Renovating a bathroom in Sydney is one of the most popular home upgrades for both homeowners and investors. But if you’ve ever started researching, you’ll quickly discover the prices can vary wildly—some renovations cost $12,000, while others easily surpass $50,000. Understanding the average cost, what affects it, and how it differs across suburbs is crucial before starting your project.

This guide breaks down the costs, offers insights from real Sydney renovations, and helps homeowners plan a budget for a stress-free bathroom transformation.

1. Average Bathroom Renovation Cost in Sydney

On average, a standard bathroom renovation in Sydney costs between:

• $18,000 – $32,000 for a standard renovation

• $30,000 – $55,000+ for premium or designer renovations

These averages are drawn from years of experience renovating bathrooms across Sydney suburbs like Inner West (Newtown, Marrickville, Balmain), Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee, Randwick), North Shore (Mosman, Lane Cove, Chatswood), and Western Sydney (Parramatta, Castle Hill, Blacktown).

The cost varies depending on factors such as bathroom size, quality of fixtures, complexity of plumbing and electrical work, and whether structural or layout changes are involved.

2. Factors Affecting Bathroom Renovation Costs

Understanding what drives costs helps you avoid surprises and budget more accurately.

A. Size and Layout

• Small bathrooms (2–4 m²): $15,000 – $25,000

• Medium bathrooms (5–8 m²): $25,000 – $40,000

• Large or ensuite bathrooms (8+m²): $35,000 – $55,000+

Apartments and older homes often have compact layouts, limiting changes. Larger family bathrooms in Mosman, Vaucluse, or Turramurra may require more materials, labour, and time.

B. Type and Quality of Fixtures

Fixtures are a major cost component:

• Standard fixtures: $3,000 – $6,000
  Common in Western Sydney suburbs like Blacktown or Seven Hills, where homeowners often prioritise functionality.

• Mid-range fixtures: $6,000 – $12,000
  Popular in Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, and Northern Beaches. Includes Caroma, Phoenix, or Fienza brands.

• High-end designer fixtures: $12,000 – $25,000+
  Often found in luxury homes in Mosman, Vaucluse, Double Bay, including imported vanities, premium tapware, and custom cabinetry.

Tip: You can save money by sourcing materials yourself, but be mindful of delivery, storage, and warranty issues.

C. Plumbing and Electrical Work

• Standard relocation: $1,500 – $5,000

• Complex relocation or slab penetration: $5,000 – $10,000

Older homes in Leichhardt, Marrickville, and Ashfield often require updates to aging plumbing systems. Apartments in Zetland, Mascot, or Wentworth Point may have strict rules on modifying pipes and electrical circuits.

D. Waterproofing and Tiling

• Waterproofing: $900 – $2,500
  Mandatory in NSW and must be certified to comply with building standards.

• Tiling: $4,000 – $10,000+
  Large format tiles, mosaics, and intricate patterns increase labour costs. Coastal homes in Bondi, Coogee, Manly often use tiles resistant to salt moisture and humidity.

E. Labour Costs

Labour includes builders, tilers, plumbers, electricians, and waterproofers:

• Typical cost: $7,000 – $15,000 for standard renovations

• Complex or high-end renovations: $15,000 – $25,000

Labour rates can vary across Sydney. Inner West suburbs often attract higher rates due to tight working spaces and high demand for skilled trades, whereas Western Sydney has slightly lower labour costs.

F. Demolition and Waste Removal

Demolition costs:

• Standard bathroom: $1,000 – $3,000

• Apartment buildings or restricted-access homes: $2,000 – $4,500

Apartment renovations in Zetland, Mascot, Rhodes, or Wentworth Point often involve strict lift access, rubbish disposal through basements, and limited working hours, increasing costs.

3. Average Costs by Renovation Type

Renovation Type Average Cost (Sydney) Typical Features Suburb Examples Standard $18,000 – $32,000 Functional fixtures, standard tiles, no major layout change Blacktown, Seven Hills, Ryde Mid-range $32,000 – $45,000 Custom vanities, high-quality fixtures, minor layout adjustments Newtown, Marrickville, Bondi Premium/Luxury $45,000 – $55,000+ Designer fixtures, large-format tiles, structural changes, high-end finishes Mosman, Vaucluse, Double Bay

4. Cost-Saving Tips for Sydney Homeowners

1. Stick to the existing layout

Moving plumbing or changing the bathroom footprint increases costs dramatically.

2. Plan strata approvals early (for apartments)

Apartment renovations in Chatswood, Wolli Creek, Zetland, or Rhodes require strata approval. Delays or changes can be costly.

3. Source mid-range fixtures

High-quality, local brands balance cost and durability.

4. Schedule work efficiently

Book all trades in a coordinated timeline to avoid waiting fees or multiple visits.

5. Consider renovation packages

Some builders, like MB9 Australia, offer package deals including design, fixtures, labour, and compliance, which can reduce surprises.

5. Hidden Costs to Budget For

• Unexpected plumbing issues (common in homes older than 20 years in Ashfield, Marrickville, and Inner West terraces)

• Electrical upgrades (necessary for heated floors, towel rails, or modern lighting)

• Acoustic treatments (required in apartments)

• Waterproofing certificates and compliance fees

• Waste removal logistics (particularly in apartments)

A 10–15% contingency is recommended to cover surprises.

6. Why Renovating with a Professional Saves Money

Hiring an experienced, licensed renovation company like MB9 Australia:

• Ensures compliance with NSW building codes and waterproofing regulations

• Reduces costly mistakes on plumbing or tiling

• Helps manage strata approvals and logistics

• Coordinates all trades efficiently, saving time and avoiding budget overruns

• Offers warranty-backed work and certified waterproofing

7. Realistic Budget Example for Sydney Bathroom Renovation

Scenario: Mid-sized 5m² apartment bathroom in Newtown

Item Cost Range Demolition & waste $1,500 – $2,500 Plumbing $2,000 – $5,000 Electrical $1,000 – $2,000 Waterproofing $1,200 – $2,200 Tiling $5,000 – $8,500 Fixtures & fittings $6,000 – $10,000 Labour $8,000 – $12,000 Total $24,700 – $42,200

This aligns perfectly with Sydney’s average bathroom renovation costs, accounting for mid-range finishes and minor layout changes.

8. Sydney-Neighbourhood Insights

• Inner West (Newtown, Marrickville, Balmain) – Popular for compact apartments; tight spaces increase labour costs slightly but materials are readily available.

• Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee, Randwick) – Coastal conditions require corrosion-resistant fixtures and anti-mould tiles; slightly higher material costs.

• North Shore (Mosman, Lane Cove, Chatswood) – Luxury finishes and structural changes are common; budget at the higher end.

• Western Sydney (Parramatta, Blacktown, Castle Hill) – Standard renovations are more affordable; trades are readily available.

• CBD & Inner City Apartments (Zetland, Mascot, Wolli Creek) – Strata compliance, lift access, and concrete slabs increase labour costs significantly.

9. Key Takeaways

• Average Sydney bathroom renovation: $18,000 – $32,000 (standard)

• Mid-range renovation: $32,000 – $45,000

• High-end/luxury renovation: $45,000 – $55,000+

• Labour, strata rules, plumbing complexity, and fixture quality are the main cost drivers

• Budget an additional 10–15% for hidden costs or surprises

Planning, realistic budgeting, and hiring licensed professionals are critical for a smooth, stress-free bathroom renovation.

For more information about kitchen, bathroom, and house renovation services in Sydney, visit www.mb9.com.au to learn how MB9 Australia Pty Ltd can transform your home with high-quality, compliant, and stylish renovations.