In Ohio, bathroom remodels typically deliver a return on investment (ROI) between 55% and 70%, depending on the scope, size, and quality of finishes. Basic bathroom remodels yield the highest ROI due to lower upfront costs and broad appeal, while high-end luxury renovations offer more personal comfort but lower resale returns.
Estimated ROI by Bathroom Remodel Type
Tier | Size (sq ft) | Cost Range | Estimated ROI (%) | Estimated Value Added |
Basic | 40–50 | $12,000–$18,000 | 66–70% | $7,920–$12,600 |
Expanded | 50–80 | $18,000–$30,000 | 60–65% | $10,800–$19,500 |
Premium | 80–120 | $30,000–$60,000+ | 55–60% | $16,500–$36,000 |

Basic Bathroom Remodel ROI: 66–70%
Basic bathroom remodels provide essential updates without structural changes. These projects are typically 40 to 50 square feet in size and cost between $12,000 and $18,000.
What’s Included
- New vanity and sink
- Updated toilet
- Standard tile flooring or LVP
- Painted walls
- Basic lighting and exhaust fan
- Retention of existing layout
Why the ROI Is Strong
These remodels improve a home’s function and appearance without overspending. Their appeal is nearly universal, especially in homes with outdated fixtures or finishes. Buyers appreciate clean, updated bathrooms with classic designs, and because the costs are lower, the return on investment remains high.
Expanded Bathroom Remodel ROI: 60–65%
Expanded remodels increase size and add higher-end features. These projects typically range from 50 to 80 square feet, with budgets from $18,000 to $30,000.
What’s Included
- Double vanities with upgraded cabinetry
- Upgraded tile in shower or bath area
- New tub or walk-in shower
- Additional lighting fixtures
- Minor layout changes to improve flow
Why the ROI Moderates
These bathrooms appeal to families or homeowners seeking greater comfort and functionality. However, the higher upfront costs reduce the percentage of return at resale. They are best suited for primary bathrooms or guest suites where the extra investment provides daily value.
Premium Bathroom Remodel ROI: 55–60%
Premium bathroom remodels are larger projects that emphasize luxury and customization. They range from 80 to 120+ square feet and cost $30,000 to $60,000 or more.
What’s Included
- Custom tile work (walls and floors)
- Walk-in showers with frameless glass enclosures
- Freestanding soaking tubs
- Heated flooring
- Luxury vanities and lighting
- Full layout reconfiguration
Why the ROI Is Lower
These remodels are typically done for personal enjoyment rather than resale. The specialized design choices and higher-end finishes may not align with all buyers, making it harder to fully recoup the investment. However, for homeowners seeking spa-like retreats or aging-in-place comfort, the lifestyle return is significant.
What Affects Bathroom Remodel ROI?
Several key factors influence how much of your bathroom remodel investment you can expect to recover at resale. Beyond simply picking attractive finishes, it’s about making strategic decisions that balance quality, cost, and market expectations.
1. Scope of Work
The extent of the renovation has a direct impact on both upfront costs and ROI. Keeping the existing layout and reusing plumbing and electrical lines helps control expenses and minimize disruption. Cosmetic updates—such as new flooring, fixtures, lighting, and vanities—are generally the most cost-effective. In contrast, structural changes like moving walls, expanding the footprint, or reconfiguring the layout add substantial cost for potentially limited added value. These changes may be worthwhile for personal comfort but can dilute ROI unless they resolve a significant layout issue or functional flaw.
2. Material Selections
Materials can dramatically affect the final budget. Durable, affordable finishes such as quartz countertops, ceramic or porcelain tile, and LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring provide both longevity and visual appeal at a lower cost. These materials are widely accepted by buyers and support higher returns. On the other hand, high-end finishes—such as imported stone, custom cabinetry, frameless shower glass, or designer plumbing fixtures—can quickly drive up costs without necessarily increasing resale value proportionally. Choosing materials that look high-end but are cost-effective can help maximize perceived value while keeping expenses under control.
3. Bathroom Type
Not all bathrooms are equal in terms of ROI. Hall bathrooms and powder rooms typically offer the best returns because of their high visibility and frequent use. These spaces are often the first impression for guests or a key feature for homebuyers evaluating family-friendly layouts. They’re also less expensive to remodel, which improves return ratios. Primary bathrooms or luxury ensuites, while important for buyer interest, often require larger investments that are harder to recoup. If budget is limited, prioritizing the most-used and most-visible bathrooms tends to generate better financial returns.
4. Market Conditions
Local real estate dynamics significantly influence remodeling ROI. In entry-level or mid-range markets, modest upgrades and clean finishes are usually sufficient to stand out and command a higher sale price. Over-investing in high-end finishes in these areas rarely pays off. However, in luxury markets or neighborhoods with renovated comps, buyers may expect high-end bathrooms as the norm. Failing to meet these expectations could hurt resale, while exceeding them could still be risky if it goes beyond the neighborhood’s price ceiling. Understanding what’s standard and desirable in your market is essential to making smart remodeling choices.
ROI by Bathroom Type
Bathroom Type | ROI Potential | Notes |
Hall Bathroom | High | Universal use, modest upgrades yield strong value |
Powder Room | High | Small size, low cost, visible to guests |
Primary Bathroom | Medium | More expensive, but key for buyer interest |
Luxury Ensuite | Lower | High personalization, less likely to fully recoup cost |
How to Maximize ROI on a Bathroom Remodel
Keep layout changes minimal – Reusing existing plumbing lines and room dimensions reduces cost.
Prioritize timeless design – Neutral colors, simple tile patterns, and clean lines appeal to most buyers.
Upgrade for impact – Focus on fixtures, lighting, and countertops that enhance functionality and style without major investment.
Consult a design-build expert – Firms like Element Design Build Remodel streamline the process, helping you choose smart upgrades that look great and boost value.
Final Thoughts
Bathroom remodels in Ohio offer a compelling mix of personal comfort and resale potential. With returns ranging from 55% to 70%, they are among the most financially savvy renovations a homeowner can make. Basic and expanded remodels deliver the highest ROI, especially when strategic updates are made within an efficient layout.
Premium remodels, while not always recouping their full cost, add daily enjoyment and long-term comfort—particularly for homeowners who plan to stay in their home for many years.
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel and want to balance style with smart financial decisions, reach out to the experts at Element Design Build Remodel for a tailored, ROI-focused design plan.