Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator (2026)
Estimate the cost of your kitchen remodel with a zip-code accurate, planning-level budget tailored to your project. Use Remodelum to build your budget, iterate your costs, compare quotes and track your expenses.
EXAMPLES OF KITCHEN RENOVATION COSTSTypical 2026 kitchen remodel costs by tier
Average total investment ranges based on project scope, footprint layout, and material tiers.
| Project Scope | Low Tier | Mid Tier | High Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Refresh Paint, hardware, stock appliances |
$5,000 | $15,000 | $25,000 |
| Mid-Range Remodel New cabinets, countertops, fixtures |
$30,000 | $60,000 | $90,000 |
| Full Gut Renovation Layout change, structural updates, all new |
$60,000 | $100,000 | $150,000+ |
| Small Kitchen Under 100 sq. ft. footprint |
$15,000 | $35,000 | $65,000 |
| Large Kitchen 200+ sq. ft. expansive space |
$50,000 | $100,000 | $200,000+ |
*Note: Projections incorporate combined labor costs and material budgets. Projects involving mechanical re-engineering (moving gas lines, plumbing vents, or load-bearing configurations) will cause total costs to scale toward the higher brackets.
FACTORS IMPACTING KITCHEN REMODEL COSTSWhat Moves the Price the Most in a Kitchen Remodel?
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Cabinetry is almost always the single largest expense in a kitchen remodel. The price changes drastically depending on how the cabinets are manufactured and installed:
Stock / RTA (Ready-to-Assemble): Mass-produced in fixed sizes (typically 3-inch increments). Keeping standard sizing scales costs down, but you may need filler strips to close gaps against your walls.
Semi-Custom: Built to order using standard shell configurations, but allowing you to adjust door styles, box depths, and add custom inserts like pull-out pantries.
Custom: Built completely from scratch by a local shop or premium brand to fit your exact wall dimensions down to the fraction of an inch. This maximizes storage footprint but carries a premium price for specialized bench labor.
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Leaving your layout exactly as it is keeps costs predictable. The moment you decide to alter the "footprint," costs compound due to hidden trade labor:
Plumbing: Leaving the sink and dishwasher in their original locations avoids trenching floors or cutting into walls. Moving a sink even a few feet requires re-routing water supply lines and drain slopes.
Gas and Electrical: Relocating a gas range means running new black iron pipe, while modern code requires dedicated circuits for heavy-use appliances like microwaves and dishwashers.
Structural Walls: Knocking down a wall to create an open-concept living space introduces structural framing expenses, especially if a hidden load-bearing post needs to be replaced with a recessed steel beam.
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Surface finishes and appliances have an incredibly wide pricing variance based on material origin and mechanical engineering
COST CATEGORIES INCLUDED IN A KITCHEN REMODEL ESTIMATEWhat is included in a Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimate - Sample list
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This includes removing existing cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances, as well as preparing the site for new materials
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This includes installing new pipes, sinks, faucets, and garbage disposals. It may also involve relocating existing pipes to accommodate new designs
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This includes installing new electrical wiring, outlets, and lighting fixtures, as well as upgrading electrical panels to handle increased capacity
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This includes installing or upgrading heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to accommodate changes in the kitchen layout
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This includes custom or semi-custom cabinetry, as well as countertop materials like granite, quartz, or marble
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This includes materials like hardwood, tile, or vinyl, as well as installation costs
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This includes new refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, microwaves, and dishwashers
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This includes under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, and other fixtures to improve the functionality and aesthetics of the kitchen
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This includes paint, wallpaper, backsplash tiles, and other decorative elements to complete the look of the kitchen
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This includes the cost of any other miscellaneous expenses associated with the project
Renovating more than the kitchen? Remodelum also covers bathroom remodel costs, home addition estimates, and whole house renovation costs— with the same ZIP code accuracy.
Want to understand how Remodelum generates localized estimates? See how our AI renovation cost estimator works
FAQs
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Kitchen renovation costs can range widely based on the scope of the project. On average, a kitchen remodel in the U.S. costs between $15,000 and $50,000. Smaller projects may start around $10,000, while high-end renovations can exceed $75,000. Key factors include cabinet replacements, countertop materials, appliance upgrades, plumbing changes, and overall kitchen size.
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Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for a kitchen remodel, including:
Size of the kitchen – Larger spaces typically cost more.
Layout changes – Moving plumbing or walls increases costs.
Appliance upgrades – High-end or energy-efficient appliances can add thousands.
Custom vs. stock cabinets – Custom cabinetry is much more expensive.
Flooring and lighting – Materials and labor for tile, wood, or recessed lighting can vary greatly.
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You can use our free Kitchen Renovation Cost Estimator to get a personalized estimate in minutes. Just enter details like your kitchen size, layout changes, and finish quality.
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Here are three sample kitchen renovation budget ranges to give you an idea:
Small kitchen refresh (cosmetic only): $12,000 – $18,000
Includes painting, new fixtures, minor updates.Mid-range kitchen remodel: $25,000 – $40,000
New cabinets, counters, appliances, and layout updates.Luxury kitchen renovation: $50,000+
Custom cabinets, high-end materials, layout redesign, premium appliances.
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Yes. DIY work like painting, demo, or installing backsplash can help reduce labor costs. However, electrical, plumbing, and cabinetry are best left to professionals to avoid costly mistakes.
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Most kitchen remodels take 6 to 12 weeks depending on scope, contractor availability, and material lead times. Full gut renovations may take longer, especially if permits or inspections are needed.
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Small kitchen refresh $12,000–$18,000
Mid-range kitchen remodel $25,000–$40,000
Luxury or high-end kitchen renovation $50,000+

