Bathroom Remodel Cost in Illinois (2026)
Average cost in Illinois: $78 - $308 per square foot
A typical full bathroom (60 sq ft) costs $4,704 - $18,480 in Illinois
How Illinois Compares
Illinois is +12% above the national average for bathroom remodel.
Illinois Typical Cost
$4,704 - $18,480
National Average
$4,200 - $16,500
Average labor rate in Illinois: $52/hour
Illinois Notes
Chicago has strict permitting; union labor common
State sales tax on materials: 6.25%
Calculate Your Illinois Cost
Your Estimated Cost
$4,704 - $18,480
Based on 60 square foots in Illinois
Prices updated March 2026
Cost Breakdown
What This Means
For 60 square foots in Illinois, expect to pay $4,704-$18,480 with mid-range materials that balance quality and cost.
About $5,216 goes to materials and $4,637 covers labor. At $193 per square foot, your project is 12% above the national average.
This is a moderate investment—about the cost of a used car. Many homeowners finance projects this size with a home equity line or contractor financing.
Tips for your project:
- •Illinois runs high—consider getting quotes from neighboring areas if feasible.
- •A smaller 42 square foot project would run about $8,114.
- •Always get 3 quotes—prices can vary 20-30% between contractors.
What If...
Budget materials
Use builder-grade or economy materials
$3,528 - $13,860
-$4,032 (-35%)
Premium materials
Upgrade to high-end finishes
$6,350 - $24,948
+$2,016 (17%)
Smaller (45 square foots)
Reduce project scope by 25%
$3,528 - $13,860
-$4,032 (-35%)
Larger (75 square foots)
Expand project scope by 25%
$5,880 - $23,100
+$1,008 (9%)
DIY installation
Do the work yourself (materials only)
$7,883 - $10,665
-$2,318 (-20%)
What to Ask Your Contractor
1Are you licensed and insured for this type of work?
Are you licensed and insured for this type of work?
Why ask: Protects you from liability if someone gets hurt on your property.
Red flag: Hesitation or claims that insurance "isn't necessary" for this job.
2Can I see references from similar projects?
Can I see references from similar projects?
Why ask: Bathroom Remodel requires specific experience. Past work shows capability.
Red flag: Unable to provide any references or only has very old ones.
3What's included in your $11,592 quote—and what's not?
What's included in your $11,592 quote—and what's not?
Why ask: Prevents surprise charges for permits, disposal, or finishing work.
Red flag: Vague answers or unwillingness to put details in writing.
4How do you handle unexpected issues like mold or water damage behind walls?
How do you handle unexpected issues like mold or water damage behind walls?
Why ask: Remodels often uncover hidden problems. Know the process upfront.
Red flag: Claims they "never encounter issues" or won't discuss change orders.
5Who handles the permit application and inspection scheduling?
Who handles the permit application and inspection scheduling?
Why ask: Permits ensure work meets code and protect your home's resale value.
Red flag: Resistance to pulling permits or suggesting you "don't need one."
Show 2 more questions
6What's your payment schedule, and what triggers each payment?
What's your payment schedule, and what triggers each payment?
Why ask: Standard is a small deposit, then payments tied to milestones.
Red flag: Demanding 50%+ upfront or full payment before work begins.
7What's the realistic timeline, and what could cause delays?
What's the realistic timeline, and what could cause delays?
Why ask: Honest contractors set expectations. Weather, material backorders, and inspections cause delays.
Red flag: Unrealistically short timelines or guarantees of "no delays."
Bathroom Remodel Cost by City in Illinois
| City | Cost Range (per square foot) | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $85 - $336 | +22% |
Bathroom Remodel in Illinois FAQs
How much does bathroom remodel cost in Illinois?
Bathroom Remodel in Illinois costs $78 - $308 per square foot in 2026. For a typical full bathroom (60 sq ft), expect to pay $4,704 - $18,480. Illinois is +12% above the national average.
Do I need a permit for bathroom remodel in Illinois?
Yes, permits are typically required for bathroom remodel in Illinois. Chicago has strict permitting; union labor common. Always check with your local building department before starting work.
What is the average labor rate in Illinois?
The average skilled trade labor rate in Illinois is $52/hour in 2026. This is above the national average. Labor typically accounts for 40% of total bathroom remodel costs.
Is Illinois expensive for home improvements?
Illinois is +12% more expensive than the national average for home improvement projects. Costs are moderate compared to other states.
How do I find a contractor for bathroom remodel in Illinois?
To find a reputable contractor in Illinois: 1) Get 3+ quotes from licensed contractors, 2) Verify their Illinois contractor license, 3) Check reviews and references, 4) Confirm insurance coverage, 5) Get a detailed written contract. Note: Union contractors may be required for some projects.