How much does a bathroom renovation cost?

TL;DR

Bathroom renos in Australia usually cost $15k–$35k, with labour, tiles, plumbing, and fixtures taking most of the budget. Save money by keeping plumbing in place, using bathroom feature tiles sparingly, and choosing pre-made vanities. Popular styles can be achieved on any budget with smart tile choices.

Bathroom renos might be one of the smallest jobs on the floor plan, but they’re rarely the cheapest. 

Between plumbing, tiling, waterproofing and fittings, the bills add up faster than your partner using up all the hot water. 

So, how much does a bathroom renovation really cost in Australia in 2025? 

And what are the smartest ways to save?

Our Cheapestiles experts have broken it down clearly… no jargon, no upselling, just honest advice to help you budget and tile confidently.

What Goes Into a Bathroom Reno Budget?

Every bathroom reno is different, but most are built from the same core ingredients:

• Demolition and prep: Includes ripping out the old fixtures, removing tiles, prepping walls and floors. Costs vary widely, depending on the complexity of the plumbing and whether asbestos is involved.
  
• Plumbing and electrical: Big-ticket items. Moving pipes, rewiring, or installing underfloor heating can quickly increase your quote.
  
• Tiling and waterproofing: One of the most visual (and valuable) parts of the job. Your choice of bathroom tiles, finish, and layout affects both labour and material costs.
  
• Fixtures and fittings: Vanities, tapware, toilets, shower screens and baths.
  
• Labour: Tradie rates vary across states, but licensed waterproofers, tilers and sparkies are essential.
  

A Quick Snapshot: What’s the Average Cost?

Bathroom renovations in Australia typically fall between $15,000 and $35,000, depending on the room size, layout complexity, and materials.

Remember, two bathrooms are identical, but these ranges help set expectations before you bring in the tradies.

1. Cosmetic refresh: Tile over existing tiles, replace the vanity and toilet, and leave the plumbing in place. — $5,000 – $12,000
   
2. Standard mid-range reno: New tiles, waterproofing, updated plumbing and fresh fittings. —- $15,000 – $25,000  
   
3. High-end makeover: Relocate plumbing, add a walk-in shower and freestanding tub, and incorporate luxury finishes. —- $25,000 – $40,000+
   

Where Does the Money Go?

Labour

Labour often makes up 40–50% of your reno budget, especially with several licensed trades involved:

• Plumber: $80–$150/hour
  
• Electrician: $70–$130/hour
  
• Tiler: $50–$100 per m²
  
• Waterproofer: $500–$1,500 per job
  

Even small changes, like shifting the shower, can trigger extra plumbing or electrical work.

Tiles and Surfaces

Tiles cover more square metres than anything else in your bathroom, so they matter, both visually and financially.

• Budget bathroom ceramic tiles: $20–$40 per m²
  
• Mid-range porcelain tiles: $40–$70 per m²
  
• Designer or stone-look tiles: $80–$150+ per m²
  
• Add extra for forget adhesive, grout and trim.
  

Cheapestiles Tip: Apply a 10–15% buffer for tile waste and cuts.

Fittings and Fixtures

Costs vary depending on brand, finish and customisation:

• Vanity: $300 (budget) to $3,000+ (custom)
  
• Toilet: $200–$1,000
  
• Shower screen: $400–$1,500
  
• Tapware and showerhead: $300–$1,000
  
• Freestanding bath (optional): $800–$4,000
  

Cheapestiles Tip: Stick with trusted brands offering solid warranties. That way, you’re not paying twice if something leaks or breaks.

How Tile Choice Affects Cost

Tiles aren’t just decorative; they’re central to your budget. The look, format, layout and even texture all play a role.

Consult with the Cheapestiles tile combo experts if you’re unsure which tiles suit your budget or if you want to strike a balance between cost and aesthetics.

Tiles that cost more:

• Premium handmade or imported tiles.
  
• Small-format tiles like mosaics or bathroom kti kat tiles — more grout = more labour
  
• Patterned or feature layouts (herringbone, chevron)
  
• Floor-to-ceiling wall tiling
  

Tiles for tighter budgets:

• Large-format tiles — fewer grout lines, faster installation
  
• Porcelain-look tiles that mimic stone or terrazzo
  
• Matte, slip-resistant finishes that don’t need sealing
  
• Combining feature tiles with plain ones to add style without blowing the budget
  

Budget Renovation Tips That Don’t Look Cheap

Doing your bathroom on a budget? Innovative layout and strong tile choices can make even a $10k reno feel like a boutique spa.

Here’s how to keep costs under control without skimping on style:

• Keep plumbing where it is. Moving the toilet or shower can cost thousands of dollars.
  
• Use feature tiles sparingly. One splashback wall can still make a big impression.
  
• Choose a pre-made vanity. Custom joinery adds serious cost.
  
• Stop tiling halfway. Tiling to mid-wall height still looks great and saves on labour.
  
• Go timeless. Neutral tones and simple shapes won’t date.
  

Popular Styles and the Tiles That Suit Them

Need a bit of style inspo before you dive in? Whatever your style, Cheapestiles has options that strike the perfect balance between price and polish.

Here are four popular bathroom looks, along with the tiles that bring them to life.

Modern Minimalist

• Large-format concrete look tiles
  
• Matte black tapware
  
• Frameless glass screen
  

Hamptons or Coastal

• White or pastel subway tiles
  
• Timber-look floors
  
• Shaker-style cabinetry
  

Classic Vintage

• Mosaic floors or hex tiles
  
• Brass tapware
  
• Freestanding tub (space permitting)
  

Contemporary Luxe

• Stone-look porcelain tiles
  
• Floor-to-ceiling walls
  
• Backlit mirrors and brushed gold hardware
  
  

Mid-Reno Surprises That Can Blow Your Budget

Even the most well-planned bathroom reno can hit a snag, and unfortunately, surprise costs are more common than you think. 

A few hours of preparation can save you thousands once your project gets underway — and plenty of renovation headaches.

Want to stay on budget? Nail your plan early. And always get multiple quotes from licensed trades before locking anything in.

Here are a few of the common budget-blowers to watch out for:

Water damage behind walls or under tiles
Once demolition begins, mould or rot often reveals itself — especially in older bathrooms or poorly sealed wet zones.

Plumbing reconfiguration
Shifting a shower or toilet may uncover pipework that isn’t up to code or needs rerouting entirely.

Substrate issues
Before tiling, your flooring and walls need to be properly prepared. Cracked concrete, uneven surfaces, or damaged wallboard will require attention.

Last-minute upgrades
Falling in love with premium tapware, double vanities, or statement tiles can tempt you to splurge mid-project.

What About DIY?

Looking to save by getting your hands dirty?

Some tasks are go-tos for DIY-lovers…others, not so much.

Consider attempting:

• Demolition and rubbish removal
  
• Painting walls or ceilings
  
• Installing shelves, mirrors or towel rails
  
• Shopping for your own tapware or vanity (check compatibility)
  

Leave to the pros:

• Tiling and grouting
  
• Waterproofing
  
• Plumbing and electrical
  

Why Choose Cheapestiles?

We know renovations can stretch the budget… but you don’t need to sacrifice style to save money.

At Cheapestiles, we stock a huge range of bathroom tiles that are stylish, safe and affordable. 

From slip-rated floor tiles to terrazzo-look walls, mosaic features to matte finishes, we’ve got it all.

Our team helps renovators every day, whether you’re flipping a rental, refreshing your ensuite or building your forever home.

Need samples? Not sure how much to order? Want help picking between concrete-look and stone-look? Just ask.

Call 02 9790 4273 or email info@cheapestiles.com.au .