Kitchen Remodeling Quotes & Costs
Cabinets, countertops, appliances, and everything in between, here's what kitchen remodels actually cost, based on real contractor quotes.
What kitchen remodeling actually costs
Kitchen remodels are one of those projects where the price range is enormous. A simple cosmetic refresh with new paint and hardware can run under $10,000, while a full gut-and-rebuild with custom cabinetry easily pushes past six figures. The scope of work is everything.
Here's how costs break down by the level of work involved:
| Scope | Typical Range | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Refresh | $5,000 – $15,000 | $10,000 |
| Minor Remodel | $15,000 – $30,000 | $22,000 |
| Mid-Range Remodel | $30,000 – $60,000 | $45,000 |
| Major/Upscale | $60,000 – $120,000+ | $85,000 |
Based on 83 real kitchen remodeling quotes in our database. Median project cost: $12,000.
That median of $12,000 tells an interesting story, most homeowners who reach out for quotes are doing targeted updates, not full tear-outs. If you're planning a complete overhaul, expect to land somewhere in the mid-range or above.
Where the money goes
Kitchen budgets don't split evenly. Some line items eat up a disproportionate share, and knowing where your dollars are going helps you make smarter tradeoffs.
- Cabinets (30–35% of budget): This is almost always the single biggest expense. Stock cabinets run $75–$150 per linear foot, semi-custom $150–$650, and fully custom can exceed $1,000 per linear foot. Refacing existing cabinets instead of replacing them can save 40–50%.
- Countertops (10–15% of budget):Laminate starts around $10–$40 per square foot installed. Granite and quartz run $50–$150. If you want marble or exotic stone, you're looking at $100–$250+.
- Appliances (15–20% of budget): A basic appliance package (range, fridge, dishwasher) starts around $2,000–$4,000. Upgrade to a professional-style range or built-in refrigerator and you can easily spend $10,000–$20,000 on appliances alone.
- Labor (20–25% of budget): Installation, plumbing, electrical, and general carpentry. Labor costs vary significantly by region, expect to pay more in major metro areas. Complex projects with structural changes or permit requirements push labor costs higher.
Keep your existing layout to save big
The moment you start moving plumbing, gas lines, or electrical, the cost jumps dramatically. Moving a sink or range to a new location can add $3,000–$8,000 in plumbing and electrical work alone, plus the cost of patching and refinishing floors and walls.
If your current kitchen layout works reasonably well, keeping everything in place and upgrading materials and finishes is the most cost-effective path to a kitchen that feels brand new.
How to compare kitchen contractor quotes
Kitchen remodeling quotes are notoriously hard to compare apples-to-apples. One contractor includes demolition and haul-away in their bid; another lists it as a separate line item. One quote specifies cabinet brands and model numbers; another just says "semi-custom cabinetry." Here's what to watch for:
- Scope clarity:Does the quote spell out exactly what's included? Look for specifics on demolition, disposal, materials, fixtures, and finish work. Vague descriptions like "kitchen renovation" without detail are a red flag.
- Material specifications:Insist on brand names, model numbers, and material grades for cabinets, countertops, and appliances. "Granite countertops" could mean a $40/sq ft slab or a $150/sq ft one.
- Timeline and payment schedule: A detailed timeline shows the contractor has thought through the project. Payment should be tied to milestones, not front-loaded, never pay more than 10–15% upfront.
- Allowances vs. fixed pricing:Some contractors use allowances for things like tile or fixtures, meaning the final cost could be higher if you pick something above the allowance. Ask what's fixed and what's an estimate.
- Warranty and follow-up: Good contractors stand behind their work. Look for at least a one-year workmanship warranty and ask about their process for handling punch-list items after completion.
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