Remodeling your kitchen can be one of the most exciting and rewarding home improvement projects. But before diving in, it’s important to have a realistic budget in mind. The cost of a kitchen remodel can vary widely based on the size of your kitchen, the materials you select, and the extent of the renovations. Here is an overview of the key factors that influence the cost of a kitchen remodel.
Kitchen Size
The size of your kitchen is one of the biggest factors in determining the overall budget. Larger kitchens require more materials, labor, and time. Here are some averages costs based on kitchen size:
- Small kitchen (under 150 sq ft): $7,000 – $25,000
- Medium kitchen (150 – 300 sq ft): $25,000 – $50,000
- Large kitchen (300+ sq ft): $50,000 – $100,000+
Keep in mind, these are broad estimates. The design details you select will also impact the bottom line.
Materials
The materials you choose for cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and finishes have a major influence on cost.
Cabinets
- Stock cabinets: $2,000 – $8,000
- Semi-custom: $9,000 – $14,000
- Custom: $15,000 – $30,000+
Countertops
- Laminate: $1,000 – $2,500
- Quartz: $2,500 – $4,500
- Granite: $3,500 – $5,500
- Marble: $5,000 – $9,000
Appliances
- Standard range/oven: $500 – $1,500
- Cooktop: $1,000 – $2,500
- Built-in refrigerator: $3,000 – $10,000
- Dishwasher: $500 – $1,000
Finishes
- Paint: $500 – $1,000
- Tile backsplash: $1,000 – $3,000
- Hardwood flooring: $3,000 – $7,000
Selecting higher end materials like custom cabinetry, marble counters, and top-of-the-line appliances will increase costs, sometimes dramatically. Be sure to balance your material choices with your overall budget.
Labor
Professional installation and contracting work also factors heavily into your remodel budget. Some typical labor costs:
- Contractor fees: 10-20% of total project cost
- Installation of cabinets: $150 – $200 per linear ft
- Installation of tile backsplash: $5 – $10 per sq ft
- Installation of flooring: $3 – $10 per sq ft
- Installation of lighting/electrical: $2,000 – $3,000
- Plumbing work: $40 – $100 per hour
Labor costs can be managed by choosing contractor packages over hourly fees when possible.
Amount of Renovation
The extent of your kitchen remodel will have a major impact on the bottom line. Key options to consider:
Cabinetry
- Refacing: $1,500 – $3,500
- Refinishing: $3,000 – $7,500
- New cabinet installation: $5,000 – $15,000
Appliances
- Replace some: $2,000 – $6,000
- All new suite: $8,000 – $15,000
Layout
- Minor adjustments: $1,000 – $3,000
- Major changes: $5,000 – $10,000
Additions
- Island addition: $2,000 – $6,000
- Bump out expansion: $5,000 – $15,000
- Full addition: $15,000 – $30,000
By focusing on smaller updates like cabinet refacing and targeted replacements rather than a complete teardown, you may be able to achieve your dream kitchen at a fraction of the cost.
Additional Costs to Factor In
Beyond the main elements above, your total remodel cost also needs to cover:
- Permits & fees: $500 – $2,000
- Architectural drawings: $1,500 – $3,000
- Demolition: $1,000 – $3,000
- Dumpsters: $500 – $1,500
- Unexpected repairs: 10% buffer
Average Cost for a Full Kitchen Remodel
While costs can rise quickly for larger or higher-end projects, for a full remodel of an average 10×10 kitchen with mid-to-upper grade finishes, total costs often land in the $20,000 – $35,000 range. High-end luxury kitchens can easily exceed $50,000.
Tips for Reducing Your Kitchen Remodel Cost
There are ways to work within almost any budget. Here are some smart ways to reduce costs:
- Select a simple layout that requires less alteration to the foundation structure
- Keep existing floorplan elements like plumbing and electrical when possible
- Install stock cabinets rather than custom built
- Use laminate counters instead of more expensive materials like quartz or marble
- Keep existing kitchen appliances if they are still in good condition
- Use DIY skills for minor elements like installing backsplash and painting
- Shop sales and clearance for fixtures and decor
- Opt for contractor package pricing rather than hourly labor fees
How Much Does a Kitchen Makeover Cost?
If a full kitchen remodel is beyond your budget, a targeted “kitchen makeover” is a great option. Light updates like painting cabinets, adding new hardware, and getting stylish new countertops can give your kitchen a whole new look for a fraction of a complete renovation cost. Here are some typical makeover upgrade options and their price ranges:
Paint existing cabinets: $500 – $2,000
Giving tired wooden cabinets a fresh coat of color is one of the most affordable and dramatic upgrades you can make.
Replace hardware: $200 – $600
New knobs and handles can modernize the look and feel of your kitchen.
Update countertops: $1,500 – $3,000
Resurfacing with materials like quartz or laminate can make a big impact.
Install new backsplash: $500 – $2,000
Tile or glass backsplashes protect the walls and add great visual appeal.
Replace sink and faucet: $200 – $600
An apron front sink or commercial faucet instantly upgrades your prep space.
Add new lighting: $500 – $1,500
Pendant lights modernize the ambiance. Under-cabinet LEDs increase function.
Repaint/restain: $500 – $1,500
A fresh coat of stain or paint can give cabinets, walls, and trim a brand new look.
Conclusion
The cost to remodel a kitchen or execute a budget-friendly kitchen makeover can vary immensely based on your goals, design choices, and the scale of renovations. Carefully assess your needs, research costs, and align your expectations with a realistic budget before embarking on your kitchen refresh or remodel. With some thoughtful planning, creativity, and smart compromises, you can give your kitchen the revitalized style and functionality you desire at a price you can afford.
