How Much Does it Cost to Tile a Bathroom?

If your bathroom is starting to look unappealing, dull, or just not a place you want to be anymore, bathroom retiling could be the most invigorating renovation in your home. This leads to an important consideration before you go any further, however: what is the actual cost of tiling a bathroom in Australia?

The cost to tile a bathroom can vary quite widely and is dependent mainly on the size of the area, the type of tiles, and the skill of the tiler. A small ensuite could set you back a few hundred dollars, while an enormous master bathroom with high-end tiling could easily cost in the thousands.

This guide clarifies everything, starting with average prices of materials and ending with hidden costs and finding a suitable professional, so that your planning is nothing but confident and surprise-free.

Average Bathroom Tile Installation Cost in Australia

First of all, before you start making comparisons of different quotes, it would be good to know what the average cost is for a bathroom tile installation across Australia.

1. National Price Range

Tiling a bathroom in Australia will set you back somewhere between $40 and $120 on average per square meter. Nevertheless, this figure varies with the type of tile, size of the bathroom, and intricacy of the job.

• Small bathroom (4–6 m²): $800–$1,200

• Medium bathroom (7–10 m²): $1,200–$2,500

• Large bathroom (10–15 m²): $2,500–$4,000+

2. Cost Breakdown

Let’s analyze it further:

In 2025, the tiling cost per square metre bathroom Australia averages around $65–$90 for standard ceramic tiles and $100–$150 for luxurious materials.

Take note, these are just benchmarks. The cost to you will be greatly influenced by the person you choose, where you are, and the complexity of your design.

Factors That Affect the Cost to Tile a Bathroom

No two bathrooms are the same, and that’s exactly why prices differ. Here are the biggest factors that influence your bathroom tiling cost.

1. Size and Layout

A small ensuite is relatively less time-consuming than a larger family bathroom. Bigger areas mean more tiles, more adhesive, and more labor charges. Oddly shaped spaces, the presence of sloped floors, or complex layouts can increase the time required and increase costs.

2. Type of Tiles

The type of tile you select can greatly influence costs. Ceramic tiles are a more affordable option and generally easy to install, especially if there is some experience. Porcelain tiles are denser and more water resistant, and usually require a specialist to lay. Natural stones, such as marble and travertine, can look incredible but carry a higher initial commitment given that they must be sealed and precision-cut as necessary. Mosaic or patterned tiles can also double the time required due to their complexity.

3. Preparation Work

To lay the tiles, the substrate must be perfectly level, free of planarity (lippage) in relation to adjacent tiles, and expected to be waterproof. Waterproofing the substrate could easily be an additional $500 - $1,000, but generally, no compromise should be made if you expect to have years of enjoyment and peace of mind from the tiling experience.

4. Labor/Skill Level

Many skilled and experienced tile setters charge a higher hourly rate, but if money is not enough of a consideration for you, the hourly rate does not cost as much in relation to future mistakes made, wasted materials, and time when lowering the quality of what was planned (e.g., skimping on tools and techniques). You will get what you pay for, especially with tile services.

5. Location

If you reside in a major city such as Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, you'll need to budget more than if your project is in regional locations. Labor rates in metro locations tend to be higher due to demand and the increased cost of living. 

Bathroom Tile Types & Approximate Price Points

Selecting tiles is where the creative process meets the budget. Mentioned below are the most common types of bathroom tiles in Australia, along with what you can expect to pay for each.

1. Ceramic Tiles 

• Approximate Price: $25 - $50 per m²

• Advantages: Relatively inexpensive, easy to keep clean, and a variety of designs. 

• Disadvantages: Less water resistant than porcelain. 

• Best suited for: walls & low traffic areas (as a floor tile). 

2. Porcelain Tiles 

• Approximate Price: $50 - $100 per m² 

• Advantages: Strong, dense, perfect for wet (high-use) zones. 

• Disadvantages: Traffic level cutting ability, greater cost associated with labor. 

Generally, you would only consider using porcelain if you want a durable surface and a sleek finish. If you encounter a higher quote for tiling, it is worth asking if they are quoting tiling with porcelain. 

3. Mosaic Tiles 

• Approximate Price: $80 - $150 per m²

• Advantages: Wow-factor for feature walls or a feature in a sheet for a niche or border. 

• Disadvantages: High labor expenditure, as mosaic sheets are time-consuming for installation.

Great in spaces where you want to add texture and share that luxurious feel in the area. 

4. Natural Stone (Marble, Granite, Travertine)

• Approximate Price: $100 - $250 per m²

• Advantages: Timeless and premium. 

• Disadvantages: Requires sealing and high maintenance. 

Commonly used in premium bathrooms, where you think of that spa-like feeling.

5. Vinyl Tiles 

• Approximate Price: $30 - $60 per m²

• Advantages: Affordable and easy to install, which is usually a low cost; however, you could expect to spend around $65/m² or a little less to account for English-experienced labor. 

Additional Expenses to Keep in Mind for Bathroom Tile Installation Cost

When you plan your tile budget, don’t forget that tiling is more than just buying tiles. Other direct or indirect costs may arise that may cause it to be overbudget. Let’s look at these:

• Demolition and Removal of the Old Tile: If the old tiles need to be demolished and removed first, this typically costs $25–$50 per square meter.

• Waterproofing: Building codes in Australia will dictate that any wet area walls need waterproofing to be completed. This can cost an average of $500–$1,000, depending on size and materials.

• Grouting/Sealing: If using natural stone or porous tiles, a sealer will need to be applied and is generally around $10–$15 per m².

• Adjusting Plumbing: If you are moving fixtures like toilets or vanities, consider a few hundred more to have the plumbing run to the new locations.

How to Hire the Right Professionals for Tiling Your Bathroom?

When you type tile contractors near me into Google, it’s easy to be confused. Here’s how to make the right decision:

1. Check for Credentials

Always use properly licensed and insured tilers. Hiring licensed tradies gives you peace of mind. While it is uncommon for a tile installation to go wrong, it is always nice to know that you are protected in case it does.

2. Consider Quotes

You should not accept the lowest price right off. Also, make sure to receive a proper quote that includes materials, labor, and preparation.

3. Look at Reviews and Past Work

Photos of previous work and customer reviews really say a great deal about the craftsmanship and credibility of a contractor.

4. Get it in writing

A quote from a professional should have realistic detail in scope and cost, from preparation of the job to cleanup. Don't use anyone who will not or cannot put it in writing.

How Can Trusted Tradie Network Help?

If you feel like it is a job to simply find reputable tilers, take a rest. The Trusted Tradie Network will help relieve you of that activity.

This is a platform for homeowners to connect with verified tradies and contractors with experience in a range of trades throughout Australia. These trades and contractors span tilers, plumbers, electricians, and painters. Each tradie on the Trusted Tradie Network has been background-checked, reviewed, and rated in order to maintain quality and streamline the process for the homeowner.

Conclusion

Tiling your bathroom is one of the most effective ways to bring new life to your home, as well as a way of adding value to your home. You can appreciate the variations in cost from tile choices, the size of the tiling job, and the cost to install tiles for a certain-sized office. Now that you have some knowledge of the breakdown for tiling your bathroom, you can feel more confident about budgeting for the bathroom you want.

To give you some context, the average cost of a bathroom in Australia can be anywhere from $1000 to $4000, but with qualified professionals, you would get 20 years plus out of your bathroom.

Don't rush; take your time to do your research, plan, and hire the right people; if not, simply connect with qualified tilers via the Trusted Tradie Network and be worry-free.

FAQs

1. What is the average bathroom tiling cost in Australia?

The average bathroom tiling price in Australia ranges between $2,000 and $5,000. This is based on the size of the bathroom, the type of tile you choose, and the cost of labor in your city.

2. How much does it cost to tile a small bathroom?

For a small bathroom (approximately 5 sqm), expect the price to be around $1,200 to $2,000 for standard ceramic tiles and basic installation.

3. What affects the total cost to tile a bathroom?

The main factors are the type of tile material, the labor rates, waterproofing, and any prep work. Natural stone or mosaic types of tiles can significantly increase the bathroom tile installation price.

4. How can I find reliable tile contractors near me?

You can use Trusted Tradie Network to connect with verified local professionals, compare prices, and check genuine customer reviews before hiring.

5. How long does it typically take to tile a bathroom? 

An average bathroom tiling project will typically take about 3 to 6 days for completion. The scheduling difference depends on the size of the tile, the complexity of the layout, and whether there is enough time for the necessary drying time between waterproofing and grouting.