How Much Does It Cost to Replace or Repair a Bathtub Faucet?

Average Costs to Repair or Replace a Bathtub Faucet

Bathtub Faucet Repair or Replacement Material Prices

Bathtub faucet repair and replacement prices vary based on the brand and type of faucet. The cost to replace a bathtub faucet with a simple model can be as low as $15 while upgrading to a high-end brand with a modern design and extra features calls for a much higher budget.

Bathtub Faucet Prices by Type

Bathtub faucet prices vary across the board, depending on the type. For example, you can purchase a simple bathtub faucet for around $15 online, but models with specialty designs or extras like a showerhead can cost hundreds of dollars—even up to $1,000 or more. Here are the average costs to replace a bathtub faucet for these types:

• Standard bathtub faucet: $15–$50

• Standard bathtub faucet with standard showerhead: $100–$150

• Modern bathtub faucet: $100–$400

• Waterfall tub filler: $150–$300

• Bathtub faucet with rain showerhead: $250–$800

• Freestanding bathtub faucet: $250–$1,000

Bathtub Faucet Prices by Brand

Bathtub faucet prices vary considerably across different brands. Higher price points don’t necessarily reflect functionality, but rather specialized finishes, modern designs, and additional features such as water spray settings and hand showers. Below are price ranges for these popular bathroom faucet brands.

Bathtub Faucet Repair or Replacement Labor Costs

Hiring a local plumber for a new bathtub faucet installation is typically around $85 to $200 per hour. If the work needed is minimal, the cost to install a bathtub faucet may only be around $180 to $400. However, if extensive plumbing work is required—such as when the plumber needs to pull out the entire installation and repair some of the plaster around it—this project can take around seven hours and cost about $600 to $750 or more.

On the other hand, repairing a faucet generally adds to the hourly cost of hiring a plumber. Plumbers cost about $45 to $200 per hour, so you'll pay as little as $45 to around $100 for a simple repair. No matter the cost, always ask your professional about added or flat fees that may increase your final price. 

“Many service companies charge flat rates for their work, as well as a service or truck fee,” says Jeff Botelho, Angi Expert Review Board member and Massachusetts-licensed journey-level plumber. “While this may seem convenient, it can get expensive. Inquire about these fees when scheduling service with a company you're unfamiliar with."

Bathtub Faucet Repair or Replacement Cost Factors

Many factors can influence the cost to replace a bathtub faucet, such as the nature of the installation and the model of the faucet. Also, if you need same-day emergency work, expect a premium cost for labor.

Repair vs. Replace

There's a significant difference in price between repairing and replacing a bathtub faucet, as repairs can cost as little as $50 while buying a new faucet could cost about $1,000 or more. Also, a repair may only take an hour or two, while a new installation could take an entire day to complete, resulting in additional labor charges.

Standard Faucet or High-End Model

Whether you’re investing in the cost to replace a bathtub or just the faucet, this heavily depends on the model you’re working with. You can save money by getting an inexpensive standard bathtub faucet for about $20. On the other hand, high-end faucets with sleek designs and an attached shower control will cost you upwards of $1,000 or more. Upgrading to a new model with additional features may also call for more labor costs to install. 

Plumbing Work

Replacing a bathtub faucet may only require a little work, but there are instances where a local plumbing repair pro may need to get deep into the plumbing to do a proper install—a much longer and more expensive job. 

For example, to replace an old faucet, the plumber may have to remove the entire installation and rework the pipes to accommodate the new faucet. The pro might also have to repair the plaster and deal with rust buildup. In some cases, a carpenter or local tile installer may need to perform some repair work after replacing the tub or shower valve.

Emergency Work

If you need same-day emergency service, your labor costs to replace a bathtub faucet will be significantly higher. Be sure to get multiple estimates from different professionals to secure the best deal. 

Costs to Repair or Replace a Bathtub Faucet Yourself

DIY-ing your bathtub faucet repair or replacement is possible with a faucet repair kit and the right tools, along with some instructional videos you might find online. For a simple DIY bathtub faucet repair, you may pay $25 or so for materials. However, a full replacement may cost $1,000 or more if you go with a specialty faucet design.

DIY Bathtub Faucet Replacement vs. Hiring a Pro

For more complex repairs that involve tearing out the whole installation or even investing in the cost of repiping a house, always contact a pro rather than take on the job yourself. Aside from that, if you’re not confident in your skills, hire a plumber. Plumbing can be very complicated and may cause significant problems, like leaking or even flooding, if not done correctly.

Contact a faucet repair pro near you to conduct a consultation if you're still on the fence about handling the task yourself. They can provide some recommendations and even offer a quote so you can make an informed decision about what to do.