How much do walk-in tubs cost?

Walk-in tub cost installed

Walk-in tubs cost $3,000 to $15,000 installed on average, depending on the type, features, brand, and remodeling required. Standard walk-in tubs with jets cost $3,000 to $10,000 to install, while complex jobs or high-end bathtubs from Kohler, Safe Step, or Jacuzzi cost $7,000 to $15,000 installed.

*Installations requiring extensive renovations cost up to $20,000.

• Typical walk-in tub dimensions are 52" to 60" long by 28" to 32" wide by 36" to 46" high.
• Most walk-in tubs hold 40 to 80 gallons of water, and the water heater tank should be ⅔ the size of the tub or tankless.
• Walk-in tubs take 6 to 15 minutes to fill, and 5 to 10 minutes to drain.
• Medicare does not cover walk-in tubs. However, they are tax-deductible as a medical expense if a physician prescribes the bathtub.

Walk-in tub prices

There are several types of walk-in tubs at varying price points ranging from $1,500 to $15,000 on average for the unit only.

*Prices are for the tub only. Walk-in tub installation costs $700 to $3,000, depending on the complexity and renovations required.

Standard walk-in soaking tub

Standard walk-in soaking tubs cost $1,500 to $5,000. Soaker tubs are the simplest and most affordable walk-in bathtub option, featuring a built-in seat and leak-proof door for safety and easy entry. Standard walk-in tubs fit in most bathrooms, but lack features like air or water jets.

Walk-in tub with shower combo cost

A walk-in tub with shower combo costs $2,500 to $10,000. Most standard walk-in tubs include a hand-held showerhead and allow users to stand up. A walk-in shower-tub combo is useful for those who sometimes shower but prefer the support of a seated bath, or when sharing a bathtub with others.

An alternative to a tub and shower combo is adding a sliding vertical rail that can raise and lower the built-in showerhead to the desired height.

Hydrotherapy walk-in tub prices

Hydrotherapy walk-in tubs cost $2,300 to $10,000. Whirlpool water jets provide an intense deep tissue massage ideal for relieving muscle aches, joint pain, and arthritis. Hydrotherapy tubs also act as standard soaking tubs when the jets are not in use.

Cost of walk-in tub with air jets

The average cost of a walk-in tub with air jets is $2,000 to $10,000. Air baths release tiny bubbles to create a gentle massaging sensation that stimulates relaxation, promotes circulation, and provides mild therapeutic effects. Air jet tubs can act as standard soaking tubs when the jets are off.

Bariatric & handicap walk-In bathtub prices

Bariatric and handicap walk-in bathtub prices are $4,000 to $11,000. Bariatric tubs are larger and more heavy-duty than standard tubs and feature wider seats and doors. Handicap accessible tubs include an L-shaped outward-swinging door so bathers can transfer directly from a seated position into the tub.

Bariatric and wheelchair accessible walk-in tubs cost more for installation because remodeling may be necessary to accommodate the tub’s larger size.

2-Person walk-in tub

Two-person walk-in tubs cost $5,000 to $20,000. Two-person tubs feature two separate seats with backrests and may include add-ons like air or water jets. A 2-person tub walk-in tub provides caregivers more space to assist seniors and individuals with mobility issues while bathing.

A 2-person walk-in tub costs more for installation because bathroom renovations may be necessary to accommodate the tub’s added length.

Portable walk-in tub cost

Portable walk-in tubs cost $6,500 to $8,000 and have locking wheels to move the tub around easily. Portable walk-in tubs don't require installation or bathroom remodeling and can be relocated to a new home, making them ideal when renting a home.

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Best walk-in tub brands & prices

Walk-in tubs cost $2,000 to $12,000 on average, depending on the brand, warranty, and features. A Kohler walk-in bath costs $4,000 to $12,000, a Safe Step walk-in tub costs $2,500 to $12,000, and Jacuzzi walk-in tub prices are $4,800 to $10,000.

*Not including installation.

Kohler walk-in bath cost

Kohler walk-in baths cost $4,000 to $12,000 and include a heated backrest, whirlpool jets, an extra-wide seat and wide door, and a handshower. Kohler’s walk-in tubs have a low step-in threshold of 3” and are equipped with a Fast Drain to reduce drain times.

Safe Step walk-in tub cost

Safe Step walk-in tubs cost $2,500 to $12,000 and include a contoured heated seat and backrest, adjustable hydrotherapy jets, a hand-held shower wand, and an ozone cleaning system. Optional features like chromatherapy, aromatherapy, and hybrid air and water jets are available on luxury models.

Safe Step’s walk-in tubs have received the Arthritis Foundation’s “Ease of Use” commendation.

American Standard walk-in tub prices

American Standard walk-in tubs cost $1,500 to $11,000. Features include a hydrotherapy system with 44 strategically placed air and water jets, contoured seats, a hand-held shower wand, and an self-cleaning ozone system. Some models include a fast-fill faucet, a Quick Drain system, and chromatherapy.

American Standard’s walk-in tubs have received the Arthritis Foundation’s “Ease of Use” commendation.

Jacuzzi walk-in tub prices

Jacuzzi walk-in tubs cost $4,800 to $10,000. Jacuzzi bathtubs feature 10 hydrotherapy jets for relaxing massage and pain relief, double-seal doors, a hand-held showerhead, and Fast Fill™ faucets. All Jacuzzi models have heated seats and safety features like grab bars and slip-resistant floors.

Ella walk-in bathtub cost

Ella walk-in tubs cost $2,300 to $9,000 and include dual drain technology, allowing water to drain in only 80 seconds. Customizable options include air jets, hydrotherapy jets, microbubble, or dual massage systems. Higher-end Ella tubs include aromatherapy, foot massage, and heated seats.

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Walk-in bathtub cost factors

The average cost to install a walk-in tub is $6,500, with most prices ranging from $3,000 to $15,000. Prices depend on the size, brand, complexity of installation, space available, remodeling requirements, level of customization, and selected features.

*Prices including installation.

Cost To install walk-in tub

The average cost to install a walk-in tub is $700 to $3,000, with complex installations costing up to $5,000. Walk-in tub installation costs depend on the amount of labor, plumbing, electrical, tiling, and bathroom remodeling required.

• Plumbing – A walk-in tub may require new plumbing with larger pipes to reduce fill and drain times. The average plumber costs $350 to $2,000 to upgrade pipes and drains.
• Water heater – A larger capacity water heater may be required. Walk-in tubs hold 40 to 120 gallons of water, and the water heater tank should be ⅔ the size of the tub. A new water heater costs $600 to $1,800, while upgrading to a tankless water heater costs $1,300 to $3,000.
• Electrical work – Electricians cost $40 to $100 per hour to connect the tub’s motor to power air jets and water jets. In rare cases or older homes, upgrading the electrical panel costs $1,200 to $3,000 to support the tub.
• Remodeling – Bathroom renovation costs $120 to $275 per square foot to expand or change the layout if the tub doesn’t fit into the bathroom’s current floorplan.
• Faucet – Most walk-in tubs come with built-in faucets and a hand-held mounted showerhead. Otherwise, installing a bathtub faucet costs $150 to $350.
• Extension panels – Walk-in tubs shorter than a regular bathtub may require extension panels to hide the open space at one or both ends of the tub. Extension panels cost $230 to $285
• Shipping – Some online vendors offer free shipping, while others charge up to $400.

Walk-in tub surround

Tub surrounds cost $200 to $2,000 depending on the type. Wall surrounds match the walk-in tub color and style, and may include grab bars, soap shelves, and shampoo shelves.

Tiling & flanges

Tiling a shower or bathroom costs $7 to $25 per square foot. Flanges cost $35 to $140 and create a watertight seal between the edges of the bathtub and the surrounding tile.

Walk-in tub dimensions and sizes

Standard walk-in tubs are designed to fit into the same space as a traditional tub. Typical walk-in tub sizes are 52 to 60 inches long by 28 to 32 inches wide by 36 to 46 inches high. The seat's dimensions are typically 21 inches wide by 17 inches high.

Walk-in tub features & options

Walk-in tub manufacturers offer various features and options which add to the overall cost.

• Air or water jets – Air jets release tiny bubbles to provide a gentle massage for relaxation. Hydrotherapy or whirlpool jets provide a deeper, more intense massage to relieve muscle aches and joint or arthritis pain.
• Chromatherapy – Chromatherapy systems cost $200 to $260, which uses colored lighting beneath the water’s surface to improve relaxation, stimulate different moods, and enhance the bathing experience.
• Aromatherapy – Aromatherapy systems cost $200 to $300, which blends essential oils with the bathwater using scented beads or an oil diffuser to create a relaxing aroma.
• Heated seat – A heated seat costs $300 to $500 and ensures the bather stays warm.
• Non-slip seats & floor – Most walk-in tubs feature non-slip textured seats and floors for safety.
• Grab bars or hand rails – Most tubs come with at least two built-in grab bars for safety. Installing additional grab bars costs $25 to $370 per rail.
• Neck rest – Neck rests cost $50 to $100 for extra support.
• Quick drain – Speed drains cost $250 to $275 and reduces the drain time from 5 to 10 minutes to under 2 minutes.
• Self-cleaning – Some walk-in tubs have a self-cleaning or ozone sanitizer system that costs $200 to $300.
• In-line heater – Most walk-in tubs with air or whirlpool jets include an in-line heater to keep the water at a consistent temperature when the jets are in use.
• Anti-scald system – An anti-scald valve, or thermostatic control valve, comes standard on most walk-in tubs. Anti-scald systems keep the water at a consistent temperature to prevent burning.
• Threshold (step-in height) – A lower threshold makes it easier to step in and out of the tub. Most walk-in tubs have thresholds ranging from 2 to 8 inches.
• Inward or outward swinging doors – Inward swinging doors have better watertight seals but can’t be opened when the tub is filled. Outward swinging doors require extra space to open, but can be opened quickly in an emergency when the tub is filled.
• Left or right opening doors – Most tubs can be fitted with a left or right-opening door to better suit the bathroom layout.

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Pros and cons of walk-in tubs

Benefits of walk-in tubs

• Water depth – Walk-in tubs offer nearly four feet of water depth, allowing users to soak their whole body comfortably.
• Improved safety – Walk-in tubs are designed for safety with non-slip surfaces, grab bars, scald prevention, and a low step-in threshold to prevent falling.
• Accessibility – Individuals with limited mobility can access a walk-in tub more easily with features such as over tub seats, handrails, control panel, extra-wide seat, and wide doors for wheelchair access.
• Symptom relief – Whirlpool jets provide therapeutic benefits to reduce aches and pains and alleviate symptoms like arthritis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and general joint pain. Walk-in tubs also improve circulation, which increases mobility and reduces pain.
• Relaxation and stress relief – Optional features like air jets, hydrotherapy, chromatherapy, and aromatherapy help bathers relax and reduce stress.
• Reduced medical costs – Walk-in tubs may reduce future medical costs by preventing injuries and improving health.
• Increase home value – Walk-in tubs add value to houses in retirement communities.

Disadvantages

• High cost – Walk-in tubs cost more than traditional bathtubs and may require complex electrical and plumbing updates.
• Fill and drain time – Bathers must enter the tub and wait 3 to 15 minutes for the water to fill, and wait 2 to 10 minutes to drain before exiting.
• Temperature – Before exiting, there is a risk of chilling while waiting for the tub to drain.
• Increased water bill – Walk-in tubs use more water and may require a water heater upgrade to ensure a full, hot bath.
• Claustrophobic – Some bathers find the higher enclosed walls more claustrophobic than a traditional bathtub.
• Flooding – Tubs with swing-out doors are easier to enter, but are susceptible to leaks and flooding if not latched properly.

Walk-in tub alternatives

If a walk-in tub is too expensive, there are various alternatives to consider.

• Shower chairs and benches offer stability, a place to rest while showering, and reduces the risk of falling.
• Transfer benches allow bathers to enter the tub by lifting their legs over the tub’s edge, then sliding across the bench.
• Walk-in tub conversion kits transform an existing bathtub into a walk-in tub by replacing a section of the tub wall with a leak-proof door.
• Bathtub lifts lower users safely into the tub to bathe and raise them out of the tub afterward.
• Curbless shower floors are level with the bathroom floor, allowing bathers to enter and exit by wheelchair or without stepping over a threshold.
• Slide-in & elevated tubs feature an elevated base that's level with the height of a chair, allowing bathers to transfer from a wheelchair directly into the bathtub.

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Walk-in tub repair & replacement cost

Walk-in tub repair

Walk-in tubs require routine plumbing and electrical maintenance. Using the tub’s self-cleaning system and periodically running the jets with cleaning fluid reduces the need for repairs. If the tub's surface has wear, bathtub refinishing or reglazing costs $250 to $600.

Cost to remove a walk-in tub

Removing a walk-in tub costs $100 to $550, including the labor to demolish and remove the debris. Walk-in tubs are taller and deeper than traditional bathtubs, requiring retiling or replacing the walls.

• Converting a tub to a walk-in shower costs $3,500 to $15,000.
• Retiling a tub surround or shower costs $7 to $25 per square foot.
• A new walk-in shower installation costs $1,000 to $6,000.

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What is a walk-in tub?

Walk-in tubs are deeper than traditional tubs, allowing users to comfortably soak their whole body. Walk-in bathtubs are designed with safety features to improve accessibility and accommodate seniors or people with a disability or limited mobility.

Who sells walk-in tubs?

Walk-in tubs are sold at home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe's, Costco, Walmart, and online retailers like Amazon and Wayfair.

Questions to ask before buying a walk-in tub

• How much space do you have? – Standard walk-in tubs fit into the same area as a traditional tub, but bariatric or 2-person tubs require extra space.
• Will the door open? – Will the bathroom counter or toilet block access to a left-side or right-side door?
• How large is your water heater? – Walk-in tubs hold more water than a traditional tub and may require installing a larger water heater.
• Which accessibility features do you need? – Will you need a larger door, wider seat, or wheelchair accessibility?
• Which therapeutic features do you want? – Hydrotherapy jets can provide pain relief, while air jets, chromatherapy, and aromatherapy can stimulate relaxation.

Are walk-in tubs safe?

Walk-in tubs are safer than regular bathtubs. Walk-in tubs are designed with safety features like grab bars, non-slip textured seats and floors, and low thresholds to walk in over that reduces the risk of slipping and falling.

Are walk-in tubs covered by medicare?

Walk-in tubs are not covered by Medicare because they are not considered "durable medical equipment" since anyone could use them. Medicare Advantage plans may cover all or part of the cost of a walk-in tub when prescribed by a doctor, but benefits vary.

Other financial assistance options are:

• Many states have programs to help senior citizens pay for home modifications.
• The USDA provides grants to elderly residents in low-income rural areas for home modifications.
• Non-profit organizations like Rebuilding Together offer grants to seniors and people with disabilities.
• Some walk-in tub manufacturers provide discounts and rebates for people with specific medical conditions.

Is a walk-in tub tax deductible?

Walk-in tubs are tax-deductible as a medical expense if a physician prescribes the tub with documentation. Caregivers purchasing a walk-in tub for someone in their care may be eligible for the Dependent Care Tax Credit to offset the cost of a walk-in tub.

Does a walk-in tub add value to a house?

Walk-in tubs add value to houses in retirement communities, seniors looking to age-in-place, and for people with mobility issues.

How much is the cheapest walk-in tub?

Ariel, Universal, Meditub, and Homeward Bath make the cheapest walk-in tubs, which cost $1,500. The most affordable walk-in bathtubs are basic soaking tubs that improve safety and accessibility but lack jets and advanced features.

How much water does a walk-in tub hold?

Most walk-in tubs hold 40 to 80 gallons of water. Larger bariatric and two-person walk-in tubs hold 100 to 120 gallons. In contrast, a regular bathtub holds 25 to 45 gallons of water.

How long to fill or drain a walk-in tub?

Walk-in tubs take 6 to 15 minutes to fill, depending on the brand, faucet, plumbing, and water pressure. Bathtubs with a quick-fill faucet take 3 minutes to fill. Walk-in tubs take 5 to 10 minutes to drain on average, or 2 minutes for tubs with a speed drain feature.

How long does it take to install a walk-in tub?

Installing a walk-in tub takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the site conditions, layout, plumbing and electrical outputs, and local code requirements. Most installations take 1 day if no major bathroom remodeling is required.

Do walk-in bathtubs come with warranties?

Walk-in tubs typically have a limited 10 to 15-year warranty on the bathtub, 5 to-10 year warranty on the tub components, and a lifetime warranty on the door seal and some fixtures.

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Hiring a walk-in tub installer

Installing a walk-in tub requires plumbing, electrical, and construction expertise. Before hiring a contractor, be sure to:

• Get at least three estimates to compare.
• Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for longer than five years.
• Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
• Ask for an itemized contract and warranty in writing.
• Avoid making large payments upfront. Come up with a payment schedule for the work completed.

Questions to ask tub installers

1. Can I see a portfolio of your past installation jobs?
2. Will you remove or dispose of my old tub?
3. Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
4. How do you handle damages that happen on the job?
5. Who's the project manager, and will you use subcontractors?
6. What hours do you and your crew work?
7. What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
8. What does your warranty policy include?
9. What’s your payment schedule?

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