One of the most common renovation jobs is kitchen remodeling. However, it can be costly, so it is better to estimate the expenses before jumping into it.
Many homeowners have the same question: “What is the cost of renovating the kitchen?” In this blog, we are going to explore the complete kitchen remodel cost to give you a solid estimate.
30-Second Summary
Looking to get your kitchen remodeled, but confused about the expenses? This guide explores it in detail. Discover the average kitchen remodel cost and factors that influence it.
Learn the cost difference between a small and a full kitchen remodel, variations due to regions, hidden costs, budgeting tips, cost for different kitchen layouts, and how much ROI this upgrade provides.
What is the Current Average Kitchen Remodel Cost?
Currently, the average kitchen remodel cost in the United States ranges between $15,000 and $60,000. This price depends solely on your kitchen’s design, size, and finishes.
For smaller or partial renovations, the range is $10,000 to $25,000. Full-scale remodel with luxury finishes costs you around $80,000 or more.
The average per square foot cost of a kitchen renovation is around $300 to $500, depending on complexity and the region. For instance
- A small 100 ft. kitchen will be around $10,000 to $25,000
- The renovation of a mid-size 150 ft. kitchen will cost around $20,000 to $45,000.
- The cost of remodeling a large 250 ft. kitchen will roughly be $40,000 to $75,000.
These estimates can change based on labor rates, design complexity, and materials used, which we are covering next.
Factors That Influence the Cost to Remodel a Kitchen
The kitchen renovation cost is not one-size-fits-all for homeowners. There are many factors that determine how much you have to invest.
Below are some of the most important ones.
Materials Cost
Materials generally make up 40 to 50% of the total budget. The elements that are usually the most expensive are
- Cabinets: around $4000 to $15,000
- Countertops (depending on marble, granite, and quartz): around $2000 to $8000
- Kitchen floor: around $1500 to $5000
- Lighting and fixtures: around $500 to $3000
- Backsplash: around $500 to $1500
Moreover, the quality of the material you choose is a huge factor in determining the total kitchen renovation cost.
Labor Cost
If you are hiring skilled labor, it will make up around 25 to 35% of the total remodel cost. Basic installation will be around $50 to $100 per hour, while hiring plumbing and electrical professionals will be $80 to $150 per hour.
However, it is important to hire experts as they ensure safety and quality, particularly for structural and technical work.
Design Fees and Contractor Markup
Hiring a professional kitchen designer makes a lot of difference when it comes to aesthetics and functionality. Design fees make up 10 to 15% of the total project cost. It can also be charged as a flat rate between $1000 and $5000.
General contractors apply a markup of about 10 to 20% on materials and labor. It may seem like an extra expense, but working with the right contractor is necessary for faster timelines, better coordination, and fewer costly mistakes.
Permit Fees and Structural Changes
If you are considering moving walls or adding windows, you need to pay $500 to $2000 for permits. Massive structural changes like removing a load-bearing wall can add around $2000 to $5000 to the remodeling cost, depending on the engineering complexity.
Plumbing and Electrical Upgrades
Upgrading the old wiring and plumbing is important for the safety of the homeowners.
- The plumbing updates are roughly $1000 to $4000.
- The cost of electrical rewiring is $1500 to $5000.
These upgrades are definitely costly but increase long-term efficiency and functionality.
Appliance Replacement
New appliances are necessary for a contemporary kitchen. The cost can be from $3000 and goes up, depending on whether you choose standard or smart models.
For instance, an entry-level refrigerator model can be $575, and a high-end designer version can be $57,500.
Demolition Cost and Layout Change
If you plan to tear down your old kitchen and change the entire layout, expect to pay around $1000 to $4000. If you go for the simple, same-layout remodel, it will cost you significantly less than installing an island or removing a wall.
Comparing Small vs Full Kitchen Remodel Cost
| Type | Typical Size | Average Cost Range | Description |
| Small Kitchen Remodel | 70 to 120 sq. ft. | $10,000 to $25,000 | Ideal for condos or apartments and includes cabinet remodeling, new countertops, and painting. |
| Full Kitchen Remodel | 150 to 250 sq. ft. | $30,000 to $70,000+ | Involves layout changes with new plumbing, appliances, flooring, and custom cabinetry. |
Additional Tip: If you are on a tight budget, focus on remodeling high-visual elements, like cabinets, lighting, and paint, instead of reconstruction.
Luxury Kitchen Remodel Cost
If you are looking to remodel your kitchen with luxurious finishes, the cost typically starts from $80,000 and can be more than $150,000.
The features you get in a luxury kitchen renovation are
- Custom-built hardwood cabinets
- Smart home integrations
- Designer homeware and lighting
- Professional-grade appliances
- Imported stone countertop
A luxury remodel not only offers a high-end cooking experience but also increases the resale value of the property.
Regional Cost Variation and Finishes Quality
Your location has significant importance in determining your kitchen remodel cost. Below are the per-square-foot costs.
- In high-cost regions, like California, Washington D.C, and New York, expect to pay $200 to $400 per square foot.
- In moderate-cost regions, such as Texas, Colorado, and Florida, homeowners usually pay $150 to $250 per square foot.
- The remodel is around $100 to $200 in lower-cost regions, like the Midwest and the South.
Finishes and quality also play a fundamental role.
- For homeowners who are on a tight budget, basic finishes are great, such as laminating the countertop, vinyl flooring, and stock cabinets.
- If you want a more modern upgrade, consider getting mid-range finishes, like quartz countertops and ceramic tile backsplashes.
- For a premium look, luxury finishes are superb, such as natural stone surfaces, custom woodwork, and smart appliances.
Setting a Realistic Kitchen Remodel Budget
- Start by identifying the problems you face in your kitchen. Does it look outdated? Are the cabinets deteriorating? Do you want to increase the resale value of your house?
- Determine if you want to reface the cabinets or get the full kitchen remodeled. Cabinet refacing can save you around 5 to 15% on the cost of your kitchen project. However, if you do not like the inside of the cabinets, choose a full kitchen renovation.
- Make sure to measure your kitchen and count your cabinets. The starting budget of a 10 ✕ 20 kitchen will be around $20,000 to $45,000. Larger kitchens will need a higher budget.
Below is a complete breakdown of the remodeling cost.
- 30 to 35% for cabinets
- 10 to 15% for appliances
- 10% for countertops
- 25% for labor
- 10 to 15% for flooring, lighting, paint, etc
Hidden Costs and Cost Overruns to Watch Out For
Even with proper budget planning, hidden costs can make you exceed your budget.
Some common hidden costs include
- Water, termite, or mold damage: Repairing damage behind cabinets or any wooden structure can add $500 to $3000 to your remodeling cost.
- Outdated plumbing or electrical system: To meet modern codes, installing new wires or pipes can cost $1000 to $5000.
- Permit or inspection fee: These can range from $200 to $500, depending on your city.
- Unplanned design changes: Changing the layout mid-project can increase the cost by 10%.
- Delivery and disposal fee: Delivering new materials or hauling away the old ones can add $300 to $800.
In short, cost overruns happen when homeowners choose high-quality materials late in the process, underestimate labor time, or face project delays.
ROI and Home Value Increase After a Kitchen Remodel
A kitchen remodel is one of the most profitable home upgrades in terms of both functionality and resale potential. According to industry data, a mid-range kitchen remodel provides an ROI of 60 to 80%. It means you can recover most of your investment when selling your house.
For example, if you spend $40,000 on a kitchen renovation, the increase in your house’s value could be $24,000 to $32,000.
Luxury remodels may have a slightly lower ROI, around 40 to 60%. The reason is the use of high-end materials and custom finishes that exceed the neighborhood norms.
However, luxury renovation is excellent for the comfort of homeowners who plan to stay in the house for a long time.
Cost per Sq Ft by Kitchen Layout Type
The layout of your kitchen impacts both cost and efficiency. Have a look at the general cost breakdown.
| Kitchen Layout Type | Average Cost per Sq Ft | Notes |
| Galley Kitchen | $150 to $200 | Most efficient layout, needs minimal plumbing and electrical relocation. |
| L-Shaped Kitchen | $200 to $250 | Requires more cabinetry and countertop space, which can slightly increase the cost. |
| U-Shaped Kitchen | $225 to $300 | Ideal for large families. Having extra walls means higher cabinetry and finish expenses. |
| Island or Open-Concept Kitchen | $275 to $400+ | Has the highest cost because of structural changes, ventilation, and flooring extensions. |
Tips to Save Money on Kitchen Renovation Cost
These tips will make your kitchen remodeling more affordable.
Keep your Same Layout
Try not to move any existing plumbing. Moving your sink to the opposite wall means workers have to pull up your kitchen floor to move the drain pipe. Do the same for electric and gas appliances, as it can add a full day of labor.
Keep it Simple
If adding cabinets is necessary, go for stock or ready-to-assemble models. Custom add-ons like vertical spice racks and drawer dividers can be expensive, especially when you are on a budget. Use the same approach with appliances.
Try to DIY
Doing a few little tasks can reduce overall costs. For instance, you can remove the old cabinets, pick up materials, and paint the door and window frames yourself instead of paying workers for it. It can significantly trim the renovation expenses.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the kitchen remodel cost is crucial for homeowners to navigate the plan confidently and reduce financial strain. From materials to permits, every element counts in determining the budget.
Whether you are upgrading an apartment or opting for luxury finishes, smart planning, and professional guidance can give you the kitchen of your dreams.
FAQs
How much does it cost to remodel a Small Kitchen?
The small kitchen remodel cost is around $10,000 to $25,000. This range depends on labor rates, materials, and whether you plan to replace appliances or just update finishes.
How to Reduce Kitchen Renovation Cost without Compromising Quality?
If you want to lower kitchen remodel expenses, stick with your current layout, keep the process simple, and try to handle little tasks yourself.
Do I need Permits for Kitchen Remodeling?
Yes, most remodeling projects involve plumbing, electrical upgrades, and structural changes, and you need permits for that. The permit fees depend on your location and typically range from $500 to $2000.
How long does a Kitchen Remodel Take?
The average timeline of a kitchen renovation is around 6 to 12 weeks, depending on project size, layout changes, and material availability.
