Tile Installation Cost

A complete guide for New Hampshire and Massachusetts in 2023

Updated September 15, 2023

The average cost of a tile installation project is $2,500 in 2023.

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Tile installation typically averages around $2,500 in 2023. It can range from as low as $500 for more economical options, to as much as $8,000 for high-end jobs.

Cost by project type

Backsplash

A white subway tile backsplash can bring style to your kitchen. The average cost to install a ceramic subway backsplash in NH or MA is $700 to $1,800, but more expensive materials like marble will increase the cost.

Floors

Kitchen tile flooring installation cost

The cost to install tile for your kitchen floor can be approximately $1,200 to $2,500 for a small space. A large kitchen may cost anywhere from $1,600 to $3,900 to complete. The price range is due to different tile materials. The kitchen layout and the condition of the subfloor will also affect the cost.

Bathroom tile flooring installation cost

A small bathroom like a guest bath costs around $650 to $1,650 for new tile flooring. Larger bathrooms range from $900 for a 75 square foot bathroom to as high as $2,900 for a larger 150 square foot bathroom.

Heated floors tile installation cost

For electric systems, the average cost for a 100 square foot floor is $2,100.

Bathroom walls

Tiled bathroom walls can create a stylish space, and the cost depends on the type of shower you have and the material you use. For glazed ceramic tile, prepare to spend around $900 to $2,500 if you have a bathtub. For a walk-in shower, you may pay around $1,200 to $2,900 depending on the type of tile you prefer.

Fireplace

The average cost of fireplace tile installation is $1,200 to $3,800, but the price can rise even to $6,500 for big stone and intricate pattern.

Cost by project size

Charging per square foot is usually used for big commercial jobs. The average cost of tile will run you approximately $12 to $18 per square foot. This cost reflects labor and materials. If you need to install a subfloor add an additional $7 to that square foot cost.

Your cost per square foot can vary depending on labor rates and inflation. If installers are in high demand, expect to pay more.

**TILE COST PER SQUARE FOOT**
Type of Tile	Tile Cost (SF)	Labor Cost (SF)	Total Cost (SF)
Ceramic	$2	$6– $12	$8 – $14
Hand Made	$7	$6 – $14	$13 – $21
Glass	$4	$8 – $16	$12 – $20
Metal	$5	$7 – $13	$12 – $18
Porcelain	$6	$7 – $14	$13 – $20
Travertine	$8	$8 – $14	$16 – $22
Natural stone	$8	$7 – $14	$15 – $22
Marble	$9	$9 – $16	$18 – $25

When purchasing tile, always add an extra 10% for breakage and cutting waste.

Cost by tile type

Ceramic

The most common type, glazed ceramic tile, is one of the least expensive tile. They can cost between $0.70 and $7.50 per square foot. On the contrary, hand made fireclay ceramic tile can be as expensive as marble.

Porcelain

Generally, porcelain tile are more expensive than ceramic tile. Porcelain tile can cost from $3.50 to $12 per square foot for indoor tiles and up to $37 per square foot for outdoor tiles.

Marble

This material is expensive. It can cost between $6 and $42 per square foot, and comes with higher maintenance. To prevent stains, marble requires regular sealing (first time around installation, then once every year).

Glass

Because glass tile need special adhesive and they are more difficult to cut and install, their professional installation is one of the most expensive. Glass tiles average approximately $5.50 to $16 per square foot.

Cost by design type

For floors and walls

A straight lay pattern with straight grout joints and square tiles costs the least. The medium size tile of 12″x12″ are the cheapest to install. Very small or very large tile can be difficult to work with, so they tend to cost more. Additionally, complex patterns require more time, and “time is money”. A diagonal pattern usually cost an additional $2.50 to $5.50 per square foot. Herringbone and other complex patterns have additional $3 to $6 per square foot.

For backsplashes

Subway (also called brick pattern) is the most common and easiest to install. You can use this pattern horizontally or vertically.

Herringbone and chevron patterns are less common. They increase the project cost by 15 % and 30%, due to the extra material used and the time to cut and install.

Additional cost factors

Additional materials

Backer board will need to be installed if you have a wood subfloor. It can cost between $3 and $5 per square foot and usually comes in boards of 3’x5′.

For bathroom walls you will need to apply waterproofing before installing tile.

Besides tile, you will need thinset (mortar), grout and caulking. Sealer is needed if you have marble tile or slate.

Subfloor repair and installation

If the existing subfloor needs repair, it can average $5 to $10 per square foot.

Debris removal

If the demolition was on a big area you might need to rent a dumpster. If you don’t need a dumpster, the contractor might charge you up to $300 fee for debris removal.

Cost to DYI

Cost to install tile yourself

If you’re a handy person tile installation won’t be out of your reach. You can save up to 30% of your overall tile cost.

But there will be a significant investment in buying or renting tools. Tile tools can cost up to $3,000 and daily renting up to $400.

DIY costs vs. hiring a pro to install tile

If you don’t have experience, you may probably end up doing more damage than good. The professionals can save you time, money and efforts when you use their services.

Tips to reduce cost

Buy local and from big stores. Buying local can save you money on gas, plus big stores have cheaper products and better return policies.
Avoid buying online. Online tile purchasing has its challenges. Product appearance may vary from images, shipping costs apply, and supply chain issues can cause delays, making it costlier and less convenient.
Use bigger tiles. Larger tiles can cost less to install than smaller ones since there is less labor involved.
Avoid complicated designs. Complex tile designs tend to cost more due to the time and expertise needed.
Do part of the project yourself. You can save a lot of money if you do part of the work on your own. Demolition, installing cement boards or waterproofing can be easy to learn.
Hire the best professional. Another trap is to hire the cheapest tile contractor. Looking for “the best price” can be detrimental, as quality is not “cheap”. We recommend to hire a tile installer that has:
- at least 5 years experience
- plenty of 5 star reviews on different platforms (like Google, Houzz, Facebook etc.)

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to install tiles in New Hampshire in 2023?

Taking inflation into account, the cost of labor for a 100 sqft area varies:

For installations without a subfloor, it ranges from $1,000 to $2,200.
Including a subfloor raises it to around $1,800 to $3,600.
Opting for smaller 4″x4″ tiles increases the cost by approximately 10% compared to 12″x12″ tiles.
Labor for 100 sqft marble or slate tile falls between $2,200 and $3,600. Similarly, for ceramic or porcelain tile, the labor cost ranges from $1,200 to $2,800.

If you’re considering a backsplash, the labor cost is between $700 and $1,800.

It’s advisable to connect with local professionals for precise estimates tailored to your unique project.

2. How much does it cost to install tiles in Massachusetts in 2023?

Considering inflation, the labor cost for a 100 sqft area varies:

For installations without a subfloor, the range is $1,200 to $2,400.
With a subfloor, the cost increases to about $2,000 to $4,000.
Opting for smaller 4″x4″ tiles results in a rise of approximately 15% compared to 12″x12″ tiles.
Labor for 100 sqft marble or slate tile falls between $2,400 and $3,800. Similarly, for ceramic or porcelain tile, the labor cost ranges from $1,400 to $3,200.

If you’re considering a backsplash, the labor cost is between $800 and $2,000.

It’s recommended to consult local professionals for precise estimates tailored to your specific project.

3. How much does it cost to install a backsplash in New Hampshire in 2023?

On average, installing a white ceramic subway tile backsplash might range from $700 to $1,800. For pricier materials like marble, expect the cost to increase. To get an accurate estimate, consider material choices and request quotes from local professionals based on your preferences.

4. How much does it cost to install a backsplash in Massachusetts in 2023?

On average, installing a white ceramic subway tile backsplash might range from $800 to $2,000. For pricier materials like marble, expect the cost to increase. To get an accurate estimate, consider material choices and request quotes from local professionals based on your preferences.

5. What are the affordable kitchen tile trends for 2023?

In 2023, budget-conscious trends are in. Look for simple yet chic options like subway tiles in calming blue, green, and white hues. Earthy tones like terracotta and mixed materials bring depth without breaking the bank. Consider sustainable choices and 3D textures for a unique look that’s also easy on your wallet.

6. Why is tile installation so expensive?

Tile installation costs reflect craftsmanship, specialized tools, labor intensity, material quality, inflation, and economic conditions. The value lies in a lasting and beautiful space.

SAVU LLC