Published August 17, 2026
A bathroom is the smallest room with the highest cost per square foot because every trade works in it.
2026 Twin Cities pricing
| Project | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh (paint, vanity, fixtures, mirror) | $4,000–$9,000 |
| Tub-to-shower conversion | $9,000–$18,000 |
| Full hall bath gut, standard finishes | $18,000–$30,000 |
| Primary bath gut, tile shower, double vanity | $30,000–$60,000 |
| Basement bath added from scratch | $15,000–$30,000 |
The line item that decides longevity
Shower waterproofing. A tile shower over unsealed cement board fails. The correct system is a bonded waterproof membrane (sheet or liquid applied) over the substrate, with seams and corners banded, and a properly integrated drain. Ask every bidder which membrane system they use by name.
Where the money goes in a $25,000 gut
| Line | Share |
|---|---|
| Labor (demo, framing, tile, install) | 35–45% |
| Tile and waterproofing materials | 12–18% |
| Vanity, top, mirror | 10–15% |
| Plumbing fixtures and rough | 12–18% |
| Electrical, fan, lighting | 6–10% |
| Drywall, paint, trim, door | 6–10% |
Minnesota-specific issues
- Exhaust venting must terminate outside, not into the attic. Venting into an attic in this climate causes frost, then mold, then a stained ceiling.
- Exterior-wall plumbing freezes. Avoid supply lines in exterior walls; if unavoidable, insulate behind the lines, not in front.
- Cast iron drains in older Minneapolis and St. Paul homes are often at end of life. Budget $1,500–$4,000 if replacement is needed once opened.
Tub or shower?
Keep at least one tub in the house for resale, ideally in the hall bath. Converting the primary to a large walk-in shower is the strongest single upgrade for daily use and aging in place.
Timeline
Two to four weeks of active work for a full gut, plus lead time on vanities and tile. Selection delays are the number one schedule killer — pick everything before demo day.
Send us a photo and rough dimensions and we will price the refresh and the gut side by side.
Want an exact number for your project?
Free on-site estimate across the Twin Cities metro — no pressure, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Minnesota?
A cosmetic refresh runs $4,000 to $9,000, a full hall bath gut runs $18,000 to $30,000, and a primary bath with a tile shower and double vanity runs $30,000 to $60,000.
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Two to four weeks of active work for a full gut, plus material lead times. Select all tile and fixtures before demolition to avoid delays.
What makes a tile shower last in Minnesota?
A bonded waterproof membrane over the substrate with banded seams and an integrated drain. Tile over unsealed cement board will eventually fail.