How much does it cost to replace a faucet in 2026?

Faucet replacement pricing has three components: the faucet itself, labor, and parts (supply lines, valve, escutcheon plate). Big-box-store kitchen faucets run $80–$250; bathroom faucets $50–$200; commercial-grade or designer fixtures $200–$1,000+. Labor is mostly the same across faucet types — 60–90 minutes for a straightforward swap. Where prices spike is when (a) the existing shutoff valves are seized or leaking and need replacement (add $50–$150), (b) the existing supply lines are corroded copper and need replumbing (add $75–$200), or (c) the granite/quartz countertop has too small a hole for the new faucet base (add $150–$400 for hole expansion).

Bathroom faucet swaps are the cheapest because access is good and shutoffs are typically easy. Kitchen faucets are mid-range — the same scope but tighter access under the sink and more drain-line / disposal complications. Outdoor faucets (hose bibs and frost-free yard hydrants) are the most expensive: they often involve soldering inside walls, wall-cutting, or excavation if the supply line is buried. A frost-free hydrant install can run $400–$1,000.

Five upcharges show up in 80% of post-quote surprises: (1) shutoff valve replacement — quarter-turn ball valves are the modern standard and pros often replace old multi-turn valves at the same time; (2) supply line replacement — old copper or plastic lines should be swapped for braided stainless; (3) basket strainer or pop-up drain replacement — usually a separate part; (4) sink basin chip repair revealed when the old faucet comes off; (5) angle-stop valve under the deck on pedestal sinks. Ask for itemized parts on the quote, not just labor + faucet.

Most homeowners buy the faucet at Home Depot or Amazon and have the pro install it. Pros generally accept this without markup. The advantage of pro-supplied faucets is the warranty pass-through — many pros warranty their installs at 90 days only on parts they supplied. The disadvantage is the markup (typically 10–25% over retail). For premium fixtures, the pro's plumbing-supply pricing is sometimes cheaper than retail.

A like-for-like bathroom faucet swap is a realistic DIY project: turn off the shutoffs, disconnect the supply lines, unscrew the mounting nuts, install the new faucet in reverse. 30 minutes if shutoffs work; 90 minutes if they don't and you also have to replace those. Kitchen faucets are 50/50 — the under-sink space is tight and old supply lines often resist removal. Outdoor faucets and any soldering work should always be hired out.