A bathroom remodel in the Des Moines area typically costs $39,000 to $61,000 for a full renovation, while a powder room or small cosmetic update can run $22,000–$28,000. A primary bathroom addition or full layout change can exceed $65,000. Most projects take 3 to 6 weeks to complete.
What Drives Bathroom Remodel Costs
- Plumbing changes: Moving a toilet, tub, or shower drain is one of the biggest cost drivers because it involves opening walls and floors.
- Shower vs. tub conversion: Converting a tub to a walk-in shower (or vice versa) affects both cost and resale appeal depending on the home and buyer pool.
- Tile and stone selection: Tile work is often the largest line item in a bathroom remodel; large-format tile and natural stone cost more than standard ceramic.
For the top tiles of 2026 — see the full Forbes list here.
- Vanity and countertop quality: Custom vanities and quartz or stone countertops add cost but also add durability and visual impact.
- Ventilation and moisture control: Proper exhaust fans and waterproofing are essential in Iowa’s humid summers and cold winters to prevent mold and moisture damage.
Popular Bathroom Remodel Trends
- Curbless, walk-in showers for a clean, accessible look
- Freestanding tubs in primary bathrooms
- Large-format tile to minimize grout lines and simplify cleaning
- Matte black or brushed gold fixtures as accent finishes
- Heated flooring for comfort during cold Iowa winters
- Aging-in-place features like grab bars and zero-threshold showers, designed to blend seamlessly with modern design
Planning Considerations Specific to Older Des Moines Homes
Many homes across the Des Moines metro, including established neighborhoods in Des Moines, Urbandale, and West Des Moines, were built with smaller bathroom footprints and outdated plumbing. Before finishes are selected, it’s worth having a contractor evaluate:
- Whether existing plumbing lines meet current code
- Whether the subfloor has any water damage that needs addressing
- Whether the layout can be reconfigured within the existing footprint or requires borrowing space from an adjacent room or closet
FAQ
How much does a bathroom remodel cost in Des Moines, Iowa? A full bathroom remodel typically costs $39,000 to $61,000, while layout changes or additions can push costs to $65,000 or more.
How long does a bathroom remodel take? Most full bathroom remodels take 3 to 6 weeks, though projects involving layout changes or plumbing relocation can take longer.
Is it worth converting a tub to a walk-in shower? It depends on the home and buyer expectations, many primary bathrooms benefit from a shower conversion, but keeping at least one tub in the home is often recommended if resale to families is a consideration.
What’s the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel? Plumbing relocation and tile work are typically the largest cost drivers, followed by custom vanities and premium countertop materials.
Do bathroom remodels require a permit in Des Moines? Yes, most plumbing and electrical work requires a permit. Cosmetic-only updates such as painting or fixture swaps generally don’t.
Remodeling Contractors has designed and built bathroom remodels throughout the Des Moines metro for more than 40 years, backed by a two-year tradesman warranty. Schedule a consultation to start planning your bathroom project.