Bathroom Remodel Cost in Chicago, IL
Bathroom Remodel in Chicago costs $189–$519 per sq ft in 2026. A typical 60 sq ft project averages $19,470. Chicago pricing runs roughly 18% above the Midwest regional baseline.
How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Chicago, IL? In Chicago, a bathroom remodel costs $11,328–$31,152 in 2026, with most homeowners paying around $19,470 for a typical 60 sq ft project.
- Per sq ft
- $189–$519
- Typical range
- $11,328–$31,152
- Average
- $19,470
- Labor share
- 48%
Chicago, IL Average Cost (2026)
What Drives Bathroom Remodel Costs in Chicago
Permits & zoning
Chicago bathroom remodel permits for plumbing, electrical, or structural work run $500–$1,200 with staged inspections at rough-in and final. Condo and co-op buildings commonly require building management approval and specific licensed trade contractors before permits are filed. Permits in suburban Cook and collar counties follow similar IRC-based requirements with lower fees ($300–$700).
Climate & construction
Chicago's housing stock is heavily weighted toward pre-1960 bungalows, 2-flats, and greystones — asbestos floor tiles, lead paint, and cast-iron or galvanized drain stacks are common findings during demolition. Plumbing on exterior walls in older homes carries freeze risk and may need insulation upgrades during the remodel. Basement bathrooms in Chicago bungalows often have limited slab clearance that constrains drain tie-in options.
Local market
Chicago bathroom remodels run $20,000–$65,000 for mid-range full remodels, with high-rise condo gut renovations reaching $80,000+ due to HOA requirements, elevator scheduling, and floor protection costs. Costs vary by neighborhood — Lincoln Park and River North run higher than Beverly or Portage Park. Always verify contractor license at idfpr.illinois.gov.
Information reflects general guidance for Chicago, IL; permit fees, code requirements, and zoning rules change — always confirm with the local building department before starting work.
Cost Breakdown
Based on a 60 sq ft project in Chicago, IL. Actual costs vary by contractor, site conditions, and material choices.
Bathroom Remodel Cost by Size in Chicago
Chicago pricing for common bathroom remodel project sizes (2026).
| Project size | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 sq ft | $5,664 | $9,735 | $15,576 |
| 60 sq ft | $11,328 | $19,470 | $31,152 |
| 120 sq ft | $22,656 | $38,940 | $62,304 |
Based on $189–$519 per sq ft in Chicago, IL.
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Return on Investment
How much value does a bathroom remodel add to your home at resale?
How Bathroom Remodel compares to other projects
ROI figures based on Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report 2024, national averages. Actual resale value depends on your market, home price tier, and project quality.
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Materials & Supplies
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Chicago, IL?
In Chicago, IL, a typical 60 sq ft bathroom remodel project costs between $11,328 and $31,152, averaging $19,470. Chicago pricing runs roughly 18% above the Midwest regional baseline.
Do I need a permit for a bathroom remodel in Chicago?
Chicago bathroom remodel permits for plumbing, electrical, or structural work run $500–$1,200 with staged inspections at rough-in and final. Condo and co-op buildings commonly require building management approval and specific licensed trade contractors before permits are filed. Permits in suburban Cook and collar counties follow similar IRC-based requirements with lower fees ($300–$700).
What bathroom remodel size is typical in Chicago?
Chicago bathroom remodels run $20,000–$65,000 for mid-range full remodels, with high-rise condo gut renovations reaching $80,000+ due to HOA requirements, elevator scheduling, and floor protection costs. Costs vary by neighborhood — Lincoln Park and River North run higher than Beverly or Portage Park. Always verify contractor license at idfpr.illinois.gov.
Does a bathroom remodel add value to homes in Chicago?
Nationally, a bathroom remodel recoups about 80% of its cost at resale. For a $19,470 project in Chicago, IL, that's approximately $15,576 in added home value. Resale recovery varies by neighborhood and current market conditions.
Bathroom Remodel Material Calculators
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How big is your Bathroom Remodel?
A typical full bath is 50–80 sq ft.
Pro Tips
- Get at least 3 local contractor quotes
- Confirm permit requirements with the city
- Budget 10–20% contingency
- Check contractor license and insurance