SAVU LLC

Tile Installation Cost Guide for NH & MA (2025)

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How much does it cost to install tile?

In New Hampshire and Massachusetts, tile installation typically averages around $2,600 in 2025 for a standard 100-square-foot project. Costs can range from $600 for economical options to over $10,000 for luxury designs and custom work. This guide breaks down what influences these costs and how to plan your project effectively.

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Average cost

Average cost of tile installation in NH & MA

A modern kitchen with marble tile backsplash in herringbone pattern

Tile installation costs depend on material, room size, and design complexity. For most homeowners in NH and MA, the average cost is $2,600, covering both materials and labor for a 100-square-foot project.

For smaller, simpler installations, like a 25-square-foot wall section, costs can start as low as $600. Conversely, high-end custom designs for large areas or intricate patterns can exceed $10,000, depending on tile type and installation difficulty.

Tile Installation Costs
Average Cost to Install Tile in NH & MA
Average$2,600 (100 sq. ft.)
Low End$600 (25 sq. ft.)
High End$10,000+ (Custom large areas)
Pro Tip

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

Cost breakdown

What influences tile installation cost?

Blue large format porcelain tile in a contemporary bathroom

The cost of tile installation goes beyond just the price of the tiles themselves. Several factors can impact the overall cost, including the type of material, labor involved, subfloor preparation, and the complexity of the design. 

FactorDescription
Tile MaterialThe type of tile you choose (e.g., ceramic, marble, porcelain) impacts both material costs and installation complexity.
LaborSkilled labor is essential, and costs can vary based on the complexity of the installation, such as intricate patterns or custom layouts.
Floor Prep & SubfloorIf your subfloor requires leveling or repair, additional prep work can increase the overall cost of installation.
Design ComplexityMore intricate designs (like mosaics or diagonal patterns) will require additional time, materials, and labor, raising the cost.
Additional CostsGrouting, sealing, and edge trimming (e.g., bullnose) are additional costs to consider for a finished look.
Geographic LocationBig cities tend to have higher costs, while rural areas may face additional shipping fees for materials.
Pro Tip

Be sure to discuss all aspects of the job with your contractor, including subfloor prep, design details, and any additional work like grouting or trim installation. This will help you get a clear picture of the full costs upfront and avoid surprises later.

Cost by size

Tile installation cost by area size in NH & MA

Subway handmade tile backsplash in a farmhouse style kitchen

Tile installation cost can vary significantly depending on the size of the area you’re working with. Smaller projects, such as backsplashes, tend to be more affordable, while larger rooms or extensive areas, like open-concept spaces or full floors, can require a larger investment. 

Project SizeEstimated CostDescription
Small (25-50 sq. ft.)$600 - $1,200Small areas like bathrooms or backsplash.
Medium (100 sq. ft.)$2,600Typical for medium-sized rooms, like kitchens or large bathrooms.
Large (200+ sq. ft.)$4,000 - $7,000Larger spaces like open-concept kitchens or large living areas.
Extra Large (500+ sq. ft.)$8,000 - $15,000+Extensive areas, like whole floors or commercial spaces.
Flooring Area Calculator

Flooring Area Calculator

How to Calculate

  1. Measure your room in rectangular sections.
  2. Enter your measurements below.
Room divided into rectangular sections

Step 1: Enter Width and Length of Section(s):

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Pro Tip

For larger projects, consider doing the installation in stages to spread out costs. This allows you to prioritize the most important areas first and gives you time to adjust your budget accordingly.

Cost by project

Cost by tile project type in NH & MA

Alton, NH, Vertical pattern tile backsplash wall installation by SAVU LLC
Straight soldier pattern ceramic tile backsplash in kitchen with no upper cabinets

Tile installation cost can vary by location in the home. High-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms tend to cost more due to durability needs, while complex areas like fireplaces or accent walls may require higher-end materials, increasing the price.

Project TypeLow-End CostMid-Range CostHigh-End CostDescription
Backsplash$700$1,800$2,000Subway tile or other ceramic options. Marble increases the cost.
Flooring (Small Kitchen)$1,200$2,500$3,900Small kitchens, depending on materials and layout.
Flooring (Large Kitchen)$1,600$3,000$4,200Larger kitchen spaces, with more complex flooring patterns.
Heated Floors$2,100$3,200$4,500For electric heating systems in a 100 sqft space.
Bathroom Walls (Tub Area)$900$2,500$3,000Tiled walls for a bathtub or shower area with glazed ceramic tile.
Bathroom Walls (Walk-in Shower)$1,200$2,500$2,900Cost varies depending on tile choice and shower design.
Fireplace$1,200$3,000$6,500Tile around the fireplace with high-end materials like stone and intricate patterns.
Pro Tip

Complex designs, premium materials like marble or stone, and floor prep (like heating or leveling) can significantly raise the price. Always get a detailed estimate to understand the full scope of costs for your project.

Cost by material

Overview of common materials and their typical costs

Stone and black glass tile backsplash in an eclectic style kitchen
Tile TypeDescriptionCost Range / 100 sqft
CeramicAffordable, versatile, ideal for floors, backsplashes, and walls.$600 - $2,500
PorcelainDurable, water-resistant, great for bathrooms and floors.$800 - $3,000
MarbleLuxurious, high-end, perfect for accents and floors, but requires professional installation.$1,500 - $6,500
GlassIdeal for backsplashes, easy to clean, but more fragile.$900 - $4,000
Natural StoneIncludes slate, limestone, and travertine, offering unique textures and colors.$1,200 - $5,000
CementDurable and customizable, often used for outdoor spaces and industrial designs.$1,000 - $3,500
Pro Tip

While marble and natural stone offer luxurious looks, they may require more maintenance compared to more affordable and durable options like ceramic or porcelain.

Cost by design

Common tile designs and their costs

A herringbone style backsplash using large subway tile in a white kitchen
Design TypeDescriptionCost Range / 100 sqft
Simple GridClassic and straightforward layout using square or rectangular tiles.$600 - $1,800
HerringboneStylish V-shaped pattern that adds visual interest to any space.$900 - $2,500
DiagonalTiles laid at a 45-degree angle to create a dynamic, modern look.$700 - $2,200
MosaicSmall tiles arranged in detailed patterns or images.$1,200 - $4,000
Custom LayoutUnique designs tailored to your space, often combining different tile shapes and patterns.$1,500 - $5,500
CheckerboardContrasting tiles arranged in a bold alternating pattern.$800 - $2,500
Pro Tip

More intricate designs like herringbone can make a dramatic impact, but keep in mind that these designs require more labor, which can increase the overall cost.

Labor costs

Cost for hiring a professional

Working On A Spanish Tile Floor
A tile installer working on a Spanish tile floor

The complexity of the job, the size and type of material, as well as the time required to complete the project all contribute to labor costs.

Labor TypeCost Range /100 sqftDescription
Standard Installation$300–$500Basic installation for common tile types like ceramic and porcelain.
Intricate Designs$500–$800Work involving detailed patterns, mosaic tiles, or custom layouts.
Floor Prep$200–$400Preparing subfloor for installation, including leveling or smoothing.
Demolition$300–$600Removing old tiles, cleaning debris, and preparing the area for new tiles.
Pro Tip

Labor costs can vary significantly based on your geographical location. Ensure that your contractor provides an itemized estimate to cover all aspects of the installation.

Professional installation vs. DIY

When deciding between professional installation and DIY for your tile project, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and challenges of each option. 

OptionCost Range/100 sqftProsCons
Professional Installation$700 - $1,500+High-quality results, saves time, expertise in handling complex designs, proper floor prep and demolition, warranty.Higher upfront cost, scheduling may be required, no control over timing.
DIY Installation$100 - $500Lower cost, control over design, hands-on experience, no need for scheduling or contractors.Time-consuming, requires tools and skills, risk of mistakes, may lack expertise in floor prep and demo.
Pro Tip

While DIY installation may seem like a more affordable option, remember that improper installation can lead to additional repairs in the future, potentially increasing your costs. For a flawless finish, especially for complex designs, professional installation might be a safer bet.

Additional costs

Several additional factors that can impact the price

Schluter floor underlayment
A tile installer laying a Schluter floor underlayment

Tile installation costs go beyond just the tiles themselves. Additional factors, like floor prep, plumbing work for showers, or heating systems, can affect your final price. 

Additional CostCost Range/100 sqftDescription
Floor Preparation$200 - $1,000Cost for leveling the subfloor or repairing any damage to ensure proper tile adhesion.
Old Tile Removal$200 - $1,500Removing old tile or flooring before the new installation can be time-consuming and costly.
Heated Floors$500 - $2,500Electric heating systems installed beneath the tile for additional comfort and luxury.
Tile Sealing$100 - $300Sealing grout and tiles to protect against moisture and stains, especially in high-moisture areas.
Plumbing for Showers$300 - $1,500Cost for rerouting plumbing and installing fixtures for new shower setups, depending on complexity.
Schluter Membrane Installation$100 - $600Membrane used for waterproofing floors or walls, especially for wet areas like showers, protecting against water damage.
Pro Tip

Always plan ahead for extra costs like floor prep and plumbing. These can add up quickly, so it’s best to discuss them early with your installer to avoid surprises.

Timeline

How long does a tile project take?

Installing 12x24 Porcelain Tile Floor
A tile installer working on a 12x24 Porcelain tile floor
StepDuration (100-200 sqft)Details
Consultation & Estimation1-3 daysDiscuss your project needs, preferences, and get a detailed estimate.
Material Selection1-5 daysChoose the tile materials and finishes for your project.
Preparation & Setup1-2 daysPrepare the space, including floor leveling and surface cleaning.
Tile Installation2-5 daysLay down tiles, ensuring proper alignment and cutting.
Grouting & Finishing1-2 daysFill grout lines, clean up excess grout, and finalize the tile finish.
Final Walkthrough1 dayReview the completed installation and address any concerns.
Pro Tip

Be mindful of the drying time for adhesives and grout between installation steps to ensure optimal results. Rushing the process can lead to uneven surfaces or improper bonding, impacting the durability of your tiles. Patience ensures long-lasting beauty.

Ways to save

How to keep your tile installation on budget?

A beautiful kitchen build on a budget using fireclay tile backsplash
TipHow It Saves
Avoid Hiring a DesignerBy creating your own design using online tools, you save the cost of hiring a designer while still getting a customized look.
Do Some Prep WorkIf you can handle demolition or subfloor preparation, you can lower the overall labor costs.
Hire a Licensed Plumber DirectlyFor plumbing-related work, hire a licensed plumber yourself instead of paying through your contractor, which can save on markup fees.
Use Classic Ceramic TileClassic ceramic tiles are affordable, durable, and easy to install, making them a cost-effective choice compared to pricier materials like marble.
Use Simple Grout LinesOpt for simpler grout lines (like straight or grid patterns) rather than intricate designs, which require more labor and time to install.
Avoid Large Format TilesLarge-format tiles not only cost more per tile but also require more precise installation and more labor, driving up costs.
Pro Tip

Take the time to prepare the space yourself by removing old tile or flooring. Not only will it save money, but it also gives you more control over the project timeline and reduces labor costs.

FAQs

Common questions about tile installation costs in NH & MA

Arabesque Glass Tile Backsplash in Manchester, NH
Granite countertops and arabesque glass tile backsplash

1. How much does it cost to install tiles in New Hampshire in 2025?

2. How much does it cost to install tiles in Massachusetts in 2025?

 

3. How much does it cost to install a backsplash in New Hampshire in 2025?

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 2025?

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 2025?

In 2025, 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 in 2025?

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

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