Bathroom Renovation Costs, Trends, and Statistics in Canada (2025 Edition)

Introduction

Bathroom renovations remain one of the most sought-after home improvements in Canada. Bathroom renovations are also among the most common renovation projects in the country, reflecting homeowners’ focus on upgrading essential living spaces.

Whether homeowners are modernizing outdated spaces, increasing resale value, or improving functionality, bathrooms consistently deliver high returns on investment. Over half of Canadians prefer rainfall showers and luxurious open-concept shower designs, reflecting a growing trend towards creating spa-like experiences at home.

Homeowners are transforming bathrooms into sanctuaries for relaxation, featuring key elements such as freestanding or deep-soaking tubs, rainfall or steam showerheads, ambient or chromotherapy lighting, heated floors, and towel warmers. High-quality materials that withstand humidity and daily wear are a primary concern for homeowners when choosing bathroom materials. Layered lighting in bathrooms includes ambient, task, and accent lighting, often controlled by dimmer switches. Discover key findings and insights about bathroom renovation costs, trends, and homeowner behaviour, backed by real statistics from official Canadian sources.

If you decide to renovate your bathroom in Canada, understanding labor costs and other key expenses is essential to avoid surprises and stay within your renovation budget.

The State of Canada’s Renovation Market

According to Statistics Canada, approximately 7.3 % of Canadian households required major repairs in 2022, while 24 % required minor repairs. Statistics Canada also reports on the environment as a key aspect of Canada’s economy and society, providing crucial environmental data for informed decision-making. The home renovation market in Canada is robust, with a significant portion of activity focused on bathroom upgrades.

Bathrooms account for a large share of these upgrades, driven by both functional needs and design preferences. Older homes are more likely to need extensive bathroom renovations due to aging infrastructure and outdated layouts. Unexpected costs frequently arise during renovations, leading 40% of homeowners to spend more than planned. Custom showers can range from $2,000 to $15,000, offering homeowners a wide array of options to suit their design preferences and budgets.

A CIBC national survey found that 49% of Canadian homeowners were engaged in renovations in 2024 — double the pre-pandemic levels of expenditure. Additionally, bathroom projects are now among the top three categories for planned home improvements nationwide. In 2023, average renovation spending varied by province, with Ontario at $14,378.

Renovation Planning

When you’re planning your home renovation project in Canada, solid preparation isn’t just helpful—it’s absolutely essential for success. Many homeowners who jump in without proper planning often face costly surprises and frustrating delays. Developing a comprehensive budget that captures the true scope of the renovation—accounting for every detail, from skilled labour and high-quality materials to municipal permits and specialized trades—is crucial. This upfront investment in planning will help avoid budget blowouts and timeline disasters that commonly affect unprepared projects.

Your renovation plan should clearly define what you want to achieve, whether you’re updating a single room or transforming your entire living space. It is recommended to conduct a thorough assessment of the home’s current condition, including its age, size, and any underlying issues that could impact the project. Many homeowners may not realize that older Canadian homes often require significant upgrades to meet today’s building standards, particularly in electrical, plumbing, and insulation. These are not optional extras—they are necessary investments that protect the family and the property’s value.

Choosing the right renovation team is where your project’s success is truly determined. Smart homeowners obtain detailed quotes from multiple contractors, comparing not just prices but the scope of services, materials specifications, and project timelines. Factor in permit application timelines, which can vary significantly across Canadian municipalities, and ensure your contractor has proven experience navigating local building requirements.

Effective renovation planning is your roadmap to achieving outstanding results while staying within budget and on schedule. When you invest time in thorough preparation, work with experienced professionals, and plan for all variables, your renovation becomes a smooth, successful transformation rather than a stressful ordeal. Canadian homeowners who follow this approach consistently achieve their vision while protecting their investment and peace of mind.

Rising Costs: The Renovation Price Index

The Residential Renovation Price Index (RRPI) shows that renovation prices in Canada rose 0.3 % in Q1 2025 compared with the previous quarter. Higher costs in certain provinces, such as British Columbia and Alberta, significantly impact overall renovation budgets, especially in urban centres where local labour rates and project complexity drive prices up. By province:

• Alberta: +1.0 %
• Quebec: +0.9 %
• Ontario: −0.3 % (the only region showing a slight decline)

Between Q2 2023 and Q2 2024, the national composite renovation index climbed 3.7 % year-over-year, with British Columbia leading at +5.8 %. These trends reflect persistent inflation in material and labour costs, which can significantly impact the final price homeowners pay, though the increases are slower than the pandemic surge.

Average Bathroom Renovation Costs in Canada

Cost varies widely based on scope, finish level, and region. Bathroom renovation costs are often calculated on a per-square-foot basis, which provides a standardized way to compare estimates. Additionally, location is a key factor influencing price differences across Canada. Urban areas, such as Toronto and Vancouver, tend to have higher labour and material costs than smaller towns. Larger homes require more materials and labour, which increases costs per square foot.

Radiant-heated floors are a popular feature in bathrooms across Canada, providing added comfort during cold winters. Standard bathroom flooring costs $1 to $20 per square foot, depending on the material and design. Vanity countertops can range from $6 to $250 per square foot, depending on materials. Showers can vary in cost from $200 to $15,000, depending on complexity, offering a wide range of options for different budgets and design preferences. Modular showers can cost $750 to $1,200, offering a cost-effective, convenient solution for homeowners.

National Ranges

• Basic upgrade: $5,000 – $10,000. These options are often the most affordable for homeowners.
• Mid-range renovation: $10,000 – $20,000
• Luxury remodel: $20,000 – $40,000 +

Acrylic bathtubs range from $300 to $6,000, providing a versatile option for homeowners seeking a balance between durability and design. Enamelled steel bathtubs range from $200 to $500, offering a budget-friendly, durable alternative for those seeking a cost-effective solution.

One-piece toilets can cost between $400 and $3,000, making them a versatile option for a range of renovation budgets. Comfort height toilets cost between $200 and $3,000, offering an ergonomic option for homeowners seeking added convenience and accessibility. Two-piece toilets, on the other hand, range from $200 to $2,000, offering a more budget-friendly alternative for homeowners. Standard-height toilets are priced between $200 and $2,000, making them another common option for bathroom renovations. Elongated toilets range from $200 to $3,000, offering a sleek and modern design option for homeowners. Round toilets can be purchased for $200 to $4,000, providing another versatile option for different bathroom layouts and budgets. Single flush toilets cost between $100 and $3,000, making them an affordable and straightforward choice for many homeowners. Wall-mounted toilets cost between $500 and $2,000, offering a modern, space-saving solution for contemporary bathroom designs.

Before starting a bathroom renovation, it’s important to set a realistic budget to ensure financial control and project success. Approximately 21% of Canadians rely on external financing for renovations, with 59% of them opting for home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) to manage costs effectively. Renovation loans can be secured or unsecured and provide fixed interest rates with set repayment terms, making them a viable option for homeowners planning their projects. Renovation loans are ideal for mid-range renovations with more predictable costs.

Regional Benchmarks

• Vancouver, BC: Average $13,372 (typical range $7,785 – $19,338)
• Toronto, ON: Mid-range $18,000 – $25,000; luxury up to $84,000
• Ottawa, ON: $10,000 – $14,000
• Calgary, AB: $15,000 – $18,000 mid-range; $30,000 high-end
• Quebec: Starting at $15,500 for modest projects; high-end $31,000

When budgeting for your renovation, account for additional fees such as permits, inspections, and professional services, as these can significantly impact your total costs. Finishing a basement or expanding a bathroom can increase your home’s usable living space, transforming underutilized areas into comfortable spaces for daily living. Proper ventilation systems in Canadian bathrooms are crucial for preventing mould and mildew growth caused by humidity. Don’t forget to get multiple quotes to compare prices and labour costs effectively. Bathroom fans range from $30 to $500, making them an essential yet affordable addition to maintain air quality and reduce moisture. Ventilation duct cleaning for bathrooms can cost between $400 and $800. Bathroom lighting fixtures range from $20 to $700, offering functional and aesthetic options. Wall lights or sconces can cost between $60 and $600, offering additional lighting options to enhance both functionality and design.

Major Cost Drivers

1. Scope and Layout Changes

Moving plumbing lines or expanding the bathroom footprint significantly increases total cost. Suppose you need to create an opening in a load-bearing wall during a bathroom renovation. In that case, this can add high structural costs and require professional expertise to ensure safety and compliance. Older homes often require subfloor reinforcement and plumbing updates, adding thousands to budgets.

Cosmetic renovations, such as painting or flooring, are generally less expensive than structural changes, like moving walls or installing plumbing. Complex renovation tasks often require specialized tools and knowledge, making professional assistance indispensable for certain projects. Skipping necessary permits can lead to costly fines and delays during renovations. Dual flush toilets range from $400 to $9,000, offering an eco-friendly option for homeowners looking to save water.

Bathroom cabinets can range from $300 to $7,000, offering options for both budget-conscious and luxury-focused renovations. Bathtubs can range from $200 to $8,000, depending on type. Alcove bathtubs can cost from $200 to $5,000, making them a popular choice for compact spaces. Porcelain and slate tile installations can cost from $6 to $20 per square foot, making them a durable and stylish choice for bathroom flooring or walls. Shower doors cost between $200 and $3,000, providing a range of options for different styles and budgets.

2. Labour and Trade Availability

Labour costs remain elevated due to shortages of skilled labour. Choosing the right contractor can help manage labour costs and ensure project timelines are met. StatCan reports gradual improvements in trade availability but notes ongoing wage pressures across provinces. Hiring a professional often results in faster project completion. Professionals are more likely to deliver high-quality, polished results. However, DIY projects can save on labour costs, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. DIY projects can take longer to complete than hiring a professional, which is an important consideration for those with tight timelines.

3. Material Inflation

Projects that use large volumes of tile, wood, or concrete remain exposed to price volatility. Premium materials, such as slate tiles, can significantly increase the overall cost of a bathroom renovation. Q1 2025 data shows these materials driving much of the RRPI increase.

4. Permitting and Compliance

Building-code updates, seismic requirements, and energy-efficiency mandates in provinces such as British Columbia and Ontario add both time and administrative cost, and building permits are often required for bathroom renovations. Permits may also be needed for electrical and plumbing work to ensure compliance with local codes. Hiring professionals provides homeowners with peace of mind and ensures compliance with all necessary regulations.

5. Hidden Conditions

Rotten subfloors, outdated wiring, or water damage often only become apparent after demolition. The ease of access to hidden issues, such as subfloor damage or wiring, can significantly affect repair costs. Quebec cost data indicates typical contingencies of $1,200 – $3,600 per project.

Types of Bathroom Renovations

Bathroom renovations in Canada cover a variety of types, each tailored to different needs, styles, and budgets. These can be broadly categorized as follows:

1. Basic or Cosmetic Bathroom Renovation
   Purpose: Refresh and modernize the look without changing layout or plumbing.
   Typical scope includes replacing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and faucets, updating paint and lighting, installing vinyl or ceramic tile flooring, and replacing vanities.
   Typical cost: $5,000 – $10,000
2. Mid-Range Bathroom Remodel
   Purpose: Improve both design and function with moderate layout adjustments.
   Typical scope includes new vanities, countertops, flooring, lighting, upgraded bathtubs or showers, minor plumbing or electrical improvements, and energy-efficient fixtures.
   Typical cost: $10,000 – $20,000.
3. Luxury or Custom Bathroom Renovation
   Purpose: Full-scale transformation emphasizing comfort, aesthetics, and premium materials.
   Typical scope includes custom cabinetry, stone countertops, freestanding or soaking tubs, radiant heated floors, high-end tilework, glass enclosures, and smart fixtures.
   Typical cost: $20,000 – $50,000+.
4. Bathroom Expansion or Addition
   Purpose: Increase bathroom size or add an ensuite.
   Typical scope involves structural changes, wall relocation, plumbing rerouting, new electrical systems, HVAC, waterproofing, and full finishes and fixtures.
   Typical cost: $25,000 – $60,000+.
5. Tub-to-Shower Conversion
   Purpose: Improve accessibility and modernize outdated spaces.
   Typical scope includes removing the bathtub and installing walk-in or curbless showers with tile or acrylic surrounds, glass doors, and waterproof flooring.
   Typical cost: $5,000 – $10,000.
6. Aging-in-Place / Accessibility Renovation
   Purpose: Adapt bathrooms for seniors or individuals with limited mobility.
   Typical scope features grab bars, wider doorways, slip-resistant floors, walk-in tubs or roll-in showers, comfort-height toilets, and lever handles.
   Typical cost: $8,000 – $20,000.
7. Eco-Friendly or Energy-Efficient Remodel
   Purpose: Reduce environmental impact and utility costs.
   Typical scope includes low-flow toilets and faucets, LED lighting, insulated windows, and the use of water-efficient or recycled materials.
   Typical costs vary and are often integrated with other renovation types.
8. Condo / Small-Space Bathroom Remodel
   Purpose: Maximize functionality and design in compact units.
   Typical scope includes floating vanities, space-saving storage, frameless glass showers, and multi-functional fixtures.
   Typical cost: $8,000 – $18,000.

Additional renovation types include vanity and cabinetry upgrades, shower upgrades with features like rainfall or steam options, toilet replacements including modern and accessible models, flooring replacements with durable materials such as porcelain or natural stone, lighting improvements with layered ambient, task, and accent lights, smart bathroom technology integration, and fixture and hardware updates featuring popular finishes like matte black or stainless steel.

These diverse renovation types reflect the broad spectrum of bathroom improvements undertaken by Canadian homeowners, from practical updates to luxurious transformations tailored to regional preferences and individual needs.

Bathroom Renovation Process

A successful bathroom renovation in Canada requires careful planning and budgeting to keep the project on track and within your means. Years of experience show that thorough preparation and understanding of the renovation process help avoid costly surprises. It’s wise to set aside 10-15% of your budget for unexpected expenses.

Your first priority must be defining exactly what you want to achieve. Are you focused on essential upgrades—a new shower installation and updated plumbing that actually works—or ready for a complete transformation featuring luxury finishes and custom cabinetry that elevates the space? Establishing these priorities from the beginning helps create a realistic renovation budget and ensures investment in the improvements that matter most to daily life. Bold, artistic, or geometric tiles are often used for feature walls or flooring in bathrooms, adding a unique, personalized touch to the space. Neutral, calming colour palettes are favoured for their timeless appeal and broad marketability in bathroom renovations. Minimalist aesthetic in bathrooms features clean lines, uncluttered spaces, floating vanities, frameless glass showers, and hidden storage solutions. Prefabricated medicine cabinets range from $100 to $2,500, offering a practical and stylish storage solution for budgets of all sizes. Bathroom sink prices range from $100 to $1,500, depending on material, offering options for both budget-conscious and luxury-focused designs. Faucets can cost from $50 to $1,500, depending on the number of handles, offering a wide range of styles and features to suit different preferences.

Here’s an example: if you decide to install different types of cabinets or opt for luxury finishes, your overall cost will reflect those choices. Deciding early on your priorities helps avoid surprises and keeps your renovation on track.

Bathroom renovation costs across Canada generally range from $5,000 for a strategic refresh to $25,000 or more for a complete, high-end remodel. In British Columbia, a well-planned bathroom renovation typically costs around $10,000, while larger-scale projects in Ontario often exceed $20,000. These figures reflect current market conditions, including home size, premium materials, and skilled labour costs that contribute to durable results.

Financing and Budgeting

Various financing options, such as home equity loans, lines of credit, and personal loans, can be suitable depending on the renovation goals and individual financial circumstances. For example, clients in Ontario often plan budgets ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 for basic bathroom remodels, while luxury renovations may require investments between $50,000 and $100,000 or more, depending on the scope and materials selected.

Obtaining multiple quotes from reputable contractors and suppliers is important to compare pricing, craftsmanship, and material quality. Setting aside a contingency fund of 10-15% is advisable, as even well-planned renovations can encounter unexpected challenges.

Homeowners should also consider the financing approval and disbursement timelines, as delays can impact project schedules. Some financing options, like home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), offer flexibility by allowing funds to be drawn as needed throughout the renovation process. Personal loans may have fixed repayment terms, which can help with budgeting monthly expenses.

With thorough budgeting, appropriate financing, and detailed planning, achieving a desired bathroom renovation while managing financial risks is feasible, supporting long-term value and satisfaction. Additionally, exploring government rebates and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades can help offset costs and enhance the overall value of the renovation. By combining smart financial strategies with careful project management, homeowners can transform their bathrooms into functional, stylish spaces that meet their needs and preferences.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Bathroom renovations consistently rank among the highest-ROI projects in Canada. While exact percentages vary by region, real-estate professionals estimate 60 % – 75 % average return on mid-range remodels and up to 100 % + on strategic upgrades such as ensuite additions. Professionals are more likely to deliver high-quality, polished results, ensuring that these investments pay off in both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Beyond resale, energy-efficient fixtures, water-saving toilets, and radiant-heat floors deliver ongoing cost savings that strengthen lifetime value. These upgrades can also help homeowners save on utility bills over time.

Regional Insights

British Columbia

The RRPI shows +5.8 % year-over-year cost growth. Vancouver leads the country for both renovation demand and expense. Typical full bathroom remodels fall between $15,000 – $30,000, with premium projects exceeding $40,000. Bathroom renovations in BC are often comparable in cost to basement finishing projects, which can include demolition, excavation, or the creation of specialized spaces like wine cellars.

Ontario

Toronto’s diverse housing stock drives wide cost variability — from compact condos at one end to large detached homes at the other. Bathroom renovations are a key component of overall house improvement strategies in Ontario, often integrated with broader remodelling or extension projects. Labour availability is stable, but high demand keeps hourly rates elevated.

Quebec

Quebec’s renovation sector is buoyant, with strong consumer interest and rising material costs. Choosing reputable renovation services in Quebec is crucial to ensure high-quality outcomes and professional results. Average full remodels range $26,000 – $31,000 +, reflecting both design emphasis and craftsmanship standards. Natural stone and quartz are popular materials for bathroom countertops, adding both durability and aesthetic appeal.

Alberta

Slightly lower material and labour costs keep Alberta competitive. Many homeowners in Alberta choose to renovate their bathrooms to achieve a modern look. However, Calgary’s modern housing inventory often requires high-spec finishes, pushing costs back toward the national median. Interestingly, 79% of Canadians have cash on hand to finance home renovations; in Alberta, this figure rises to 85%, reflecting the province’s financial readiness for such projects.

Design and Material Trends for 2025

• Sustainability: Low-flow toilets, recycled tiles, and energy-efficient lighting are now baseline expectations.
• Aging-in-Place Design: Curbless showers, wider doors, and slip-resistant flooring meet growing accessibility needs. Accessibility features, such as structural blocking for grab bars, are increasingly incorporated to enhance long-term usability.
• Smart Technology: Digital shower controls, heated mirrors, and app-connected ventilation are gaining ground, with installing these features becoming increasingly common.
• Luxury Minimalism: Homeowners prefer cleaner lines, floating vanities, and matte finishes paired with warm metal accents, making this style a popular choice among Canadian homeowners.
• Hardware Trends: Matte black and stainless steel finishes are top choices for bathroom hardware, with a trend towards mixing different metal finishes.
• Material Trends: Large-format porcelain and wood-look tiles are preferred for their durability and reduced grout lines. Three-dimensional tiles and varied matte/gloss finishes enhance depth and visual interest in bathroom design.
• Biophilic Design: Incorporates natural materials such as wood, stone, bamboo, and plants to enhance connections with nature.
• Colour Trends: Warm beige, off-white, and earthy tones are trending as timeless backdrops in bathroom colour schemes. Deep blues, forest greens, terracotta, and pastel pinks are used as bold accent colours in bathrooms, adding vibrancy and personality to the space.
• Accessories: Towel racks and other bathroom accessories can cost between $10 and $600, providing options for both budget-conscious and luxury-focused designs.

Curbless showers and floating vanities are currently the most popular choice for bathroom renovations.

These trends align with CMHC’s broader findings that Canadians prioritize long-term livability and comfort in post-pandemic renovations.

Economic Considerations

The renovation sector’s growth has tempered but remains strong. In 2024, renovation investment accounted for $80 billion + in national spending, a figure that continues to rival new-construction investment levels. Homeowners should expect to pay varying amounts for materials and labour depending on market conditions.

Tariff uncertainties and material-supply fluctuations remain risk factors, according to StatCan’s Q1 2025 commentary. Contractors are advised to lock pricing early and maintain supplier diversity. To ensure competitive pricing and accurate budgeting, it is recommended to obtain multiple quotes from different contractors before starting a renovation project.

Energy Efficiency and Rebates

Government programs continue to incentivize green retrofits:

• Canada Greener Homes Grant: Up to $5,000 in rebates for energy-efficient renovations, including select bathroom upgrades such as insulation and low-flow fixtures. Homeowners can save a significant amount through these available rebates.
• Provincial programs (e.g., CleanBC, Enbridge, Hydro Québec) offer additional incentives for water- and energy-saving products. More details at Natural Resources Canada.

Outlook for 2025 – 2026

The renovation market is stabilizing after pandemic peaks but remains structurally strong. Key projections:

• Steady annual cost growth around 3 – 5 % nationally
• Continued urban demand in BC and Ontario
• Rising adoption of sustainability and accessibility design standards
• Increasing consumer preference for verified, professional contractors with transparent pricing, as hiring professionals helps protect the future value and safety of the property

Conclusion

Bathroom renovations in Canada are evolving from simple upgrades to strategic investments that improve property value, efficiency, and quality of life. Verified data from Statistics Canada and other government agencies shows ongoing growth, with inflation moderating yet still shaping project budgets. Smart bathrooms integrate technology, including voice-activated or touchless faucets, smart mirrors, digital shower controls, and self-cleaning toilets.

Homeowners planning bathroom remodels in 2025 should expect costs between $10,000 and $ 30,000+, depending on the scope and finishes. To avoid unexpected expenses, it is important to budget effectively by planning carefully, setting realistic budgets, and making strategic decisions throughout the renovation process. Contractors and renovation companies that emphasize transparency, energy efficiency, and data-driven pricing will continue to lead in credibility and client trust across all major Canadian markets. Planning for delays is crucial as renovations often take longer than expected, ensuring homeowners are prepared for potential timeline extensions. Freestanding bathtubs cost between $500 and $6,000, offering a luxurious option for those looking to enhance their bathroom’s aesthetic and functionality.

Sources:

• Statistics Canada – Residential Renovation Price Index (2025)
• Canadian Home Builders’ Association
• Natural Resources Canada – Energy Efficiency Programs