How Much Does It Cost To Remodel A Kitchen?
How Much Does It Cost To Remodel A Kitchen?
A kitchen remodel costs $100 to $250 per square foot on average. Most homeowners spend between $12,000 and $64,000, with an average cost of $25,000 or $150 per square foot.
$100 – $250 average cost per square foot
$12,000 – $64,000 average total cost to remodel
A kitchen remodel costs $100 to $250 per square foot on average. Most homeowners spend between $12,000 and $64,000, with an average cost of $25,000 or $150 per square foot.
Average Kitchen Remodel Cost
A kitchen remodel costs $100 to $250 per square foot on average. Most homeowners spend between $12,000 and $64,000, with an average cost of $25,000 or $150 per square foot. The total price depends on the size of the space, the quality of materials, and whether or not that layout changes.
| National Average Cost | $25,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $8,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $126,000 |
| Average Range | $12,000 to $64,000 |
Kitchen Renovation Costs
Most homeowners spend $12,000 to $64,000 for the average kitchen renovation. The lower end of this range covers smaller projects, such as refacing cabinets, installing a backsplash, painting, etc. In comparison, renovations that cost $30,000+ typically involve the introduction of hardwood flooring, high-end appliances, and custom features.
Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
Since your project will be unique to you and your home, break down your budget based on the features and alterations you desire. Here is the average cost breakdown according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA):
| Item | Budget % | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinetry | 28% | $6,550 |
| Installation & Labor | 18% | $4,130 |
| Appliances | 15% | $3,390 |
| Countertops & Backsplash | 11% | $2,450 |
| Flooring | 7% | $1,650 |
| Lighting | 5% | $1,050 |
| Painting & Drywall | 5% | $1,150 |
| Windows & Doors | 4% | $1,020 |
| Designer | 3% | $720 |
| Plumbing | 3% | $730 |
| Other | 1% | $310 |
Kitchen Remodel Cost Per Square Foot
Kitchen remodels cost $100 to $250 per square foot, with the average homeowner spending $150 per square foot. When planning to remodel your kitchen, ask yourself these critical questions so you'll will know how to obtain a more accurate estimate:
What exactly do you want to do with the available space? What is it that you want to get out of this renovation?
How do you envision the space to look and what functional features are you considering?
Based on your initial space or current design, is the layout ideal?
How much do you want to spend?
The industry recommendation is to spend 5% to 15% percent of your home's value when renovating your kitchen.
Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimator
This estimator compares the minor, midrange, and upscale cost to redo a 200-square-foot kitchen.
| Remodel Type | Average Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Minor | $12,000 – $21,000 |
|
| Midrange | $29,000 – $64,000 |
|
| Upscale | Up to $126,000 |
|
The final cost of your remodel will be lower when you don’t change the overall design of the kitchen layout. For instance, moving a window or a sink to somewhere else in the kitchen can add $1,500 to $4,500 per item due to the need for permits, dust removal, drywall, and new plumbing and electrical work.
Additional cost-saving measures include refacing cabinets and repairing or refinishing countertop rather than installing new materials.
Small Kitchen Remodel Costs
A small kitchen renovation costs $4,000 to $20,000. A small kitchen is typically defined as a space that is around 75 square feet or smaller. For these projects, if you know how to contribute some DIY work, you can stretch your budget much further.
Consider narrower cabinets, because most people don’t use the space at the back of cabinets, you can get cabinets that aren’t as deep but are better designed for full access—with pull-out baskets, spice drawers, sectioned drawers, corner cabinet carousels, etc.
Fill an extra space with narrow filler cabinets with sliders.
Consider reducing a double sink to a single one for more workspace as well.
Whether you plan on increasing storage or upgrading appliances, before you do any significant work yourself, be sure to consult with a kitchen remodeler. This is particularly important if you plan to knock out walls. The last thing you want to do is knock out a wall that connects to a supporting beam.
10x10 Kitchen Remodel Costs
As you increase the size of your project in regard to the square footage, you can expect to pay more. A medium-sized space is typically defined as an area between 75 and 100+ square feet, costing $15,000 to $30,000 to remodel. For 12' x 12' kitchens between 150 and 175 square feet, which is around the average size, renovations cost $20,000 to $45,000.
Cost To Update a Large Kitchen
In comparison, a large renovation of 200+ square feet can cost $45,000+, or even $100,000+ for upscale remodels. In this case, extensive work is done, including the addition of built-in appliances, a double oven, a seating island, a recycling station, and more.
Typical New Kitchen Remodeling Costs
Exactly how much should you expect to pay for each particular aspect of a kitchen remodel? The longer a remodeling company has been in business, the more connections they’re going to have. They’ll know who has the best prices, quality, and service; and they’ll be able to pull it all together faster.
In order of expense, expect to pay the most for the services and products at the top of the following list. The nationwide, ballpark numbers are for a 125 square foot kitchen.
Average Cost To Redo A Kitchen
| Remodeling Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Electrical wiring and lighting to code | $2,500 – $4,800 |
| Plumbing | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Designer fees | $400 – $3,500 |
| Install Cabinetry | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Appliances | $2,500 – $9,000 |
| Install flooring | $1,100 – $5,500 |
| Permits | $100 – $900 |
| Reface Cabinets | $1,000 – $9,000 |
| Repair or refinish countertop | $80 – $1,600 |
| Install countertop | $900 – $5,000 |
| Tile backsplash | $400 – $600 |
| Paint walls | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Hardware | $150 – $1,200 |
Average Cost of Kitchen Cabinets
When remodeling a kitchen, most homeowners begin with their kitchen cabinets. Cabinets significantly impact the kitchen's overall first impression. Dated or damaged cabinets can leave future buyers underwhelmed, even if the kitchen has immense potential. Kitchen cabinets cost $3,000 to $8,000 to install, depending on whether or not you choose custom cabinets.
Pre-made, stock products are affordable at a cost $75 to $150 per linear foot. They are readily available from home improvement stores but are limited in designs and sizes.
Semi-custom options cost $100 to $900 per linear foot and are made in the same sizes as pre-made options. These cabinets can be detailed for an additional fee, and options include door fronts, resizing drawers, and cabinet depth.
Custom cabinets can cost up to $1,500 per linear foot, and this option requires a skilled carpenter and cabinetmaker. This is by far the most expensive option, but you can design them any way you want them to look.
If you're purchasing the cabinets on your own, expect to pay an additional 50% to 75% of the cost of the cabinets for installation.
If you want a few higher-end features, focus on potential cost-saving strategies. Consider simply refacing or refinishing cabinets that are still in good condition to achieve a whole new look for a fraction of the cost. You can also replace certain things in stages, addressing your top priorities first.
Cost to Refinish Kitchen Cabinets
Alternatively, you can achieve great results by either refinishing or refacing pre-existing cabinets. To compare:
Refinishing – Refinishing costs $1,500 to $3,500 and will yield a brand-new look without having to replace the cabinets themselves. While you will need to hire a professional for the best result, this will still allow you to benefit from significant savings.
Refacing – The average cost to reface your cabinets is $3,500 to $9,000. To reface your cabinets, you can choose from various materials and designs, resulting in a fresh look for a fraction of the cost (compared to newly installed cabinets). Once again, to ensure that this option is done right and to the highest standards, a contractor is highly recommended.
Hardware – Handles or knobs for your kitchen cabinets and drawers can cost from as little as $2 to $20 each.
New Kitchen Appliances Cost
Installing new appliances costs $100 to $300 per appliance on average. By installing higher-quality appliances, you can instantly improve your home's value. If you’ve been thinking of keeping your older appliances, keep in mind that most kitchen appliances only last 10 to 12 years and can cost $250 to $500 to repair.
You might end up saving more money by replacing them with warrantied, newer models now. Newer stainless steel appliances are smudge-free, and there are many options available, including:
Standard Appliances
Average cost: $200 to $1000
Lack additional features and do not last as long as higher-end options, but do the job and will fit most layouts
Energy Star-rated Appliances
Average cost: $300 to $3,000
Certified as energy-efficient
Cost more up front but offer lower energy bills and longer lifespans
High-end Appliances
Average cost: $1,000 to $5,000+
Often yield a similar lifespan to Energy Star appliances
Have additional features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, sensors, etc.
Custom Appliances
Average cost: $1,500 to $10,000+.
Built-in to your kitchen space
May require structural changes.
Many states offer residential rebates and incentives to help make your home more resourceful. Look for this certification when purchasing your dishwasher, freezer, fridge, and even lights.
Kitchen Countertops Cost
Another common renovation is installing new countertops. The cost depends on the materials used and the total measures required. When choosing a material, consider not only the look of the countertop but also its level of functionality.
As you would expect, seamless materials, such as granite, are more durable and more costly. In comparison, you can opt for materials that add less value, such as concrete, to keep your costs down. Whether you choose wood, marble, quartz, or limestone, you can expect to pay $2,000 to $4,500Â to install the countertops of your choosing.
| Countertop Material | Cost Per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Ceramic Tile | $5 – $10 |
| Acrylic | $15 – $25 |
| Formica | $15 – $30 |
| Laminate | $25 – $40 |
| Bamboo | $25 – $60 |
| Solid Surface | $35 – $65 |
| Butcher Block | $40 – $60 |
| Corian | $40 – $60 |
| Concrete | $40 – $80 |
| Soapstone | $40 – $85 |
| Marble Cost | $40 – $100 |
| Caesarstone | $40 – $100 |
| Paperstone | $40 – $100 |
| Granite Cost | $50 – $100 |
| Terrazzo | $50 – $100 |
| Quartz Cost | $50 – $100 |
| Onyx | $50 – $200 |
| Limestone | $65 – $150 |
| Glass | $80 – $100 |
| Copper | $100 – $130 |
Repair or Refinish Kitchen Countertops
If your countertop has no widespread damage, it might be more cost-efficient to fill chips and scratches, re-sand, retile, refinish, re-glue, or re-laminate the existing countertop for an average cost of $80 to $1,600.
Kitchen Tile Backsplash
Ceramic tiles are the most popular option at approximately $10 per square foot installed, while stainless steel can cost approx. $25 per square foot installed. A backsplash can cost less if the same materials are installed elsewhere in the kitchen at the same time.
Kitchen Floor Remodel Cost
Then there's the cost of flooring, which is $1,400 to $5,000Â and highly dependent on the material selected and the overall square footage.
Vinyl is an excellent option in terms of affordability, it does not add much value to a home.
Granite and hardwood flooring will increase a home's value but at a higher cost.
Wood floors are popular but most remodelers don’t recommend having them in your kitchen because they are so susceptible to moisture.
| Flooring Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Ceramic Tile | $500 – $2,200 |
| Wood Flooring | $2,200 – $5,000 |
| Concrete Flooring | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Cork Floor | $800 – $1,600 |
| Laminate Flooring | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Linoleum Flooring | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Slate Floor | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| Stone Flooring | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| Vinyl Floor | $1,200 – $1,700 |
| Bamboo Floors | $600 – $1,200 |
| Marble Floors | $1,500 – $4,800 |
Kitchen Makeover Design Costs
Design fees can account for 3% to 10% of your budget. Charging $100 to $200 per hour, professional kitchen designers can help you make your vision come to life. Although some homeowners pay $5,000+ to work with certified professionals, you can also request a flat fee.
While hiring a kitchen designer might seem like an unnecessary expense, they are often the most connected to other contractors.
If you bundle your services through them, they can offer up to 20% in discounts for you.
Designers often offer free consultations so they can give you a more accurate estimate of the end cost.
Designers can help you select the best materials and colors, based on your unique vision and space. They may also provide services such as 3D rendering and overall support, as you work with various suppliers and contractors.
Kitchen Remodel Labor Costs
In terms of labor, you can expect to pay $2,000 to $6,000 in installation fees. Professionals recommend putting aside 15% of your budget to account for labor costs. Depending on the size and space of your kitchen, as well as the features you desire, hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor can help you get the most out of your budget.
Plumbing Costs
Older homes might need the whole home’s plumbing replaced due to narrow or rotting pipes. Plumbing services include sink and faucet installation costs, and new piping, and often make up less than 5% of your expenses. Each of these services is billed individually unless you work out a project cost with your plumber.
Installing a kitchen faucet costs $120 to $300, whereas a kitchen sink costs $230 to $650 for labor.
Rearranging appliances requires new plumbing piping that costs $450 to $1,800.
Electrical and Lighting Costs
Whether you require electrical work, which costs $50 to $130 per hour, or you need to move gas lines, costing $250 to $800Â on average, this type of work needs to be done professionally. Typically, you can expect to spend 5% of your total budget on electrical work.
Older homes typically don’t have enough amps to handle modern demand. Any new work will need to be wired with a new meter, paneling, and piping, which can cost $1,400+ to bring it up from the older 60 amps to the modern 200 amps or more.
If you move appliances to other parts of the kitchen or install new lighting anywhere no lights have been before, this cost will be factored in. You’ll probably also need new outlets at an average price of $150.
Painting Costs
Interior painting costs more for a kitchen than painting a regular room because of the need to cover cabinets, remove appliances, and remove outlet covers. The walls will probably need to be primed and then painted with a semi-gloss to make the paint last well in such a high-traffic area. Expect painting costs to be $800 to $1,500 depending on how much wall space is visible.
Permit Costs
Building permits cost $500 to $1,500 on average. Permits are required if you move walls, or if you install new electrical wiring, plumbing, or mechanical systems. Your contractor should take care of this for you, and all necessary permits should be filed and approved before any work begins.
Kitchen Remodeling On A Budget
Designers and contractors are usually willing to work with any remodeling project, so it’s best to know your budget up front and fit as much as you can into that amount. The more set in stone your plans are, the less chance there will be of additional charges later.
Basic & Low-End Kitchen Remodel Costs
If you are willing to spend up to $15,000, you will be able to complete a more basic renovation. To keep your costs as low as possible, you will likely need to do some of the work DIY, hiring professionals for all specialty work. Also, try to purchase materials yourself and have the space clean and ready for installation.
Basic renovations typically include: Sink upgrades, countertop replacement (using materials such as vinyl or laminate), the addition of a backsplash, stock cabinet installation, painting, upgraded appliances, etc.
Mid-Range Kitchen Upgrade Costs
For those willing to spend $15,000 to $30,000, you will also be able to use higher-end materials, benefit from custom cabinetry, the addition of an island, new flooring, etc.
High-End Kitchen Renovation Cost
For those spending $30,000+, you will have a lot more freedom in terms of the materials you choose and the overall improvements you make. From the latest appliances to additional overhead lighting, granite countertops to hardwood flooring, at this price point, you may want to consider hiring a kitchen designer.
Make It a Cheap Kitchen Remodel
To save money, here are four essential tips:
Don't shy away from DIY whenever possible. However, know your own skills and limits, as you could end up spending more in the long run. For example, rip out old carpeting yourself, but always hire a professional for electrical or plumbing jobs.
Since custom cabinetry can quickly chew up more than a quarter of your budget, shop around for stock products you love, passing on custom work.
Only renovate what is necessary, either in terms of functionality or the desired value of your home. You can't do everything -- so settle on the upgrades and appliances that are of the highest priority.
If you're not in a hurry, complete your renovation in stages. Stages will also help you maintain greater control in terms of your overall budget.
Kitchen Remodel Return On Investment (ROI)
According to the Remodeling 2018 Cost vs. Value Report, you’ll recoup a 54% to 80% return rate in the real estate market and appeal to more home buyers.
80% of the cost of a minor kitchen remodel — It will increase your home’s resale value by approx. $17,000.
59% of the cost of a midrange or major kitchen remodel — It will increase your home’s resale value by approx. $38,000.
54% of the cost of an upscale or major kitchen remodel — It will increase your home’s resale value by approx. $67,000.
Your return on investment also depends on the neighborhood you live in, how much buyers are prepared to pay for a house in your area per square foot, and a mortgage company's willingness to go over their value assessments—no matter how much you have spent on remodeling.
How to Prepare for a Kitchen Remodel
Set your budget based on realistic numbers. Be honest with yourself about what you’re willing to do DIY vs. letting a professional do it.
A kitchen designer can save you a lot of money by designing the most efficient layout up front. By using all your space efficiently, you can avoid the much higher cost of an extension.
Spend a little more on key products that will be used a lot so they will last.
Choose everything and decide on what will be done in advance to help you stay within your budget. Any changes to the initial plan will cost you more down the road.
Try not to stay in your home while the work is going on unless you have a second kitchen in the house. You will not be able to cook or eat in there for 3 to 8 weeks if the remodel is a big one. If you have no choice but to stay, talk to the contractor about isolating the work area and controlling the airflow. Remodeling dust can damage the lungs and cause short- and long-term health problems. Verify the contractor stop and start times, walk-through dates, vacation days, etc.
Make sure all cleanup work is included in the quote.
After the Remodel
Do a complete walkthrough with your contractor to make sure everything included in the initial plan has been completed to your satisfaction.
Make sure all construction debris and dust have been cleaned up by the contractor.
Be sure to ask for all the warranties on any products included in the remodel.
Kitchen Remodeling FAQs
What is the Average Cost to Gut a Kitchen?
The average cost to gut a kitchen is $300 to $700 but could go as high as $3,000 depending on the size and space that needs demolishing.
What is the Average Cost Renovate a Kitchen?
The average cost to renovate a kitchen is $14,000 to $22,000, with most homeowners spending around $16,000. Costs depend on the size of your project and the finishes you choose.
How Much is a Mobile Home Kitchen Remodel?
A mobile home kitchen remodel will cost around $3,000 to $5,000 depending on the size and extent of the project, and the materials used.
Hiring A Kitchen Remodel Contractor
Get at least three detailed bids from qualified contractors by scheduling in-home estimates.
Make sure the contractors are licensed, bonded, insured, and have been in business for 5+ years.
Check sites like HomeGuide and Google to see if the contractors you are considering have been trustworthy on past projects.
Avoid selecting the company with the lowest bid as quality may suffer.
Never pay in full before the work begins. Follow a payment plan for work completed instead.
Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the project starts.
Ultimately, your new kitchen will be as good as the planning you have put into it, and HomeGuide would be happy to help.
