How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (2024)

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Jennifer Carlson

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Tile installation cost

Tile installation costs $10 to $50 per square foot or $2,000 to $10,000 total on average for 200 square feet, depending on the tile material, labor cost, and location. Tile floor installation typically costs more than tile walls. Common tile materials include ceramic, porcelain, stone, and glass.

Tile installation cost by size
Square feetAverage installed cost
50$500 – $2,500
100$1,000 – $5,000
150$1,500 – $7,500
200$2,000 – $10,000
250$2,500 – $12,500
300$3,000 – $15,000
350$3,500 – $17,500
How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (1)

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Average cost to install tile

The following table shows the average total cost to install 200 square feet of tile, including labor and materials.

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (2)
Average cost to install tile
National Average Cost$6,000
Minimum Cost$500
Maximum Cost$17,500
Average Range$2,000 to $10,000

Choose a standard tile size and basic shape to save money on your installation. Intricate tilework costs more than average.

Tile cost by material

Stone and glass tiles typically cost the most to install. Porcelain and ceramic are both made of fired clay, but they vary slightly in cost and durability. Vinyl and linoleum are the cheapest options but are only used on floors.

Tile cost by material
Tile materialAverage cost per square foot installedDetails
Ceramic$12 – $40
  • Made of coarse-grain clay
  • Durable but not as strong as porcelain or stone
Porcelain$15 – $50
  • Refined clay
  • More water-resistant than ceramic
Vinyl$2 – $16
  • Inexpensive
  • Mimics ceramic or stone
Linoleum$4 – $11
  • Cheap and easy to install
  • Prone to dents and scratches
Stone$10 – $50
  • Many different types
  • Most require regular sealing
Glass$20 – $100
  • Most expensive option
  • Low maintenance once completed
How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (3)

Ceramic tile

Ceramic tile installation costs $12 to $40 per square foot for labor and materials, depending on the area size, location, and whether the tile is glazed. Installing ceramic tiles on floors or in showers typically costs more than on walls.

Porcelain tile

Porcelain tiles cost $15 to $50 per square foot installed, depending on the size and pattern. Porcelain tiles are made of finer-grain clay than ceramic, are fired at higher temperatures, and are less porous. Ceramic tiles cost less but are not as naturally water-resistant.

Vinyl tile

Vinyl tile flooring costs $2 to $10 per square foot, while luxury vinyl floor tiles cost $4 to $16 per square foot installed. Luxury floor tiles (LVT) differ from normal floor tiles in thickness and durability. Vinyl tiles often look like ceramic and stone tiles.

Linoleum tile

Linoleum tile flooring costs $4 to $11 per square foot installed. Linoleum is an inexpensive flooring material that requires sealing to be waterproof and stain resistant. Click-together linoleum tiles cost more but are much easier to install than glue-down tiles.

Stone tile

Stone tiles cost $10 to $50 per square foot installed, depending on the material. Popular stones like slate and limestone cost less, while high-end materials like granite or marble cost more than average. Travertine is a type of limestone that is commonly used to make tiles.

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (4)

Glass tile

Glass tiles cost $20 to $100 per square foot with installation, depending on the size, pattern, and color. Mosaic designs made with small tiles are time-consuming and take precision to complete. Unlike other materials, glass does not require sealing and is relatively low maintenance.

Terrazzo tile

Terrazzo tile costs $15 to $35 per square foot installed or $8 to $20 per square foot for materials alone. Tile sizes range from 8"x8" to 24"x48". Terrazzo tiles are cheaper but do not provide the limitless customization or the smooth, seamless look of poured terrazzo flooring.

Cost to install tile by location

The cost to install tile varies by location and job size. Tile setters may charge different labor rates for backsplashes and countertops than walls or floors. Some have minimum service fees for small jobs, so combine projects when possible.

Tile installation cost by location
LocationAverage size
(square feet)
Average total cost
Kitchen floor130 – 184$1,300 – $9,200
Kitchen backsplash20 – 40$200 – $2,000
Kitchen countertops30 – 66$300 – $3,300
Bathroom floor40 – 160$400 – $8,000
Shower42 – 120$420 – $6,000
Bathroom walls104 – 274$1,000 – $13,700
Living area floor200 – 320$2,000 – $16,000

Floor tile

Installers typically charge more to install a tile floor than a wall. Floor tiles are generally easy to put into place, but the adhesive contractors use to lay the tiles is extra-strength and costs more than average.

When selecting tile for your floors, choose a tile with a textured surface instead of a smooth, glossy surface to provide more traction and prevent slipping.

Backsplash tile

Backsplash installation costs $10 to $50 per square foot, depending on the material. Installing a tile backsplash typically costs more than other projects because measuring, cutting, and fitting in a kitchen requires more precision.

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Shower tile

Thecost to retile a shower or bathroomis$7 to $25 per square foot, depending on the material, size, and design. Installing tile in a shower can be difficult if the space is small or hard to access. The installer may also need to add a new waterproof membrane behind the tile to prevent leaks.

Get free estimates from tile installers near you.

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (6)

Tile installation cost calculator

Tile prices depend mostly on the material you choose as well as the labor fees, which are determined by the individual contractor.

Tile installation cost factors
FactorAverage cost per square foot
Materials$2 – $30
Labor$8 – $20
Total cost$10 – $50

The following factors affect the cost to install tile:

  • Tile patterns – Complex patterns like mosaic, herringbone, Versailles, wood-look, or basketweave cost more to install than a basic pattern or design.

  • Area size – Larger tile projects cost more, but your contractor may charge more for working in small, hard-to-reach areas like shower stalls.

  • Location – Tile floors typically cost less in labor fees to install than backsplashes but more than walls.

  • Tile materials – Most tile installers include adhesives, grout, and underlayment in their material costs. The total cost will vary depending on the type and quality of these materials.

  • Tile porosity – The more vitreous or waterproof a tile is, the more expensive it will be. Porous ceramic or terra cotta is cheaper but not as durable.

  • Tile rating – Tiles are rated on their durability. Class I tiles cost less but are not durable enough to be used on floors. Class II to III tiles are used on light to moderate traffic, while Class IV and V can be used in any area of a home or workplace.

  • Heated floors Radiant floor heating costs $7 to $17 per square foot installed. If you are considering adding radiant floor heating, install it before laying new tile to avoid the expense of removing the new tile floor and redoing it later.

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (7)

Tile labor

The labor cost to install tile is $8 to $20 per square foot on average, depending on the tile location and type. Tiny, intricate designs or ceramic tile floors typically cost more to install because they're more difficult and time-consuming.

Removing old tiles or flooring materials typically costs extra but may be included in your estimate. Tile removal costs $2 to $7 per square foot. Carpet removal costs $0.70 to $1.60 per square foot.

If the floor or wall beneath the tile is damaged or you're trying to salvage old tile rather than replace it, you may face these additional costs:

  • Tile repair costs $10 to $50 per square foot on average.

  • Reglazing tile costs $4.00 to $12.00 per square foot.

  • Tile and grout cleaning costs $0.50 to $3.50 per square foot.

  • Replacing the subfloor costs $2.20 to $4.75 per square foot. If the panels are damaged or no longer level, part or all of the subfloor may require repairs or replacement before tile is installed on top.

Tile shape

Tile prices vary depending on the shape. Square and rectangular tiles cost less than irregular shapes, hexagonal tiles, or mosaic designs. Custom or hand-cut shapes cost much more than prefabricated tiles. Rectangular or subway tiles cost $7 to $35 per square foot installed.

Tile installation FAQs

Can you install new tile over old tile?

You should remove tiles before installing new materials unless the old tiles are level and in good condition. Layering new tiles, carpet, vinyl flooring, laminate, or linoleum over broken tiles can result in an uneven floor and cover up mold or damage.

You may also want to remove tiles if the new material will increase the size of the floor or wall so much that it causes problems with door thresholds, cabinets, or baseboards.

Can you install tile directly on concrete or drywall?

In most cases, you can install tile directly on concrete or drywall without underlayment. However, you will need to install a vapor barrier and cement board under the tiles in your bathroom or outdoor areas. This will prevent mold, water damage, and pests.

Do I need a permit for tile installation?

Tilework typically does not require a permit unless it's part of a greater remodel project or you're moving plumbing fixtures or electrical outlets around. Check with your contractor or local building codes to make sure your project doesn't need a permit.

Do you tip tile installers?

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Tile installers, like most other contractors, typically do not expect or require a tip. However, if you feel they provided excellent service or exceeded your expectations, consider giving them a 10% to 20% tip.

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (8)

Getting estimates from tile contractors

Before hiring a tile installer near you, follow these steps:

  • Get at least three similar tile estimates to compare.

  • Look for tile installers certified by one or more of the following organizations:

    • National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA)

    • Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF)

    • Tile Contractors' Association of America (TCAA)

    • Tile Council of North America (TCNA)

  • Read reviews for their tile installation services on HomeGuide and Google.Choose a licensed, bonded, and insured tile company that's been in business 5+ years.

  • Ask to browse their portfolio for pictures of recent tile projects.

  • Avoid suspiciously low quotes, which usually indicate poor quality tilework.

  • Get an estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before work begins.

  • Never pay in full before the tile installation begins.

Questions to ask tile installers

Make sure you hire a high-quality tile installer by asking the following questions:

  • How long have you been in business?

  • Do you have any certifications for working with tile?

  • Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

  • How long will it take to install the tile?

  • What type of grout do you recommend?

  • How long should I avoid using this room?

  • Does this estimate include cleanup and disposal costs?

  • What other fees can I expect?

  • What should I do to prepare the room before you start?

How we get this data

Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide) (2024)

FAQs

How Much Does Tile Installation Cost? (2024 Guide)? ›

Tile installation costs $10 to $50 per square foot or $2,000 to $10,000 total on average for 200 square feet, depending on the tile material, labor cost, and location. Tile floor installation typically costs more than tile walls. Common tile materials include ceramic, porcelain, stone, and glass.

How much should I budget for tile installation? ›

There are different ways to break down the cost of ceramic tile flooring, such as by room size, tile type, tile shape and project type. On average, you can expect to pay between $15 and $20 per square foot for tile flooring. But the price for tile installation can range from $4 to $110.

How much does it cost to lay 1000 sq ft of tile? ›

How much does it cost to install 1000 square feet of tile floors? On average, you'll spend between $10 and $15 per square foot for a tiling project. This means a 1,000-square-foot tile project will cost between $10,000 and $15,000.

How much does it cost to install 24x24 porcelain tile? ›

The average cost for professional installation of a ceramic, travertine, or porcelain tile floor is $8 to $44 per square foot but can range depending on tile type and installation costs.

Why is tile installation so expensive? ›

The labor and installation costs for tile floor installation can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the project, the type of tile, the condition of the subfloor, the region or country where you are located, and the contractor's experience and overhead.

How much do they charge a tile for installation? ›

Labor Cost for Tile Installation

Labor costs for tile installation are around $3 to $15 per square foot, depending on the above factors. Some contractors charge hourly rates, ranging from $30 to $120 per hour.

How do you calculate tile laying cost? ›

Multiply the total square feet of the area by the labour rate to get the exact cost to tile a bathroom. Also, you can add the total money spent on the tile buying with the labour rate to find out the cost to tile a 10x10 bathroom.

How much do tilers charge per square meter? ›

Tiling costs per m² usually work out around £100 per square metre, including the cost of tiles and other materials. But this figure varies a lot depending on each scenario. Tilers charge between £150 – 350 as their day rate for labour only. That's a wide range; a day rate is just one way that tilers charge.

How much does Lowes charge to install tile? ›

Direct pricing information isn't available on the Lowe's website, but according to NCERT Point, the store charges $5.75 per foot for installation, not including the cost of materials. This is about average pricing for the service, and includes a one-year labor warranty to ensure you're happy with the final product.

How much does it cost to remove 1000 square feet of tile? ›

The average tile removal cost is $3.50 per square foot but can range from $2 to $7 per square foot. Learn about the factors that impact cost and how to save money on the project.

What is the labor cost to install ceramic tile? ›

Labor. Another significant factor in the cost to install tile flooring is labor costs. The national average cost of labor can run between $4 and $14 per square foot. However, to install ceramic or porcelain tile floors, expect to pay anywhere from $4 to $25 per square foot.

Is large tile more expensive to install? ›

Another disadvantage of large format tiles is that they are more expensive than smaller tiles. Because these tiles are larger and require special handling, they can be more costly to produce and transport. Additionally, because they require skilled professionals for installation, labor costs can be higher as well.

What is the labor cost to tile a shower? ›

Expect to pay between $7 and $14 per square foot to cover labor costs for this project. Different types of tile require more skilled, detail-oriented installations, which will drive up the price. For example, stone and other porous tiles need sealing when installed, which means higher labor costs on your bill.

Why do tilers charge so much? ›

Factors that can affect the floor tiling cost include the size of the floor, the materials used and the expertise of the tradesperson. Underfloor heating can be challenging to work over, so if you have this in your home, be prepared for higher tiling costs.

What is the least expensive tile to install? ›

Ceramic. A go-to in today's homes, glazed ceramic tile handles water well and resists staining. It's also easy to clean. Ceramic tile floor installation costs tend to be low compared to many other common types of flooring.

Does tile increase home value? ›

It can improve your house's appearance, make your floor more resistant to spills, and even make cleaning easier. When done right, it also increases your home's value!

How do you calculate tile installation? ›

Multiply the length of the room by the width of a room. To calculate your tile needs for an odd-shaped area, divide the space into squares or rectangles, calculate the area of those squares, and add them together.

Is it cheaper to tile yourself? ›

DIY tile installation considerations

Installing your own tiles could save you money. But if you lack the skills and patience required, it could end up costing you more in terms of time and cash to get the job done right.

How much is labor for wall tile installation? ›

Installing tiles yourself is cheaper when you have the knowledge, experience, and time. The average cost for a DIY installation is $9.50–$51 per square foot, while the average price range for hiring a professional is $13.50–$83 per square foot.

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