How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost? [2025 Data]

Whether you’re looking for more kitchen storage and counter space or you're tired of looking at outdated cabinets and dealing with failing appliances, a kitchen remodel can be a solid investment. Not only will a remodel improve your enjoyment of one of the most trafficked rooms in your home, but it can also significantly boost home value, providing an ROI of up to 96%, according to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report.

Remodeling a kitchen costs an average of $27,000, and most homeowners pay somewhere between $15,000 and $45,000. Your total will depend mostly on the quality of the materials and the extent of the remodel. A minor remodel that involves refinishing cabinets, regrouting a tile floor instead of replacing, and updating fixtures and countertops can cost as little as $10,000, while a luxury remodel using high-end materials can total $130,000. Most homeowners opt for something in the middle.

Average Kitchen Remodel Cost

Kitchen Remodel Cost by Scope

The goals you have in mind for your kitchen remodel will play the biggest role in your total. A minor kitchen remodel that mostly involves refinishing what’s already there will average just $15,000. A full remodel to replace everything from cabinets and appliances to new flooring and countertops will average $40,000. A luxury remodel that involves replacing everything with high-end materials will average $80,000 but can push up to $130,000.

Cosmetic or Small Kitchen Remodel Cost

A cosmetic kitchen remodel or small kitchen remodel focuses solely on the aesthetic of your kitchen, and it’s the most affordable option. Rather than ripping out and replacing everything, it will include refinishing cabinets, replacing backsplashes, and updating plumbing and electrical fixtures. You can opt to replace a failing appliance, but for the most part, the project will involve refreshing rather than ripping out and replacing.

The average cost of a small kitchen remodel is $15,000, and prices range from $10,000 to $25,000. For this makeover budget, you could include any combination of the following:

• Painting or refacing cabinets with new hardware

• Replacing the countertops with laminate or stock butcher block

• Updating lighting fixtures

• New plumbing fixtures, like a new faucet

• New energy-efficient appliances

• A new backsplash

• Regrouted tile flooring or a budget-friendly flooring replacement

Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel

The average cost of remodeling a kitchen with mid-range materials falls around $40,000, and prices range from $25,000 up to $60,000. This remodel tier gives you more freedom to customize your kitchen and make changes to the functionality, so it will have a bigger impact on your enjoyment of the space. You can make minor changes to your kitchen layout to improve traffic flow, but the majority of the work will include replacing cabinets, countertops, and flooring with mid-grade materials, as well as upgrading appliances. With this budget, you could include any combination of the following:

• New cabinets with a few specialty features like a spice cabinet, rolling shelves, and other pull-outs

• New, upgraded countertops and tile backsplash

• Added features like an island or pantry

• Designer features like lighting, sleek countertop appliances, and other accessories

• Upgraded finishes to include natural materials like hardwood and stone for flooring and countertops

• A few higher-end kitchen appliances, like an under-cabinet ice maker or warming oven

When incorporating trends, make them something inexpensive to swap out. You want your kitchen to look good for 15-20 years and at resale if you decide to sell. Avoid trends that will cost you a lot of money to change.

Gina Cito

NKBA-certified designer

High-End Kitchen Remodel Cost

The cost of a high-end kitchen remodel averages $80,000, but prices can range from $60,000 up to $130,000. With this level of remodel, you’ll replace or change virtually everything in the space with high-quality materials, appliances, and fixtures. Since you’ll be gutting the entire room, you’ll also have the opportunity to remove walls, relocate plumbing and electrical fixtures, change the location of appliance hook-ups, and even increase the square footage of your kitchen.

The sky’s the limit at this level, and you can include the following options:

• An increase in the size of your kitchen

• Updates to the floor plan

• Custom cabinetry with designer built-ins and distinctive pieces

• Highest-quality materials, like marble and cherry wood, on all surfaces

• Design elements like crown molding, custom windows, and cove lighting

• Statement pieces that reflect your personality, like a chandelier, tiled mural, stained glass, or specialty artwork

• Professional-grade appliances from top manufacturers, with the option for custom fronts that match the cabinets

• Additional appliances, like wine coolers, trash compactors, and built-in water dispensers.

Key Cost Factors

The size of your kitchen and any layout changes you plan on making are crucial factors to think about in order to get an accurate estimate for your remodel. Every additional square foot of space in the room will mean more materials and more labor to install them, so larger kitchens will always cost more to remodel.

Additionally, the layout of your kitchen depends largely on how your utilities are roughed in and where your appliances are located, so making changes would mean rerouting utilities, which is time- and labor-intensive, and shifting around the cabinetry that’s built in around your appliances. As you might imagine, this can add thousands to your total.

Kitchen Remodel Cost per Square Foot 

On average, you can expect to spend around $150 per square foot on your kitchen remodel, and prices typically range from $75 up to $250 per square foot, depending on the type of remodel you do and the quality of the materials. Your cost could increase to $600 or more for a high-end kitchen remodel. The cost per square foot for minor cosmetic updates will sit closer to the lower end of that range, while making changes to the layout and upgrading to a luxury kitchen could push the cost per square foot up to the higher end.

The average kitchen in the U.S. is between 160 and 180 square feet, which means the average cost of a kitchen remodel is between $24,000 and $27,000. You can take measurements of your kitchen and use the table below to get an idea of where your total will fall based on kitchen size and the type of remodel you’re considering.

Layout

Changing your kitchen’s footprint may improve its functionality, but it could also be the most expensive aspect of a kitchen remodel. Knocking down or adding walls means moving electrical wiring, replacing the flooring and ceiling, patching drywall, and possibly moving plumbing and gas lines.

In some cases, it may also mean making structural changes to your home, which will involve engineer costs, additional permits, and more labor to ensure everything is structurally sound. It also means removing, relocating, or replacing cabinets, countertops, and some appliances, all of which will add to material and labor costs.

Hiring an architect or certified kitchen designer to design your dream kitchen will add at least $2,750 to the overall cost, and most design work from an architect will cost closer to $6,000

When renovating your kitchen, it’s best to start small by focusing on the layout first... This will allow you to plan storage and [design] a workspace that will work best for you.

Drew Mansur

Co-founder and Director

Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown

Understanding where your money will go during a kitchen remodel is a great place to start planning, as you can tweak the average numbers based on the changes you need for your space.

Begin your remodeling journey by defining the life change you're looking for. Then, make decisions based on that change.

Joseph Patrick

Owner

Utilities (Plumbing and Electrical)

Depending on the scope of work and location, hiring a plumber or electrician to move, install, or replace plumbing and electrical fixtures can add $1,000 to $4,000 to your kitchen remodel. You’ll typically pay toward the higher end of that range if you’re making changes to the layout of your kitchen, while costs will sit closer to $1,000 if you’re just running new water and drain lines for additional appliances and replacing plumbing fixtures. Add $200 to $1,300 to your total if you need a new gas line to convert from an electric to a gas stove.

Kitchen Cabinets

New kitchen cabinets cost an average of $10,800, or anywhere between $100 and $1,200 per square foot. Stock cabinets will cost between $100 and $300 per linear foot, semi-custom will cost between $150 and $650 per linear foot, and fully custom cabinets will cost between $500 and $1,200 per linear foot. If you’re just painting your existing cabinets, you’ll spend between $400 and $1,400 total, or between $20 and $60 per linear foot.   

You may also want to budget for a kitchen island for added counter space and greater utility. The cost of a kitchen island depends on the cabinet quality, island size, and countertop material. But on average, expect to pay around $4,500.

Appliances

The cost to replace your major kitchen appliances, including your fridge, oven, dishwasher, and built-in microwave, falls between $2,500 and $15,000. If you’re splurging on high-end, luxury appliances, you could pay $25,000 or more for a full appliance package. Many homeowners will only upgrade appliances if they’re out of date, improperly sized, or failing, so the total average cost is closer to $1,600, which may include replacing either the fridge or the oven and dishwasher, but not all three.

On average, you can expect to spend around $150 per square foot on your kitchen remodel. For example, if you are remodeling a 10x10 kitchen, you'll pay about $15,000. This means larger kitchens will almost always cost more to remodel than smaller ones.

The cost per square foot for minor cosmetic updates could fall as low as $100, while making changes to the layout and upgrading to a luxury kitchen could push the cost per square foot as high as $250.

The average kitchen in the U.S. is between 100 and 200 square feet, which means the typical remodel cost is between $15,000 and $30,000.

When on a budget, you can hold off on replacing the appliances until you have more funds," says Gina Cito. "But, then, you won’t have the advantage of implementing all the latest technology into your cooking experience.

Kitchen Countertops

The average cost to replace kitchen countertops is around $3,000 or between $15 and $200 per sq.ft., but new countertops come in a wide variety of materials and prices. Given that the average measurement for a kitchen countertop is 35 square feet, you can expect to pay between $1,400 and $5,250 for new counter material.

Here is a breakdown of the most popular countertop materials and their cost per square foot. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on the edge profile, whether you want a full slab or prefabricated pieces, and your location.

Flooring

On average, you’ll spend just under $5,000 replacing your kitchen floor, but prices range widely based on the material you choose. When deciding, make sure you consider cost, durability, and longevity. High-traffic areas like the kitchen deserve a durable and easy-to-clean floor.

Here is a breakdown of the most popular kitchen flooring materials by square foot. For reference, the average floor space of a kitchen is between 160 and 170 square feet.

Backsplash

Replacing a kitchen backsplash costs an average of $1,080, but again, your total will depend on the size of your backsplash and the materials you choose. Most homeowners will spend between $500 and $1,500 total, or between $15 and $40 per square foot.

Here’s a breakdown of the different materials you can choose and how they will affect your pricing.

Lighting

Lighting for your kitchen remodel will cost an average of $1,350, which accounts for replacing existing fixtures for a fresh appearance. The type of light you’re replacing will affect your costs, with hi-hats and pendant lights costing $100 to $400 each, undermount lights under your upper cabinets costing $20 to $300, and LED light strips costing between $70 and $400, in most cases. Prices can go up to $1,000 or more per fixture if you’re installing a high-end chandelier or custom lighting.

Labor Cost to Remodel a Kitchen

Between 50% and 60% of your kitchen remodel cost will go toward labor, which puts the average total labor cost at between $13,500 and $16,200.

That percentage could be lower if you’re buying higher-quality materials, like marble countertops and hardwood flooring, and it could reach up to 70% if you choose more affordable materials that cost less but require a similar amount of time and effort to install. These total labor costs include all of the professionals you’ll need to get the job done, including plumbers, electricians, and general contractors.

Labor costs vary widely based on what you’re doing in your kitchen, too. Labor-intensive projects like building custom cabinetry, installing custom tile work for the backsplash, and relocating utility connections will drive up utility costs substantially.

Budgeting for Your Kitchen Remodel

While kitchen remodels add tons of value to your home, they’re still pricey, even if you just do a basic makeover. There are a few things to consider to nail down your kitchen remodel budget and make sure you have the funds to complete the project before getting started.

Plan Ahead

The first phase of the kitchen remodeling timeline is planning. It’s a good idea to work out everything you want to include in your remodel up front, which often means working with a professional who can guide you on your decisions and help firm up material choices.

You may be focused on the cabinet materials and backsplash design, but a pro will also account for less obvious expenses, like permit costs or an upgraded service panel to support high-end appliances. Work with an expert to avoid running into unexpected fees in the middle of your remodel.

Budgetary Cushion

Even with extensive planning, things can end up going off the rails once you dive into the actual renovation. Things like hidden mold, subfloor damage, and material waste can add to your total unexpectedly. It’s a good idea to budget an additional 5% to 10% to cover these potential surprise costs. That means over-budgeting by an average of $1,350 to $2,700.

Financing Options

If you don’t have the cash in the bank, consult with a lender regarding how to pay for your kitchen. Many homeowners use a home equity loan, a home equity line of credit (HELOC), or bundle the remodel cost with their mortgage with a home renovation loan. Before approaching a lender, have a cost estimate prepared by a professional.

How to Save Money on Kitchen Remodel

There are many ways to achieve a stylish, updated kitchen on a budget. If you need to reduce the cost of your kitchen remodel, here are some money-saving tips to consider:

• DIY what you can: If you’re on a budget, save by doing simple tasks yourself, such as painting or refinishing cabinets, while leaving electrical and plumbing work to licensed professionals.

• Choose budget-friendly materials: Choose more affordable materials that will still make your kitchen shine, like LVP or LVT flooring and quartz countertops rather than marble or granite.

• Go for painted cabinets: Painted cabinets are less expensive than hardwood because they use poplar for the fronts rather than more expensive oak, walnut, or cherry hardwood.

• Consider government incentives: If you’re upgrading your appliances, look for home energy efficiency incentives for Energy Star-rated appliances to save some money.

• Avoid changing the layout: Moving plumbing and electrical lines to alter the layout of your kitchen can add thousands to your total. If your existing kitchen functions well, save money by keeping things as they are.

ROI on a Kitchen Remodel

When planning a kitchen remodel, it’s important to consider not just the upfront cost but also the potential return on investment (ROI). Depending on the scope of the project and the materials you choose, your remodel could recoup a significant portion of its cost.

You’ll see the highest ROI from minor remodels, which are mostly a surface-level makeover for your kitchen. Projects like replacing flooring and countertops, refinishing cabinets, and freshening up the backsplash can yield an ROI of 96%. A full remodel that involves replacing cabinetry, flooring, appliances, fixtures, and countertops with mid-grade materials will provide an average ROI of 50%.

A luxury kitchen remodel with high-end materials offers a lower ROI of 38%, on average. The high cost of the materials makes for a lower return, although that ROI could be a bit higher in areas with a high cost of living where luxury components are considered standard.

Kitchen Remodel vs. Renovation

Homeowners and contractors alike use the words “remodel” and “renovation” interchangeably, but there are some technical differences.

A kitchen renovation involves changing the appearance of your kitchen but leaving the functionality and layout the same. It may involve refinishing or even replacing cabinets, but the locations of the sink, appliances, and utilities will all remain the same. A kitchen remodel more often involves changing the functionality. That could include moving the sink or appliances, changing the layout, or installing an island with additional features.

A kitchen renovation costs an average of $15,000, while a remodel costs an average of $40,000.

Additional Costs and Considerations

While all of the above cost considerations will make up the bulk of your total, there are other costs you may need to consider to ensure you get an accurate estimate for your kitchen remodeling project. Speak with your professional about the following to make sure you cover all of your bases.

• Design fees: Homeowners who aren’t confident with material choices that will provide a cohesive look and feel may want to hire an interior designer for help. Expect to pay an average of between $825 and $2,475 for design services for an average-size kitchen.

• Permits: Most municipalities will require permits for kitchen remodels, and average costs range from $450 to $2,500. Permit costs could be higher if you need to budget for structural changes or alterations to utilities.

• Unexpected damages: Kitchens involve plumbing, and where there are water and waste lines, there’s always the risk of hidden water damage. You may need to add hundreds or even thousands of dollars to your total if your contractor finds hidden water damage or wood rot from a plumbing leak.

• Structural changes: If your kitchen remodel involves knocking down load-bearing walls, you may need to pay extra for structural changes. Removing a load-bearing wall can add between $1,400 and $11,500 to your total cost.

• Temporary kitchen setup: A kitchen remodel can take weeks or even months to complete, and living without access to a food prep space for that long just isn’t realistic for many homeowners. You may need to budget to install a small kitchenette elsewhere in your home or even budget for pre-made meals until your remodel is completed.

• Debris removal: Unless you’re opting for a minor kitchen remodel, you’ll need to budget to remove debris from the initial demolition. This can vary depending on dumping fees in your area, but budget at least a few hundred dollars for this line item.

Common Kitchen Remodel Errors to Avoid

Remodeling a kitchen is a major home project that involves a lot of moving parts, and there are many things that can go wrong throughout the process. Here are some of the most common mistakes homeowners make to help you plan a bit better.

• Underestimating costs: Kitchen remodel costs vary widely, so budgeting can be very challenging. Even when you get an estimate from a professional, there’s a chance that hidden damages and unexpected costs will drive up your total. It’s a good idea to add 5% to 10% to whatever your professional quotes to allow some room for change orders and unexpected repairs.

• Not having a clear plan: Planning is the easiest place to mess up when budgeting for a kitchen remodel. Hiring a professional designer can help nail down material choices and avoid surprises.

• Choosing the wrong contractor: Less reputable contractors may underbid your remodel and then submit change orders after they get started, leading to costs that are higher overall. Additionally, contractors who come in well below others may cut corners during the work, which could lead to higher repair and upkeep costs over time.

• Overlooking storage needs: Storage is king when it comes to the kitchen, so make sure your cabinet space is one of your top priorities when remodeling your kitchen. The last thing you want is to pay to remodel your kitchen only to discover that you don’t have enough space for food and small appliances.

• Ignoring the importance of lighting: Second to storage is lighting. If you find that you don’t have sufficient lighting in your existing kitchen, be sure to budget more to install additional hi-hats, pendant lights, or under-cabinet lighting to help illuminate your prep space.

• Choosing cheap materials: You can save thousands on your kitchen remodel by installing budget-friendly materials, but you should consider the long-term cost implications before you do. The kitchen is one of the most trafficked rooms in your home, so upgrading to durable flooring and countertop materials will do wonders for long-term value.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional for Your Kitchen Remodel

Labor accounts for between 50% and 60% of your total kitchen remodel costs, or an average of between $13,500 and $16,200. With such a high price tag for hiring a professional, it’s probably tempting to consider DIYing everything.

DIYing some aspects of the project can be worthwhile if you have some experience and know-how. Some projects you may want to consider DIYing to save include refinishing cabinets, swapping out plumbing and electrical fixtures, and regrouting backsplash or floor tile. Beyond these minor projects, though, it’s best to hire a professional for the best results.

A pro will leave you with the best-looking kitchen and the highest ROI, and they’re also less likely to make mistakes that could lead to leaks, water damage, and other issues. Always defer to a pro when it comes to changes to plumbing and electrical systems, as well as structural changes. It’s also best to hire a professional to install cabinetry, countertops, and appliances, as mistakes can be costly and detract from the look of your new kitchen.

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