The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it makes sense that you want it to look good — and that’s why it’s one of the first places people look to remodel when they have the opportunity to improve their space. The cost of a kitchen remodel, however, can vary depending on what you’re updating and how big of a renovation you’re planning.
I spoke to six experts to find out how much a kitchen renovation or remodel could set you back:
Kitchen design experts are quoted in the $1,000 to $300,000 range—keep reading to see how that cost breaks down.
What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel?
On average, you can expect to spend about $45,000 for a complete kitchen remodel, according to experts. That cost, of course, depends on everything from the size of your kitchen and where you live, to the type of house you have and the quality of materials you choose. Labor costs will also vary depending on who you hire, how many hands they’ll need, and their availability (more on that below). And, unfortunately, Mazzarini notes, “with the lingering effects of the pandemic, costs remain high.”
Basic price of kitchen remodeling
A minor remodel can cost between $1,000 and $25,000. On the low end, you’d be doing simpler things like painting cabinets, upgrading hardware, selling appliances, and doing some labor — like hanging drywall or small carpentry — yourself. This price range is for DIYers who want to be involved in (almost) every part of the process, but don’t want to deal with big things like moving plumbing, electrical or gas lines. When you add new countertops and upgraded floors, you’ll be heading to the higher end of this range.
The cost of remodeling a mid-range kitchen
A moderate remodel costs between $25,000 and $60,000. In this price range, you’ll be replacing things like countertops, flooring, appliances, and cabinets. Lighting and walls may also be extra for this level of renovation. Most of the cost here will come from the cabinets and appliances. Cabinets are often considered the most expensive part of a remodel, so consider painting what’s there instead of completely replacing them to keep costs down.
The price of remodeling a high-end kitchen
A major remodel of your kitchen will range from $60,000 to $300,000. For high-end renovations, you’ll be doing things like routing plumbing, potentially adding gas lines, or even completely tearing down your existing kitchen space and remodeling it into something new. Finishes such as hardware and moldings may be higher-end or more luxurious, and appliances are likely to be high-end. Here’s your chance to grab those custom countertops you’ve always wanted, with a chic backsplash to match.
Overview of kitchen renovation costs
Kitchen remodeling costs aren’t just about materials—you’ll also have to pay for the workers you hire along the way.
Hagood says you’ll need to factor in labor costs for your remodel, “fees for qualified tradespeople, such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians and general contractors, and any permits and inspections required for the project.” You’ll also factor in the cost of the designers you hire, which Babcock says run $65-$250 an hour. Expect your renovation cost to split up to about 60% materials and 40% labor.
As always, remember that kitchen remodeling isn’t a one-off. Your total cost will depend on “the extent of the renovation, including whether you’re changing the kitchen footprint or just updating existing fixtures,” says Hagood, which will add significantly to the cost.