Memphis, TN · Updated
Shower Remodel in Memphis: Costs and Permit Info
A shower remodel in Memphis costs between $1,700 and $7,700, with a typical job costing around $3,650 and including tile, fixtures, and plumbing.
$1,700 – $7,700 typical in Memphis. Refine your range ↓
Next come three quick questions, then one Memphis pro named before any contact.
Memphis homeowners pay nothing to use it. One pro, introduced by name first.
- Free to use.
- One pro per request.
- Named before contact.
- Cited Memphis prices.
Ranges first.
Shower remodel in Memphis: the price range.
Know what shower remodel tends to cost in Memphis before you share a single detail.
Memphis, TN · Shower remodel.
$1,700 – $7,700.
Midpoint: about $3,650.
- Shower pan installation.$750 – $1,950.
- Floor tile installation.$14 – $18 per sq ft.
- Bathroom tile installation.$15 – $19 per sq ft.
A range, not a quote. Public price data adjusted for Memphis; the written contract sets the price.
Estimate your tile installation range in Memphis
Also in Memphis.
More tile work we match in Memphis.
How it works.
What happens after you ask.
- Describe the work. Share the basics of the shower remodel job and your timing in one short Memphis form.
- Hear who it is. One matched Memphis pro, and you get the name first so you can look them up.
- Check it against the range. Hold their written quote up to the Memphis range on this page, then decide.
You pay nothing. How we're paid.
Quote checklist for Memphis.
How to read a tile quote.
What a solid written quote covers
- Shower waterproofing method
- Grout line width
- Area measured plus cut waste
- Tear-out included or extra
- Tile named by maker and size
Worth asking before you agree
- Will you level the substrate?
- What if the subfloor is damaged?
- Is the warranty in writing?
- How long until we can use it?
- How will you waterproof wet areas?
Quick answers.
Common questions about shower remodels in Memphis
Does tile installation require a permit in Memphis, TN?
All Memphis/Shelby County building fees exclude a $4.00 administrative charge and a $1.00 residential surcharge, so $5 is added to each residential permit total (2022 Fee Schedule, Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement). A general permit may also apply for structural changes.
What steps verify a tile installer's license for exterior work in Memphis?
In Tennessee, any residential remodeling project costing between $3,000 and $24,999 requires a Home Improvement license, which must be backed by a $10,000 bond or equivalent (Home Improvement Contractor (TN Board for Licensing Contractors)). To verify a contractor's license, check the official Tennessee verification site at verify.tn.gov (Homeowner's Affidavit for Building Permits (Memphis and Shelby County)). Exterior tile installs must follow movement joint rules, using 100% silicone, urethane or polysulfide sealant (www.tileletter.com).
Do I need a permit for tile installation in Memphis, TN?
Tile installation does not require a building permit in Memphis, as finish work like tiling is exempt under the Memphis and Shelby County Residential Code (Joint ordinance adopting the 2021 IRC with local amendments (Memphis and Shelby County Residential Code)). However, if your project involves plumbing or electrical work, you may need separate permits for those systems (Homeowner's Affidavit for Building Permits (Memphis and Shelby County)).
The full Memphis guide to shower remodel.
Permits, price drivers and local Memphis data, cited
Local termite damage risk influences material choices and waterproofing needs (Joint ordinance adopting the 2021 IRC with local amendments (Memphis and Shelby County Residential Code)).
Thinking About a Walk-In Shower? Consider This for Memphis Homes
A walk-in shower can improve accessibility and modernize your space, but Memphis-specific rules and costs affect planning. Local code, permit fees, and housing age influence material choices and installation methods.
Memphis uses the 2021 International Residential Code with local amendments, effective December 31, 2021 (Joint ordinance adopting the 2021 IRC with local amendments (Memphis and Shelby County Residential Code)). This affects shower design, including drainage slopes and waterproofing requirements. Proper compliance ensures your remodel meets current safety standards and avoids future issues during inspections or sales. Understanding these rules helps avoid delays and unexpected costs later in the project.
If you're remodeling a home built before 1978, lead-safe renovation rules apply when disturbing paint, even in bathrooms (ACS 5-year 2020-2024, B25034 Year Structure Built). This may influence where and how you install new shower enclosures or cabinets. Using proper containment methods during demolition helps avoid contamination and potential fines. Being aware of these rules ensures a smoother process for older homes in Memphis. Permit costs for residential alterations in Memphis are $5.00 per $1,000 of valuation, with a minimum fee of $50 and maximum of $325 (2022 Fee Schedule, Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement). This affects budgeting for your shower remodel. Knowing this upfront helps you plan expenses accurately and avoid surprises when submitting plans to the code office.
Bathroom remodel bathtub shower tile ideas for older homes
For older Memphis homes, consider using ceramic or porcelain tiles in showers due to their durability. Avoid natural stone unless sealed properly to prevent etching. Incorporating modern designs with glass enclosures or seamless tiles can update the look while ensuring functionality and longevity.
Bathtub shower combo remodel ideas for dated bathrooms
Updating a dated bathroom with a bathtub-shower combo can improve space utilization. Opt for slip-resistant tiles, ensure proper drainage, and use materials that resist wear and moisture. Consider removing the tub if it's outdated and replacing it with a walk-in design for easier access.
What shower remodel costs in Memphis
| Job | Low | Typical | High | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shower remodel | $1,700 | $3,650 | $7,700 | angi.com, 2026-09 |
Typical ranges from public data (angi.com; September 2026), not a quote — your contractor's written contract sets the price.
estimated range, not a quote.
What changes the price in Memphis
Each local rule or condition below changes what to do, choose or pay for this job; sources included. More rows: full table.
| Local rule or condition | What it changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis/Shelby County plumbing permits carry a $20 issuance fee plus $7.50 per fixture or trap, with a $4 data-processing fee and $1 residential surcharge (2022 schedule) | A plumbing permit would cost $20 issuance fee plus $7.50 per fixture or trap, with additional data-processing and residential surcharge fees (source) | 2022 Fee Schedule, Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement |
| Memphis and Shelby County building permit applications are filed online through the Develop 901 Citizen Portal run by the Division of Planning and Development | Building permit applications must be filed online through the Develop 901 Citizen Portal (source) | Develop901 home (Memphis and Shelby County DPD) |
Illustrative example based on the public data cited on this page (October 2026), not a quote — your contractor's written contract sets the price.
Low-Cost Shower Remodel Ideas in Memphis
Low-cost shower remodels in Memphis can use durable materials and smart design to reduce costs without sacrificing quality or longevity. Focus on budget-friendly options like tile types that require minimal maintenance over time.
To keep costs low, consider using terrazzo for long-term durability, as it has a service life of 75+ years (NAHB/Bank of America Home Equity, Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components (Feb 2007), Table 1). This material resists wear and tear, reducing the need for future repairs. Proper installation is key—using flexible sealants in rigid joints ensures that cracks don’t form at corners or changes of plane (www.tileletter.com). Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners on calcareous stone to prevent dull spots and etching, which could lead to costly replacements down the line (naturalstoneinstitute.org). These choices help maintain a clean, functional shower without frequent rework.
Another cost-saving strategy is ensuring proper mortar coverage during installation. Wet or exterior areas require 95% mortar contact instead of the standard 80%, which prevents tile movement and damage over time (www.tileletter.com). Thinset mortar must be applied with full support at corners and edges to avoid voids under tiles, which can lead to cracking or hollow sounds later on (TileLetter / NTCA Ask the Experts, "Hollow-sounding tiles and industry standards" (2026-07-14)). Using the correct tools and techniques during installation helps avoid rework, keeping costs predictable and manageable for homeowners looking to stay within budget.
Related for Memphis homeowners: Shower Pan Installation and Bathroom Tile Installation.
Permit Requirements for Shower Remodels in Memphis
Local rules and fees apply depending on when your house was built and the type of materials used in the project.
The city’s code office is at 6465 Mullins Station Road, Memphis, TN 38134 (2022 Fee Schedule, Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement). Contact them directly for specifics on your situation before starting work.
Tennessee requires a state contractor license for projects of $25,000 or more (Contractor (TN Board for Licensing Contractors)), which may apply depending on the scale of your shower remodel. If you’re adding new plumbing fixtures, expect a permit fee of $20 plus $7.50 per fixture or trap, with additional data-processing and surcharge fees (2022 Fee Schedule, Memphis and Shelby County Office of Construction Code Enforcement). Always confirm requirements with local authorities to avoid delays and extra costs later in the process.
Permit rules from ACS 5-year 2020-2024, B25034 Year Structure Built. Rules change — confirm with the Memphis building/permit office before you start.
Get matched with one Memphis pro
Local data notes for Memphis
- If your home was built before 1939, which affects about 8% of housing units in Memphis (ACS 5-year 2020-2024, B25034 Year Structure Built), older plumbing systems may require special inspections or updates to meet current codes.
- This could affect permit requirements and costs for your shower remodel project.
A worked budget
A typical budget includes tile, fixtures, and waterproofing
| Line | Amount |
|---|---|
| Local band typical | $3,650 |
| Illustrative total | $3,650 |
Illustrative example based on the public data cited on this page (October 2026), not a quote — your contractor's written contract sets the price.
Before you sign a shower remodel quote in Memphis
- Scope includes tile type, waterproofing materials, and fixture brands
- States who pulls permits (Division) and associated fees
- Includes inspection scheduling for code compliance
- Specifies lead-safe practices if the home was built before 1978 (Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program Rules (EPA))
- Mentions disposal of old materials and waste removal
Check contractor licensing at verify.tn.gov, ensuring they are registered for electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work (Homeowner's Affidavit for Building Permits (Memphis and Shelby County)).
When a pro may not be needed
If you're replacing tile in an existing shower without altering plumbing or structure, you may proceed with a repair-only approach. However, if your home was built before 1978 and has lead-based paint, professional lead-safe practices are required (Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting Program Rules (EPA)). Always inspect for termite damage before DIY work.
What to do next on a Memphis shower remodel job
- Schedule a consultation with a licensed tile installer who handles permits
- Check if your home is in a historic district and apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness (Memphis Landmarks Commission Certificate of Appropriateness resource (2025))
Quote check: local band
$1,700–$7,700 per job
Get matched with one Memphis pro
Get started.
From range to written quote: one Memphis pro, named before they ever call.
- Free to use.
- One pro per request.
- Named before contact.
Why Memphis Tile Install Guide
Real tile work in Memphis — fair prices, plain answers, local setters.
Tile repair cost in MemphisGet matched with one Memphis pro.
Before they contact you, we give you the pro's name. Ask them for their license number and check it yourself — look it up at verify.tn.gov.
Page history
- — Updated 97% of the text; new sections: Thinking About a Walk-In Shower? Consider This for Memphis Homes, What shower remodel costs in Memphis, What in Memphis changes a shower remodel job; removed: Walk-In Shower Remodel
- — Updated 97% of the text; new sections: Walk-In Shower Remodel
- — Updated 97% of the text; new sections: Thinking About a Walk-In Shower? Consider This for Memphis Homes, What shower remodel costs in Memphis, What in Memphis changes a shower remodel job; removed: Walk-In Shower Remodel
- — Updated 26% of the text
- — Updated 29% of the text
- — Updated 97% of the text; new sections: Walk-In Shower Remodel
- — Updated 86% of the text; new sections: Thinking About a Walk-In Shower? Consider This for Memphis Homes, Low-Cost Shower Remodel Ideas in Memphis, Permit Requirements for Shower Remodels in Memphis; removed: When to Consider a Walk-In Shower Remodel in Memphis, Budget-Friendly Options for Shower Remodels in Memphis, Permit Requirements for Shower Remodel Projects in Memphis
- — Updated 98% of the text; new sections: When to Consider a Walk-In Shower Remodel in Memphis, What shower remodel costs in Memphis, What in Memphis changes a shower remodel job; removed: Walk-In Shower Remodel
We list content changes only, not spelling or layout fixes.