A Realistic Budget Breakdown for PA, DE & Northern MD Homeowners
A bathroom remodel is one of the most rewarding upgrades a homeowner can make — but it’s also one of the hardest to budget for without the right information. With materials, plumbing, tile work, and layout configurations involved, costs can vary widely depending on the type of bathroom, your design goals, and the complexity of the project.
If you’re a homeowner in Pennsylvania, Delaware or Northern Maryland considering a bathroom renovation, this guide will give you a clear understanding of what your project may cost and how to make decisions that support your vision and budget.
At First State Building & Design, we specialize in creating bathrooms that balance beauty, function, and long-term value through our Dream • Design • Build process. Here’s what homeowners in Chester County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, New Castle County and Cecil County can expect when planning a bathroom remodel.
Bathroom Remodel Cost Ranges in PA, DE and MD
Every bathroom renovation begins with understanding where your project falls within typical ranges.
Powder Room Remodel — $15,000 – $20,000
Powder rooms require fewer fixtures, making them the most cost-friendly remodel. Typical upgrades include new flooring, vanity, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and fresh paint. Even at a lower investment, design details can dramatically elevate your home’s overall feel.
Hall Bathroom Remodel — $25,000 – $45,000
Hall baths are high-traffic spaces that often include a tub/shower combo, tile installation, a new vanity, toilet, flooring, and lighting. These bathrooms benefit most from durable materials and smart storage solutions.
Primary Bathroom Remodel — $50,000–$100,000+
A primary bath remodel offers the greatest opportunity for transformation. Homeowners often opt for features like walk-in showers, custom tile work, freestanding tubs, double vanities, heated floors, and upgraded lighting systems. Custom cabinetry, advanced plumbing fixtures, and layout changes can increase investment — but they also deliver exceptional long-term value.
Your project may land on the lower or higher end depending on material choices, the size of the bathroom, and whether plumbing fixtures remain in their existing locations.

What Impacts Bathroom Remodeling Costs the Most?
Layout Changes
Re-configuring your bathroom can dramatically improve function, but moving plumbing or reworking the floor plan often adds cost. Keeping toilets, vanities, and showers near their original locations can help maintain budget stability.
Tilework
Tile selection impacts both material and labor costs.
- Ceramic: budget-friendly
- Porcelain: more durable and premium
- Natural stone: luxurious but requires maintenance
- Specialty patterns or mosaics: increase labor time
High-impact areas like showers benefit greatly from quality tile installation.
Custom Cabinetry
Storage is one of the biggest homeowner complaints in older PA, DE and MD bathrooms. First State Building & Design’s custom vanities, linen towers, and built-ins maximize function while elevating style — and they often become the centerpiece of the room.
Plumbing Fixtures
From matte black and brushed brass finishes to luxury shower systems with rain heads and handheld sprayers, fixture selections can shift the budget more than expected.
Lighting & Electrical
Upgrading to layered lighting, LED mirrors, or heated floors increases electrical work but significantly enhances daily experience.

Budgeting Tips for Bathroom Remodels in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland
Identify Your Must-Haves
Before selecting materials, determine the elements most important to you.
Examples:
- A larger walk-in shower
- More efficient storage
- Better lighting
- A double vanity
Invest Where It Matters
Bathrooms withstand heavy daily use. Focus your budget on features that impact comfort and functionality:
- Quality waterproofing
- Tile
- Custom cabinetry
- Lighting
Choose a Design-Build Contractor
First State Building & Design’s design-build approach ensures clear planning, cohesive communication, and accurate pricing. Instead of managing multiple vendors, homeowners benefit from a single team guiding the entire process from concept to completion.
Plan Your Bathroom Renovation With Confidence
Want a clear, organized way to plan your bathroom budget? Download our Ultimate Bathroom Remodeling Planning Guide — complete with pricing worksheets, material comparisons, and layout inspiration.



