Kitchen Remodel Costs

Typical cost ranges by scope

Scope	Typical range	What changes
Cosmetic refresh	$5,000 – $20,000	Paint cabinets, new hardware, countertop swap, appliance refresh
Mid-range remodel	$25,000 – $60,000	Semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters, new appliances, new flooring
Full custom remodel	$60,000 – $150,000+	Layout change, custom cabinetry, premium stone, structural work

The biggest swing factors are whether you move plumbing or walls (adds $5,000–$25,000+) and the cabinet tier you choose, which can account for 30–45% of the total budget.

Where the money goes (mid-range remodel)

Category	% of budget	Notes
Cabinets + hardware	30–45%	Biggest single cost driver
Labor	20–35%	Installation, plumbing, electrical, finish work
Countertops	10–20%	Varies by material and sqft
Appliances	10–15%	Depends on whether you're upgrading
Flooring + backsplash	5–10%	Easy place to save or splurge
Plumbing + electrical	5–15%	Higher if moving anything
Permits + design + misc	5–10%	Often overlooked in early budgeting

Biggest cost levers

• Cabinets (stock vs semi-custom vs custom)
• Countertops (laminate vs quartz vs stone)
• Layout changes (moving plumbing, walls, electrical)
• Appliances and ventilation upgrades

Typical line items to plan for

• Demo + disposal
• Cabinets + hardware
• Countertops + backsplash
• Plumbing/electrical work (especially if layout changes)
• Flooring + baseboards/trim
• Appliances, sink, faucet, lighting
• Permits + inspections (varies by location)

Scope checklist (to get comparable bids)

• Keep layout or move plumbing/gas/electrical?
• Cabinet type and count (stock/semi-custom/custom)
• Countertop material and backsplash coverage
• Appliance list and whether you or contractor supplies
• Flooring scope and subfloor prep assumptions
• Painting and finish carpentry included?

The more decisions you make up front, the fewer change orders you’ll pay for later.

Timeline expectations

• Cabinet lead times can be weeks (sometimes longer)
• Permits and inspections can add schedule variability
• Layout changes usually increase both cost and duration

Common budget mistakes

• Starting demo before selections are finalized
• Not budgeting for electrical upgrades or ventilation
• Assuming “small changes” won’t affect schedule
• Comparing bids without matching scope

Frequently asked questions

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

A cosmetic refresh with no layout change typically takes 2–4 weeks. A mid-range remodel with new cabinets and countertops takes 6–10 weeks once materials arrive. Full remodels with layout changes often run 3–5 months, including permit and inspection time.

Can I save money by supplying my own materials?

Yes, but it adds coordination responsibility. If you source your own cabinets or appliances, you own the lead time risk. A delayed delivery can push out the contractor's schedule and trigger change-order costs. Confirm exactly who supplies what — and the consequences of a delay — before signing.

Is a kitchen remodel worth it for resale?

Mid-range kitchen remodels typically recoup 60–80% of their cost at resale. The return is highest when the kitchen was significantly dated relative to the neighborhood. Over-improving relative to comparable homes returns less. Focus on functionality and durability first if resale is the goal.

What permits are typically required?

Permits are usually required for electrical panel work, plumbing changes, structural modifications, and gas line moves. Paint, cabinet swaps, and countertop replacements rarely need permits. Requirements vary by city — ask your contractor to confirm what your project needs before they start work.

How do I avoid going over budget?

Finalize all selections (cabinets, counters, appliances, fixtures) before demo starts — changes after demo are the primary source of cost overruns. Budget 10–15% contingency for unexpected conditions like subfloor damage or outdated wiring. Get a fixed-price contract where scope is clear enough to support it.