Does removing a bathtub hurt resale value?
In most cases, removing a bathtub does not hurt resale value, especially if the home has more than one bathroom. Many buyers today prefer modern, low-maintenance walk-in showers over outdated tubs. However, in homes with only one bathroom, removing the only tub can reduce appeal for some buyers—particularly families with young children. If you’re considering replacing a tub, you can learn more about our walk-in shower installations in Syracuse, NY here.
The Real Answer (Not the Internet Myth)
Bathroom remodeling is consistently one of the most value-preserving upgrades a homeowner can make.
Most bathroom remodels recoup roughly 55% to 70% of their cost at resale, depending on the quality of materials and overall scope of work. (Angi.com)
In some cases, updated shower-focused layouts can outperform traditional tub setups. One study found that homes with showers as the primary bathing feature sold for approximately 10% more on average, reflecting a growing preference for convenience and modern design. (findyourace.com)
At the same time, national data shows that many buyers still prefer having both a tub and a shower available—especially in certain types of homes. (NAHB)
The key takeaway is this: resale value is not determined by whether you have a tub—it’s determined by how well the bathroom fits the expectations of the buyer.
Homes With Two Bathrooms (Or More)
If your home has two or more bathrooms, removing a bathtub is typically not a concern.
Most buyers:
- Still have access to a tub elsewhere
- Prioritize updated finishes and usability
- Prefer larger, more functional showers in primary bathrooms
In fact, many modern renovations involve removing underused tubs and replacing them with larger, more practical walk-in showers.
Homes With Only One Bathroom
This is where the decision requires more thought.
If your home only has one bathroom, removing the only tub can:
- Narrow your buyer pool
- Matter more to families with children
- Impact how quickly the home sells
Research shows that over 50% of buyers prefer having both a tub and a shower, particularly in family-oriented markets. (NAHB)
That doesn’t mean removing the tub is a mistake—it just means you should understand who your likely buyer is.
At the same time, many homeowners making this decision are not planning to sell anytime soon. In a lot of cases, they are thinking about how the home will function for them long-term.
We work with many homeowners in the Syracuse area who are weighing options like:
- Staying in their home comfortably as they age
- Avoiding future mobility issues
- Making the space safer and easier to use daily
For some, the decision isn’t “tub vs shower”—it’s whether the home can continue to work for them at all.
If that’s the case, we generally recommend optimizing the space for your needs first. A properly designed walk-in shower can make a home significantly more usable long-term, which often outweighs theoretical resale concerns. You can see how we approach these projects here: walk-in shower installation in Syracuse.
What Buyers Actually Prefer (By Demographic)
Families with young children
- Often prefer at least one bathtub
- Easier for bathing and daily routines
- Viewed as more practical
Older homeowners / empty nesters
- Strongly prefer walk-in showers
- Prioritize accessibility and ease of use
- Less interest in traditional tubs
This shift is growing.
Homeowners aged 65 and older now represent a significant and increasing share of remodeling activity, and they consistently favor shower-focused layouts. (Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University)
Acrylic vs Solid Surface Showers (What Holds Value Better?)
Not all showers are viewed equally when it comes to resale.
Acrylic / insert systems
- Lower upfront cost
- Faster installation
- Often perceived as more temporary
Solid surface / custom showers (like Onyx Collection)
- Custom fit to the space
- More durable materials
- Higher perceived long-term value
For homeowners looking to learn more about shower materials, read our article on acrylic vs solid surface vs tile. Resale value is closely tied to material quality and longevity, not just appearance. Higher-quality, more permanent materials tend to hold value better and are more appealing to buyers evaluating long-term condition. (Zintex Remodeling Group)
Are Buyers Reinstalling Tubs After Removal?
This is a common concern—but not something supported by current trends.
Most remodeling data shows the opposite:
- Nearly 80% of tub removals result in expanded or upgraded showers, not tub reinstallation
- Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing larger, more functional shower spaces
(Axios)
There is no strong evidence that homeowners are widely removing showers to put tubs back in.
How Often Do Bathrooms Get Remodeled?
Bathroom remodels are relatively infrequent.
Most homeowners update their bathrooms every 10 to 15 years, typically due to:
- Worn-out materials
- Outdated layouts
- Functional limitations
(World CopperSmith)
This means your decision impacts not just resale—but how the space functions for you long-term.
Is It Okay to Have Only Walk-In Showers?
Yes—in many cases, it is completely acceptable to have only walk-in showers in a home.
It usually makes sense when:
- There is another tub elsewhere in the home
- You plan to stay long-term
- You want a more accessible, low-maintenance space
It may require more consideration when:
- The home only has one bathroom
- The neighborhood is heavily family-oriented
- You plan to sell in the near future
Final Take
Removing a bathtub is not inherently a negative decision.
In many cases—especially in homes with multiple bathrooms—it is a practical upgrade that improves usability, modernizes the space, and aligns with current buyer preferences.
What matters most is:
- Whether the home still meets buyer expectations
- The quality of materials used
- How well the space is designed and built
A well-built, properly installed walk-in shower will almost always be viewed more favorably than an outdated or rarely used tub. If you’re considering a broader renovation beyond just the shower, you can learn more about our full bathroom remodeling services in Syracuse, NY here.
🔧 Walk-In Shower & Resale FAQs
Does removing a bathtub decrease home value?
Not necessarily. In homes with multiple bathrooms, removing a bathtub typically does not decrease value. In single-bath homes, it may limit appeal for some buyers but does not automatically reduce value.
Do buyers prefer tubs or showers?
Many buyers prefer having both, but there is a growing preference for walk-in showers—especially among older homeowners and those prioritizing accessibility. (NAHB)
Is it bad to have no bathtub in a house?
It depends on the home and the neighborhood. Houses with only one bathroom may benefit from keeping a tub, while homes with multiple bathrooms often do not require one.
Are walk-in showers good for resale?
Yes. Well-designed walk-in showers are widely accepted and often preferred, especially when built with durable, high-quality materials.
How long does a bathroom remodel last?
Most bathroom remodels last 10–15 years before requiring updates, depending on materials and usage. (World CopperSmith)
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