What a kitchen remodel typically costs
Kitchen remodels cover a wide range, from a quick cabinet refresh to a full gut renovation. Your price depends on where you live, the size of the room, the materials you choose, and how much of the existing layout stays in place. Here are broad ballparks to help you plan:
| Project scope | What’s usually included | Typical range* |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh | Paint, hardware, lighting, backsplash, cabinet painting or refacing | $5,000–$20,000 |
| Minor remodel | New countertops, sink and faucet, appliances, and flooring; layout stays the same | $20,000–$45,000 |
| Major remodel | New cabinets, counters, appliances, lighting, and flooring, with some layout changes | $50,000–$100,000 |
| High-end or full gut | Custom cabinetry, premium finishes, moved walls, new plumbing or gas lines | $100,000+ |
*Broad national ballparks for planning only, not quotes. Local labor rates, material choices, and permit requirements can put your project well above or below these ranges. Written quotes from local contractors are the only way to know your real cost.
What drives the price up or down
- Layout changes. Moving the sink, range, or a wall means new plumbing, gas, or electrical runs, and usually permits and inspections. Keeping the existing footprint is the single biggest way to control cost.
- Cabinets. Cabinetry is often the largest line item. Painting or refacing solid existing boxes costs far less than new semi-custom or custom cabinets.
- Countertops. Laminate, quartz, granite, and natural stone vary widely in price, and edge profiles, seams, and cutouts add up.
- Appliances. Moving from standard to professional-style appliances can add thousands and may require upgraded electrical or ventilation.
- What’s behind the walls. Older homes can hide outdated wiring, water damage, or code issues. Many contractors recommend a 10–20% contingency for surprises.
How long a kitchen remodel takes
A cosmetic refresh can wrap up in one to two weeks. Minor remodels usually take three to six weeks of construction, and major remodels often run two to four months once you count design, permitting, and lead times on cabinets and appliances. Ask every contractor for a written schedule and what could delay it. Our week-by-week kitchen remodel timeline walks through each phase.
Why it pays to compare quotes
Bids for the same kitchen can differ by tens of thousands of dollars, and the lowest number isn’t always the best value. Comparing two or three detailed, written quotes shows you what one contractor included that another left out: demolition and disposal, permits, electrical upgrades, drywall repair, or finish carpentry. Make sure each quote covers the same scope so you’re comparing like with like.
Questions to ask a kitchen remodeler
- Are you licensed and insured where I live, and can I see proof?
- Who pulls the permits, and are permit fees included in the price?
- Will you use subcontractors for plumbing and electrical, and who supervises them?
- What’s the payment schedule? (Be wary of large up-front payments. Some states cap deposits.)
- What warranty do you offer on workmanship, and how do you handle callbacks?
- Can I speak with two or three recent kitchen clients?
For a deeper checklist, read 5 questions to ask before hiring a local contractor.
How it works
Fill out the short form below with your ZIP code and project type. We share your request with remodelers who serve your area, and they contact you with free estimates. You compare, ask questions, and hire only if you find the right fit.