What Is A Realistic Budget For A Bathroom Remodel In Minneapolis?

One of the first questions homeowners ask AT&C Construction is simple:

"What is a realistic budget for a bathroom remodel? I do not want to cheap out, but I do not want to overspend either."

There is no single magic number, but there are clear ranges that make sense for bathroom remodels in Minneapolis.

For most projects you look at something like this:

• Small cosmetic refresh: $3,000 - $7,000

• Standard full bathroom remodel: $8,000 - $25,000

• Master bathroom or high-end remodel: $25,000 - $50,000+

On top of that, many experts suggest planning 5 - 10% of your home value if you want a serious upgrade that adds value to the property.

Let’s break this down in a way that actually helps you plan.

Bathroom Remodel Cost Ranges

1. Cosmetic Refresh - $3,000 - $7,000

This level fits small guest baths or powder rooms where you keep the layout and plumbing in place.

Typical work at this budget:

• Fresh paint and patching

• New toilet

• New faucet, shower head, and basic fixtures

• Updated mirror and lighting

• Simple vanity swap

This tier makes sense when you want the space to feel clean and presentable without touching tile, walls, or plumbing.

2. Mid-Range Bathroom Remodel - $8,000 - $25,000

This is the most common range we see as a bathroom remodeling contractor in Minneapolis.

Good fit for:

• Full guest bathroom

• Smaller primary bathroom

• Older bathroom that needs real work, not just cosmetic touch-ups

What often fits in this range:

• New tile on the floor and in the shower or tub surround

• Proper waterproofing under the tile

• New tub or a tub-to-shower conversion

• Semi-custom vanity with a stone or quartz countertop

• New toilet and plumbing fixtures

• Modern lighting and a new exhaust fan

• Some electrical updates and minor layout tweaks

This is where you get a bathroom that feels new, works better day to day, and looks good in listing photos if you plan to sell later.

3. High-End or Master Bathroom Remodel - $25,000 - $50,000+

This is the "spa at home" level. You are not just fixing problems here. You are upgrading comfort, design, and long-term value.

Possible items at this tier:

• Larger shower with built-in bench and niches

• Walk-in shower with multiple fixtures

• Freestanding tub

• Custom or semi-custom cabinetry

• Heated tile floors

• Frameless glass shower doors

• High-end tile and stone

• Layered lighting and smart controls

Based on national and regional data, a realistic split for a primary bathroom in this category:

• Basic master update: around $20,000 - $30,000

• Mid-range master remodel: around $25,000 - $45,000

• Upscale master remodel: $45,000 - $70,000+
  

What Drives Bathroom Remodel Cost

Size and layout

• Larger bathrooms mean more tile, more materials, and more labor

• Moving a toilet, shower, or tub adds plumbing work and often increases cost significantly

• Knocking down or moving walls brings in framing, drywall, electrical, and sometimes structural work

Materials and finishes

• Stock vanity vs custom or semi-custom

• Basic ceramic tile vs porcelain, large format, or natural stone

• Laminate countertops vs quartz or other stone

You pay for durability, look, and brand. The trick is to match the level of finish to the home and the goal of the project.

Labor

Labor rates in Minneapolis reflect skill level and complexity. Licensed tile setters, plumbers, and electricians cost more than handymen, but the work lasts longer and passes inspection.

Hidden issues can appear during demo:

• Old or damaged plumbing

• Rot under the old tub or shower

• Mold behind tile

• Outdated or unsafe electrical

This is why any serious budget needs a buffer.

Smart Budget Strategy For a Bathroom Remodel

Use your home value as a sanity check

Many homeowners use this guideline:

• Plan 5 - 10% of your home value for a full bathroom remodel

Example:

• Home value: $400,000

• Reasonable range for a primary bathroom: $20,000 - $40,000

• Reasonable range for a hall bath: $8,000 - $20,000

This is not a hard rule, but it keeps expectations grounded.

Separate “must-have” and “nice-to-have”

This is one of the easiest ways to control cost.

Must-have items:

• Fix leaks, rot, or mold

• Update failing plumbing or electrical

• Proper waterproofing for showers and tub surrounds

Nice-to-have items:

• Heated floors

• Freestanding tub

• Smart mirrors and built-in speakers

• High-end designer fixtures

First you lock in the must-haves. Then you add nice extras until you reach the top of your budget.

Add a safety buffer

The safest move is to add 10 - 20% on top of your planned budget for surprises.

Examples:

• You plan $20,000. Set aside $22,000 - $24,000.

• You plan $35,000. Set aside $38,000 - $42,000.

If demo reveals serious issues, you are ready. If everything goes smooth, that money stays with you.

Realistic Bathroom Budget Scenarios

Here are three sample scenarios that match what we see in Minneapolis.

Scenario 1: Powder Room Refresh - About $4,000 - $6,000

• Paint and small repairs

• New toilet

• New vanity and faucet

• New mirror and light fixture

No layout changes. Minimal plumbing and no tile work.

Scenario 2: Standard Hall Bath - About $16,000 - $22,000

• Remove old tub, surround, and floor

• New tub or shower base

• New tile floor and shower walls

• New vanity with stone top

• New toilet and plumbing fixtures

• Updated lighting and fan

This is a typical family bathroom upgrade that balances value and lifespan.

Scenario 3: Primary Bathroom Upgrade - About $35,000 - $50,000+

• Large walk-in shower with niches and bench

• Higher-end tile on floor and walls

• Double-sink vanity with quartz top

• Heated floor

• Frameless glass doors

• Feature lighting and upgraded fan

This type of project can dramatically change how you use the space every day.

Why Work With AT&C Construction For Your Bathroom Remodel

As a bathroom remodeling contractor in Minneapolis, AT&C Construction focuses on three things:

• Honest budgets and clear expectations

• Strong tile and waterproofing work that actually lasts

• Design and finish levels that match your home and your plans

What you get with us:

• Local Minneapolis and surrounding area experience

• Full-service tile and remodeling team

• Help with material choices based on your budget and taste

• Transparent communication from estimate to final walkthrough

We do not throw out random low numbers just to win the job. We explain the real ranges, help you choose where to invest, and build a bathroom that feels good to use and holds up over time.

Ready To Talk About Your Bathroom Remodel Budget?

If you are planning a bathroom remodel in Minneapolis and you want a realistic budget, not just a guess, we can help.

• Send a few photos of your current bathroom

• Share rough measurements

• Tell us your must-haves and your ideal wish list

AT&C Construction will walk you through a clear estimate and project plan so you know what your bathroom remodel will cost and what you get for that money.

📍 Serving Minneapolis, St. Paul, and nearby suburbs 📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate

Let’s turn that bathroom you avoid into a space you actually like using.