The cost to install a toilet typically ranges from about $300 to $800, which includes the cost of the toilet and professional labor for installation. Several factors can influence your total cost, including the type of toilet you choose, local labor rates and whether any plumbing upgrades are needed.
A toilet installation can be more or less than the normal range — from as low as $200 for a budget-friendly unit with a fast install to $5,000 or more for a high-end smart toilet. Here we break down the cost factors to consider when buying and installing a toilet.
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What affects toilet replacement cost?
Toilet type and features
Toilets come in a variety of styles, with a range of features that affect the price you will pay.
| Toilet style | Average cost |
|---|---|
| One-piece
| $180 to $1,700 (without bidet or smart features). |
| Two-piece
| $100 to $1,000 (without bidet or smart features). |
| Wall-mounted/wall-hung
| $140 to $1,200 (without bidet or smart features). Note: Higher-cost models are more likely to include the in-wall components. Some manufacturers sell the tank and these components separately. |
| Bidet (non-electric)
| $400 to $600. |
| Smart/Intelligent
| $500 to $3,000+. |
| Source: Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Improvement. Prices reflect basic models with no special features. | |
In addition to choosing a type of toilet, you will need to decide on certain features and characteristics that can affect price.
- Dual-flush vs. single-flush. Dual-flush toilets use two buttons for either a full or half flush, which reduces water use. In comparison, single-flush toilets have one lever or button and use the same amount of water with each flush.
- Flushing technology. The most common and least expensive is gravity flush, which uses the weight of the tank’s water to move waste. The other type is pressure-assisted, which uses pressurized air for more flushing power. The pressure-assisted option is more expensive and can require costly maintenance.
- Bowl shape and height. The most common shapes are elongated, round and square. Height measured from floor to top of seat is most commonly under 17 inches for standard toilets and 17 inches or more for chair-height toilets. Toilets that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) should be between 17 and 19 inches from the floor.
- Special design elements. For example, you might need a corner tank toilet that’s shaped to sit in a corner if you have a very small bathroom.
- Toilet seat. Not all toilets come with a seat. If you have to buy one separately, the typical price is $42, but it can range from $9 to $450.
Another factor to consider is brand. Some brands, such as Kohler and Toto, have a strong reputation for quality and durability — sometimes resulting in significantly higher-priced toilets than similar models sold by other manufacturers.
Did you know...
When talking about toilet installation, two terms you will hear are flange and wax ring. The flange secures a toilet to the floor and connects to the drain pipe. The wax ring creates a water-proof and airtight seal between the toilet and flange. Labor for installation
The labor cost to have a toilet professionally installed ranges from about $150 to $400 or more, on top of the cost of the toilet. Most standard toilet replacements take about one to three hours, if no unforeseen problems arise. Here are some factors that can add to labor costs.
- Adjusting plumbing or wiring. If you’re making changes — a different type of toilet or new location, for example — the additional labor could push costs higher. This is especially true if you’re installing a new smart toilet with features that require electrical access.
- Fixing damage. If plumbing issues or water damage are uncovered during installation, costs can rise quickly.
- Removing the old toilet. Some installers will haul away the old toilet at no cost, while others charge an additional fee ranging from $25 to several hundred dollars. Local regulations regarding disposal can affect this cost.
- Needing replacement supplies. For example, if your toilet installation requires a new flange, wax ring or water supply line, you will pay extra for these parts. Expect about $100 or less.
Ways to save on toilet replacement
- Get multiple quotes. Prices can vary significantly by service provider. Requesting at least two or three estimates from local plumbers or tradespeople can help you find the best value.
- Buy the toilet yourself. You may save money by purchasing the toilet directly from a home improvement retailer rather than through a plumber. Retailers do run specials on toilets. Just be sure to check with your installer to ensure compatibility.
- Choose a similar model. Replacing your existing toilet with a same-size and same-style model can lower installation costs. For example, if your old toilet was a two-piece floor-mounted unit, don’t switch to a wall-mounted model if you want to avoid paying for extra plumbing and structural work.
- Bundle home improvements. If you're planning other plumbing projects—such as installing a garbage disposal or replacing a faucet—you might save on labor by scheduling them together. Some plumbers offer package deals for multi-fixture upgrades.
Signs you may need to replace your toilet
Replacing a toilet isn’t the most glamorous home improvement, so it may fall low on the list of home improvements. If it isn’t done specifically for a bathroom remodel, toilet replacement often occurs due to problems such as these.
- Frequent clogs or flushing issues.
- Cracks in the tank or bowl.
- Constant running or water leaks.
- Wobbling or instability at the base.
- A sudden spike in your water bill.
- Outdated design or poor water efficiency.
Savings from replacing an old toilet
Even if your toilet still works, older models use significantly more water per flush — up to six gallons compared to today’s federal standard of 1.6 gallons — so upgrading could reduce your water usage and utility bills. Some modern models use 1.28 gallons per flush or less.
Toilets that are certified to meet Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards receive a WaterSense label. The EPA says replacing old toilets with WaterSense models could save the average family about $170 a year in water costs, or $3,400 over the lifetime of the toilets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I try DIY toilet installation?
If you’re handy and have basic plumbing skills, you might be able to replace a toilet yourself and save on labor. Many modern toilets are designed for DIY installation and come with detailed instructions.
If you’re not confident in your ability to handle plumbing connections or detect issues, hiring a professional may be the safer and more cost-effective choice. Knowing how to properly seal the new toilet is critical to avoid leaks, water damage and costly repairs later.
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- 1. U.S. Access Board. Guide to the ABA Accessibility Standards: Water Closets. Accessed Jun 23, 2025.
- 2. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Residential Toilets. Accessed Jun 23, 2025.
