Iowa cost guide
Bathroom remodel cost in Iowa
In Iowa, bathroom remodel prices run below the national average — whether you're in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, or Davenport. Here's what a complete, permitted job should cost, and how to tell whether the quote in your hand is fair.
Typical Iowa range
$11,200 – $37,200
Mid-range full remodels commonly land near $250–$550 per sq. ft.
Included at this price: Demo, waterproofing, tile, fixtures, vanity, ventilation, and permits.
Iowa prices by project type
| Project | Iowa range | Unit check |
|---|---|---|
| Powder room or half bath | $4,700 – $14,900 | Half baths commonly land near $200–$450 per sq. ft. |
| Full bath remodel (same layout) | $11,200 – $32,600 | Mid-range full baths commonly land near $250–$550 per sq. ft. |
| Primary bath or layout change | $23,300 – $74,400 | Primary baths commonly land near $400–$800 per sq. ft. |
| Tub-to-shower conversion | $3,700 – $14,000 | Conversions commonly run $4,000–$12,000 depending on tile and glass. |
Reviewed 2026. Editorial benchmarks from public cost surveys (Zonda Media / Remodeling magazine, Houzz, Angi / HomeAdvisor), adjusted by a state construction-cost index. Not a bid, appraisal, or licensed estimating data.
What a common size costs in Iowa
Mid-range full remodel: $250–$550 per sq. ft. of bathroom, adjusted for Iowa construction costs.
| Size | Iowa estimate |
|---|---|
| 5x8 (40 sq. ft.) | $9,300 – $20,500 |
| 8x10 (80 sq. ft.) | $18,600 – $40,900 |
| 10x12 (120 sq. ft.) | $27,900 – $61,400 |
| 10x15 (150 sq. ft.) | $34,900 – $76,700 |
Per-unit rate from the public cost guides cited above, multiplied by size and the Iowa construction-cost index. Access, demolition, repairs, and permits can add to it — this is a benchmark, not a bid.
Red flags in Iowa bathroom remodel quotes
- Waterproofing system by name, not just "waterproof the shower"
- Substrate: cement board, foam board, or drywall behind tile
- Tile quantity, layout, and who supplies it
- Exhaust fan CFM and whether it vents outside
- Fixture allowances with real numbers
Commonly missing line items: shower pan and waterproofing membrane details, subfloor repair allowance, ventilation upgrade, niche, bench, and grab-bar blocking, grout sealing and final caulking.
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Related cost guides
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