How Much Does a Bathroom Renovation Cost?

The cost of your bathroom is affected by the scope of work, labour, and materials used in your bathroom renovation. Even for a budget-friendly renovation, prices can vary based on the quality of fixtures, the complexity of installation, and whether structural changes are needed.

In this article, we’ll break down the cost of a budget-friendly bathroom renovation, including estimated expenses for materials and labour. While this type of renovation is designed to be affordable, it’s always a good idea to set aside a buffer in your budget for any unexpected costs that may arise.

When it comes to a budget-friendly renovation, there isn’t just one approach. The cost will largely depend on how much of a change you want to make. Some homeowners opt for a simple fittings replacement to freshen up their space without major work, while others choose a complete renovation to give their bathroom a full makeover while keeping expenses as low as possible. The right choice depends on your planned budget and how much of a transformation you’re looking for.

Cost of Bathroom Fittings Replacement

If your bathroom is still in good shape but looks outdated, replacing the fittings, like tapware, showerheads, vanities, and toilets, can give it a fresh look without a full renovation. This is a budget-friendly option if your tiles, flooring, and plumbing are still in good condition.

Here’s a rough price guide:

Labour Costs

Hiring a plumber will cost around $80 - $150 per hour. A simple tap replacement takes about an hour, while a toilet or vanity installation may take several hours.

Total Estimated Cost

For a budget-friendly fittings upgrade, expect to spend $1,000 - $3,000 including installation. If you choose premium bathroom fittings, the total can go up to $5,000 to $8,000.

Cost of a Complete Bathroom Renovation on a Budget

If your bathroom needs more than just new fittings, a complete renovation can give it a fresh, modern look while addressing any underlying issues like leaks or outdated plumbing. A budget-friendly bathroom renovation focuses on keeping costs low by using affordable materials, maintaining the existing layout, and minimising structural changes.

A basic bathroom renovation in Australia typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on the materials, labour, and any additional work required. Check the breakdown of key expenses below.

Materials and Fixtures

Here are the estimated price ranges for common bathroom elements:

Labour Cost

Labour is one of the biggest expenses in a bathroom renovation. Costs can vary based on location and job complexity.

Total Estimated Cost

For a budget-friendly complete bathroom renovation, expect to spend $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the choices you make. If you reuse existing plumbing, opt for cost-effective materials, and limit custom work, you can stay closer to the $10,000 - $15,000 range. 

However, if you upgrade multiple features, install premium fittings, or require additional repairs, the total cost can push toward $20,000 or more.

When to Choose Fittings Replacement Over a Full Renovation

If your bathroom’s layout, flooring, and waterproofing are still in good shape, replacing fittings like taps, vanities, toilets, and showerheads is a cost-effective way to refresh the space. A budget-friendly fittings replacement typically costs $1,000 - $5,000, depending on the quality of materials and installation costs.

However, if your bathroom has leaks, cracked tiles, water damage, or an impractical layout, a full renovation may be the better investment. A budget-friendly complete bathroom renovation can cost anywhere from $10,000 - $20,000, covering new fixtures, tiling, waterproofing, plumbing, and labour. If you have a larger budget and prefer a more premium or luxurious renovation, the cost will naturally be higher.

No matter what your budget is, choosing affordable bathroom fixtures doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. It’s always better to invest in durable, premium materials that will last longer and require fewer repairs in the future. A well-planned renovation should balance cost, quality, and long-term value.