Kitchen remodel – Cost guide and expert tips

How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

The kitchen is the heart of the home—but remodeling it can be one of the biggest projects you’ll ever take on.

The total cost depends on how much work you’re doing, the size of your kitchen, and what kind of materials and finishes you choose. Labor is a big part of it too.

Smaller makeovers—like painting the walls or swapping out cabinet doors—can cost under $10,000. But full gut renovations where everything is replaced can easily run over $85,000.

Based on 87,932 kitchen remodel projects posted through BuilderPlaza, the average cost of a kitchen remodel in the US is $52,487.65.

• Most affordable job: Cabinet replacement, starting at $15,234.78
• Most expensive: Full kitchen reconstruction, reaching $85,723.45

If you’re on a tighter budget, partial kitchen remodels like updating the backsplash, countertops, or just the cabinets can be a smart move. You can check out typical pricing for a partial kitchen remodel to see what fits your budget.

The key to a successful remodel? Finding the right contractor. It can save you money, time, and a whole lot of stress. BuilderPlaza helps homeowners connect with local kitchen remodelers—fast and free. Just post your project and compare offers from contractors who’ve done similar jobs.

What makes up the cost of a kitchen remodel?

From experience, the biggest factors that affect your kitchen remodel cost are labor, materials, your location, and how extensive the remodel is.

Let’s break it down.

Labor cost is usually the biggest chunk

In most cases, remodelers charge a flat rate for the whole project. This is called a “bid” or fixed-price quote and includes everything from demo to final installation.

If you hire by the hour, contractor rates for kitchen remodels can range from $40 to $90 per hour—but a higher price doesn’t always mean better results.

If your project needs multiple pros, like a licensed electrician or a plumber, labor costs can climb fast. That’s why it pays to get a clear quote upfront from a contractor who’s done this kind of work before. No one wants surprise charges halfway through a kitchen tear-out.

Your zip code matters more than you think

If you’re in a big city like Los Angeles, Chicago, or New York, prices tend to be 10–20% higher than in smaller towns. That’s because there’s more demand and contractors are often booked out.

In more rural areas, you might run into the opposite problem—fewer contractors available, especially for urgent jobs. That can push prices up too. Either way, availability and demand impact the bottom line.

Material choices drive a huge part of the cost

You can go full IKEA or splash out on high-end appliances and custom cabinets. There’s no real ceiling here—it all depends on your taste and budget.

Most homeowners spend 50–70% of their total kitchen remodel budget on materials. This includes cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, and appliances. So the choices you make at this stage will heavily influence your total spend.

Want to break down material options? Check out services like:

• Kitchen cabinet services
• Kitchen countertop installation
• Kitchen sink installation
• Kitchen flooring installation

Kitchen size and project scope change everything

The bigger your kitchen, the more materials you’ll need and the more labor is involved.

A simple update in a compact kitchen might stay affordable. But if you’re opening up walls to create an open concept kitchen, expect your budget to grow quickly.

And if you’re combining other upgrades—like replacing floors or relocating plumbing—build in room for extra costs. Flexibility in your budget is key.

👉 Bottom line: getting multiple quotes from local pros makes sense. You could save hundreds or even thousands by comparing offers. BuilderPlaza helps you find the right kitchen contractor for your scope and budget.

Different types of kitchen remodels and their price ranges

Not all kitchen remodels are created equal. Most projects fall into three categories, each with different price tags and planning requirements.

Surface-level kitchen remodel – the most budget-friendly

This type of remodel updates the kitchen’s look without tearing everything apart.

Think painting cabinets, replacing the backsplash, or upgrading countertops. These projects can cost under $10,000, especially in smaller spaces—but it’s still smart to hire a pro. Good workmanship means the updates will last.

Explore more options for partial kitchen remodels here.

Partial kitchen remodel – cost and smart upgrade ideas

This is where you replace some, but not all, of the kitchen features—like new cabinets, appliances, or lighting.

For example, replacing old cabinetry and installing a new range hood might cost between $15,000–$30,000, depending on your selections. Don’t cut corners on electrical or plumbing—small mistakes there can turn into big bills.

Need help planning? A kitchen design service can help you balance cost, function, and aesthetics.

Full kitchen remodel – budget and project scope

A full remodel usually means replacing everything—cabinets, flooring, lighting, plumbing, and appliances.

This is a major investment. Most full kitchen renovations start around $50,000–$60,000, but depending on your choices, it can easily go beyond $85,000.

To put it in perspective: you can find a basic oven for $600, or spend $6,000 on a high-end model. Just appliances alone can match the price of an entire low-end kitchen remodel.

This kind of job needs tight planning, experienced project management, and a contractor who knows how to schedule every step—demo, electrical, install, and finish work—without delays.

👉 No matter the size of your kitchen remodel, BuilderPlaza can help you find pros who get the job done right at a fair price.

Why hiring a pro for your kitchen remodel is worth it

After seeing hundreds of remodels, one thing is clear—hiring a professional pays off in more ways than one. A good contractor helps you stick to the budget, finish on time, and avoid costly mistakes.

Your kitchen is one of the most-used spaces in the home, so getting the job done right makes a big difference in daily comfort—and even boosts your property value.

Here’s what a pro brings to the table:

• Real expertise: Every phase of the job—including electrical, plumbing, and code compliance—is done safely and correctly.
• Cost efficiency: Pros know where to get materials at better prices and how to work fast without cutting corners.
• Less stress: DIY remodels often drag on for weeks. With a contractor, you get a clear schedule—and a finished kitchen on time.

If your remodel includes specialized work like kitchen plumbing or electrical upgrades, hiring a licensed pro isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Tips for a successful kitchen remodel

A good kitchen remodel doesn’t happen by luck. It takes planning, smart decisions, and the right people doing the work.

Here’s what actually makes a difference:

Plan first, spend wisely

The layout, materials, and budget should all be thought through up front. A clear plan saves time, money, and stress later.

Build in an extra 10–15% in your budget to cover surprises—like water damage behind cabinets or outdated wiring.

If you’re unsure how to start, talk to a kitchen design service. A designer can help you avoid layout mistakes and suggest ideas that actually work in practice.

Get quotes the smart way

Don’t waste hours calling random contractors. Just post your kitchen remodel project on BuilderPlaza and get matched with qualified local pros who actually want your job.

You’ll save time and cut through the noise. And because contractors are competing for your business, you’re more likely to get the right price from someone who knows what they’re doing.

👉 It only takes a few minutes to post—and it could save you thousands on your remodel.

Kitchen remodel or just an update?

Do you actually need a full remodel—or will a smaller update get the job done? The best place to start is by taking a hard look at your current kitchen.

When a small update is enough

If the layout and basic structure are solid, a surface-level upgrade or partial kitchen remodel might be the smartest move.

Painting cabinets, replacing hardware, or swapping out old countertops can completely refresh the space without breaking the bank.

This kind of update is ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prepping your home for sale.

When it’s time for a full remodel

You’ll want to consider a full kitchen remodel if:

• The layout no longer works for how you cook or live
• Plumbing or electrical systems need replacing
• The entire kitchen is just outdated and not functional

A full remodel is also a good idea if you’re planning to stay in the home long-term. Kitchens only get redone every 10 to 15 years—so it’s worth investing in one that works for your lifestyle now and in the future.

In our experience, it’s smart to involve a contractor or kitchen designer early. They can help you rethink the space from scratch and avoid costly mistakes.

Sample price ranges for different remodel types

Here’s a simplified breakdown to help you compare what your budget can realistically cover:

Type of remodel	Cost range (USD)	What’s included
Surface-level remodel	$5,000–$15,000	Painting, countertop replacement, cabinet updates
Partial remodel	$15,000–$30,000	New cabinets, updated appliances, minor plumbing/electrical
Full remodel	$50,000+	Demo, new layout, flooring, cabinets, plumbing, electrical

Note: These estimates are based on data from 87,932 kitchen projects posted on BuilderPlaza.

Use this to decide what kind of remodel makes the most sense for your needs and what your budget can actually get you.

What to ask a kitchen contractor before you hire them

Choosing the right contractor is the single most important step in getting your kitchen remodel done right. Here’s what to check before signing anything:

• Portfolio and references: Ask to see photos of past jobs and talk to former clients.
• Licensing and insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed (if required in your state) and has liability insurance.
• Warranties: Know what’s covered for labor and materials—and for how long.
• Written agreement: Everything should be in writing, including total cost, timeline, and scope of work.
• Communication: Make sure the contractor is easy to reach and responsive during the project.

BuilderPlaza helps you compare local pros with real customer reviews and work history, so you know exactly who you’re hiring. Get matched with kitchen contractors who are already doing quality work in your area.

Pro tips for your kitchen remodel

We’ve worked with contractors and designers across thousands of kitchen remodels—and here’s what they always say.

“A bad layout will make your everyday cooking a pain. Spend time getting the floor plan right.”
– Mike, kitchen designer with 15 years of experience

“Always leave wiggle room in your budget. Surprise costs are the rule, not the exception. Add at least 10% buffer.”
– Lisa, contractor with 20+ years in the business

“A super cheap price usually means cutting corners. Compare carefully and hire the most experienced pro within your budget—not the cheapest.”
– Dave, general contractor

“Invest in quality appliances. They’ll last longer and energy-efficient models save money in the long run.”
– Emily, kitchen designer

“Make sure plumbing and electrical work is done by a licensed professional. Mistakes here get expensive fast—and only a pro knows how to do it safely and to code.”
– John, plumbing contractor

“Take before and after photos. They’ll help if warranty work or insurance claims come up later.”
– Chris, project manager

Kitchen remodel FAQs

Start your kitchen remodel the easy way

Planning a kitchen remodel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With BuilderPlaza, you can post your project for free and get quotes from experienced, vetted pros in your area.

Compare pricing, check out reviews, and choose the contractor that fits your needs and budget—all in one place.

👉 Post your kitchen remodel project now and start building the kitchen you’ve been dreaming of.