How Much Does a 35 sq ft Bathroom Remodel Cost?

A 35 sq ft bathroom remodel is one of the most common home improvement projects in the country. This classic 5x7 foot layout is the standard for a guest bath or a small full bath in many homes. While the space is small, the renovation can have a huge impact on your home's function and value.

When planning your remodel cost, it is tempting to assume "small room" means "small price." However, the average cost may be higher than you expect. A full 35 sq ft bathroom remodel cost typically ranges from $10,000 to $18,000. For a high-end remodeling project with custom tile and a new layout, costs can exceed $25,000. This is because many expenses, especially labor costs, are fixed and do not shrink with the room.

According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), labor can account for 40% to 60% of a bathroom remodel’s cost. You are paying for their minimum day rates, their expertise, and their insurance. Installing a new toilet or faucet takes the same amount of time in a 35 sq ft bathroom as it does in a 100 sq ft one.

Sample Cost Breakdown (Mid-Range $12,000 Project)

Let's look at a sample cost breakdown for a mid-range 5x7-foot bathroom remodel. This assumes you are replacing everything but not moving any plumbing. This $12,000 budget is very common, falling just above the scope of a typical $10,000 bathroom remodel.

Key Cost Drivers for a 35 sq ft Bathroom Remodel

Where your money goes depends on the choices you make. These are the biggest factors that will influence your final cost estimates.

Walk-in Shower vs. Bathtub

This is often the biggest decision.

• Pre-Fab Shower Stall: A good quality, pre-fabricated shower stall or corner shower is the most budget-friendly option.

• Tub Replacement: A new acrylic or steel bathtub is a standard, mid-range choice.

• Custom Walk-in Showers: A custom tile shower with a mud bed, full waterproofing, and a frameless shower door is the most expensive option. This requires extensive tile work on the shower walls and floor.

Tile Work and Material Choices

Your flooring costs and shower wall material are major variables.

• Ceramic Tile: This is the most cost-effective and durable option, with endless styles.

• Porcelain Tile: A step up from ceramic, porcelain is denser and great for floors.

• Natural Stone: Marble or stone is a luxury material that requires more labor to install and more maintenance.

Electrical Work

If your home is older, you will likely need electrical work. This can include:

• New Electrical Fixtures: Replacing an old bar light with sconces.

• New Electrical Outlets: Adding a GFCI-protected outlet, which is a modern safety requirement from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

• Ventilation: Installing a new exhaust fan (or replacing an old one) requires new electrical wiring and ducting.

How to Save Money on Your Remodeling Project

A 35 sq ft bathroom remodel can be done for less if you are smart about the scope of the project.

Keep the Existing Footprint

The number one way to save money is to not move the plumbing. Keep the toilet, sink, and shower in their current locations. Moving a toilet drain can add thousands to the labor costs.

Choose Smart Materials

You can get a high-end look without the high-end price. Use a simple, affordable ceramic tile on the shower walls, but add a single, expensive mosaic accent tile stripe. Use a standard shower head from a brand that offers WaterSense certification, as recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to save money on both the fixture and your water bill.

Hire a Professional General Contractor

This may sound like a cost, not a saving, but it is the most important part. A good general contractor or remodeling contractor will:

• Get the job done on time.
• Pull the correct permits.
• Ensure the tile work is waterproofed correctly (a key standard from the National Tile Contractors Association).
• Manage all the subcontractors (plumber, electrician) so you do not have to.

A bad DIY bathroom remodel can lead to leaks and water damage, costing you far more in the long run.

FAQs About a 35 sq ft Bathroom

Can you fit a walk-in shower in a 35 sq ft bathroom?

Yes. A 5x7 foot (35 sq ft) bathroom is the standard size for a tub-to-shower conversion. You can replace the 60-inch tub with a 60-inch walk-in shower base. If the layout is square, a 36x36 inch corner shower enclosure is also a popular, space-saving option.

How long does a 35 sq ft bathroom remodel take?

While the room is small, the process is the same. A full gut renovation will still take 2 to 4 weeks to complete. This allows for demolition, plumbing and electrical work, inspections, and the multiple-day process of tiling and grouting.

Is a small bathroom remodel a good investment?

Yes. A bathroom remodel is consistently ranked as one of the best home improvement projects for resale value. The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report by the Journal of Light Construction shows that a mid-range bathroom remodel can recoup 80% of its cost when you sell your home.

Start Your Small Bathroom Transformation

A 35 sq ft bathroom remodel is a project where smart design and professional installation are critical. Every inch matters, and the quality of the work will be on display for years to come. To get accurate cost estimates and ensure your investment is built to last, you need a team you can trust.

Mr. Remodel connects you with vetted, high-quality remodeling contractors in your area. These professionals specialize in creating beautiful, functional bathrooms of all sizes. Get your free no-obligation quote today and start planning your project with an expert.