How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in Raleigh, NC? (2026 Guide)

If you're a homeowner in Raleigh, Durham, or anywhere in the Triangle area, one of the first questions you probably have about a bathroom remodel is: how much is this going to cost?

It's a fair question — and one that most contractors dodge. They'll tell you to "call for a free estimate" or "schedule an in-home consultation" before they'll give you a single number. At Showerly, we believe you deserve better than that. Transparent, published pricing is the foundation of how we do business.

This guide breaks down exactly what a bathroom remodel costs in Raleigh, NC in 2026 — from budget-friendly panel systems to full luxury tile builds.

National Average vs. Raleigh Reality

According to national home improvement data, the average bathroom remodel in the United States costs between $10,000 and $30,000, with high-end projects pushing well past $50,000. Those numbers can be intimidating.

The good news? Here in the Triangle, costs are significantly more reasonable. A complete shower remodel in Raleigh ranges from $3,500 to $12,000+ depending on the scope of work, materials selected, and the level of customization you want.

That's not a typo. You can get a professionally installed, beautiful shower for a fraction of the national average — without cutting corners on quality.

Budget Tier: Smart Start ($3,500 – $5,500)

Our Smart Start package is designed for homeowners who want a clean, modern shower without the investment of real tile. This package uses composite stone or panel systems that look great and install quickly.

Smart Start is perfect for:

• •Rental properties where you need durability without premium costs
• •Guest bathrooms that don't see daily use
• •Homeowners on a budget who want a significant upgrade from an old tub or dated tile
• •Quick turnarounds — most Smart Start projects complete in 2-3 days

Even at this price point, every Smart Start project includes professional demolition, proper waterproofing, new fixtures, and full cleanup. No shortcuts.

Mid-Range: Essential Package ($6,000)

The Essential package is where most Raleigh homeowners land — and for good reason. This is real porcelain or ceramic tile, installed over a proper Schluter KERDI waterproofing membrane, with new fixtures, complete demolition of your old shower or tub, and thorough cleanup.

What you get:

• •Real porcelain or ceramic tile in your choice of color and pattern
• •KERDI waterproof membrane system
• •New shower valve, trim kit, and showerhead
• •Complete demolition and disposal of old materials
• •Professional tile installation with proper grout and seal
• •Full cleanup — we leave your bathroom cleaner than we found it

At $6,000, this is the sweet spot for homeowners who want lasting quality, real tile beauty, and professional waterproofing — without stretching into premium territory.

Premium: Signature Package ($9,000)

For homeowners who want the "wow" factor, our Signature package delivers designer-level results. Think large-format 12x24 tile, upgraded fixtures in matte black or brushed gold, mosaic accent bands, and frameless glass options.

Signature upgrades include:

• •Designer-grade large-format tile (12x24 or larger)
• •Premium fixture finishes: matte black, brushed gold, or brushed nickel
• •Mosaic tile accents for niches, borders, or feature walls
• •Frameless glass enclosure options
• •Extended tile coverage (full ceiling tile available)

This package is ideal for primary bathrooms where you spend time every day and want the space to feel like a retreat.

Luxury: Masterpiece Package ($12,000)

The Masterpiece package is a full spa-level build. This is premium everything — natural stone options, rain showerheads, custom-built niches, and the kind of craftsmanship that makes your bathroom the best room in the house.

Masterpiece features:

• •Natural stone or premium large-format porcelain
• •Rain showerhead with handheld combo
• •Multiple custom niches with accent tile
• •Frameless glass enclosure included
• •Heated floor option available as add-on
• •Designer fixtures throughout

This package is for homeowners who view their bathroom as an investment — in their home's value and in their daily quality of life.

What's ALWAYS Included

Regardless of which package you choose, every Showerly project includes:

• •Complete demolition of your existing shower or tub
• •Waterproofing with Schluter KERDI membrane system
• •Tile installation (or panel installation for Smart Start)
• •New fixtures — valve, trim, showerhead
• •Grout and seal for long-lasting protection
• •Full cleanup and debris removal

Glass shower doors are offered as add-ons so you choose exactly what fits your budget and style. We'll never force you into a package that includes things you don't want.

Factors That Affect Your Cost

Every bathroom is different. Here are the main factors that can move your project cost up or down:

• •Bathroom size: A standard tub alcove is less work than an oversized walk-in shower
• •Tile selection: Basic ceramic vs. natural stone makes a meaningful difference
• •Fixture upgrades: Standard chrome vs. premium matte black or brushed gold
• •Glass type: Frameless glass costs more than semi-frameless
• •Structural modifications: Moving plumbing, reinforcing subfloors
• •Accessibility features: Curbless entry, grab bars, built-in benches — see our accessible showers page

How Raleigh Compares to Other Markets

One of the advantages of remodeling in the Triangle is cost efficiency. Labor costs in Raleigh are typically 10-15% lower than major metros like Washington DC, New York City, or even Charlotte. Material costs are comparable nationwide, but your labor dollar goes further here.

The result? You get the same quality materials and craftsmanship as homeowners in higher-cost markets, but at a better price point. Raleigh consistently ranks as one of the best values for home improvement in the Southeast.

Why Published Pricing Matters

Most bathroom remodeling contractors won't put their prices online. They want you to call, schedule a visit, and sit through a high-pressure sales pitch before you ever hear a number.

We think that's backwards. You should know what a project costs *before* you pick up the phone. That's why every Showerly package has published pricing on our website. No surprises, no hidden fees, no "call for quote" runaround.

Want to understand our full process from first contact to final walkthrough? Visit our process page to see exactly how a Showerly project works.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a bathroom remodel take?

Most Showerly projects take 5-10 business days depending on the package. Smart Start panel installations can be completed in 2-3 days. Essential and Signature tile projects typically take 5-8 days. Masterpiece builds with complex tile work may take 8-12 days. We'll give you a specific timeline before work begins.

Do you offer financing?

We understand that a bathroom remodel is a significant investment. Contact us to discuss payment options and we'll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget. Many homeowners choose to phase their project — starting with the shower and adding glass or accessories later.

What's not included in the price?

Our published prices cover the complete shower remodel as described in each package. Items that are separate include: glass shower doors (priced as add-ons), vanity replacement, toilet replacement, flooring outside the shower area, and electrical work. We'll always be upfront about what's included and what isn't.

Can I upgrade my package later?

Absolutely. Many homeowners start with an Essential package and later add frameless glass, upgrade fixtures, or add accessories. We can also plan your initial build to accommodate future upgrades — for example, installing blocking for grab bars you might want down the road.

Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel in Raleigh?

Most shower remodels in Raleigh do not require a building permit unless you're moving plumbing, changing the footprint of the bathroom, or doing electrical work. We'll advise you on permit requirements during your consultation.