Walk-In Shower vs Bathtub: What Raleigh Homeowners Prefer

Walk-In Shower vs Bathtub: What Triangle Homeowners Prefer

Bathroom remodeling trends across the Triangle area of North Carolina — including Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Durham, and Chapel Hill — have changed significantly over the past decade. One of the most common questions homeowners ask during a renovation is: Should we install a walk-in shower or keep a bathtub?

Both options offer advantages, but homeowner preferences are shifting. Modern renovations increasingly prioritize spacious walk-in showers, though bathtubs still play an important role in certain homes.

This guide explains what Triangle homeowners prefer in 2026, the pros and cons of each option, and how to decide what works best for your home.

The Growing Popularity of Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers have become the dominant choice in many bathroom remodels across the Triangle.

Homeowners often prefer them because they:

Create a larger and more open bathroom feel

Offer modern aesthetics

Provide easy accessibility

Require less maintenance than tubs

Many Raleigh-area remodels now feature frameless glass enclosures, large-format tile, and curbless shower entries.

Typical walk-in shower features in 2026

Popular upgrades include:

Frameless glass panels

Large format tile (24″x48″ or larger)

Linear drains

Built-in niches

Shower benches

Rain shower heads

Handheld sprayers

These features create a spa-like experience, which is one reason homeowners increasingly replace old tubs with walk-in showers.

When Homeowners Still Prefer Bathtubs

Curbless-Shower-Scandinavian-Handpainted-Tile-Floor-Mosaic-Tile-Shower-Walls

Despite the rise of walk-in showers, bathtubs remain important in many homes.

Triangle homeowners often choose to keep a bathtub when:

1. The home has young children

Families often prefer at least one bathtub for bathing kids.

2. The home may be sold in the future

Real estate agents often recommend keeping at least one bathtub in the house for resale value.

3. The bathroom is part of a luxury master suite

High-end homes sometimes feature freestanding soaking tubs paired with walk-in showers.

Freestanding tubs are particularly popular in Chapel Hill, Cary, and North Raleigh luxury homes, where homeowners want a spa-style primary bathroom.

Walk-In Shower vs Bathtub: Cost Comparison

Cost can also influence the decision during a remodel.

Feature	Typical Installed Cost (Triangle NC)
Tub/Shower Combo	$4,000 – $8,000
Walk-In Shower	$8,000 – $20,000+
Freestanding Tub Installation	$5,000 – $12,000

Walk-in showers typically cost more because they involve:

Waterproofing systems

Tile installation

Custom glass panels

Drain and plumbing modifications

However, many homeowners feel the visual impact and convenience justify the investment.

Accessibility and Aging-in-Place Design

Another major reason walk-in showers are gaining popularity is accessibility.

Many homeowners are planning bathrooms that support aging in place, allowing them to stay comfortable in their homes for decades.

Features often include:

Curbless shower entry

Grab bars

Built-in seating

Handheld shower heads

Slip-resistant flooring

These features make walk-in showers safer and easier to use for all ages.

What Triangle Homeowners Choose Most Often

Based on current remodeling trends in the Raleigh-Durham market:

Most common choices today:

Primary Bathroom
Walk-in shower (often large and spa-like)

Secondary Bathroom
Tub / shower combo

Luxury Master Bathroom
Freestanding tub + separate walk-in shower

This approach balances modern design with practicality and resale value.

Design Tips for Your Bathroom Remodel

When deciding between a walk-in shower or bathtub, consider these factors:

Bathroom size

Walk-in showers can make smaller bathrooms feel more open.

Household needs

Families with children often prefer at least one tub.

Long-term comfort

Accessible showers are easier to use as homeowners age.

Resale value

Keeping one bathtub in the house is generally recommended.

Final Thoughts

For homeowners in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Durham, and Chapel Hill, walk-in showers are now the most requested bathroom feature in remodeling projects.

They provide:

Modern design

Better accessibility

Spacious layouts

Easier maintenance

However, bathtubs still serve an important role, especially for families and resale value.

The best solution for many homes is a large walk-in shower in the primary bathroom while maintaining a bathtub in another bathroom. This balance offers both modern luxury and practical functionality.

If you are considering a bathroom remodeling project in the Triangle area, scheduling a consultation is the best way to begin exploring the possibilities for your home.