Walk-in bathtubs have high sides and accessible entry doors that make bathing safer and more comfortable for older adults or anyone with limited mobility. The average cost for a walk-in tub is $2,000–$5,000, not including installation. Luxury models can run $20,000 or more. This guide will break down the pros and cons of walk-in tubs so homeowners can decide if the cost is a worthwhile investment.

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What is the Average Cost of a Walk-in Tub?

The cost of a walk-in tub can range from $2,000–$5,000. However, installation adds another $2,000–$10,000, raising the average total cost to between $4,000 and $15,000. Below are some of the factors that influence the overall cost of a walk-in tub.

Cost by Walk-In Tub Brand

As with most things, walk-in tub costs vary by the brand you choose. Exact tub prices are typically only available by quote and depend on the model and features. However, Safe Step tends to be toward the low end of the cost spectrum while Jacuzzi is at the high end. Kohler walk-in tubs come in the widest variety of price points. See price ranges for six popular walk-in tub brands below.

Brand	Cost
American Standard	$3,000–$8,000
Ella’s Bubbles	$4,000–$10,000
Jacuzzi	$5,000–$10,000
Kohler	$2,000–$15,000
Safe Step	$2,000–$5,000
Universal	$2,000–$9,000

Cost by Type of Walk-In Tub

A basic walk-in tub allows the bather to soak while sitting upright and provides greater accessibility. However, some models have additional features such as air jets, water jets, or double doors. High-end tubs with more features are more expensive, as are two-person tubs.

The chart below breaks down price ranges for some of the best walk-in tubs by type, not including installation costs.

Compare the special features of each type of tub in the table below.

Type of Tub	Special Feature
Aerotherapy tub	Air jets
Bariatric tub	Larger width
Basic soaking tub	Improved safety and accessibility
Combination shower/tub	Higher walls and shower fixtures
Hydrotherapy/whirlpool tub	Water jets
Luxury tub	Multiple (e.g. heated seats, remote controls, etc.)
Two-seater tub	Two backrests facing each other
Wheelchair-accessible tub	ADA compliant

Cost by Walk-In Tub Material

Most walk-in bathtubs are either made of fiberglass sprayed with a layer of gelcoat or acrylic reinforced by fiberglass. Acrylic tubs are more expensive, but they’re also more durable and popular. Not all brands or styles of tubs are available in both materials. Gelcoat tubs typically range from $2,000–$5,000. Acrylic tubs, on the other hand, cost between $3,000–$10,000.

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How Can You Save on Walk-in Tub Costs?

There are a few ways to cut costs when buying and installing one of these tubs.

• Go minimalist: The price of extra features can add up quickly, so consider whether you need add-ons like chromotherapy lights or air bath jets.
• Minimize labor costs: Have the new tub installed in the same space as the old one.
• Look for payment plans: Many retailers allow you to pay in installments.
• Get multiple estimates: The prices of most walk-in tubs are only available by quote, so get several for comparison.
• Buy materials yourself: You’ll probably need materials such as tiles and tub surrounds in addition to the tub. If possible, purchase these yourself instead of going through the installation contractor.
• Look for local grants: Some areas of the United States offer home modification grants for elderly adults and people with disabilities to make their homes more accessible.

Does Health Insurance Cover Walk-in Tubs?

Medicare doesn’t typically consider walk-in tubs durable medical equipment. Walk-in tubs improve comfort, but Medicare will not cover their cost unless a doctor can prove that one of these tubs is necessary to treat a specific medical condition. In some states, those on Medicaid may be eligible for partial reimbursement for the price of the tub itself, but not the installation.

As for private health insurance, you’ll need to check the specifics of your policy. It’s unlikely that the insurance company will cover the cost of a walk-in tub unless a doctor can prove it’s medically necessary and likely to prevent future health problems. When possible, it’s a good idea to meet with an insurance agent in person, armed with documentation from your primary care provider.

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What Are Additional Walk-In Tub Cost Factors?

When considering overall walk-in tub installation costs, here are some factors to keep in mind.

Installation and Labor

As you might expect, replacing a bathtub costs more than lining or refinishing it. Installation costs vary by the type of walk-in tub since some require more sophisticated plumbing or fixtures. Standard tubs tend to be the least expensive, and tub/shower combos and bariatric tubs tend to be the most. Your bathroom’s current plumbing and layout may also determine the difficulty and cost of walk-in tub installation.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the expenses that may influence the price of walk-in tub installation:

Project	Cost
Installing a tankless water heater	$1,200–$3,500
Moving water supply pipes/hardware	$500–$2,500
Replacing drain pipe to accommodate quick drainage	$250–$2,500
Replacing flooring or drywall	$1,000–$5,000
Widening bathroom door	$1,500–$3,500

Converting a Shower to a Tub

Converting a shower to a tub isn’t as simple as removing the previous tub or shower and connecting the pipes to the new one. Walk-in tubs are taller than their counterparts, so the water supplies and drains will need to be reconfigured to fill and empty the new tub properly.

Below are a few costs associated with converting a shower to a tub:

• Extension panels if the new walk-in tub is shorter in length than the previous one ($250–$300) 
• Replacing the tub surrounds or materials that prevent water damage ($200—$1,000)
• Your tub’s flange, or raised rim, may need to be replaced to fit the new fixtures better ($50–$150)

Doors

Walk-in tubs have doors that allow people with limited mobility to enter and exit without stepping over the side of the tub. The usual height of a walk-in tub entrance is 4-7 inches. Inward-opening doors save space in the bathroom, but outward-opening doors offer more space inside the tub. All other features being equal, you’ll pay about $400–$600 more for an outward-opening door. 

The standard walk-in tub door is U-shaped, but larger and combination tubs may have S-shaped doors that are wider at the top. L-shaped doors have an even larger opening at the top, ideal for users who need caregiver assistance to get in and out of the tub. 

Because of these differences in function, you’ll rarely see a single tub model available in all three door shapes. For tubs of comparable size, you’ll probably pay $400–$600 more for an S-shaped door and $600–$800 more for an L-shaped door.

Extra Features and Upgrades

Many add-on features can upgrade the comfort, safety, and convenience of a basic walk-in tub. Typically, you have to order a model that already has these features rather than having them installed later on. And of course, they all cost extra. Here are a few of the features you can look out for:

• ADA-compliant seating
• Aromatherapy (built-in scent diffusers)
• Chromotherapy (built-in colored lights)
• Grab bars
• Heated seats and backrests
• Ozone sterilization that sanitizes the tub
• Quick fill and drain
• Slip-resistant floor

Plumbing and Electrical

Walk-in tub installation is not a do-it-yourself (DIY) job, so you’ll need to hire a plumber or general contractor. You may need to increase the size of the drain pipes if you’ve chosen a tub with a fast-drain feature. As these pipes are usually in the floor and wall, it could require opening these spaces to get to the drains and vents. You may also need to replace your water heater to fill the new larger tub. Licensed plumbers charge between $50 and $150 per hour for jobs like this, depending on their experience level.

If your new tub has features such as air or whirlpool jets that require power to run, a dedicated electrical circuit must be added to power these features. A licensed electrician typically charges between $40 and $100 per hour. If your home is older, you may need electrical panel upgrades as well to accommodate the new circuit.

Structural Support

Fuson says you may also need structural reinforcement underneath the new tub if the floor joints are not designed to support that much weight, increasing the project’s overall cost. This can be accomplished by adding additional joists or a beam under the existing joists, but it’ll involve engineered drawings, a permit, and a general contractor either way.  This extra work won’t be required if the tub is placed on an existing concrete slab.

Remodeling

Because a walk-in tub can necessitate a layout change, you may find yourself remodeling the bathroom entirely. The total cost of a remodel depends on how extensive it is, but remodeling typically costs between $100 and $200 per square foot of bathroom space.

Space

Walk-in tubs are usually fitted into alcoves where existing tubs have been installed since this requires minimal changes to the existing plumbing. If you need a larger tub for wheelchair access or put the walk-in tub in a different spot, you’ll have additional costs.

Tiling

Whether or not you decide to remodel your bathroom around the walk-in tub, you’ll likely need to replace your tub surrounds. Professional bathroom tiling can cost $7–$25 per square foot depending on the price and size of the tiles.

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How To Choose a Walk-In Tub

Once you’ve set your budget, here are some questions to ask yourself when deciding between different types of walk-in tubs.

• What features do I need? Which features can I live without?
• Where in the bathroom will I install the tub?
• Do I want an inward- or outward-opening door?
• Will the tub size require me to upgrade my water heater?
• What safety features do I need (grab bars, scald prevention, low step, etc.)?
• Does the tub come with a lifetime warranty?

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Are Walk-in Tubs Worth it?

Walk-in tubs can provide a safer and more comfortable bathing experience for people with disabilities or other mobility issues, but they’re expensive to buy and install. They also have downsides like potential leaks, increased utility bills, and certain safety issues. Don’t count on health insurance to cover some or all of the costs. Plan your budget carefully to determine whether a walk-in tub is worth the financial cost.

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FAQs About Walk-in Tub Costs

Are walk-in tubs worth the cost?

Walk-in tubs can be worth the cost if improved safety and comfort when bathing are priorities for you. However, there are some cons to consider before installing one in your home. Not only are they expensive to buy and install, but they also use a great deal of hot water, which could increase your utility bills. Additionally, you have to sit in them with the door closed while the tub is filling and draining. This could lead to older adults being exposed to potential scalding or hypothermia.

Do walk-in tubs add value to your home?

Whether a walk-in tub will add value to your home largely depends on your neighborhood and your home’s prospective buyers. If you live in a retirement community or an area with many elderly residents or people with disabilities, a walk-in tub is likely to add value.

What is the average cost of a walk-in tub?

The average cost of a walk-in tub ranges from $2,000–$5,000. There are also installation costs ranging from $2,000–$10,000.

Does a walk-in tub come with a shower?

Some models of walk-in tubs come with a hand shower attachment, and others may even have a standard elevated showerhead. These tubs require a wall surround as well.

How much does it cost to install a walk-in tub?

Including the tub, labor, and additional materials, installing a walk-in tub typically costs between $4,000 and $15,000.

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