Tub or Shower? What Sacramento Homeowners Are Choosing for Their Bathroom Remodel

Who This Article Is For: This guide is designed for Sacramento homeowners currently planning a bathroom renovation who are undecided on whether to prioritize a luxury shower or maintain a traditional bathtub. 

Whether you are prepping a property for the local real estate market or designing a forever home for aging-in-place, this breakdown provides the regulatory, financial, and trend-based data needed to make an informed decision.

Key Takeaways

• Market Shift: 44% of Sacramento homeowners now prioritize walk-in shower luxury, though soaking tubs remain the #2 request for primary suites.
  
  
• Permit Compliance: Sacramento County has implemented a new 6.5% technology fee for 2025 electronic permit submittals that all homeowners must factor into their budget.
  
  
• Resale Value: While walk-in showers offer high "Joy Scores," the National Association of REALTORS® notes that keeping at least one bathtub is essential for maintaining a 50% cost recovery in family-oriented neighborhoods.
  
  
• Climate Concerns: Sacramento’s high summer heat and low humidity require specific stone sealants and high-efficiency ventilation to prevent material decay.

Deciding whether to keep the bathtub or convert to a sleek walk-in shower is the most significant choice you will face during a bathroom renovation in Sacramento. In Sactown, where the real estate market remains competitive, and homeowners are increasingly focused on aging-in-place, this decision carries both lifestyle and financial weight. 

According to recent data from the National Association of REALTORS®, Americans spent an estimated $603 billion on home remodeling in 2024, with bathroom renovations consistently ranking as a top-three project for increasing a home's "Joy Score."

The Sacramento Market: What Your Neighbors Are Choosing

When planning a remodel, it is helpful to look at what is actually happening in local neighborhoods like Land Park, East Sacramento, and Natomas. Our internal data at Mr. Remodel, drawn from recent Sacramento project leads, provides a clear picture of local preferences.

The Rise of the Luxury Walk-In Shower

Shower upgrades currently dominate the Sacramento market, accounting for 44% of all renovation leads. This trend is driven by a desire for modern aesthetics and the practical needs of a changing demographic. Many homeowners are opting for curbless entries, which remove the step-over barrier, making the bathroom safer and more accessible for long-term residency.

The Persistent Appeal of the Soaker Tub

Despite the move toward showers, the bathtub is far from dead. It remains the #2 request among Sacramento homeowners. However, the type of tub has changed. The dated, built-in alcove tubs are being replaced by freestanding soaking tubs that serve as a high-value centerpiece for primary suites.

Single-Family Home Focus

An overwhelming 85% of Sacramento leads come from single-family homeowners rather than investors or renters. This suggests that the majority of renovations in the region are focused on long-term functionality and family comfort rather than quick cosmetic flips.

The Economics of the Tub-to-Shower Conversion

If you are considering removing your only bathtub to create a larger shower, you must weigh the daily luxury against your home’s future resale value.

ROI and Cost Recovery

While a bathroom renovation typically offers about a 50% cost recovery at the time of sale, the "Joy Score”, which is a metric measuring homeowner happiness post-project, is an impressive 8.2 out of 10. In Sacramento’s family-heavy suburbs, having at least one tub is often considered a non-negotiable for buyers with small children.

Aging-in-Place and Accessibility

A growing segment of Sacramento homeowners is actively seeking Bath-to-Shower conversions to prepare for the future. The California Building Standards Commission has updated the 2025 codes to emphasize accessibility. Removing a high tub wall in favor of a walk-in shower significantly reduces trip hazards, a key factor for the 2026 Aging-in-Place trend.

Plan Your Layout With Local Experts

Before you commit to a specific layout, it helps to see what is possible within your specific square footage. Mr. Remodel connects you with local Sacramento contractors who can provide design consultations and free project quotes to help you decide if a tub or shower fits your home's long-term goals. Click here to get your free Sacramento remodel quote today.

Navigating Sacramento County’s 2025 Permitting Process

One of the biggest hurdles for local homeowners is the permitting process. Unlike many other regions, Sacramento County and the City of Sacramento have moved to a sophisticated electronic submittal system that requires precise documentation.

The New Electronic Submittal Roadmap

As of July 1, 2025, Sacramento County has implemented a 6.5% technology fee (capped at $850) for all building permits to fund the migration to the cloud-based Accela platform. This fee covers the cost of:

• Real-time plan review queues and online dashboards.
• Expanded online payment centers for smoother processing.
• Electronic Plan Check (EPC) for all residential alterations.

2025 California Building Code (Title 24) Updates

The latest updates to the California Residential Code include strict requirements for bathroom renovations:

• Ceiling Height: Showers must have a minimum ceiling height of 6 feet 8 inches over a 30-inch by 30-inch area at the showerhead.

• Water Efficiency: All new showerheads must meet CALGreen standards for flow rates to combat California’s ongoing water scarcity.

• Tamper-Resistant Outlets: Any new electrical work in the bathroom now requires tamper-resistant receptacles.

Sacramento’s Climate: Material Performance and Ventilation

Sacramento's unique Mediterranean climate, characterized by sweltering, dry summers and damp winters, presents specific challenges for bathroom materials.

Ventilation and High Summer Heat

While Sacramento is known for low humidity, the "urban heat island effect" can cause indoor temperatures to spike. Proper ventilation is critical. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends high-efficiency fans that are vented directly to the outdoors to prevent moisture from becoming trapped in wall cavities during the rainy winter months, which can lead to mold and structural decay.

Stone Sealants and Arid Conditions

Natural stones like marble or travertine are popular in Sacramento soaker markets. However, the region’s dry air can cause certain sealants to cure too quickly or become brittle. It is vital to use professional-grade, pH-neutral sealants designed for the Sacramento Valley’s temperature swings to maintain the stone's integrity and prevent staining.

Legal Protections for Sacramento Homeowners

Before signing a contract for your tub or shower project, you must ensure you are protected under California law.

The $500 Rule

According to the Contractors State License Board (CSLB), any home improvement project in California exceeding $500 must have a written contract. This contract must include the contractor's license number, a detailed payment schedule, and a "Three-Day Right to Cancel" (which extends to five days for homeowners over the age of 65).

Down Payment Limits

Never pay the full price upfront. California law strictly limits down payments for home improvements to 10% of the total project price or $1,000, whichever is less.

FAQ About Bathroom Renovation in Sacramento

Does removing my only bathtub hurt my home's resale value in Sacramento?

Generally, yes. Most real estate experts recommend keeping at least one bathtub in the home to appeal to the widest pool of buyers, particularly families with young children. However, in a primary suite, a high-end walk-in shower is often preferred over a standard tub.

How can Mr. Remodel help me navigate local Sacramento building codes? 

Mr. Remodel simplifies the process by matching you with licensed local contractors who are already familiar with the Sacramento County electronic permit system and the 2025 technology fee updates. This ensures your project is compliant from day one without you having to navigate the bureaucratic red tape yourself.

What is the "Joy Score" for a bathroom remodel?

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, the Joy Score for a bathroom renovation is an 8.2 out of 10. This score reflects how happy and satisfied homeowners feel with their updated space once the project is completed.

Ready to Start Your Sacramento Bathroom Transformation?

Choosing between a tub and a shower depends on your long-term goals. If you value accessibility and modern style, a walk-in shower is the clear winner. If you want a spa-like retreat or have a home tailored to families, a soaking tub remains a powerful asset. By understanding local 2025 permit updates and Sacramento's specific climate needs, you can ensure your renovation is both beautiful and built to last.

At Mr. Remodel, we take the guesswork out of bathroom renovations. We specialize in connecting Sacramento homeowners with vetted, local contractors who understand the nuances of the 2025 California Building Code. Whether you are looking for a luxury tub installation or a seamless bath-to-shower conversion, we provide free, no-obligation quotes to help you start your project with confidence.

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