Standing Shower Vs Bathtub Which Adds More Value To Your Home

When renovating a bathroom or preparing your home for sale, one of the most consequential decisions you’ll face is whether to install a standing shower, keep a traditional bathtub, or include both. This choice affects not only daily usability but also long-term property value. While modern design trends favor sleek walk-in showers, many buyers still expect at least one bathtub—especially in family-oriented homes. The real estate market rewards functionality, and understanding how these fixtures influence buyer perception can make the difference between a quick sale at top dollar and a listing that lingers on the market.

The answer isn’t universal. It depends on the type of home, target buyer demographic, number of bathrooms, and local market trends. A master suite with a spacious rain shower may appeal to empty nesters or young professionals, while a family with small children will prioritize a tub for bath time. To maximize return on investment (ROI), homeowners must balance personal preference with strategic design choices rooted in data and buyer behavior.

Market Demand: Who Wants What?

Bathroom fixture preferences are shaped by age, lifestyle, and household composition. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 60% of homebuyers consider the bathroom the most important room when evaluating a property. Within that, the presence of a bathtub remains a deciding factor for families. A 2023 NAR report found that 74% of buyers with children under 12 cited a bathtub as “essential” in at least one bathroom.

Conversely, luxury markets and urban condos often see higher demand for spa-like walk-in showers. Empty nesters downsizing from larger homes and millennials seeking low-maintenance living spaces tend to prefer minimalist designs with zero-threshold showers, body jets, and frameless glass enclosures. In high-end properties, replacing a seldom-used tub with a designer shower can increase perceived value—provided there’s still a tub elsewhere in the home.

The key insight: eliminating all bathtubs can hurt resale value. Real estate agents consistently advise keeping at least one tub if the home has two or more full bathrooms. Removing the only bathtub in a three-bedroom house may deter entire segments of buyers, narrowing your pool and potentially lowering offers.

“Buyers don’t just buy square footage—they buy lifestyle potential. A bathtub signals family readiness, even if they never use it.” — Laura Simmons, Certified Residential Specialist, Coldwell Banker

Resale Value Comparison: Data-Driven Insights

Renovation ROI varies significantly based on fixture choice. The 2023 Remodeling Impact Report by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) analyzed over 3,000 bathroom remodels and their effect on sale price. Here’s how different configurations performed:

Configuration	Avg. Cost	Avg. Resale Return	Buyer Appeal Rating (1–10)
Walk-in shower only (master bath)	$5,200	$4,100 (79%)	7.1
Combo unit (shower over tub)	$3,800	$3,650 (96%)	8.6
Separate shower + freestanding tub	$12,500	$9,800 (78%)	8.3
Freestanding tub only	$4,000	$2,900 (72%)	5.8
Zero-entry shower + bench	$6,100	$5,000 (82%)	7.9

The data reveals a clear pattern: configurations that offer flexibility—like a tub with a shower or dual fixtures—deliver the highest return. While standalone showers perform well in primary suites, combo units remain the most cost-effective upgrade for secondary bathrooms. Notably, installing a luxurious freestanding tub without a shower reduces practicality and resale return unless paired with another bathing option nearby.

Tip: If space allows, combine a walk-in shower with a soaking tub in the master bathroom. This caters to both relaxation and efficiency, appealing to a broader range of buyers.

Design & Functionality: Practical Trade-offs

Beyond resale numbers, layout and accessibility play critical roles in buyer satisfaction. Standing showers offer superior accessibility, especially for aging adults or those with mobility issues. Features like built-in benches, non-slip flooring, and handheld sprayers enhance safety and usability. For multigenerational homes or future-proofing, a well-designed shower can be a major selling point.

However, bathtubs serve unique functions that showers cannot replicate. Parents need them for bathing infants and toddlers. Soaking tubs are valued for therapeutic use—relieving muscle pain, aiding sleep, or supporting mental wellness. Even infrequent use contributes to perceived luxury. A clawfoot tub or deep soaking model adds character and visual interest, elevating the entire bathroom’s aesthetic.

Space constraints often dictate the decision. In half-baths or powder rooms, a shower makes little sense. In compact full bathrooms, removing a tub for a shower can improve flow and reduce clutter. But in homes with three or more bedrooms, eliminating every tub sacrifices versatility. A balanced approach considers how each bathroom serves the household.

Step-by-Step Guide: Choosing the Right Fixture for Each Bathroom

1. Evaluate household needs: Are there children, elderly residents, or frequent guests?
2. Assess bathroom count: If only one full bathroom exists, retain a tub or install a combo unit.
3. Consider primary vs. secondary use: Master baths can feature a shower-only design if another bathroom has a tub.
4. Factor in size and layout: Small bathrooms benefit from corner showers; larger spaces can accommodate dual fixtures.
5. Plan for aging in place: Include grab bars, curbless entry, or bench options if targeting long-term ownership.
6. Research local comps: Look at recently sold homes in your neighborhood to see common configurations.

Real-World Example: A Renovation That Boosted Sale Price

In 2022, a mid-century ranch in Columbus, Ohio, sat unsold for 78 days despite a competitive price. The home had two full bathrooms: one with a dated tub-shower combo and another with a cramped stall shower. Feedback from showings indicated concern about the lack of a modern primary suite and insufficient bathing options for families.

The owners invested $9,200 to convert the second bathroom into a spa-inspired master retreat. They removed the shower and installed a freestanding soaking tub paired with a separate zero-threshold shower enclosed in frameless glass. Natural stone tiles, recessed lighting, and a rain showerhead completed the look. The original tub in the hall bathroom was retained and refreshed with new caulk and hardware.

After relisting, the home received six offers within 14 days and sold for 5% above asking. The real estate agent attributed the turnaround to the enhanced functionality and luxury appeal of the dual-fixture master bath. “Buyers saw the tub as a family necessity and the shower as a personal indulgence,” she noted. “Together, they told a complete story.”

Expert Recommendations and Common Pitfalls

Industry professionals emphasize moderation and context. Over-customizing for personal taste—such as installing a Japanese soaking tub in a suburban split-level—can alienate buyers. Similarly, removing the only tub to create a gym-like shower room may backfire unless the home has multiple bathrooms.

Universal design principles suggest including at least one accessible shower per home, particularly on the main floor. But pairing that with a tub elsewhere ensures broad appeal. As interior designer Marcus Reed explains:

“The ideal bathroom doesn’t force trade-offs. It offers choice: a quick rinse or a long soak, independence or assistance, style and substance.” — Marcus Reed, Accessibility-Focused Interior Designer

One common mistake is assuming all showers add equal value. A poorly installed walk-in shower with leaking seams or inadequate drainage becomes a liability, not an asset. High-value showers feature proper slope, waterproof membranes, quality glass, and durable finishes. Cutting corners here undermines the entire renovation.

Checklist: Maximizing Bathroom Value During Renovation

• ✅ Retain at least one bathtub in homes with two or more bedrooms
• ✅ Install a walk-in shower in the primary bathroom if space allows
• ✅ Use neutral finishes (white, gray, beige) for broad appeal
• ✅ Ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold and moisture damage
• ✅ Upgrade lighting and storage to complement fixture changes
• ✅ Hire licensed contractors for plumbing and tiling work
• ✅ Prioritize water efficiency with low-flow showerheads and faucets

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a bathtub and still sell my home?

Yes, but with caveats. You can remove a tub if another bathroom in the home retains one. Homes with only one full bathroom should almost always keep a tub or install a shower-tub combo. Removing the sole tub may reduce buyer interest, especially in family markets.

Do standing showers increase home value?

They can, particularly in master suites. Modern, well-built walk-in showers appeal to buyers seeking convenience and luxury. However, value increases are maximized when a tub remains elsewhere in the home. Standalone showers in secondary bathrooms typically offer lower ROI than combo units.

What’s the best configuration for aging in place?

A curbless, roll-in shower with a bench, handheld sprayer, and grab bars provides the safest access. Pair this with a tub in another bathroom if possible. For single-floor living, ensure the accessible shower is on the main level.

Conclusion: Balance Design With Market Reality

The debate between standing showers and bathtubs isn’t about which is inherently better—it’s about matching your home’s features to buyer expectations. A walk-in shower brings modern functionality and accessibility, while a bathtub delivers family utility and emotional appeal. The most valuable bathrooms don’t choose one over the other; they integrate both where feasible.

Before tearing out a tub or expanding a shower, consider your home’s layout, target audience, and local sales trends. Invest in quality materials and professional installation to ensure longevity. Remember: today’s renovation should serve tomorrow’s buyer, not just today’s homeowner.

💬 Thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Share your plans or ask questions in the comments—let’s help each other make smarter upgrades that pay off at resale.