How much for a mid-range bathroom reno in Toronto?

A mid-range bathroom renovation in Toronto typically runs between $15,000–$25,000 for a standard 5×8 ft main bathroom, with most homeowners landing around $18,000–$20,000 when using quality mid-grade fixtures and a reputable local contractor.

That price range generally covers a full gut renovation — demo, new tile (floor and walls), tub/shower replacement, vanity, toilet, lighting, exhaust fan, and basic plumbing rough-in adjustments. What it usually doesn't include are structural changes, moving plumbing walls, heated floors, or high-end fixtures like a freestanding soaker tub or custom glass enclosure. Those upgrades can push you into the $30,000–$45,000+ range quickly.

A few things that significantly affect your final number in the Toronto market: the age of your home matters a lot. Older homes in neighbourhoods like The Annex, Leslieville, or Scarborough bungalows often reveal surprises behind the walls — outdated knob-and-tube wiring, galvanized pipes, or subfloor rot — that can add $2,000–$5,000 to the job. Tile selection is another big variable; a mid-range porcelain tile runs $4–$8/sq ft, while natural stone can triple that cost. Labour in Toronto also runs 10–20% higher than most other Ontario cities, so GTA quotes will be higher than what you might see in national renovation guides.

Permit Considerations

Most bathroom renovations in Toronto don't require a building permit unless you're moving walls or changing the layout significantly. However, any electrical work requires an ESA permit, and if you're adding or relocating plumbing, your contractor should pull the appropriate permits through the City of Toronto Building Division (toronto.ca/building). Always confirm your contractor is handling permits — unpermitted work can cause serious issues when you sell.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Tiling, painting, and installing a vanity are manageable DIY tasks that can save $1,500–$3,000. But plumbing connections and electrical work in a bathroom should be handled by licensed trades. In Ontario, homeowners can do their own electrical work on their own home, but it still requires an ESA permit and inspection — and most lenders and insurers want to see that paperwork.

Your next step is to get 3 quotes from licensed Toronto bathroom contractors — scopes vary widely, so make sure each quote covers the same work. Browse local contractors at the Toronto Construction Network to find vetted pros in your area, and ask each one specifically what's included, what's excluded, and whether permits are part of their quote.