Did you know? In every American home, the kitchen is the most renovated place. The average kitchen renovation cost, every homeowner, whether it’s their own home or a rented one, spends 50,000 USD every year on their kitchen to make it look modern. It’s almost like 1 in 5 homeowners in the USA remodel their kitchens.
The kitchen renovation provides the highest return on investment (ROI); like, it will return you back around 77% of the cost of the house if it is well renovated. A newly renovated kitchen not only improves the life but also significantly improves the resale value of the house.
How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost?
When you plan to remodel your kitchen, the first question most homeowners ask is, What is the cost of a small kitchen remodel? The answer varies greatly depending on the size of your kitchen, the quality of materials, labor costs, and your location. In this guide, we break down the average kitchen renovation cost, help you understand what factors drive prices up or down, and offer smart ways to stick to your budget, whether you’re tackling a full remodel or just refreshing a small space.
What is the Average Kitchen Renovation Cost?
In the United States, the average kitchen renovation cost falls between $15,000 and $35,000. However, costs can go as low as $5,000 or exceed $70,000, depending on the project’s scope.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Low-End Renovation: $5,000 – $15,000
- Mid-Range Renovation: $15,000 – $35,000
- High-End Renovation: $35,000 – $70,000+
These ranges include design, materials, appliances, and labor. It’s worth noting that even a cheap kitchen renovation can make a big visual and functional impact with the right planning.
Key Factors That Affect Kitchen Renovation Cost
Several elements influence how much your kitchen renovation will cost:
1. Size of the Kitchen
Larger kitchens require more flooring, cabinets, and labor. A galley kitchen remodel may cost significantly less than a spacious open-plan kitchen.
2. Materials & Finishes
Material choice is one of the biggest price drivers. For instance:
- Cabinetry: Stock cabinets are budget-friendly, while custom designs can triple your spend.
- Countertops: Laminate is affordable; quartz and granite are more premium.
- Flooring: Vinyl or laminate is cheaper than hardwood or tile.
3. Appliances
New appliances can quickly add up. A basic appliance package may cost $2,000–$5,000, while high-end models can exceed $10,000.
4. Labor Costs
Labor can account for 20%–35% of your kitchen renovation price. Rates depend on the region and whether you need plumbing or electrical changes.
5. Location and Permits
Urban homeowners often pay more due to higher labor rates and permit costs. Always check local requirements to avoid hidden fees.
Cost Breakdown by Area
A typical kitchen remodel cost is generally divided into several categories, with cabinets taking up around 30% of the budget, countertops accounting for 10–15%, and flooring about 7–10%. Appliances usually make up 15–20%, lighting around 5%, and labor and installation costs range between 20–35%. Additionally, 5–10% is often allocated for miscellaneous expenses or permits. These percentages are general estimates and can vary depending on your specific design preferences and project scope.
Small vs. Full Kitchen Renovation Costs
Not every kitchen renovation requires a complete overhaul, costs can vary based on the size and scope of the project. A small kitchen remodel typically costs between $5,000 and $20,000 and may include repainting cabinets, upgrading lighting, installing a new countertop, and replacing one or two appliances. On the other hand, a full kitchen renovation involving larger spaces, layout changes, plumbing or electrical upgrades, and custom fittings can range from $25,000 to $70,000 or more.
Budget-Friendly Kitchen Renovation Ideas
If you’re working with a tight budget, there are several cost-effective kitchen renovation ideas that can still make a big impact. Repainting or refacing cabinets instead of replacing them, using open shelves in place of upper cabinets, and installing a peel-and-stick backsplash are all affordable updates. Buying scratch-and-dent appliances, opting for laminate instead of stone countertops, and keeping the original layout to avoid plumbing and wiring costs can also help you save. Even modest changes can modernize your kitchen when you focus on high-impact improvements over luxury upgrades.
DIY vs. Professional Kitchen Renovation
Another factor influencing the kitchen remodel cost is whether you go the DIY route or hire pros.
DIY Renovation
- Cost: $3,000 – $15,000
- Ideal for cosmetic updates (painting, minor tiling, hardware changes)
- You’ll save on labor but may face a steep learning curve
Professional Renovation
- Cost: $15,000 – $70,000+
- Delivers better quality and faster results
- Essential for jobs requiring plumbing, gas, or electrical work
If safety or structural changes are involved, hire a professional to avoid costly mistakes.
How to Budget for Your Kitchen Renovation
To create a realistic kitchen renovation budget, follow these steps:
- Determine your renovation goals: Are you upgrading for resale or personal enjoyment?
- Set a maximum spend: Aim to invest no more than 10–15% of your home’s value in a kitchen remodel.
- Get 2–3 quotes from contractors: This gives you a fair market average.
- Include a 10–15% contingency fund: Unexpected costs almost always arise.
- Use a kitchen renovation calculator: Online tools can help estimate expenses by zip code and scope.
Ways to Save Money on Kitchen Renovation
Whether your renovation is big or small, these strategies can help reduce your kitchen renovation cost estimate:
- Buy materials during sales
- Choose mid-range finishes over luxury options
- Mix open shelving with cabinets
- Do light demolition yourself (carefully)
- Repurpose existing furniture or fittings
- Stick to your original layout
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of a kitchen renovation is a crucial first step in planning a successful and stress-free upgrade. Whether you’re opting for a modest makeover or a high-end transformation, having a clear idea of where your money is going allows you to make informed decisions, stay within budget, and avoid unexpected expenses. Before diving into the renovation process, it’s important to gather multiple quotes from trusted local professionals, use a reliable kitchen renovation cost calculator to estimate expenses, and thoroughly explore your options to strike the right balance between style and affordability. Whether you’re simply updating a compact galley kitchen or completely reimagining your entire layout, a thoughtfully planned renovation not only enhances your day-to-day living but also adds long-term value to your home.
FAQs
1: How much does it cost to renovate a small kitchen?
On average, between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on materials and labor.
2: Is $10,000 enough for a kitchen renovation?
Yes, for a small or budget renovation, especially if you’re keeping the layout and doing some work yourself.
3: What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets often take the biggest share of the budget, followed by labor and appliances.
4: Can I renovate my kitchen myself?
You can DIY cosmetic updates, but for plumbing, gas, or electrical work, it’s safer to hire a licensed professional.
5: How long does a kitchen remodel take?
Small updates may take 1–2 weeks, while full renovations can last 6–10 weeks or longer.