How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost? A Breakdown

When you look at a stunning new kitchen, you see the beautiful cabinets, gleaming countertops, and state-of-the-art appliances. What you don’t see is the plumbing behind the walls, the permits required by the city, or the labor it took to make it all happen. These unseen elements are a huge part of the answer to "how much does it cost to do a kitchen remodel?" To create a budget that won’t fall apart, you have to account for everything—both the visible and the invisible. This article will give you a complete picture, breaking down where the money really goes so you can avoid surprises and plan your project like a pro.

Key Takeaways

• Plan for the Full Project Cost, Not Just the Fun Stuff: A realistic budget goes beyond cabinets and countertops. Be sure to factor in labor, permits, and a non-negotiable contingency fund of 10-20% to handle any unexpected issues that pop up during demolition.
• Work With Your Existing Layout to Maximize Your Budget: The single most effective way to save thousands is to keep your sink, stove, and appliances in their current spots. This avoids the high cost of moving plumbing and electrical lines, freeing up money for more visible upgrades.
• Splurge Smartly by Mixing Materials: You don't need high-end finishes everywhere to get a luxurious feel. Invest in durable, high-use items like quality countertops, and save on elements like your backsplash tile or cabinet hardware to get the most impact from your spending.

How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Really Cost?

So, what’s the real number? While every project is unique, kitchen remodels generally fall into three budget categories. Think of it as choosing between a simple refresh, a full makeover, or a complete overhaul. Understanding which category your vision fits into is the first step toward building an accurate budget. These numbers are national averages, so keep in mind that costs in areas like Los Angeles or the Bay Area can be higher. That's where having a clear, customized plan becomes so important. Let's break down what you can expect to spend at each level.

The Cost of a Minor Refresh

If you're looking for a big impact on a smaller budget, a minor refresh is a fantastic option. This approach focuses on cosmetic updates rather than changing your kitchen's layout. Think freshly painted walls, new cabinet hardware, and maybe a new faucet. For a more significant refresh that includes new stock cabinets, laminate countertops, and updated appliances, the national average lands around $27,492. This is a great way to update your kitchen and give it a modern feel without the cost of a full gut renovation.

The Cost of a Mid-Range Makeover

This is the most common type of kitchen remodel, involving a more significant transformation. A mid-range makeover often includes new semi-custom cabinets, quality countertops like quartz, a new sink, and a full suite of new appliances. The average cost for this kind of project is about $79,982 nationally. Your final price tag will depend heavily on the size of your kitchen and whether you need to move plumbing or electrical lines—a change that can quickly add to the budget. This is where having an expert Realm advisor can help you understand the cost implications of your design choices.

The Cost of a High-End Overhaul

For a truly custom, magazine-worthy kitchen, you’re looking at a high-end overhaul. This is a complete gut renovation where you can reconfigure the layout, add an island, and select premium materials from top to bottom. We’re talking custom cabinetry, high-end stone countertops like marble or quartzite, and professional-grade appliances. The national average for a high-end kitchen remodel is about $158,530. This investment allows you to create a space that is perfectly tailored to your style and how you live, with every finish and fixture chosen by you.

What Drives Up the Cost of a Kitchen Remodel?

When you start looking at kitchen remodel budgets, the numbers can feel all over the place. That’s because the final cost isn’t a single line item but a result of several key decisions you’ll make along the way. Understanding these cost drivers is the first step to building a realistic budget and avoiding sticker shock down the road. Think of it less like a fixed price tag and more like a custom recipe where every ingredient affects the final flavor—and cost.

The four main factors that will influence your total spending are the size and layout of your kitchen, the quality of materials you choose, the cost of labor in your area, and your home’s location. A sprawling kitchen with a completely new layout will naturally cost more than a simple refresh of a small galley kitchen. Likewise, your choice between stock cabinets from a big-box store and fully custom ones will create a huge swing in your budget. Labor is another major piece of the puzzle; hiring a team of vetted professionals costs more than a DIY approach, but it ensures the job is done right. Finally, where you live plays a surprisingly big role, as both materials and labor are more expensive in major cities.

Your Kitchen's Size and Layout

It’s a straightforward rule: the larger your kitchen, the more you’ll spend. More square footage means more flooring, more paint, more countertops, and more cabinets to buy and install. But size is only half the story. The complexity of your layout is just as important. If you’re keeping your kitchen’s existing footprint—meaning the sink, dishwasher, and stove all stay in the same spot—you’ll save a considerable amount of money.

The moment you decide to move plumbing, gas lines, or electrical wiring, your costs start to climb. Relocating these essential services requires licensed plumbers and electricians and adds significant labor hours to your project. The same goes for any structural changes, like removing a wall to create an open-concept space, which can add thousands to your budget.

The Quality of Your Materials

Your material selections are where you have the most control over your budget, and they can make a massive difference in the final tally. High-end materials like marble countertops, custom cabinetry, and professional-grade appliances will command a premium price. On the other hand, you can find beautiful and durable options at lower price points, such as butcher block countertops, stock cabinets, and mid-range appliance packages.

According to industry data, cabinetry is often the single biggest expense, accounting for nearly 30% of a typical kitchen remodel budget. This is followed by labor and appliances. Because these items make up such a large portion of the cost, spending time researching your options here can lead to the biggest savings. A great kitchen remodel cost guide can help you compare different materials.

Labor and Professional Fees

Unless you’re a seasoned contractor yourself, you’ll be hiring professionals to bring your vision to life, and their expertise is a significant part of your budget. The team for a full kitchen remodel can include a general contractor, an architect or designer, electricians, plumbers, and installers. A general contractor typically charges a fee that’s a percentage of the total project cost, often between 15% and 25%, to manage the entire renovation from start to finish.

While it can be tempting to choose the cheapest bid, this is one area where you don’t want to cut corners. Experienced, licensed, and insured professionals prevent costly mistakes and ensure your kitchen is beautiful, functional, and up to code. Working with a service like Realm helps you find reliable contractors who are the right fit for your project and budget.

Where You Live

Your zip code has a major impact on your kitchen remodel cost. Labor rates and material prices are simply higher in and around major metropolitan areas compared to more rural locations. If you live in a high-cost-of-living city like San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Seattle, you should expect to pay more than the national averages you often see quoted online.

This regional price difference is driven by higher wages for skilled labor, greater demand, and more expensive logistics for delivering materials. According to Architectural Digest, these local market conditions are one of the most significant factors in determining your final budget. That’s why getting quotes from local contractors is the only way to get a truly accurate picture of what your project will cost in your specific area.

Where Does the Money Go? Breaking Down the Biggest Expenses

When you look at a six-figure estimate for a kitchen remodel, it’s easy to wonder how the costs add up so quickly. The truth is, a few key categories are responsible for the bulk of your budget. Understanding these big-ticket items is the first step to getting a handle on your spending and making smart decisions about where to save and where to splurge. From the cabinets that define the room’s layout to the hidden wiring that makes it all work, let’s break down where your money is most likely to go. This is where having a clear plan and a team of vetted professionals becomes essential to keeping your project on track and on budget.

Cabinets: The Foundation of Your Budget

Think of your cabinets as the furniture of your kitchen—they set the tone, define the layout, and are responsible for most of the room's functionality. It’s no surprise, then, that they are almost always the single largest expense, eating up anywhere from 20% to 40% of your total remodel budget. The final price tag depends heavily on whether you choose stock, semi-custom, or fully custom cabinets. While basic stock options can keep costs down, high-end custom cabinetry can easily run into the tens of thousands. This is a foundational choice that impacts not just your budget but the entire look and feel of your space.

Countertops: Your Kitchen's Workhorse

Your countertops are where all the action happens, from chopping veggies to rolling out dough. They need to be durable, functional, and stylish, which is why they’re another significant line item, typically accounting for about 10% of your budget. The material you choose is the biggest cost driver here. Laminate is the most budget-friendly option, while popular choices like quartz and granite sit in the mid-to-high range. If you’re dreaming of luxurious materials like marble or quartzite, be prepared to allocate a much larger portion of your funds. Your countertop material choice is a major aesthetic and financial decision.

Appliances and Fixtures

Appliances and fixtures can represent a huge range in spending, often taking up 10% to 20% of your budget. You can find a basic suite of appliances for a few thousand dollars, or you can opt for high-end, professional-grade models that cost ten times that amount. This category also includes your sink, faucet, and lighting, where costs can vary just as widely. This is an area where you have a lot of control. Deciding whether a smart fridge is a must-have or if you’d rather put that money toward custom cabinets is a key part of the budgeting process.

Plumbing and Electrical: The Unseen Essentials

What’s behind the walls is just as important as what you see. Plumbing and electrical work are the invisible essentials that make a kitchen function safely and efficiently, and they can easily account for a third of your budget, especially if you’re changing your kitchen’s layout. Moving a sink, dishwasher, or gas range requires rerouting pipes and wires, which adds significant labor costs. Even if you keep your layout, you may need to update old wiring or plumbing to meet current building codes. This is not a place to cut corners, as proper installation is critical for your home’s safety.

How to Budget for Cabinets and Countertops

When you picture your dream kitchen, what do you see first? For most of us, it’s the cabinets and countertops. They set the style and serve as the primary workspace, so it’s no surprise they’re two of the biggest line items in any kitchen remodel budget. Getting these choices right is key to creating a space you love that also fits your finances. Let's break down how to approach these major decisions so you can plan with confidence. A Realm advisor can also help you source materials and get quotes to ensure you’re getting the best value.

Choosing Your Cabinets: Stock, Semi-Custom, or Custom?

Cabinetry is often the single most significant expense, typically accounting for 20-40% of your total budget. Your main decision here will be choosing between stock, semi-custom, and custom options. Stock cabinets are the most budget-friendly choice; they’re pre-made in standard sizes and available for quick delivery. Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility in sizes, finishes, and styles without the full custom price tag. Custom cabinets are built to your exact specifications, offering endless possibilities but at the highest cost. Understanding the different types of cabinets will help you find the right balance between your vision and your budget.

Popular Countertop Materials and Their Price Tags

Your countertops are your kitchen’s workhorse, and the material you choose will have a big impact on both your daily life and your bottom line. Prices for countertop materials vary widely. For example, a durable and popular material like quartz might cost between $6,000 and $10,000 for an average-sized kitchen, while a more exotic stone like quartzite can easily double that price. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of installation, which can add a significant amount to the final bill. From laminate on the lower end to granite and marble in the mid-to-high range, weighing the pros and cons of each material against your budget is a crucial step.

Don't Get Surprised: Uncovering Hidden Remodel Costs

A detailed budget is your best friend during a kitchen remodel, but even the most carefully planned projects can have a few surprises. Hidden costs are the unexpected expenses that pop up after the work has already begun. While you can’t predict the future, you can prepare for it. Understanding where these costs typically come from is the first step to keeping your project on track and your stress levels low.

Think of it this way: when you open up walls, you might find outdated plumbing or electrical wiring that needs to be brought up to code. Or, you might need a specific permit you hadn't planned for. These are the kinds of things that can add to your final bill. That’s why building a contingency fund—a safety net of about 10% to 20% of your total budget—is so important. It’s also where having an expert in your corner can make all the difference. A dedicated Realm advisor can help you anticipate potential issues based on your home’s age and the scope of your project, turning surprises into manageable line items.

Unexpected Structural or Code Issues

One of the biggest unknowns in any remodel is what’s hiding behind your walls. This is especially true in older homes, which often have plumbing, electrical, or structural quirks that don’t meet modern building codes. A project that involves moving walls or changing your kitchen’s layout is more likely to uncover these issues. For example, your contractor might discover old wiring that’s a fire hazard or a leaky pipe that has caused water damage over the years. While it’s frustrating to spend money on things you can’t see, addressing these problems is essential for your family’s safety and your home’s long-term health. A thorough inspection before demolition can help identify some of these potential red flags early on.

Permits and Inspection Fees

Depending on where you live and the scale of your renovation, you will likely need to get permits from your local building department. These permits ensure that all the work—especially electrical and plumbing—is done safely and meets current codes. The cost of permits can vary quite a bit, from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Your contractor should manage the entire permitting process for you, but the fees will be passed on to you as part of the project cost. This process also includes official inspections at different stages of the project, which can sometimes cause minor delays. Working with vetted professionals who are familiar with local regulations is key to making this a smooth and predictable part of your remodel.

Last-Minute Changes and Delays

It happens to the best of us: you’ve finalized every detail, but once the project starts, you second-guess your tile choice or decide you want a different faucet. While these adjustments may seem small, making changes mid-remodel can have a big impact on your budget and timeline. These are known as "change orders," and they often come with added costs for new materials and extra labor. Skipping the planning phase and making decisions on the fly is a sure way to cause delays and drive up expenses. To avoid this, try to finalize every single selection—from cabinet hardware to grout color—before the first hammer swings. Having a clear vision mapped out will help you stick to the plan and your budget.

How to Save on Your Kitchen Remodel (Without Cutting Corners)

A beautiful, functional kitchen doesn't have to drain your life savings. The secret to a budget-friendly remodel isn't about choosing the cheapest option for everything; it's about being strategic. By making smart decisions on where to save and where to invest, you can create a space you love without the financial stress. It all comes down to prioritizing what matters most to you and understanding where your dollars have the biggest impact.

Thinking through your project with a clear plan is the best way to keep costs in check. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the total price tag, focus on a few key areas where you can make significant savings without compromising on quality or safety. From working with your existing footprint to giving your current cabinets a facelift, these strategies will help you get the most value out of every dollar you spend. A dedicated advisor can also help you identify these opportunities and make sure your budget is allocated wisely from the start.

Work With Your Current Layout

If you want to make one decision that will save you thousands of dollars, this is it: keep your kitchen’s existing layout. While it’s tempting to imagine moving the sink under a window or shifting the stove to create a new focal point, these changes come with a hefty price tag. As NerdWallet points out, you should "[try] not to move sinks, stoves, or other appliances that need plumbing, gas, or electrical lines." Relocating these utilities requires hiring expensive, specialized tradespeople to open up walls, run new lines, and ensure everything is up to code. By designing your new kitchen around the current plumbing and electrical locations, you can avoid these major expenses and allocate that money toward more visible upgrades.

Splurge Smart: Mix High and Low-Cost Materials

A high-end look doesn't require high-end materials everywhere. The key is to mix and match, spending more on the elements that have the biggest functional and visual impact. Think about the surfaces you use every day. According to Architectural Digest, it's wise to "[spend] most of your budget on custom cabinets, countertops, and high-end appliances." These are the workhorses of your kitchen and major drivers of resale value. You can balance these splurges by saving on other items. For example, opt for a classic, affordable subway tile for your backsplash, choose stylish but budget-friendly pendant lights, or find beautiful cabinet hardware from an online retailer instead of a high-end showroom. This high-low approach gives you a luxe feel where it counts.

Know When to DIY (and When to Hire a Pro)

The urge to DIY is strong, especially when you see labor costs adding up. While tackling some tasks yourself can save money, it’s crucial to be realistic about your skills and the project's complexity. Painting walls, swapping out cabinet hardware, or even assembling flat-pack cabinets are great projects for a handy homeowner. However, for a full remodel, experts strongly advise hiring a professional for the big jobs. As Architectural Digest notes, DIY can lead to costly mistakes and leave you without a functioning kitchen for months. Electrical and plumbing work should always be left to licensed pros for safety and code compliance. Remember, hiring vetted professionals isn't just an expense—it's an investment in getting the job done right the first time.

Refinish or Reface Instead of Replacing

Before you budget for a full cabinet replacement, take a hard look at what you already have. If your cabinet boxes are in good condition, you can save a significant amount of money by refinishing or refacing them. Refinishing involves sanding and painting or re-staining your existing cabinets and doors for a fresh, updated look. Refacing takes it a step further by replacing the doors and drawer fronts entirely while keeping the cabinet boxes. This gives you the appearance of brand-new cabinetry for a fraction of the cost. You can also "[add] useful organizers inside instead of buying new ones" to improve functionality. A professional paint job can completely transform a dated kitchen, making this one of the most effective cost-saving strategies available.

How to Create a Realistic Kitchen Remodel Budget

Creating a budget for your kitchen remodel can feel like the least exciting part of the process, but it’s the single most important step to ensure your project is a success. A realistic budget acts as your roadmap, guiding your decisions and preventing costly detours. It’s not about limiting your vision; it’s about bringing that vision to life smartly and without financial stress. By planning carefully, you can make informed choices about where to save and where to splurge, ensuring you end up with a kitchen you love that also represents a wise investment in your home. Let’s walk through how to build a budget that works for you.

Define Your Priorities and Set Expectations

Before you even think about materials or appliances, take a moment to think about how you live in your kitchen. Your goal should be to create a space that truly works for your lifestyle. As one expert puts it, "Think about how you use your kitchen most and let that guide your design choices." Are you an avid baker who dreams of a double oven and endless counter space? Or do you host big family dinners and need an open layout that flows into the living area? Make a list of your "must-haves" and your "nice-to-haves." This simple exercise will help you and your contractor focus the budget on the features that will make the biggest impact on your daily life.

Build a Contingency Fund (It's Non-Negotiable)

Here’s a piece of advice I give every homeowner: set up a contingency fund. Think of it as a financial safety net for your project. No matter how well you plan, renovations can uncover surprises, like old plumbing that needs updating or hidden structural issues. A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10% to 20% of your total budget for these unexpected costs. If your remodel budget is $50,000, that means having an extra $5,000 to $10,000 ready. It might feel like you’re over-budgeting, but this fund is what will keep your project moving forward smoothly without forcing you to make compromises on your must-haves later on.

Get Detailed Contractor Estimates

Don’t just go with the first contractor you talk to. It’s essential to get detailed quotes from several professionals to find someone you trust who fits your project goals and budget. A good estimate shouldn't just be a single number; it should break down the costs for labor, materials, permits, and other fees. This transparency helps you compare apples to apples and understand exactly where your money is going. When you meet with contractors, ask to see their past work and check customer reviews. The goal is to find a partner for your project, and at Realm, we simplify this by connecting you with a network of vetted professionals who are right for your specific job.

Common Budgeting Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a budget is a huge step, but a few common missteps can derail your project before the first hammer swings. Knowing what to watch out for will help you build a financial plan that’s realistic and resilient, so you can focus on the fun parts of designing your dream kitchen. Let’s walk through the three biggest budgeting mistakes homeowners make and how you can steer clear of them.

Underestimating the Total Cost

It’s easy to focus on the big, exciting purchases like new appliances and countertops, but the total cost of a remodel goes much deeper. Many homeowners don't account for the full scope of expenses. For example, removing a wall to create an open-concept space isn't just a demolition job; it can involve rerouting electrical wiring, moving plumbing, and adding structural support, all of which add to the final bill. A detailed and customized project plan is your best defense against these surprise costs. It forces you to think through every single line item, from demolition and debris removal to final paint touch-ups and hardware.

Forgetting to Budget for the Unexpected

No matter how perfectly you plan, renovations have a way of revealing surprises. Tearing out old cabinets might uncover hidden water damage, or you could find that your home’s wiring isn’t up to code. That’s why a contingency fund is non-negotiable. While it might feel like you're setting money aside for problems that don't exist yet, the best approach is to plan for these unexpected expenses from day one. Most experts recommend setting aside an extra 10% to 20% of your total project cost. This buffer gives you peace of mind and ensures that a small hiccup doesn't turn into a major financial crisis.

Choosing a Contractor Based Only on Price

When you’re comparing bids, the lowest number can be incredibly tempting. However, selecting a contractor based solely on price can lead to poor quality work, missed deadlines, and additional costs down the line. A bid that seems too good to be true often is—it might mean the contractor is using subpar materials, cutting corners, or plans to add surprise fees later. Instead of focusing only on the bottom line, look for value. Your goal is to find experienced and vetted professionals who communicate clearly, have a portfolio of quality work, and provide a detailed, transparent estimate. Investing in the right team is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your project.

Related Articles

• How to Budget for a Home Renovation
• The Real Cost of Bathroom Remodels: What to Expect
• 7 Ways to Save on Your Next Home Renovation
• What to Know Before Hiring a Contractor
• Hidden Costs of Home Renovations (and How to Avoid Them)

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get an accurate cost estimate for my specific kitchen? The national averages are a great starting point, but the only way to get a true sense of your project's cost is to get detailed quotes from local professionals. A good contractor will walk through your space, discuss your material choices, and provide a line-item estimate that breaks down all the costs. This is also where a service like Realm can be incredibly helpful, as we can create a customized plan based on your home's data and connect you with vetted contractors in your area to get realistic bids.

Where should I absolutely not try to cut costs? While it's smart to look for savings on things like lighting fixtures or backsplash tile, there are a few areas where you should never compromise. Always invest in licensed and insured professionals for plumbing and electrical work, as mistakes here can be dangerous and expensive to fix. It's also wise to allocate a healthy part of your budget to quality cabinetry and countertops, since these are the high-use items that define your kitchen's function and durability for years to come.

Is a 20% contingency fund really necessary? Yes, I can't stress this enough. Think of it as project insurance. Even with the most meticulous planning, renovations can uncover surprises, especially in older homes. You might open a wall and find outdated wiring or a leaky pipe that needs immediate attention. Having that 10-20% buffer means you can handle these issues without derailing your budget or having to sacrifice a feature you really wanted. It’s the key to keeping your project on track and your stress levels down.

How long does a typical kitchen remodel take? The timeline depends entirely on the scope of your project. A minor refresh with cosmetic updates might only take a couple of weeks. A mid-range remodel involving new cabinets and countertops could take anywhere from four to eight weeks. For a high-end, full-gut renovation where you're moving walls and changing the layout, you should plan for the project to last three to five months, or sometimes longer, from the start of design to the final walkthrough.

What's the very first step I should take to start building my budget? Before you even look at a single countertop sample, sit down and define your priorities. Make two lists: "must-haves" and "nice-to-haves." Think about how you use your kitchen and what your biggest pain points are right now. Is it a lack of storage? Not enough counter space? This simple exercise helps you focus your spending on the things that will genuinely improve your daily life, making it much easier to make smart decisions when it's time to allocate funds.