Cost $25,300Adds $18,722
Your estimate
Cost
$42,000
Adds at resale
$21,840
Recouped
52%
National planning figure: $42,000 cost, 52% recouped. Ranked #21 of 27 projects by ROI.
Universal design makes a bathroom usable at any age or ability: curbless shower, wider door, comfort-height toilet, blocking for grab bars, lever handles and slip-resistant tile.
Why it scores where it does
- Growing demand from older buyers and multigenerational households.
- Good design looks like a spa shower, not a hospital.
- Structural work for a curbless drain adds cost.
Get the most from it
- Add wall blocking for future grab bars even if you do not install them yet.
- Linear drains make curbless showers easier.
- A handheld shower on a slide bar suits everyone.
Universal design bathroom ROI by region
| Region | Cost | Value added | % recouped | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific | $50,400 | $27,955 | 55% | |
| Mountain | $42,000 | $23,150 | 55% | |
| South Atlantic | $39,900 | $20,966 | 53% | |
| New England | $47,040 | $24,024 | 51% | |
| West South Central | $38,640 | $19,001 | 49% | |
| East South Central | $37,800 | $18,346 | 49% | |
| Middle Atlantic | $46,200 | $22,277 | 48% | |
| West North Central | $41,160 | $19,219 | 47% | |
| East North Central | $41,580 | $18,782 | 45% |
Frequently asked questions
Do accessible bathrooms hurt resale?
Not when they are designed well. A curbless walk-in shower appeals to buyers of all ages.
Is financial help available?
Some state and local programs and certain tax rules cover accessibility modifications; check with your state housing agency or a tax adviser.
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Cost $80,000Adds $36,000