Upgrading your bathroom with a walk-in shower is one of the most impactful ways to improve comfort, style, and home value. But if you’re a Knoxville homeowner, the first question on your mind is likely: How much does a walk in shower cost? In this guide, we’ll break down all the factors that influence walk in shower prices, including shower installation cost, material choices, and labor in the Knoxville area.
Average Walk In Shower Cost in Knoxville
The average cost for walk in shower installation in Knoxville ranges between $3,000 and $10,000+, depending on the design and materials. Most mid-range installations fall within the $5,000 to $7,000 range. For homeowners wondering how much do walk in showers cost, it comes down to key components like materials, space, and customization.
- Size of the bathroom and shower space
- Material (tile, acrylic, fiberglass)
- Contractor fees and local labor rates
- Permitting and plumbing modifications
Cost to Install a New Shower
Whether you’re replacing an old tub or building new, the cost to install a new shower can vary widely. Here’s what you can expect:
- Basic Fiberglass Shower Stall: $3,000 – $4,500
- Mid-Range Tile Shower: $5,000 – $7,000
- Luxury Custom Design: $8,000 – $12,000+
If you’re asking how much does a new shower cost or how much does it cost to install a shower, location and contractor fees make a big difference. In Knoxville, costs are often slightly lower than national averages, making it more affordable to install or upgrade a shower.
Considerations include:
- Drain relocation (can add $500–$1,000)
- Waterproofing and tile underlayment
- Framing and support modifications
Cost of Putting in a Shower: Material Matters
One of the most important factors affecting the cost of putting in a shower is material choice. Here’s a breakdown:
- Acrylic & Fiberglass: Affordable and quick to install — average shower installation prices range from $3,000–$5,000.
- Tile: Offers style and durability but raises the shower installation cost to $5,000–$10,000 or more.
- Cultured Marble or Stone: Premium materials for custom showers, often $7,000+.
Each material has unique installation demands and maintenance needs. For example, tile offers more visual appeal but requires more maintenance and sealing.
Walk-In Shower vs. Standard Shower Pricing
Many people ask how much to fit a shower or the difference between walk-in vs. traditional stalls.
Walk-in showers tend to be pricier because:
- They require more space.
- Waterproofing is more advanced.
- Custom tiling is often involved.
In Knoxville, how much does it cost to fit a shower depends on design complexity and finishes, but walk-in styles offer better accessibility and modern appeal. They’re ideal for seniors or those remodeling for universal design.
Cost to Replace Your Existing Shower
Already have a shower and just want an upgrade? The cost to replace shower installations in Knoxville is often less than starting from scratch.
- Standard Replacement: $3,500 – $6,000
- Custom Walk-In Replacement: $6,000 – $9,000
Whether you’re asking how much to replace a shower or how much does it cost to replace shower, Knoxville contractors typically charge 10–15% less than national averages.
Replacement projects might include:
- Demolition and removal of old units
- Mold remediation if needed
- Updating plumbing fixtures and valves
Specialized Sizing: Cost to Install a 48x32 Inch Shower
One of the most requested sizes is a 48×32 inch walk-in shower. The cost to install a 48×32 inche shower typically ranges from $4,000 to $6,500, depending on material and labor.
This size fits standard alcove spaces and offers:
- Good interior room
- Easier cleaning and maintenance
- Compatibility with pre-fab kits and tile surrounds
How Much Should a Walk-In Shower Cost in Knoxville?
If you’re wondering how much should a walk in shower cost, expect to spend at least $4,000 for mid-quality and up to $10,000 for a luxury remodel. Knoxville homeowners may save on labor compared to metro markets, making premium upgrades more accessible.
Tips to stay within budget:
- Stick to prefabricated walls and pans
- Avoid excessive plumbing changes
- Choose mid-range tile options with durable grout
Walk In Shower Cost Calculator
Want a quick estimate? Try this basic walk in shower cost calculator approach:
- Size: Small (under 32″) – $3,000 | Medium (48″) – $5,000 | Large (60″+) – $7,000+
- Material: Fiberglass – $ | Tile – $$ | Stone – $$$
- Extras: Frameless doors, seating, grab bars, niches (+$500–$2,000)
Add up your selections to get a ballpark cost.
Cost of Walk-In Showers by Type
Not all walk-ins are built the same. The cost of walk in showers depends on the configuration:
- Curbless Walk-In Showers: $6,000 – $10,000
- Frameless Glass Enclosures: $5,000 – $9,000
- Prefabricated Kits: $2,500 – $4,000
As for walk in showers prices across Knoxville, expect to pay 10–20% less than in larger cities. Working with local contractors can reduce costs by avoiding transport and overhead fees.
One-Day Walk-In Shower Cost
Need a fast remodel? One day walk in shower cost ranges from $4,000 to $7,000, depending on system and provider. These systems work best when replacing existing units with minimal plumbing changes.
Pros:
- Quick turnaround
- Clean installation
- Often comes with warranties
Cons:
- Limited customization
- Less flexibility with layout
Custom Features
Adding custom features to your walk-in shower will increase the overall cost, but these additions can enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your space. Popular custom features include:
Built-in Benches: A seat inside the shower offers comfort and convenience.
Showerheads and Controls: Rainfall showerheads, handheld sprayers, or multiple showerheads can add luxury but also increase costs.
Lighting and Steam Options: You might want to install lighting inside the shower or even add a steam shower feature, which can significantly increase the price.
Example:
A built-in bench or a high-end showerhead could add anywhere from $500 to $2,000 to your total project cost, depending on the features you choose..
Labor and Installation
Example:
The cost of labor in Knoxville typically ranges from $50 to $100 per hour, with installation taking anywhere from 2 to 5 days, depending on the shower’s complexity.
Knoxville Factors
Example:
If you’re located in Knoxville, you may find that your overall costs for labor and materials are slightly lower than in larger urban areas.
Comparing Walk-In Showers with Other Bathroom Options
Walk-in showers can sometimes be more expensive than traditional shower installations or bathtub replacements. Here’s how they stack up:
Bathtub Replacement: The cost of replacing a bathtub is generally lower than a walk-in shower, with most bathtub replacements ranging between $2,500 and $5,000.
Traditional Shower Installation: A traditional shower installation, which uses a shower-tub combo or a basic shower stall, can cost between $3,000 and $6,000, depending on the materials and labor involved.
Example:
While a traditional shower stall or bathtub replacement may cost less, walk-in showers offer greater accessibility, aesthetic appeal, and potential for a higher resale value, making them a worthwhile investment.
How to Save on Walk-In Shower Installation
Consider Financing Option
At American Home, we offer $0 down financing options to help homeowners afford their bathroom remodels. With financing, you can spread out the cost of your remodel over several months or years, making the investment much more manageable.
Opt for Budget-Friendly Material
Choose a Simple Design
Work with Local Contractor
Hiring a local contractor is often a more affordable option than working with large national chains. Local companies like American Home have in-depth knowledge of the contractors knoxville tn and material suppliers, which can help reduce overall costs.
FAQs – Shower Cost Questions Answered
How much are walk in showers in Knoxville?
Between $3,000 and $10,000 depending on design and materials.
How much does it cost to fit a new shower?
How much to install a walk in shower from scratch?
What’s the difference between cost to install new shower vs. replace?
Can I save money by using a pre-fab kit?
Does walk in shower replacement cost less than tub-to-shower conversions?
Conclusion
Whether you’re remodeling or starting fresh, understanding walk in shower cost and all associated expenses is key to budgeting effectively. From cost of putting in a shower to walk in shower replacement cost, Knoxville offers reasonable rates compared to national averages. Be sure to get multiple quotes and check for contractor reviews before starting your project.
Need help planning your bathroom remodel? Check out our related guides on choosing a contractor, selecting shower tile, and financing home upgrades. You’ll save money, avoid mistakes, and enjoy a beautiful, functional walk in shower for years to come.
If you’re researching walk-in showers for aging-in-place upgrades, you might also consider walk-in tubs for seniors in East Tennessee. These solutions offer added safety and comfort, especially for those with mobility challenges.