Cost to Install a Shower – 2023 Cost Calculator and Price Guide

How Much Does a Shower Installation Cost?

Installing a shower is a sizable project that might require a few different professionals, such as a plumber, tile installer, and glass installer.

Because of this, the project is often part of a larger bathroom renovation, learn more about the costs associated with the project.

The cost to install a shower varies based on a few different things, such as the type of shower, addition of tile, quality of fixtures and hardware, and cost of labor in your area. Most people spend $1,200 to $6,500 for a complete shower installation, including plumbing, fixtures, and hardware.

Average Shower Prices

The type of shower can have an impact on the cost of the plumbing, materials, and hardware required.

Standalone Shower Costs

A standalone shower is becoming much more popular to supplement a standalone bathtub or for use in smaller or secondary bathrooms. They can be finished either using a prefabricated stall kit or using custom tile.

A white square polypropylene stall can be found for about $250 – $400. Expect to pay around $400 to $500 for the installation of the stall and connection of the plumbing fixtures.

Showers can also be constructed entirely using tile. Tile showers require a bit of construction and is a custom project. Tile installers or a contractor will need to construct a shower pan, install backer board on the walls, add a moisture barrier, and then install the tile. Custom tile showers often cost $3,000 to $6,000 or more.

Shower/Tub Combination Costs

Shower and tub combination units are the most commonly installed type of shower due to their flexibility. Shower/tub combos cost around $300 to $700 for a fiberglass surround, and they usually take a few hours to install with the plumbing. Installing a shower/tub combo is usually a little more involved than a stall, so plan to pay $600 to $800 for the installation of the unit and fixtures.

See out our bathtub installation cost guide for more information on the cost to install a tub.

Shower Fixture Costs

Adding new fixtures can make an old shower look new again at a fraction of the expense.

Shower fixtures typically come in chrome, bronze, nickel, or brass finishes for around $100 – $200 for the on and off knobs and showerheads. Fixtures for a shower/tub combo are usually double that at $200 – $400 for the set. Installation can often be completed in about an hour to an hour and a half if you should be able to use the old water lines and drainpipes.

Showerheads

The homeowner or a handyperson can usually replace showerheads without hiring a plumber. Most showerheads can get twisted off, as there are usually screw threads holding it in place. It will require thread seal tape, a polytetrafluoroethylene tape placed over the threads before screwing on the new shower head to keep water from leaking.

If you do hire a plumber to replace a showerhead, it should not take more than one hour, unless the old showerhead got welded together by rust. You should not pay more than $100 – $150, and then only because they usually have a minimum service call price.

Multiple Head – Full-Body Showers

These used to be so expensive, only the very wealthy could afford one. Now with PEX pipes and other innovations, the price is reasonable. A basic unit will cost $300 – $500, but those with colored lights and aromatherapy can cost as much as $3,000.

Cost to Add a Door

One often overlooked expense in adding a shower is the cost of the door. Some opt to skip the door and install a curtain, which can cost as little as $25 for the curtain and hardware.
Shower doors run from $200 for a simple door to around $1,000 for frameless glass door. Prepare to spend an additional $250 to $500 for the installation of the door.

Plumbing Alterations

When adding a brand new shower or altering the plumbing to relocate a shower, a plumber will need to do a rough-in for the project. Installing or relocating plumbing will vary in cost depending on the conditions of the project.

In most cases, water lines and the drain can be installed for under $1,500, but that cost could rise if the conditions are not favorable. When plumbing needs to be relocated a permit and inspection might be required. Plan on spending $20 to $200 for one if your locality requires it.

Hiring a contractor

If you don’t already have a plumber you are comfortable with, try our plumbing contractor locator to find a professional that can help with your project and get several free quotes. There are several ways to go when adding plumbing to a shower, but the best course of action is to get three or more estimates from plumbing professionals.

You will also want to check our plumbing cost guide to learn more about the costs of plumbing projects in your area.

All pricing information on this page is based on average industry costs, and is subject to variance for project-specific materials, labor rates, and requirements.