Bathroom mirror replacement costs vary widely by size, frame, and installation complexity. Homeowners typically pay for removal, glass, and mounting hardware, with labor time as a major driver of total price. The guide below covers typical ranges, key price drivers, and ways to save.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mirror Replacement (Basic, 24×36, frameless) | $150 | $250 | $400 | Standard cut, no frame, basic install |
| Mirror Replacement (Mid-size, 30×40, framed/ beveled) | $250 | $450 | $900 | Beveled edge or simple frame |
| Mirror Replacement (Premium, large/custom, LED option) | $700 | $1,100 | $1,800 | Custom cut, premium frame, lighting or specialty glass |
Overview Of Costs
Mirrors vary in price by size, edge style, and mounting method, which are the main cost drivers. The total project often spans a wide range: as low as about $150 for a small, frameless replacement to well over $1,800 for a large, framed or specialty mirror with features like LED backlighting or anti-fog coatings. A practical way to view pricing is to consider both the total project range and a per-square-foot estimate. For most standard bathroom mirrors, the installed price sits in the $200–$700 neighborhood, with the per-square-foot cost typically falling in the $8–$25 range, depending on glass thickness and edge work. The following sections break down why those numbers vary and how to plan accordingly.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
Breaking down the price helps identify which factors contribute most to the total. A typical installed mirror price can be expressed across several cost categories, with materials often representing the largest share for framed or specialty mirrors, and labor dominating for custom installations. The table below uses common components and provides a practical range for each category to fit a standard bathroom project.
| Cost Element | Materials | Labor | Permits | Delivery/Disposal | Contingency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Replacement | $60-$180 | $120-$260 | $0-$50 | $20-$80 | $15-$60 |
Assumptions: standard 24×36 or 30×40 size, no LED, basic mounting.
Factors That Affect Price
Size, framing, and edge work are the largest price levers for bathroom mirrors. Specific drivers include mirror area in square feet, edge style (polished, beveled, or routed), thickness of the glass (usually 1/4″ to 3/8″), frame material (none versus metal or wood), mounting method (concealed hardware vs exposed bracket), and any add-ons such as integrated LED lighting, anti-fog features, or custom cutouts for outlets or sconces. A small mirror (up to about 8 sq ft) generally costs less than a large mirror (>15 sq ft). In addition, higher-quality glass, safety backing, or moisture-resistant framing can push costs higher. The thresholds below help categorize typical jobs: small (≤8 sq ft), medium (8–15 sq ft), and large (>15 sq ft).
Regional labor conditions and material availability also influence price. For example, a custom-cut mirror from a local fabricator can add fabrication time and lead to higher prices if special glass is required. When a mirror includes lighting or specialty features, expect the edge finishes, driver components, and waterproofing to add to both material and installation line items. Budget for potential extra hardware, a larger piece for proper viewing angle, or a rework if walls require patching.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor hours and hourly rates shape the final bill, especially for nonstandard installations. For a typical bathroom mirror replacement, labor tends to be the second-largest component after materials. A basic install generally takes about 1–2 hours on-site, while mid-range projects with framing or beveled edges may require 2–4 hours. Large or complex jobs with integrated lighting, unusual shapes, or custom mounting brackets can take 4–6 hours or more. In the United States, labor rates commonly range from $50 to $120 per hour, depending on region and contractor expertise. As a rough rule, expect labor to be 40%–60% of the total in standard projects and a larger share for premium features.
Mini-estimate formula: labor hours × hourly rate. For a 2-hour mid-range install at $75/hour, labor might run about $150; for a 5-hour premium install at $110/hour, labor could approach $550.
Regional Price Differences
Regional cost variation affects both materials and labor. In the U.S., prices for bathroom mirror replacements typically differ by region due to labor pools, supply chains, and local codes. The following three-region snapshot highlights typical ranges and noted deltas from a national baseline (assumed mid-range installed price of about $350–$700 for standard projects):
- Northeast region: often 10%–20% higher than the national average, driven by higher labor costs and premium materials. Typical installed ranges: $230–$900 for standard jobs, with premium projects exceeding $1,000 when custom framing or LED features are included.
- Midwest region: generally near the national average, with a modest +/- 5% swing depending on city and supplier. Typical ranges: $180–$750 for common projects; slightly higher if custom fabrication is needed.
- West region: price levels can be similar to or modestly above the national average, particularly in coastal metro areas. Typical ranges: $200–$850, with higher-end projects climbing toward $1,000–$1,600 when high-end frames, large sizes, or integrated lighting are used.
Regional deltas influence both materials (glass and frame options) and installed labor. A homeowner in a high-cost metro area should anticipate higher quotes, while rural areas may see lower base rates. The presence of a local glass shop and lead times also affects final pricing.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Real-world scenarios illustrate how specs translate into dollars. Below are three scenario cards showing common setups, approximate hours, per-unit prices, and total estimates. They reflect typical market conditions in many U.S. regions but are not bids. Use these as benchmarks when evaluating quotes.
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Basic Scenario — Specs: 24×36, frameless, standard 1/4″ glass, no frame, standard mounting.
- Specs: 24×36 inches (approximately 6.0 sq ft); edge: polished; mounting: simple hardware
- Labor: 1.5–2 hours
- Materials: $60–$110
- Labor: $120–$240
- Permits/Delivery/Disposal: $20–$60
- Contingency: $15–$40
- Total: $215–$450
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Mid-Range Scenario — Specs: 30×40, framed beveled edge; standard mounting with a modest frame.
- Specs: 30×40 inches (about 7.3 sq ft); frame: metal or wood; edge: beveled
- Labor: 2–4 hours
- Materials: $150–$300
- Labor: $180–$420
- Permits/Delivery/Disposal: $30–$70
- Contingency: $25–$60
- Total: $385–$900
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Premium Scenario — Specs: 48×60 large; framed with premium finish and optional LED backlight.
- Specs: 48×60 inches (18.0 sq ft); frame: premium wood/metal; lighting: LED strip
- Labor: 4–6 hours
- Materials: $300–$600
- Labor: $350–$650
- Permits/Delivery/Disposal: $40–$90
- Contingency: $60–$180
- Total: $860–$1,600
Extras & Hidden Costs
Hidden or extra costs can surprise later in the project. Examples include wall repair if the old mirror was damaged during removal, plumbing or electrical work if lighting is added, or moisture-resistant framing upgrades in humid bathrooms. If the existing mounting surface is uneven, releveling, patching, or repainting may be required, adding time and cost. Glass replacement may require tempered or safety-rated glass with a higher price point, and specialty edgework or custom shapes can dramatically raise both materials and labor costs. Some installers charge a small surcharge for rush orders or for removing an oversized or unusually shaped mirror.
Permits, Codes & Rebates
Permitting and local incentives can influence cost. In most residential mirror replacements, permits are not required, but some jurisdictions or job types may trigger local code compliance checks or electrical work if lighting is involved. Verify whether a permit is needed in the local area to avoid unplanned fees. Look for manufacturer rebates or contractor promotions on specific frame styles or glass types, although these are not common for standard bathroom mirrors. For larger remodels, some regions provide tax incentives or utility-sponsored rebates for moisture-resistant products, which can indirectly affect the overall budget.
Ways To Save
Smart choices can trim the price without sacrificing quality. Start with a standard, off-the-shelf size if possible and reuse existing mounting hardware when feasible. Compare quotes from multiple local glass shops and installers to leverage competition. If you can transport and drop off the old mirror yourself for disposal in some regions, you may shave a disposal fee. Choosing a frameless, standard edge mirror rather than a custom framed piece typically reduces both materials and labor time. Finally, plan installation during off-peak periods if scheduling flexibility allows, as some shops offer reduced rates during slower seasons.
3 Real-World Quotes Snapshot
What a homeowner might expect in typical markets. The following snapshots illustrate how quotes can shift with size, finish, and added features. Use these to sanity-check bids and to set expectations for your project.
- Small, basic: 24×36 Frameless, no frame — Installed: $180–$260; Time: 1–2 hours; Per-square-foot: $5–$9
- Medium, framed: 30×40 Beveled edge — Installed: $420–$780; Time: 2–4 hours; Per-square-foot: $13–$22
- Large, premium: 48×60 Frame + LED lighting — Installed: $1,000–$1,600; Time: 4–6 hours; Per-square-foot: $10–$20 (glass only) plus features