Retile Bathroom Cost in Illinois (2026)
Average cost in Illinois: $11 - $45 per square foot
A typical floor and tub surround (80 sq ft) costs $896 - $3,584 in Illinois
How Illinois Compares
Illinois is +12% above the national average for retile bathroom.
Illinois Typical Cost
$896 - $3,584
National Average
$800 - $3,200
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
$896 - $3,584
Based on 80 square foots in Illinois
Prices updated March 2026
Cost Breakdown
What This Means
For 80 square foots in Illinois, expect to pay $896-$3,584 with mid-range materials that balance quality and cost.
About $896 goes to materials and $1,120 covers labor. At $28 per square foot, your project is 12% above the national average.
This is a smaller project that most contractors will complete in a day or two. Many handle this with cash savings or a small personal loan.
Tips for your project:
- •Illinois runs high—consider getting quotes from neighboring areas if feasible.
- •DIY could save you $896, but budget extra time and factor in your skill level.
- •A smaller 56 square foot project would run about $1,568.
- •Always get 3 quotes—prices can vary 20-30% between contractors.
What If...
Budget materials
Use builder-grade or economy materials
$672 - $2,688
-$762 (-34%)
Premium materials
Upgrade to high-end finishes
$1,210 - $4,838
+$421 (19%)
Smaller (60 square foots)
Reduce project scope by 25%
$672 - $2,688
-$762 (-34%)
Larger (100 square foots)
Expand project scope by 25%
$1,120 - $4,480
+$224 (10%)
DIY installation
Do the work yourself (materials only)
$1,142 - $1,546
-$896 (-40%)
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: Retile Bathroom 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 $2,240 quote—and what's not?
What's included in your $2,240 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.
5What'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 Tile Installation Cost by City in Illinois
| City | Cost Range (per square foot) | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $12 - $49 | +22% |
Bathroom Tile Installation in Illinois FAQs
How much does retile bathroom cost in Illinois?
Retile Bathroom in Illinois costs $11 - $45 per square foot in 2026. For a typical floor and tub surround (80 sq ft), expect to pay $896 - $3,584. Illinois is +12% above the national average.
Do I need a permit for retile bathroom in Illinois?
Permits are rarely needed for retile bathroom 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 50% of total retile bathroom 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 retile bathroom 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.