When you begin thinking about remodeling your bathroom, the first question that often comes to mind is: how much is this going to cost? It’s a fair and important question—and one we’re asked regularly by homeowners across the Greater St. Louis area. Whether you’re in the early planning stages or finally ready to transform your outdated space, understanding the real cost of a bathroom remodel helps you make informed, confident decisions from day one.
At Morganco Design Build, we believe in transparency, precision, and purpose-driven design. We don't offer cookie-cutter pricing because no two bathrooms—or homeowners—are alike. The cost to remodel a bathroom in Missouri varies significantly depending on the size of the space, the scope of the work, the level of customization, and the quality of materials used. What remains constant is our approach: meticulous planning, expert craftsmanship, and clear communication every step of the way.
This guide breaks down the details behind bathroom remodeling costs in Missouri—specifically tailored to the homes, neighborhoods, and preferences we see throughout St. Louis. From project examples to budgeting strategies, our goal is to arm you with the insight you need to move forward with clarity and confidence.
To know more about our bathroom remodeling services, click here!
Small Powder Room vs. Full Master Bath
In the Greater St. Louis region, the cost of a bathroom remodel typically ranges from $20,000 to over $90,000, depending on the size, complexity, and level of finish. A simple powder room update—new vanity, fixtures, tile, and paint—can fall in the $15,000–$25,000 range. These are usually quicker projects with minimal plumbing relocation and modest square footage.
A mid-range hall bathroom, such as those commonly found in neighborhoods like Webster Groves or Ballwin, tends to run between $30,000–$50,000. These might include updated tub/shower combos, double vanities, premium tilework, and new lighting.
On the higher end, a custom master bathroom remodel, such as those in Ladue, Town and Country, or Chesterfield, can easily exceed $70,000–$100,000+. These projects often involve reworking layouts, relocating plumbing, high-end materials, spa-like features (think steam showers or heated floors), and custom cabinetry.
What Influences Price in the St. Louis Market?
Missouri’s cost of living is lower than coastal markets, but don’t mistake that for a shortcut on quality. St. Louis homes—many of which date back to the early 1900s—often come with their own set of quirks: plaster walls, outdated plumbing, or structural surprises once we open the walls. All of these can impact budget and timeline.
Another factor is home value and neighborhood standards. If you live in a historic home in the Central West End or a newer build in Wildwood, your remodel should reflect both your lifestyle and the long-term value of your property. That’s where a thoughtful design-build approach ensures the end result feels cohesive, elevated, and built to last.
Key Factors That Impact Bathroom Remodeling Costs
Every bathroom remodel has its own fingerprint. The decisions you make—both big and small—shape the final cost. At Morganco Design Build, we walk clients through these choices carefully, knowing each detail contributes to the space’s function, feel, and longevity.
Size and Layout
The size of your bathroom is the most immediate cost driver. A compact 5'x8' hall bath requires fewer materials and labor than a sprawling master suite with a separate shower, tub, and double vanity.
However, layout changes are where costs can climb. If you’re reconfiguring the entire space—relocating the toilet, moving walls, or expanding into an adjacent closet—that requires more intensive labor, structural updates, and likely plumbing and electrical rerouting.
That’s not a bad thing—sometimes a layout shift is exactly what a home needs to feel more open and efficient. But it’s important to factor in both material and mechanical impact when planning your budget.
Scope of Work: Cosmetic vs. Full Gut
Not all remodels are created equal. A cosmetic refresh—new tile, paint, vanity, and fixtures—can be more budget-friendly, especially if the existing layout and systems are in good shape.
A full gut renovation, on the other hand, means taking the bathroom down to the studs. This is common in older St. Louis homes, where original plumbing or wiring isn’t up to current code. Full remodels give you a clean slate to rebuild exactly what you want, but they also come with a higher investment and a longer timeline.
We often advise clients: if your bathroom is more than 20 years old and you’re already opening walls, go ahead and address the “bones” of the room while you’re there. It may cost a bit more upfront, but it prevents costly future repairs.
Material Selections: Tile, Fixtures, Vanities
Material choices have one of the biggest influences on cost—and also on the feel and durability of the space. You can find a porcelain tile for $3/sq ft or $30/sq ft, and the difference isn’t just aesthetic. Higher-end materials tend to offer better longevity, easier maintenance, and a more refined finish.
Fixtures and vanities can also vary widely. A stock vanity from a big-box store might cost a few hundred dollars, but a custom-built piece designed to fit your space precisely can be a showstopper that elevates the entire room. In homes like those in Clayton or Frontenac, we often recommend tailored pieces that match the architectural integrity of the home.
Our team works closely with each client to balance splurge and save decisions—prioritizing elements like high-traffic surfaces or visual focal points, while being smart about areas where mid-range options can still deliver great results.
Plumbing & Electrical Considerations
Behind-the-wall updates are often overlooked during the planning phase—but they can significantly affect your budget. If your project includes:
Upgrading from a single to double vanity (new plumbing line)
Adding recessed lighting or sconces (new wiring or circuits)
Installing a heated floor system (subfloor modifications + electrical work)
Converting a tub to a walk-in shower (drain relocation and waterproofing)
...you’re looking at added investment, but also major functional and comfort gains.
We’re deeply familiar with the mechanical challenges of remodeling in St. Louis’s diverse housing stock—from historic brick homes in Lafayette Square to post-war ranches in Crestwood. That experience helps us anticipate and plan for these upgrades so there are fewer surprises during construction.
Custom Features: Heated Floors, Steam Showers, Built-Ins
Luxury lives in the details. A well-designed bathroom doesn’t just look beautiful—it feels intuitive, warm, and indulgent. Some of the most popular custom features we’ve installed include:
Radiant heated floors for cold Missouri mornings
Steam showers with built-in benches and aromatherapy
Niches and built-in shelving for elegant storage
Integrated lighting with dimmers for mood and function
High-end hardware and finishes that feel substantial and timeless
These features add to the cost—but also to the value and experience of your home. For many homeowners, especially those planning to stay long-term, they’re well worth the investment.
Bathroom Remodeling Cost Breakdown
Understanding how your investment is allocated helps you make informed decisions—not just about budget, but about where to prioritize for the best results. Here’s how the average bathroom remodel budget typically breaks down in Missouri when working with a full-service design-build team like Morganco.
| Category | % of Total Budget | Typical Cost Range (Based on $50K Project) |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design & Planning | 10–15% | $5,000 – $7,500 | Layout design, 3D renderings, permits, material selections |
| Demolition & Prep Work | 5–10% | $2,500 – $5,000 | Tear-out, disposal, site protection, prep for new install |
| Plumbing & Electrical | 15–20% | $7,500 – $10,000 | Fixture moves, new circuits, heated floors, ventilation |
| Tile & Flooring | 15–20% | $7,500 – $10,000 | Tile labor, waterproofing, flooring materials and install |
| Cabinetry & Countertops | 10–15% | $5,000 – $7,500 | Custom or semi-custom vanities, stone or quartz counters |
| Fixtures & Finishes | 10–15% | $5,000 – $7,500 | Faucets, sinks, mirrors, lighting, accessories |
| Painting & Final Touches | 5% | $2,500 | Paint, caulking, detailing, project closeout |
| Contingency Reserve | 10–15% (recommended) | $5,000 – $7,500 | Buffer for surprises like subfloor repair or code updates |
Disclaimer: This is just an estimate. To know more about our bathroom services costs, click here to schedule an appointment. Bathroom sizes, conditions, and functions differ and so are costs.
Design & Planning (10–15%)
Great remodeling starts well before demolition. Our design process includes layout optimization, material selections, 3D renderings, and permitting. We also ensure everything is technically sound—especially in older homes where we often find surprises behind walls.
A thoughtful design phase ensures you get not only a beautiful space but also one that works seamlessly with your daily routines. In our experience, this stage prevents costly change orders down the line.
Demolition & Prep Work (5–10%)
Removing the existing bathroom may seem straightforward, but there’s a right way to do it. We take care to protect your home during demolition, using containment methods, HEPA filters, and floor protection to minimize disruption. In historic St. Louis homes, this step is especially delicate—older materials like lathe and plaster or cast iron pipes require skilled handling.
Plumbing, Electrical, and Mechanical (15–20%)
Behind-the-wall systems are a major cost center, particularly if you’re relocating fixtures, upgrading electrical to meet code, or adding amenities like heated floors or a freestanding tub. We use licensed professionals for all trades and ensure everything is code-compliant and built for long-term reliability.
Tile & Flooring Installation (15–20%)
Tile work is one of the most labor-intensive—and visually impactful—parts of the job. From herringbone marble to large-format porcelain, the skill of the installer makes all the difference. We never rush or cut corners here; every edge, grout line, and transition is carefully planned.
Flooring choices also matter: a high-quality porcelain or natural stone will elevate the room and stand up to years of moisture and traffic.
Cabinetry & Countertops (10–15%)
Whether you choose semi-custom or fully custom cabinetry, this is where function meets form. In master bathrooms especially, we often build furniture-style vanities with integrated storage, designed to match your lifestyle and the home’s aesthetic. Stone countertops like quartz or quartzite provide durability and timeless appeal.
Fixtures & Finishes (10–15%)
Sinks, faucets, lighting, mirrors, and hardware—these finishing touches bring your vision together. Quality here is critical. In our Clayton and Ladue remodels, we often specify solid brass fixtures or designer lighting to add richness and longevity to the space.
Painting & Final Touches (5%)
After the dust settles, the final stage includes painting, sealing, touch-ups, and a meticulous walkthrough. Our team checks every detail to ensure the space meets our standard of excellence. You don’t just get a finished bathroom—you get a space that feels intentional and perfectly complete.
How to Plan Your Remodel Budget Wisely
There’s an art to budgeting a bathroom remodel—and it’s not just about cutting costs. It’s about making thoughtful choices that serve your lifestyle, your home’s character, and your long-term goals.
At Morganco Design Build, we guide every client through a budgeting process that prioritizes value and vision, not just numbers on a spreadsheet.
Prioritize Function First, Then Aesthetics
A beautifully tiled shower won’t matter if the plumbing behind it is failing. That’s why we always recommend starting with functionality. Focus on what’s not working in your current bathroom—storage, layout, lighting—and make sure the new design resolves those issues.
Once function is addressed, then we layer in materials and finishes that elevate the experience. Form should follow function—but never at the expense of craftsmanship.
READ: Smart Bathroom Layouts That Make the Most of Limited Space
Be Strategic with Splurges and Saves
Not every element needs to be top-of-the-line. It’s about knowing where to invest:
Where to Splurge:
Custom vanities or cabinetry (especially in tight or awkward spaces)
Tile and shower systems (these get the most daily wear)
Heated flooring or luxury fixtures (comfort-driven, high-impact)
Where to Save:
Stock mirrors or lighting (can be upgraded later)
Mid-range vanities in secondary bathrooms
Keeping the existing layout, when it works
Our job is to help you navigate these decisions so that every dollar works harder—and delivers more.
Why Contingency Matters
Even with careful planning, remodeling can reveal surprises—especially in older St. Louis homes. From outdated plumbing to hidden water damage, there’s always the potential for the unexpected.
That’s why we recommend a 10–15% contingency reserve in every budget. It gives you flexibility and peace of mind, and ensures the project can keep moving without compromise if issues arise.
Choosing the Right Team for Value & Craftsmanship
Cost is important, but who you work with has the biggest impact on the outcome. The right team will:
Design with intent, not just trend
Communicate clearly and regularly
Respect your home, your time, and your investment
Stand by their work with integrity
We’ve earned the trust of homeowners across the St. Louis region by treating every project like it’s our own home. Because to us, it is. That’s the difference between a contractor and a true design-build partner.
Is a Bathroom Remodel Worth the Investment?
Bathroom remodels are consistently ranked among the top home improvement projects for ROI—and in Missouri, that trend holds strong.
Home Value in St. Louis Neighborhoods
In areas like University City, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, and Clayton, a well-designed bathroom can significantly boost resale appeal. Buyers respond to updated baths that feel modern, clean, and functional.
According to regional data, midrange bathroom remodels in Missouri recoup about 60–70% of their cost, while upscale remodels may see a slightly lower ROI, depending on the neighborhood. But value isn’t always about resale.
Lifestyle Improvements Beyond ROI
A bathroom remodel is one of the few upgrades that enhances your quality of life every single day. The comfort of radiant heat on a cold morning. The efficiency of smart storage. The peace of a calming, well-lit shower space.
These are not just upgrades—they’re improvements to how you live, how you relax, and how you feel in your home.
Remodeling your bathroom is a serious investment—but when done right, it’s one of the most rewarding ones you can make.
At Morganco Design Build, we don’t chase trends or cut corners. We build with purpose, precision, and pride—guided by three generations of craftsmanship and a deep respect for the homes we touch.
If you're considering a bathroom remodel in the Greater St. Louis area, we’re here to guide you through every step—with clarity, care, and confidence. From budget planning to the final tile, you’ll know your investment is in the hands of a team that treats your home like their own. Click here to schedule a FREE consultation.