility issue), a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan might cover a portion of the cost. This is rare and requires extensive documentation.

Medicaid rules vary by state. Some states offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can help pay for a walk-in tub or other home improvement projects that promote safety and independence.

Step-by-Step Grid: How to Check Your Benefits

If you are considering installing a walk-in bathtub to improve safety, accessibility, or therapeutic benefits in your home, it’s important to explore potential financial assistance programs that may help offset the cost. Here is a step-by-step guide to checking your eligibility and securing support:

Visit Your Doctor for a Medical Prescription The first step is to obtain a formal prescription or a letter of medical necessity from your primary care physician or specialist. This document should clearly state why a walk-in bathtub or hydrotherapy tub is essential for your specific health condition, such as limited mobility, chronic pain, or rehabilitation needs.
Contact Your Insurance Provider Next, reach out to the member services department of your Medicare Advantage plan or private health insurance. Ask whether they cover durable medical equipment or home modifications, including walk-in bathtubs, when supported by a doctor's prescription. It’s important to understand the exact requirements and documentation needed, as coverage policies can vary widely. Clarifying these details upfront can prevent surprises and help you budget accurately.
Explore State Assistance Programs Many states offer financial aid for home safety modifications through Medicaid or Department of Aging programs. These may include Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers or other grant opportunities that can help cover the cost of installing a walk-in bathtub. Visiting your state’s official Medicaid or aging services website can provide detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions.
Check Veteran Benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs If you are a veteran or an active service member, you may be eligible for grants that assist with home modifications, including walk-in bathtubs. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), programs such as Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) provide financial support to help veterans with disabilities adapt their homes for safety and accessibility.

By following these steps, you can better understand the financial options available for your walk-in bathtub installation and make an informed decision that balances your health needs and budget.

Other Financial Avenues

HSA/FSA: You may be able to use funds from a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for a new walk-in tub, provided it qualifies as a medical expense.
Dealer Financing: Many walk-in tub companies offer financing plans, sometimes with introductory 0% APR offers.
Discounts and Rebates: Ask about senior discounts, veteran discounts, or seasonal promotions.

Pros & Cons by Price Tier

Where does your budget fit in? Here’s what to expect at different price points.

Cost Tier	Best For	Typical Features	Notable Trade-Offs
Budget (<$4,000 Installed)	Basic safety needs and small spaces.	Soaker-style tub, basic inward-swinging door, simple fiberglass finish.	Few or no therapeutic features, smaller size, shorter component warranty.
Midrange ($4,000–$8,000 Installed)	Most homeowners seeking a balance of comfort and value.	Acrylic shell, air jets or whirlpool jets, grab bars, fast-drain technology.	Fewer luxury add-ons like heated seating or chromatherapy.
Luxury ($8,000+ Installed)	Maximum comfort, therapy, and accessibility needs.	All features: combo jets, heated surfaces, premium finishes, outward-swinging door, custom sizing.	High upfront cost, potentially higher ongoing energy and water usage.

Budget walk-in tubs (under $4,000 installed) are ideal for basic safety needs, offering simple features at the lowest cost. Midrange models ($4,000–$8,000) provide a good balance of comfort and value, with useful upgrades like air or whirlpool jets. Luxury tubs (over $8,000) are best for those seeking advanced therapeutic features and a spa-like experience at home, though they come with higher installation and utility costs.

Step-by-Step Buying & Installation Guide

Ready to move forward? Follow these steps to ensure you choose a walk-in tub that fits your needs and budget.

Assess Your Needs (Checklist):

What is my primary goal? (Safety, therapy, or both?) Are you primarily looking for a safer bathing environment due to limited mobility, balance issues, or aging-in-place plans? Or are you seeking therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief from arthritis or muscle tension? Understanding this core motivation will help you prioritize features.
What features are “must-haves”? (e.g., hydrotherapy, low threshold) Your must-have walk-in tub features are the non-negotiable elements that ensure the tub meets your personal needs. Common examples include a low step-in height for easier access, built-in grab bars, anti-slip flooring, hydrotherapy jets for pain relief, or ADA compliance for those with medical or mobility concerns.
What features are “nice-to-haves”? (e.g., lights, audio) These features enhance the experience but aren't strictly necessary. Chromatherapy lighting, heated seats, aromatherapy dispensers, or Bluetooth speakers can elevate comfort but may not be essential—especially if you're trying to stay within a budget.
What is my all-in budget, including installation? Determine your financial ceiling not just for the tub itself, but for the entire project—including delivery, installation, plumbing or electrical upgrades, and finishing work. Don’t forget to account for potential hidden costs like permits, demolition, or structural modifications.
Do I need a specific size or door configuration for my bathroom? Measure your space carefully. Small or irregular-shaped bathrooms may require a compact tub or one with a specific door orientation (inward vs. outward swinging, left-hand vs. right-hand). Also, consider how much clearance you have for opening the door safely and comfortably.

Vet Installers:

Get at least three itemized quotes from different installers. Don’t settle for the first estimate you receive. Ask for detailed, itemized quotes that clearly break down costs for labor, plumbing or electrical work, demolition, and finishing. This allows you to compare apples to apples and identify any inflated or hidden charges.
Ask if they are licensed, bonded, and insured. Only work with professionals who carry proper licensing for plumbing and electrical work in your state. Being bonded protects you financially if the job is incomplete or faulty, and insurance ensures you won’t be liable for worker injuries or property damage.
Request references from past customers. A reputable installer should be happy to provide references or photos of previous walk-in tub projects. Reach out to past clients and ask about their satisfaction with the installation process, the crew's professionalism, and how the tub has performed over time.
Ask who will perform the work: their own employees or subcontractors. It’s important to know whether the installer uses their in-house team or outsources the job. Subcontractors are common, but ensure they’re also qualified and covered under the company’s insurance. Ask if the same crew will handle your job from start to finish.

Budget for Modifications:

Confirm if the quote includes removal of your old tub. Some installers charge extra for demolition and disposal, especially if the old unit is heavy or difficult to remove. Ask whether this step is included and, if not, how much it will cost. Also, clarify whether they will haul away the debris or leave it for you to handle.
Ask the installer to inspect your plumbing and electrical systems and identify any necessary upgrades. Walk-in tubs often require larger drains, upgraded supply lines, or a dedicated GFCI electrical circuit. Have the installer assess your current setup during the quoting process so you aren’t surprised by last-minute change orders.
Make sure the total cost includes all finishing work, like tile, drywall, and paint repair. After installation, your bathroom may need cosmetic repairs—patching walls, retiling, or repainting. Verify that these finishing touches are included in the quote, or ask for a separate estimate. Overlooking this can leave you with unexpected DIY tasks or extra contractor fees after the tub is installed.

Verify the Final Quote:

Get a written contract that details the exact tub model, all features, the total installation cost, and the payment schedule. Verbal agreements aren’t enough. Insist on a comprehensive written quote that includes the brand and model of the walk-in tub, a full list of selected features (e.g., hydrotherapy jets, heated surfaces, fast-drain system), and a clear breakdown of material and labor costs. The contract should also specify when payments are due—whether upfront, in stages, or after completion.
Confirm the warranty details for the tub and the labor. A good installer should guarantee their work. Ask for warranty documents in writing. Most walk-in tubs come with separate warranties for different components: the shell, the door seal, and the mechanical systems like pumps or heaters. You’ll also want to know how long the installer guarantees their workmanship—ideally at least one year. A reputable contractor won’t hesitate to back up their work with a clear warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions: Walk In Tub Cost

1. What is the average cost of a walk in tub installed?

How much it costs to put in a walk-in bathtub depends on the exact model, what features it comes with, and how much trouble it is to install. Most people install it, basically between 4,000 and 15,000 dollars. Across the U.S., the average cost of installing a medium-sized walk-in bathtub, even with installation and minor bathroom modifications, is almost $13,100. The most basic kind of walk-in soaking tub is the most cost-effective, installed down to 3,000 U.S. dollars can be done. But if you want a luxury model with hydrotherapy jets, heated surfaces, or customizable dimensions, you could spend more than $25,000. Plus, if you have to upgrade the plumbing, change the electrical circuits, or if the bathroom itself needs a major remodeling, all of these can make the final cost more. That's why you have to account for all of this mess when you're budgeting. Actually, it's quite worth it to put in a walk-in bathtub. Not only is it easier and safer to take a bath, but it also provides a bit of physical therapy. For a lot of homeowners, it's really an option worth considering, and spending that amount of money can bring back real comfort and peace of mind.

2. Does Medicare pay anything toward a walk-in tub?

Medicare generally does not cover walk-in bathtubs. Parts A and B of original Medicare do not count walk-in bathtubs as basic durable medical equipment. So for most people who are covered, the cost of buying a bathtub and installing it is basically out of their own pocket, and they cannot save a penny. However, it is not completely impossible to get reimbursed. If you have a specific medical condition and really need to use this bathtub for treatment, or for the convenience of movement, then ask the doctor to prescribe it, and some federal Medicare Advantage plans (that is, Part C) may reimburse part of it. But this situation is really rare, and you have to provide a lot of detailed medical documents when you reimburse, and you can't miss any of them. The procedure is quite troublesome. So the most reliable thing is to take the initiative to ask your federal Medicare plan provider and ask carefully whether the cost of buying a walk-in bathtub in your case can be reimbursed and how much it can be reimbursed. This matter cannot be sloppy. If you buy it without asking clearly, you may end up having to bear all the expenses yourself, which is not worth spending money in vain. After all, this thing is not cheap in itself, and every penny saved is a penny.

3. Do you have to sit in a walk-in bath while it fills up?

For safety reasons, when using a walk-in bathtub, people must sit in it while filling it with water. Before draining the water, the bathtub door must be closed tightly and sealed tightly, otherwise the water will easily leak out, not only making the bathroom wet, but also causing people to slip. For the same reason, you must sit in the bathtub when draining the water, and wait until the water is completely drained before you can safely open the door and get out. The waiting time in between is indeed a bit unbearable, especially in winter, when the water temperature drops quickly and it is easy to catch a cold while sitting. Therefore, many people will deliberately choose those models with fast filling faucets and fast drainage systems, which can greatly shorten the time waiting for the water to be filled and drained. If it is equipped with a heated seat, it will be more comfortable, and you will not feel cold while sitting and waiting, and the whole process will be smooth. These designs look simple, but they can really improve the bathing experience, so that people don’t have to suffer while waiting, and can also avoid accidents caused by opening the door in a hurry. After all, using this kind of bathtub is for safety and convenience. Only when these details are done well can people really use it with confidence and comfort.

4. Are walk-in tubs worth it for resale value?

A walk-in bathtub is a very special bathroom fixture that can add a lot of value to a home for buyers who need barrier-free facilities, such as the elderly or people with limited mobility. In the eyes of these people, this bathtub is not just an ordinary bathroom product, but also an important selling point and a key configuration to improve home safety. When choosing a house, they are likely to give extra points for this facility. But from another perspective, for young families or buyers who are not troubled by mobility problems, walk-in bathtubs may not be so attractive. Not only will it not make the house more valuable, but it may even be regarded as a small disadvantage because of its special design and narrow audience, affecting the overall evaluation of the house. In fact, the core value of a walk-in bathtub is reflected when you live in it. It can bring real safety guarantees, making people feel more at ease when bathing; it can maintain the independence of users without always bothering others; and it can also increase the comfort of bathing. These are far more important than its impact on the resale price of the house. After all, living comfortably is the most real.

5. What are common hidden costs?

When installing a walk-in tub, there are many hidden expenses that often catch homeowners off guard. These extra expenses can be substantial: if the old water heater in your home is slow to boil water and can't supply enough water for the tub, you'll have to spend money to upgrade it; for safety reasons, you'll have to hire a licensed electrician to put in a special GFCI-protected circuit, which is another expense; and after removing the old bathtub or shower, there will inevitably be damage to the walls, floors, and tiles, which will cost money to repair as well. In addition, the permit fee charged by the local building department is mandatory and must be factored into the total cost. These hidden costs often add up to quite a bit more than expected, and can easily upset the original budget. To avoid being surprised by the costs that pop up out of nowhere, be sure to have the installer give a detailed itemized quote that lists all the expenses that may be involved in the project. It is important to understand these things in advance, and to take the initiative to understand all the potential expenses , and to take the initiative to understand all the potential expenses, in order to calculate the budget accurately, so as not to the last minute suddenly need to spend more money, and make a mess.

References

https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/