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College financial aid includes grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

You apply for federal aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Once submitted, students can expect to receive a financial aid award that details the type and amount of aid for which they qualify. Financial aid can be incredibly helpful when trying to finance your college education, but it’s possible that you may not receive enough to foot your tuition bill. If that’s the case, there are other options available to help you pay for your education.

Continue reading for more information on understanding your financial aid package and the options to consider should you find yourself in need of additional funding.

What Is Financial Aid?

Financial aid is financial assistance provided to students to help cover the cost of higher education, including tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. It can come from the federal government, state agencies, colleges, and private organizations. Financial aid is typically awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or other eligibility criteria.

Types of financial aid include grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. Grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid, making them the most desirable forms of aid. Work-study programs allow students to earn money while in school, while student loans must be repaid after graduation. Understanding financial aid options can help students reduce their educational costs and manage their finances effectively.

How Does Financial Aid Work?

Financial aid works by providing students with funding to help cover the costs of higher education, such as tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. Students typically begin by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the CSS Profile to determine their eligibility for various types of aid. Based on financial need, merit, or other qualifications, students may receive grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, or student loans.

How Do I Apply for Financial Aid?

In order to get any financial aid package for college, the first step is generally to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly known as FAFSA.

The FAFSA for the 2025-26 school year became available Dec. 30, 2023, and the application cycle ends on June 30, 2025. Some states and colleges have separate deadlines for the FAFSA to determine aid. Contact your school’s financial aid office for questions about the deadline for your state or school.

Filling out the FAFSA requires some basic financial and income information. If you’re a dependent student, then you’ll need your parents’ financial info as well.

All federal loans, both subsidized and unsubsidized, require a FAFSA in order to determine eligibility. Colleges may also use the FAFSA to determine their own financial aid awards and packages, based on things like the Student Aid Index and financial need.

After you fill out the FAFSA, the Office of Federal Student Aid at the U.S. Department of Education will process your FAFSA and send you a Student Aid Report (SAR), which is essentially a summary of your information. It’s usually worth reviewing this information in detail to confirm that all of the information is accurate. If you find a mistake after reviewing your SAR, you’ll likely need to update or correct your FAFSA.

The SAR will include the calculated Student Aid Index (SAI), which is how much you and/or your family can be expected to contribute personally toward your education.

Then, colleges use this information to determine eligibility for university, local, state, and federal financial aid. Sometimes schools may ask for additional information, particularly if you are applying for school-specific scholarships.

The schools will then assemble a financial aid package that could be made up of grants, loans, work-study, and other waivers, and send you an “award letter.” Reviewing your award letter carefully can help you choose the financial aid mix that is right for you.

What Are the Different Types of Financial Aid?

A financial aid package is a list of different amounts of money in different forms of loans, grants, work-study, or other tuition waivers that should add up to cover the cost of the college, minus your Student Aid Index.

Here are the different types of financial aid you may see in your financial aid package:

Grants and Scholarships

Grants and scholarships don’t have to be repaid, so they are sometimes referred to as “gift aid.” These could be school, state, or federal scholarships and grants you qualified for and were awarded.

Recommended: SoFi’s Scholarship Search Tool

Work-Study

This is part-time work you will do and be paid for. You’ll be paid at least the federal minimum wage, but depending on the job, you could earn more. Being granted work-study in your aid package does not always guarantee a job. Depending on the school you attend, you may be matched with a job or you may have to apply for and secure your own job.

Federal Student Loans

Federal loans can be either subsidized or unsubsidized, and usually have lower interest rates than private loans. There is also typically a cap on how much you can borrow.

Subsidized loans are for undergrads and are awarded based on financial need; additionally, the government pays the interest on them while you’re in school at least half-time, during your grace period, and during periods of deferment.

Unsubsidized loans are available to undergraduate and graduate students and are not awarded based on financial need. This type of loan accrues interest while a student is enrolled at least half-time, during the loan’s grace period, and during other periods of deferment.

Borrowers have the option to make interest-only payments during this time, but are not required to do so. If the interest on the student loan accrues, at the end of the deferment period it will be capitalized or added to the principal value of the loan.

There are also PLUS Loans for parents and graduate students, which are also unsubsidized.

Beyond Federal Financial Aid: Private Student Loans

Private student loans are not part of a federal financial aid package. Private student loans can be borrowed from a private lender, which typically have more stringent financial qualifications and, like federal loans, must be paid back with interest. Typically, that interest also accrues while you’re in school.

Check the terms of any private student loans you’re considering and the interest rate being offered to get a sense of how they stack up to federal loans. Federal loans also offer benefits that private student loans do not, such as income-driven repayment plans and deferment options.

In order to make the decision that’s best for you, you’ll want to compare the total cost of attendance, how much gift aid is being awarded, and the loans you’ve received and their terms. This should give you a better idea of how much any federal loans will cost you, and whether there is a gap in funding.

The total cost of college may change over a student’s enrollment, so it generally needs to be calculated each year. Consider things like fluctuation in tuition rates, federal interest rates, and your financial aid award which, among other factors, have the potential to change.

Recommended: Graduate Student Loans

What Should I Know About Financial Aid Deadlines?

Financial aid deadlines vary depending on the type of aid and the institution, so it’s crucial to stay informed and apply on time. Federal aid deadlines are set by the U.S. Department of Education, while state and institutional aid may have earlier deadlines.

For the 2025-26 academic year, the FAFSA deadline is June 30, 2025. The deadline for the CSS Profile is Feb. 17, 2025.

Some scholarships and grants operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning funds could run out before the deadline. Missing deadlines can result in reduced aid or lost eligibility for grants and scholarships. To ensure you receive the maximum aid available, check deadlines for the FAFSA, CSS Profile, and specific schools, and submit applications as early as possible.

How Do Schools Award Aid?

Schools award financial aid based on a combination of factors, including financial need, merit, and availability of funds. They use information from the FAFSA or CSS Profile to determine need-based aid, while scholarships and grants may be awarded for academic, athletic, or other achievements.

Schools allocate funds based on their financial aid policies, federal and state regulations, and institutional resources. Once aid is determined, students receive an award letter detailing their financial aid package, which may require acceptance and additional steps to secure funding.

When Will I Receive a Financial Aid Award Letter?

The timing of your financial aid award letter depends on when you submit the FAFSA or CSS Profile and the school’s processing timeline. Typically, students who apply early can receive their award letters as early as late winter or early spring, often between February and April.

However, some schools may issue award letters on a rolling basis, especially for students who apply later. If you’re an incoming freshman, you’ll usually receive your financial aid package shortly after your college acceptance. Returning students may receive their award letters later in the spring or early summer before the next academic year begins.

Should I Appeal a Financial Aid Award?

It is possible to appeal a financial aid package, particularly if you had a change in circumstances or if there was a gap between the cost and the award. While writing an appeal letter might be a first step if your financial aid package isn’t enough to cover the cost of college, it doesn’t guarantee your award will change.

It also might be the case that circumstances change and you lose your financial aid or portions of your award package. In these situations, there are options in addition to or besides appealing.

Recommended: A Complete Guide to Private Student Loans

The Takeaway

Your financial aid package will state the amount and types of aid you receive. Financial aid includes scholarships, grants, work-study, and federal student loans. Carefully compare your financial aid awards at each college when you are making your college decision.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What types of financial aid might be included in a financial aid package?

A financial aid package may include scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. Each type of aid has different terms and conditions, so it’s important to understand them to make informed decisions.

How can students compare financial aid packages from different colleges?

Students should carefully review each financial aid award, considering factors such as the balance between loans and grants, the total cost of attendance, and any conditions attached to the aid. This thorough comparison helps in making an informed college decision.

Why is it important to understand the components of your financial aid package?

Understanding the components of your financial aid package is crucial because it allows you to know how much financial support you’re receiving and what your financial responsibilities will be during and after your education. This knowledge aids in effective financial planning and decision-making.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

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SOISL-Q125-019

If you are looking for some relatively painless ways to spend less, read on. There are all kinds of ways to slash expenses that don’t require much, or any, sacrifice. These can include trimming back some of your recurring bills to tweaking your typical shopping habits. You’ll even learn smart ways to avoid the temptations that can lead to overspending.

Ready to improve your cash flow? Here are 23 simple ideas for how to cut back on spending.

23 Ways to Cut Down Your Spending

Ready to start saving money? Pick and choose among these ideas to find the tips that suit you best.

1. Canceling Subscriptions

There’s a decent chance that you are leaking money on a subscription service that you are not getting much value from.

Scan your checking account and credit card statements for things you’re paying for on a recurring basis and consider canceling anything you don’t really need.

That might mean magazines or newspapers you rarely read, online software you aren’t using, and/or shopping services and other memberships that aren’t worth it anymore.

If you’re looking to save money faster, you might cut down on multiples. For instance, do you really need membership at two different yoga studios? Just one might be fine, and you’ll wind up with more money in your checking account.

2. Cutting the Cord

If you’re paying a high price for cable each month, you may want to think about switching to a streaming TV service. This budget-cutting move could save $40 to nearly $100 per month.

Just don’t let that get out of hand. You likely won’t save on streaming services if you sign up for Netflix, Max, Hulu, and a couple of others.

If you are not quite ready to cut the cord, you may still be able to shrink this monthly line item just by calling your cable service provider and asking for a better deal. Research better deals available elsewhere and cite those when talking to a customer service representative.

3. Revisiting Your Cell Phone Plan

Another way to significantly cut monthly spending is to take a closer look at what you’re paying for your cell phone service and exactly what you are getting.

You can then compare this with the competition and, if you see a better deal, call your provider and see if they will match it.

If you don’t see much wiggle room, you might consider going with one of the smaller MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that lease coverage from the major carriers, such as Cricket Wireless, Metro, and Visible.

Or, if you just need a basic plan, you can look into Consumer Cellular or H2O Wireless, which often offer affordable cell phone plans for individuals.

Before switching carriers, however, it’s a good idea to make sure that the carrier has strong coverage in your area. Saving money is great, but may not be worth it if you don’t get quality service.

4. Getting Into the Meal-Planning Habit

An easy way to cut back on food spending is to make a meal plan and a firm shopping list before you go to the grocery store. To cut spending even more, you can check your store’s weekly ads and plan meals around what’s on sale that week.

This can be as simple as picking a few basic recipes that you want to make throughout the week. You may want to try a meal planning app, such as Mealime, among others.

Not only will this help you avoid impulse buys at the supermarket and ordering takeout, but you will likely be able to buy in bulk, cook once and enjoy the leftovers, and otherwise streamline your budget and your life.

5. Actively Paying Down Credit Cards

If you’re currently only paying the minimum on your credit cards, a big chunk of your payment is likely going toward interest and you may be doing little to chip away at the principal.

Doing this every month can increase the amount of time you’re in debt, and increase the total amount of interest you’ll end up paying. That in turn can make it harder for you to plump up your savings account.

If you can swing it, consider putting more than the minimum payment towards your bill each month. This can help you pay off credit cards faster, so you’re not spending so much money on interest.

6. Renewing Your Library Card

How else to cut back on spending? If you’re a reader and love books, a fun and easy way to cut your spending is to fish out that old library card, or if you don’t have one, stop into your local branch and apply for a card.

The library can be a great resource for more than books. For example, you can often access magazines, newspapers, DVDs, music, as well as free passes to local museums. There are also services on your computer and phone that let you stream digital media; check out Kanopy and Hoopla, for instance.

7. Carrying Cash

There’s something about using plastic that can make it feel like you are not really spending money.

That’s why an effective way to cut back on spending is to take out enough cash at the beginning of the week to cover your daily expenses for that week and then leaving your credit and debit cards at home.

Or, you might try the envelope system (a budgeting method), where you designate an envelope for each expense category, then put enough cash inside to get you through the week. When you run out, you can’t spend anymore.

Using cash can also help you become more aware of and intentional with your purchases. You see exactly what you are spending as you go through your day.

8. Eliminating Bank Fees

How to cut back on expenses can involve taking a look at just what fees your bank may be charging for your checking and savings accounts.

They might include service fees, maintenance fees, ATM fees (if you don’t use their in-network machines), minimum balance fees, overdraft or insufficient funds fees, and/or transaction fees. And all those charges can eat away at your funds.

You may be able to cut your monthly spending by switching to a less expensive bank, which could mean an online bank, which tends to offer low or no fees.

9. Clicking Unsubscribe

Do your favorite retailers fill your inbox with tempting sales alerts, whether that’s 75% off, buy-one-get-one offers, or free shipping? One effective way to cut back on spending is to get off their email lists.

Sales and great deals are happening all the time, but generally the best time to purchase something is when you really need it.

If the enticement to spend doesn’t constantly land in your inbox, you’ll be less likely to click through and buy.

Recommended: How to Deposit a Check

10. Consider a 30-Day Spending Freeze

One quick way to change your spending habits is to put yourself on a 30-day nonessential spending freeze.

Or, if that seems too tall an order, you might pick a category (such as clothing or wine) to stop spending on for a month.

A spending freeze can immediately pay off, by leaving more money in the bank (or fewer bills) at the end of the month. And, once you start seeing the payoff of not giving in to impulse buying, you may find yourself spending less even after the freeze is over.

Recommended: Impulsive or Compulsive Shopping: How to Combat It

11. Keeping Your Tires Properly Inflated

A simple way to cut weekly spending on gas is to stop into a local station that offers free air once a month, and do a quick air pressure check on your car tires. If they aren’t inflated to the optimal PSI, you’ll want to fill each one to the maximum recommended amount (as stated on the tire or in your manual).

Here’s why: You can improve your vehicle’s gas mileage by an average of 0.6% and up to 3% with proper tire pressure. Which means you’re saving money on gas.

12. Working Out at Home

Instead of paying for a monthly gym membership, consider free exercise options, such as going for a walk, run, or bike ride around your neighborhood.

You can also find at-home cardio routines, resistance workouts, yoga classes and more for free online (YouTube is a great source). If you’re missing the social aspect of the gym, you always invite friends or neighbors over to work out with you.

There are also a number of free workout apps that can help keep you motivated, such as 7 Minute Workout, Freeletics, and Nike Training Club, among others.

13. Saving Before You Spend

One of the best ways to cut monthly spending is to siphon off some savings before you even have a chance to spend it. Many experts suggest 20% of your take-home pay, as is outlined in the 50/30/20 budget rule.

You can do this by automating your savings. This can mean you set up an automatic transfer from checking to put money in a high-yield savings account on the same day each month, possibly right after your paycheck gets deposited.

And it’s fine to start small. Whatever the amount, since it’s happening every month, it will build up before you know it.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Budget Calculator

14. Turning Clutter Into Cash

If you’re thinking of hiring a company to haul away stuff you no longer want or need, think twice. It can be easy to sell your unwanted items. There are dozens of places to sell your stuff, thanks to sites such as ThredUp, Poshmark, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. Or you could host a yard or stoop sale (just make sure to check if you need a permit).

15. Reviewing Home and Auto Insurance

Here’s another way to cut back on spending: Review your insurance payments. You may be able to considerably cut your costs by taking some time to shop around and compare prices.

Many insurance companies also offer a discount if you bundle your homeowners and auto policies together. If you currently use two separate insurers, it can be worth asking what kind of discount each would offer if you bundled the policies together.

And you don’t have to wait until your current policy is up for renewal to change insurance providers. With most companies, you can leave at any time without having to pay for the remainder of the policy. If you find a better deal, you can also give your current insurer a chance to match their quote.

16. Drinking More Water

Getting plenty of water can not only help you stay healthy, but it can also help you cut back on spending.

When you’re food shopping, for instance, you can skip over sodas and even bottled water in exchange for free tap water at home. (If you don’t like the taste of your tap water, consider getting a pitcher with a water filter.) Dining out? You can save by ordering water instead of pricey beverages.

17. Using Apps to Earn Cash Back

You can cut your spending even after you’ve made your purchases by keeping track of your receipts and using a cash back app, such as Ibotta, Fetch Rewards, or Shopkick.

While each app works a little differently, you can generally use cash back apps to download digital coupons, purchase specific items, and then scan receipts to claim your cash back.

You may also be able to add your store loyalty card number and avoid the need to submit a receipt.

18. Shutting off the Lights

A super easy way to cut monthly spending is to simply turn off the lights whenever you leave a room or leave your home. You may not notice the impact immediately, but the savings on energy costs can add up over time.

It can also be helpful to unplug any unused electronics and chargers that aren’t in use.

19. Cutting Back on Bigger Expenses

If you’re looking to have more money after paying bills, you may want to address the biggest expenses in your overall budget. For instance, in terms of housing, you might consider downsizing, moving to a more affordable area, or getting a roommate. This could significantly reduce your monthly expenses.

Also take a look at car payments, if you have them. If they account for more than 10% of your take-home pay, consider trading in your car for one with a lower monthly payment. Or, you might want to think about buying a less expensive vehicle with cash.

20. Unfollowing Social Media Influencers Pushing Products

If you, like many people, shop from social media because you see new products being promoted, you may want to unfollow those accounts. That FOMO (fear of missing out) feeling can be powerful when you see an influencer pushing new kitchen gadgets, comfy socks, or other products. By eliminating that temptation, you can cut back on spending.

21. Uninstalling Shopping Apps on Your Phone

Shopping apps can be hugely convenient; maybe too convenient. If you find that apps encourage you to one-click your way to too many products and credit card charges, delete them. You can always reinstall them later if you have more wiggle room in your budget.

22. Buying Used and Second-Hand

A fun and frugal way to shop can be buying used and second-hand. You might hit a local thrift store for clothes, cookware, and other items. Check out a local library’s book sale for new reading material, and if you need a new kitchen appliance, see what major retailers have in their “open box” section (items that were returned with minimal or no use or perhaps floor models).

23. Do Some Bulk Buying

Check out the deals to be had by buying in bulk. That can mean joining a wholesale club, like Costco, or shopping at a local grocery store that has grains, nuts, and pasta sold from large containers to help you save at the cash register.

If you don’t have room to store, say, a pack of 12 cereal boxes or 24 rolls of paper towel, split purchases with a friend or two. You can all cut back on expenses that way.

The Takeaway

Cutting back on spending doesn’t have to involve a complete overhaul of your lifestyle. You can focus on lowering your recurring expenses (housing, insurance, utilities) and also cut back on unnecessary spending, especially impulse buys. If you pay with cash, delete shopping apps, and unsubscribe to marketing emails, you may find there’s a lot more breathing room in your budget. And you might be able to stash more cash and earn interest.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

How do I cut back on unnecessary spending?

Often, a mix of two tactics can help you cut back on unnecessary spending. First, look at how to reduce recurring basic bills, such as dropping a streaming channel or two, lowering your car insurance, and avoiding excessive banking fees. Next, tackle daily spending. You might reduce your daily latte habit, and look for free concerts and museum nights in your area vs. pricey entertainment. Also: Don’t let yourself give in to marketing ploys, like “buy one, get one” and free shipping, which can encourage you to overspend.

How can I drastically cut my spending?

To drastically cut your spending, try creating and sticking to a budget and using cash instead of credit so you are less likely to ring up debt. Also consider deleting shopping apps, emails, and influencer accounts that encourage you to shop, and putting yourself on a one-month shopping freeze, meaning no purchases except true necessities.

How do I mentally stop spending money?

If you are overspending, think about your triggers. Do you shop when bored or as a weekend activity? Find other ways to fill your time, whether that means reading or taking up a sport. You might also try the 30-day rule, which means that if there’s something you feel you must have, you might make a note of it in your calendar for 30 days in the future. Don’t buy it unless 30 days later you still feel it’s vital. Such feelings often dissipate over time.

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Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

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We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Bank Fee Sheet for details at sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

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SOBNK-Q125-029

Remodeling a primary bathroom can provide a spa-like sanctuary while adding value to your home. With some design upgrades, including countertops, tile, fixtures, cabinetry, and bathtub, you can create a new look that really makes a splash.

The vast array of materials, colors, and design choices can be overwhelming. To help get you started, read on for 20 primary bathroom — formerly referred to as a “master bathroom” — remodel ideas.

How the Primary Bathroom Has Changed Over Time

In the 1960s and 1970s, people started migrating from the cities to suburbia. More space meant more square footage. Initially, a primary bath meant a bigger bathroom with a double sink.

In the 1980s, opulence was king. Primary bathrooms meant sunken jetted tubs, lavish fixtures, and expansive countertops for perfume bottles and dressing vanities.

Today, many real estate agents and developers use only the term “primary” bathroom or bedroom and have dropped “master” from the vernacular (even though the National Association of Realtors® has noted that a HUD opinion said “master” in this context is not related to race or gender and therefore does not violate fair housing laws).

While primary bathrooms are still spacious, style trends have taken a more subtle turn toward organic materials and earthier tones.

Regardless of trends, the primary bathroom is here to stay, and is considered a must-have for many first-time homebuyers and experienced buyers.

What Is the Average Size of a Primary Bathroom?

A primary bathroom is defined as the largest bathroom in the house, and is almost always connected to the primary bedroom. A suburban primary bath averages 100 square feet but may range from 75 to 210 square feet.

A primary bathroom typically features:

•   A double sink

•   A large shower

•   A toilet

A bathtub is not a requisite, but these days most homebuyers want a tub in the primary bathroom, especially if there is not another one in the house.

10 Standard Primary Bathroom Remodel Ideas

An average-size primary bathroom renovation may cost $10,000 to $30,000, depending on material types, labor costs (do you need to find a contractor?), and the scope of the project.

Here are 10 remodeling ideas for a standard primary bath that can offer panache for your cash.

1. Refresh Your Countertops

Replacing worn-out countertops in a primary bath can transform the feel of the space. Granite, marble, and quartz counters add a sense of contemporary elegance but cost more than laminate.

Granite can cost $180 to $330 per square foot; marble, $110 to $200; and quartz, $50 to $150. Laminate costs around $50 to $80 per square foot. That’s just the materials.

2. Go for the Hip, Hip Bidet

While common in Europe and Japan, bidets are finally gaining popularity in the United States. Because bidets limit the use of toilet paper, they are considered good for the environment and better for your skin.

A stand-alone bidet with installation can run between $500 and $2,000. An all-in-one bidet toilet can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,500.

3. Install a Walk-in Shower

Walk-in showers are usually partially enclosed with glass — devoid of doors, tubs, and shower curtains. The lack of barriers creates an open, contemporary look, almost like bathing in an outdoor shower.

Beyond being stylish, walk-in showers are accessible. With no steps or ledges to trip over, this type of shower remodel will age well with you and your home.

4. Consider Shower Speakers

As long as you’re redoing the shower, you might as well add some in-ceiling shower speakers. These advanced sound systems offer hands-free use, connecting to voice assistants like Siri or Alexa. Singing in the shower never sounded so good!

5. Install a Fan Timer Switch

A long, hot shower can generate a lot of steam. A smart-fan timer will sense the amount of steam and moisture in the air, turning on and staying on long after you’ve toweled off. This can prevent water damage, excess moisture, and potential mold.

6. Upgrade Outdated Fixtures

Switching out your old faucets, knobs, and light fixtures is a quick and cost-efficient way to spiff up your primary bathroom.

7. Tile an Accent Wall

Retiling the entire bathroom can take a big bite out of your wallet. Some homeowners are choosing to tile a single wall or focal area. You can energize the space by contrasting white subway tiles with a colorful wall of hexagonal tiles.

8. Elevate Your Look With Floating Shelves

Even a primary bathroom can use more storage. Floating shelves on the walls can help achieve a sleek, minimalist look and cost less than installing cabinets.

If the bathroom has a closet or you’d like to add one, a closet remodel might be in order.

9. Keep Things Cozy With Heated Floors & Towel Racks

If you’re renovating your primary bathroom floors, perhaps you could put in an electric or water-based heating system. This will ensure toasty toes without clunky radiators or exposed pipes.

Heated towel racks provide warmth in the winter and a quick-drying option for summer beach towels, all for about the same electric costs as flipping on a light switch.

10. Outlets in the Vanity Drawers

A primary bath typically has a lot of vanity drawers. Installing outlets inside the drawers will help keep hair dryers, electric razors, and other appliances from cluttering your countertop.

10 Small Primary Bathroom Remodel Ideas

Not every primary bathroom has enough space for a Jacuzzi tub. Here are some remodeling ideas for a small master bath.

1. Install a Pocket Door

Doors that open on hinges can take up a lot of space. A sliding pocket door to the bathroom can make the primary bath feel much roomier.

2. Add a Skylight

Adding a skylight in your primary bathroom can flood the space with natural light, making it feel more airy and spacious. So can recessed lighting.

3. Choose a Long Sink

Instead of the standard double sink, consider a long, troughlike sink for a primary bathroom vanity. It can provide a chic, modern look, and the elongated sink creates the illusion of more space.

4. Mount an Elongated Mirror

As with a long sink, stretching a mirror across a whole wall, instead of just over the vanity, can add depth and extra reflective light.

5. Opt for a Floating Vanity

A floating vanity is a cool design choice for a smaller primary bath. It can add openness and more space underneath the sink for storage.

6. Add Lights Under the Cabinets

Cabinets, vanities, and shelves can cast a shadow on the floor, darkening a master bathroom and making it feel smaller. Installing lights underneath countertops and storage units can cast a downward light to add dimension.

7. Stretch the Floor Tiles Into the Shower Stall

If you have a walk-in shower, consider extending the floor tiles into the shower stall floor. The continuity of design will give the illusion of a longer space.

8. Add Storage

Select bathroom pieces with a dual purpose: mirrors with built-in shelves, a vanity with multiple drawers. Containing your clutter will make the primary bath seem bigger and is one of the ways to refresh your home.

9. Consider a Freestanding Bathtub

Although a stand-alone tub can need more room for its fixtures, a clawfoot or modern oval bathtub can make a small primary bathroom feel grand.

10. Stick to Light Colors

Soft whites, blues, and greens reflect natural light from windows and skylights, making the primary bath seem more spacious. Choose light vs. dark colors for wall paint, shower curtains, and countertops.

Ways to Finance a Primary Bathroom Remodel

A primary bathroom renovation can add up. Here are several ways to finance the project.

HELOC

If you own your home and have sufficient equity, you may be able to open a home equity line of credit (HELOC), using your home as collateral. You’ll only make payments on the amount you borrow, the limit may be higher than a personal loan, and a HELOC usually has a lower interest rate than a credit card or personal loan.

But the rate is usually variable and can increase, and you could face closing costs and a minimum-withdrawal requirement. If you default on a HELOC, you risk losing your house.

Still, HELOCs tend to be hot when interest rates are rising.

Cash-Out Refinance

If you have sufficient home equity, you can apply for a cash-out refinance. You would refinance your home mortgage loan for more than you owe, take out part of the cash difference, and use the lump sum to build your new primary bathroom.

Expect mortgage refinancing costs of 2% to 6% of the loan amount.

Personal Loan

With a personal loan for home improvements, you can receive a lump sum and repay it with interest in monthly installments. These loans typically offer same-day funding with no collateral required. The rate is based on the loan term, the amount of credit requested, and your credit score.

Credit Card

If you have a 0% interest period on a credit card, it could be a smart way to pay for your primary bath reno. But unless you pay attention to the end of that introductory period, you could end up buried in interest charges. A missed payment will hurt your credit scores, and most of the time a late payment will stay on a credit report for seven years.

The Takeaway

Remodeling a primary bathroom will add value to your home and create a retreat where you can invest in some serious self-care. The cost to remodel has a wide range.

How to renovate so you can luxuriate? SoFi offers a personal loan of $5,000 to $100,000 with no fees, as well as a cash-out refinance.

SoFi now partners with Spring EQ to offer flexible HELOCs. Our HELOC options allow you to access up to 90% of your home’s value, or $500,000, at competitively lower rates. And the application process is quick and convenient.

FAQ

Does remodeling a bathroom increase home value?

Yes. One study showed that the average full bathroom remodel cost of at least $25,000, and homeowners could expect a return on investment upon resale of more than 60%.

What is the biggest expense in a bathroom remodel?

Labor in general. Plumbing and tile work in particular. Want to move the toilet? That’s a complicated task.

What is trending in bathrooms?

Steam showers, towel and floor heaters, and spa-inspired decor. Vintage-inspired sinks, mirrors, light fixtures, and clawfoot tubs. Wet rooms, where the shower, tub, sink, and toilet are all in the same room at the same level. Earth tones and jewel tones. Smart devices.

What should you not do when remodeling a bathroom?

A downward-facing light centered over the mirror can cast a shadow. Other mistakes: not adding enough storage, buying fixtures made with plastic parts instead of metal, installing a hook out of reach from the shower, and not adding a hand shower, which will mean a tougher task cleaning the shower walls.

Photo credit: iStock/stocknroll

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