Faucet Replacement Cost

Understanding Faucet Replacement Cost

Faucet replacement is one of the most affordable and impactful bathroom and kitchen upgrades. A new faucet can transform the look of a sink area while improving functionality. Most homeowners spend $150-$400 total including the faucet and professional installation.

Faucet replacement is also highly DIY-friendly, making it an excellent first plumbing project for homeowners looking to save on labor costs.

Faucet Types and Costs

Bathroom Faucets

Single-Hole Faucets

Cost: $50-$300 for faucet, $125-$400 installed

Modern, compact design with handle and spout integrated.

Best for: Contemporary bathrooms, small vanities, vessel sinks.

Centerset Faucets (4-Inch)

Cost: $50-$250 for faucet, $125-$350 installed

Handles and spout on a single base, fits standard 4-inch spread bathroom sinks.

Best for: Traditional bathrooms, standard sink replacements.

Widespread Faucets (8-Inch)

Cost: $100-$400 for faucet, $175-$500 installed

Separate handles and spout pieces, offering a higher-end look.

Best for: Larger vanities, luxury bathrooms, design flexibility.

Wall-Mounted Faucets

Cost: $150-$500 for faucet, $300-$700 installed

Mounted to the wall above the sink, not the sink deck.

Best for: Vessel sinks, modern design, easy cleaning.

Kitchen Faucets

Standard Kitchen Faucet

Cost: $75-$200 for faucet, $175-$350 installed

Basic single-handle or two-handle design without spray features.

Best for: Budget installations, rental properties, basic needs.

Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

Cost: $150-$400 for faucet, $250-$550 installed

High-arc spout with spray head that pulls down into the sink.

Pros:

• Most popular style
• Great for deep sinks
• Easy pot filling
• Powerful spray option

Best for: Most kitchens, deep sinks, active cooks.

Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet

Cost: $100-$350 for faucet, $200-$500 installed

Spray head pulls out toward the user on a flexible hose.

Pros:

• Flexible reach
• Good for shallow sinks
• Can fill pots on counter
• Compact design

Best for: Shallow sinks, limited space, multitasking.

Touchless Kitchen Faucet

Cost: $200-$600 for faucet, $325-$750 installed

Motion sensor activates water flow without touching the faucet.

Pros:

• Hygienic (no touch with dirty hands)
• Water conservation
• Modern convenience
• Great for cooking

Cons:

• Requires batteries or electrical connection
• Higher initial cost
• Sensor can be finicky

Best for: Busy kitchens, families, hygiene priority.

Commercial-Style Kitchen Faucet

Cost: $250-$700 for faucet, $375-$850 installed

Restaurant-inspired design with flexible spring spout.

Best for: Large sinks, serious home cooks, modern industrial design.

Faucet Cost by Style and Quality

Bathroom Faucets

Kitchen Faucets

Faucet Finish Options

Recommendation: Chrome and brushed nickel offer the best value and durability. Matte black is stylish but shows spots. Oil-rubbed bronze suits traditional designs.

Installation Cost Factors

Standard Faucet Replacement

Labor cost: $75-$175

Replacing an existing faucet with a compatible new faucet includes:

• Turn off water supply
• Disconnect and remove old faucet
• Install new faucet
• Connect supply lines
• Test for leaks

Factors That Increase Cost

Emergency vs Scheduled Service

A dripping faucet is inconvenient but not an emergency. Scheduling during regular hours saves $25-$100.

Faucet Replacement Cost by State

Signs You Need Faucet Replacement

Replace Immediately

• Significant leak that won't stop
• Cracked or broken faucet body
• Water damage from faucet leak
• No water flow

Replace Soon

• Persistent dripping despite repairs
• Corroded or pitted finish
• Difficult to operate (stiff handles)
• Mineral buildup affecting flow
• Outdated style during remodel

Repair May Be Sufficient

• Minor drip (replace cartridge or O-rings)
• Low water pressure (clean aerator)
• Loose handle (tighten or replace)
• Sprayer not working (hose or diverter issue)

Repair cost: Most faucet repairs cost $10-$50 DIY or $75-$150 with a plumber.

DIY Faucet Installation Guide

Before You Start

1. Turn off water: Locate shut-off valves under sink
2. Check compatibility: Count holes, measure spacing
3. Gather supplies: New faucet, supply lines, plumber's tape, tools
4. Clear workspace: Remove items from under sink

Removal Process

1. Turn off hot and cold shut-off valves
2. Open faucet to release pressure
3. Disconnect supply lines (have bucket ready)
4. Remove mounting nuts from below (basin wrench helps)
5. Lift out old faucet
6. Clean sink surface

Installation Process

1. Read new faucet instructions
2. Apply plumber's putty or gasket to base
3. Insert faucet through mounting holes
4. Secure with mounting hardware from below
5. Hand-tighten, then snug with wrench (don't overtighten)
6. Attach supply lines (Teflon tape on threads)
7. Turn on water slowly
8. Check for leaks at all connections
9. Remove aerator and flush for 1 minute (clears debris)

Pro Tips

• Take a photo of old connections before removing
• Replace supply lines if older than 5-10 years
• Basin wrench is worth buying ($15-$25) for tight spaces
• Don't overtighten plastic fittings—they crack easily
• Check valves while under there—replace if corroded

Top Faucet Brands

Kitchen Faucets

Bathroom Faucets

Faucet Features Worth Paying For

Essential Features

• Quality cartridge: Ceramic disc is most reliable
• Metal construction: Brass body, not plastic
• Lifetime warranty: Reputable brands offer this

Recommended Features

• Pull-down spray (kitchen): +$50-$150
• Single-handle operation: Easier temperature control
• Water-efficient (1.5-2 GPM): Saves water, required in many areas

Premium Features

• Touchless activation: +$100-$300
• Voice control: +$150-$300
• Pot filler (kitchen): $150-$500 installed
• Temperature indicator: +$25-$75
• Filtered water dispenser: +$50-$150

How to Save on Faucet Replacement

1. DIY Installation

Save $75-$200 on labor. Faucet installation is beginner-friendly.

2. Shop Sales

Faucets are regularly discounted 20-40% during home improvement store promotions.

3. Buy Mid-Range Quality

$150-$300 faucets from quality brands perform similarly to $500+ models.

4. Skip Gimmicks

Touchless and voice-activated features are nice but not essential.

5. Replace Supply Lines Yourself

Even if hiring for the faucet, supply lines are $5-$15 and easy to install.

6. Bundle Multiple Faucets

If replacing several faucets, plumbers often discount per-faucet labor.

Conclusion

Faucet replacement costs $150-$400 for most installations, making it one of the most affordable bathroom and kitchen upgrades. With labor at $75-$200, DIY installation saves significantly on this beginner-friendly project.

When selecting a faucet, prioritize quality brands with lifetime warranties. Moen, Delta, and Kohler offer excellent mid-range options ($150-$350) that balance cost and durability. Avoid no-name brands that may fail quickly and lack replacement parts.

The best value comes from choosing a quality mid-range faucet, installing it yourself, and replacing supply lines at the same time. With proper installation, a quality faucet provides 15-20 years of reliable service.