A realistic budget keeps a kitchen remodel running smoothly and avoids unexpected financial surprises. Here is what drives the cost, what each part typically runs, and how to manage your budget, whether you are planning a small update or a full overhaul.
What affects the cost?
Scope of the project
- Minor remodel, $10,000 to $15,000: paint, new cabinet hardware and appliance upgrades.
- Mid-range remodel, $20,000 to $50,000: new cabinets, countertops and flooring, possibly with some new appliances.
- Major remodel, $50,000 to $100,000+: a full layout overhaul with new everything, sometimes moving walls or plumbing.
Size of the kitchen
- Small, up to 70 sq ft: $5,000 to $20,000.
- Medium, 100 to 200 sq ft: $15,000 to $50,000.
- Large, over 200 sq ft: $30,000 and up.
Quality of materials and appliances
Cabinets are priced per linear foot: stock $100 to $300, semi-custom $150 to $650 and custom $500 to $1,200. Appliances run about $1,500 to $5,000 for basic models, $5,000 to $10,000 for mid-range and $10,000 or more for high-end luxury brands.
Labor
General contractors typically charge 10 to 20 percent of the project cost, electricians and plumbers $50 to $100 an hour, and carpenters and cabinet installers $70 to $120 an hour.
Location, permits and inspections
Urban remodels usually cost more than rural ones. Electrical, plumbing and structural work may need permits, which can add a few hundred to several thousand dollars, plus inspections to confirm the work meets local building codes.
Breaking down the costs
- Cabinetry and hardware: usually the largest expense at 30 to 40 percent of the budget. Stock $2,000 to $8,000, semi-custom $5,000 to $15,000, custom $10,000 to $25,000 or more.
- Countertops: laminate $1,000 to $3,000, butcher block $1,200 to $6,000, solid surface $2,000 to $5,000, granite $3,000 to $7,000, quartz $4,000 to $9,000, marble $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Flooring: vinyl or linoleum $1,000 to $2,500, ceramic or porcelain tile $2,000 to $5,000, hardwood $2,500 to $6,000, stone $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Plumbing and electrical: plumbing $1,000 to $5,000 and electrical $1,500 to $4,000, often needed in older homes.
- Lighting: recessed $500 to $2,000, pendants $200 to $1,500, under-cabinet $200 to $800.
- Backsplash: ceramic tile $500 to $1,500, glass tile $800 to $2,500, stone $1,000 to $3,000.
- Painting and finishing: walls and ceilings $500 to $2,000, trim and doors $300 to $1,000.
Tips for managing your budget
- Plan thoroughly and keep a 10 to 20 percent contingency for surprises.
- Research and compare materials and appliances, and watch for sales.
- Hire professionals who keep the job on schedule and suggest cost-effective solutions.
- DIY where it is safe, like painting or hardware, and leave electrical and plumbing to licensed pros.
- Prioritize essential upgrades such as cabinets and countertops.
- Keep the layout where you can, because moving plumbing or electrical raises costs.
- Choose stock or semi-custom cabinets to balance quality and cost.
Why choose Real Wall Construction for your kitchen remodel?
We offer full kitchen services, from design consultation to cabinetry, countertops, flooring and lighting, built with top-quality materials by skilled craftsmen. We work closely with you from the first consultation to completion, so your kitchen is finished on time, within budget and to your complete satisfaction.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel?
A typical project runs $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on size, scope and material quality.
Do I need to hire a professional?
Some DIY is possible, but a professional makes sure the work is done correctly and to code, offers cost-saving advice and helps you avoid expensive mistakes.
What should I prioritize when budgeting?
High-impact items like cabinets, countertops, flooring and appliances, with part of the budget held back for contingencies.
Call (561) 239-6509 for a free estimate.
