How to Budget a Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen remodels range from under $10,000 for cosmetic refreshes to well over $100,000 for full gut renovations. The difference comes down to scope, materials, and whether you're moving anything that requires plumbing or electrical work.
Typical Cost Ranges
- Minor refresh (paint, hardware, appliances): $5,000–$15,000
- Mid-range remodel (new cabinets, countertops, sink): $25,000–$60,000
- Full renovation (layout change, high-end finishes): $60,000–$150,000+
Use our Kitchen Remodel Calculator to get a rough estimate based on your kitchen size and scope.
What Drives Kitchen Remodel Costs
Cabinets (30–40% of total budget) — the biggest line item. Stock cabinets from big-box stores cost $100–$300 per linear foot installed; semi-custom runs $200–$500; full custom can hit $1,000+ per linear foot.
Countertops (10–20%) — laminate is $15–$40/sq ft installed; quartz and granite run $50–$120/sq ft; natural stone quartzite and marble go higher.
Appliances (10–15%) — a complete mid-range appliance package (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave) runs $3,000–$8,000. Pro-style appliances double or triple that.
Labor (20–35%) — varies enormously by region. Labor in coastal cities often costs twice what the same job costs in the Midwest.
Plumbing and electrical (10–15%) — if you're moving the sink, adding an island, or upgrading electrical panels, costs jump significantly.
Where to Save Without Sacrificing Quality
- Keep the same layout — moving plumbing and electrical is expensive. If the layout works, keep it.
- Reface or paint cabinets instead of replacing if the boxes are solid
- Choose quartz over natural stone — similar look, more durable, often cheaper to install
- Buy appliances as a package — most retailers discount full suite purchases
- Do demo yourself — tearing out old cabinets and flooring is safe to DIY and saves $500–$2,000
What Not to Cut Corners On
- Electrical — kitchens need GFCI outlets, proper circuits for appliances. Licensed electrician only.
- Plumbing connections — leaks inside walls cause mold and structural damage. Don't DIY supply lines.
- Ventilation — a properly ducted range hood matters for air quality and code compliance
- Countertop installation — improper seams and unsupported spans crack stone