How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Toilet?

Labor costs to replace a toilet

The toilet replacement cost can be as little as $120, but tends to average around $375. Like all renovation jobs, it’s rarely as simple as a quick removal and replacement. Here are some common issues that can rise toilet installation costs:

Toilet removal costs

Depending on the location of the old toilet, removal can cost between $50 and $200. Ensure when you get a quote for your new toilet whether the removal of the old one is included. If your old toilet is on the top floor of a six-story building with no working elevator, you can expect to pay on the high side for the removal.

Toilet drainpipe installation

If you’re moving your toilet or installing one where there wasn’t one before, you’ll need a new drainpipe. This is the pipe that connects the toilet to the sewer or septic tank, and it can run anywhere from $1,900 to $3,900, providing a clean installation with no obstacles.

There are instances where you can move your existing drainpipe. The original connection to the sewage line will need to be capped, and your drainpipe will need to be re-routed and re-connected to the sewage line. This is cheaper than installing a brand new drain line and generally costs between $600 and $800.

Hidden problems

In order to figure out how much to replace a toilet, you need to consider potential hidden problems. Some people may find issues with their pipes once the plumber has access beneath the floor. They may leak or may be quite old and no longer up to code. You can expect to pay between $75 to $125 per hour for this type of unexpected labor.

Some toilet replacements reveal a broken flange, which is a part that fastens the toilet to the floor and connects it to the drainpipe. This could cost $200 to fix. Parts generally cost between $5 and $30.

Material costs to install a new toilet

How much does a new toilet cost? That really depends on you and what you want. You have a wide variety of options, including the toilet type, the flushing system, and any “smart” or luxury upgrades you wish to add.

One-piece or two-piece

No matter which type of toilet you purchase, most are going to come with an elongated bowl. These tend to be more comfortable, but you can find a round bowl if you search around. The round bowl is better for smaller locations, though you’ll also notice a compact elongated bowl option is available.

Toilets have two types: one-piece and two-piece. A one-piece toilet has the toilet basin and bowl as one unit and tends to be smaller and more expensive than its two-piece counterparts. These are sleek and generally easier to clean. Installed, a basic one-piece toilet can range between $200 and $500, but for an advanced design, you can expect between $500 and $1,000. The two-piece toilet is the classic design and wins when it comes to familiarity. A basic model can be installed for $230 to $300, while an advanced one can go for $700 to $1,000.

Flushing systems

Most homes have the classic gravity-fed toilets, which use gravity to flush contents down a trap way. It’s simple and effective and can range from $100 to $600 for a new one. The dual flush toilet is in the same price range. A dual flush uses a combination of pressurized air systems and gravity. These tend to have the option for a half or full flush (for liquids or solid waste, respectively).

Pressure-assisted toilets (ones that don’t have a gravity-fed option) tend to start more expensive, ranging from $350 to $650. You also have the option to purchase a double cyclone flushing toilet. These use gravity combined with centrifugal force to direct water through nozzles rather than rim holes. These range from $500 to $600.

Smart features and other options

There are a variety of upgrades you can bring to a toilet, whether it be for comfort or ease. Some toilets come with extra height, which tends to add roughly $150 to the price tag. If you’d prefer to use a hands-free toilet, this can cost between $300 to $4,300. For a heated toilet seat, expect to pay between $850 to $4,300.

You can also get a self-cleaning toilet, which uses cleaning solutions and UV lights to break down dirt and grime. Self-cleaning toilets cost between $350 to $3,400. If you really want to get into the luxury toilets, remote-control toilets control everything from water spray to heated seats to built-in odor control and warm airflow for drying. These high-tech toilets range between $1,200 to $4,300.

Other costs to replace a toilet

Additional costs may occur when it comes to toilet installation. The more work a professional needs to complete, the more the job will cost. If your new toilet doesn’t fit or the flange is broken, this will increase your costs.

If your floor incurred water damage from leaks and needs replacing, you may pay between $6 to $10 per square foot for new flooring. If your toilet is anything but a basic gravity-fed model, it may also run your toilet installation cost higher by requiring electrical or Bluetooth connectivity. An electrician may charge a call-out fee, plus $50 to $70 per hour.

DIY or Hire a Pro

There are two main reasons to hire a professional: toilets are heavy, and a professional will get the job done quicker. Also, installing a toilet does require some knowledge of plumbing. If you’re comfortable lifting a toilet (between 55 to 88 pounds, depending on the type), this is a job you can do yourself and save money on the cost to replace a toilet. Be cautious - you may find unexpected problems and require that plumber or electrician regardless, so be sure to have some extra money in your budget. A handyman cannot install a toilet for you unless they’re a licensed plumber.