Kitchen Remodel Costs by Project Scope
Kitchen remodel cost is driven primarily by scope — how much of the kitchen you're replacing or changing. Here's how the numbers break down across three tiers:
| Project Scope | Typical Cost Range | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Refresh | $5,000 – $15,000 | Paint, hardware, lighting, minor tile work, appliance swap |
| Mid-Range Remodel | $15,000 – $45,000 | New semi-custom cabinets, stone countertops, appliances, flooring |
| Full Gut Renovation | $45,000 – $80,000 | Layout changes, custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, full electrical/plumbing |
| High-End Custom | $80,000 – $150,000+ | Full custom cabinetry, luxury appliances, premium stone, structural changes |
Kitchen remodel labor in coastal metros (Boston, Seattle, San Francisco) runs 35–50% above inland markets. Cabinet lead times from major suppliers are currently 8–14 weeks.
National averages for a typical 150–250 sq ft kitchen. Local labor costs vary 20–30% by city — Boston and Seattle run above average, while smaller markets like Tulsa and Oklahoma City run below.
Where Kitchen Remodel Money Goes
- Cabinets (30–40% of budget): The single largest line item. Stock cabinets: $100–$300/linear foot. Semi-custom: $200–$500/lf. Custom: $500–$1,500+/lf. Material and hardware selection dramatically affect both cost and appearance.
- Countertops (10–15%): Laminate runs $25–$50/sq ft installed. Quartz runs $65–$120/sq ft. Natural granite and marble run $70–$200+/sq ft.
- Appliances (15–25%): Mid-range appliance packages (refrigerator, range, dishwasher) run $4,000–$8,000. Professional-grade packages run $12,000–$30,000+.
- Labor (30–40%): Installation, drywall, electrical, plumbing rough-in, and finish work. Labor varies significantly by city.
- Flooring (5–10%): Tile runs $8–$18/sq ft installed. Hardwood runs $10–$20/sq ft. LVP runs $5–$12/sq ft.
- Permits (<5%): Most full remodels require permits. Typically $200–$800 for a kitchen renovation permit.
Kitchen remodels have more cost variation than any other project type because scope and finish level vary enormously. Our local estimates reflect mid-range scope (semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters, mid-tier appliances). Premium finishes add significantly. See our methodology →
Kitchen Remodel Full Cost Guide
Kitchen Remodel Costs by City
Labor costs are the biggest driver of city-to-city price differences in kitchen remodeling. Select your city for a localized breakdown:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2026?
A mid-range kitchen remodel runs $15,000–$45,000 nationally. A minor refresh (paint, hardware, lighting, appliance swap) runs $5,000–$15,000. A full gut renovation with custom cabinetry and high-end finishes runs $45,000–$80,000+. Local labor costs vary significantly — Boston and Seattle run 25–35% above average, while smaller markets run below.
What gives the best ROI on a kitchen remodel?
Minor updates return the most per dollar: fresh paint, new hardware, updated lighting, and a new faucet can transform a kitchen for $3,000–$8,000 and return most of that cost in home value. A mid-range remodel (new cabinets, countertops, appliances) typically returns 60–75% of cost. Luxury renovations return a lower percentage but may be necessary to compete in high-end markets.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A minor refresh takes 1–3 weeks. A mid-range remodel takes 4–8 weeks once materials arrive. A full gut renovation takes 8–16 weeks. Cabinet lead times (6–12 weeks for semi-custom, 12–20 weeks for custom) are the most common schedule driver. Plan for the kitchen to be unusable during the active construction phase — typically 4–8 weeks for most projects.
Do I need permits for a kitchen remodel?
Cosmetic work (paint, hardware, tile backsplash, appliance swap) typically doesn't require a permit. Work that involves moving walls, changing the electrical panel, relocating plumbing, or adding circuits almost always requires a permit. A licensed contractor will pull required permits as part of the standard process — permits protect you at resale and ensure the work is inspected and up to code.