Bathroom Renovation Cost in Queens & Brooklyn: Tile, Plumbing, Permits, and Labor Explained

Planning a bath remodel in Brooklyn or Queens? Bathroom renovations in New York City have always been the most in-demand home renovations for a reason. But one common question is: how much is this going to cost? Let’s break down the numbers so you can budget smartly without any wallet-shocking surprises. Spoiler alert: it’s more than just pretty tiles.

The Tile Talk: Where Style Meets Substance

The choice of your tiles can make or ruin the mood of your bathroom, and your budget, too.  In Queens and Brooklyn, prepare to pay $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on what type of tile you choose, either a ceramic, or an expensive porcelain tile.

• Standard ceramic tile: $8-$12 per square foot
• Mid-range porcelain: $12-$18 per square foot
• Designer or imported tile: $18-$25+ per square foot
• Installation labor: $5-$15 per square foot

For a typical 5×8 bathroom, expect to spend around $1,500 to $4,000 for complete tile work, including walls and floors. Pro tip? Waterproofing is essential, and that’s an additional $500-$800 that you should be prepared to spend.

Plumbing: The Hidden Hero

Plumbing might not be the most glamorous part of your home’s bathrooms, but it is definitely one of the most important. Whether you are relocating plumbing fixtures or just updating old plumbing lines, plumbing costs in NYC are not pocket change. Licensed plumbers in Queens and Brooklyn charge $100 to $200 per hour, and complete bathroom plumbing overhauls usually cost between $3000 and $8000.

Fixture replacement? Budget accordingly:

• Toilet installation: $300-$800
• Vanity and sink: $200-$1,000
• Shower/tub replacement: $1,000-$5,000+
• Rough plumbing work: $1,000-$3,000

Are you moving plumbing lines to reconfigure your layout? Add another $1500 to $3500 to the tab. It is expensive, but think of it as insurance against future water damage nightmares.

The Permit Puzzle: NYC’s Red Tape Reality

Here’s something many homeowners overlook: permits aren’t suggestions in New York City—they’re requirements. Bathroom renovation involving plumbing or electrical work need Department of Buildings approval, costing $300-$2,000 depending on project scope.

Skip the permit? You are risking fines, insurance headaches, and resale complications. Most reputable contractors include permitting in their quotes, but always ask up front. Processing takes 2-4 weeks, so factor that into your timeline.

Labor Costs: Paying for Expertise

Labor typically eats up 40-50% of your total renovation budget. General contractors in Queens and Brooklyn charge $75-$150 per hour, while specialized tradespeople command premium rates.

Full renovation labor breakdown:

• General contractor: $3,000-$8,000
• Electrician: $85-$150 per hour
• Tile setter: $5-$15 per square foot

A complete bathroom renovation usually requires 2-4 weeks of labor. Rushing the job? Expect to pay 15-25% more for expedited timelines. Quality work takes time—it’s worth the wait.

Your Dream Bathroom Awaits

So what’s the damage? A full bathroom renovation in Queens or Brooklyn typically costs $15,000 to $35,000, with luxury projects soaring past $50,000. Yes, it’s a significant investment, but consider this: you’ll recoup approximately 60-70% at resale, and you’ll enjoy it every single day. The key? Partner with experienced professionals who understand NYC’s unique challenges.

Let’s bring your bathroom vision to life! The experts at NYC Renovation specialize in transforming Queens and Brooklyn bathrooms into stunning, functional spaces—without the stress. Get your free consultation today and discover why homeowners trust us with their most important renovations.