How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost?

Updating your kitchen goes beyond just looks; it's a savvy investment. It can boost functionality and up your home's value. While it's an exciting project, it's also a considerable financial commitment. Being aware of the factors behind a kitchen remodel cost is essential for a successful project. Therefore, our experts at Mountain High have created this guide to help you understand all the factors and how you can save some money while working on your project.

Additionally, we invite you to read our blog “13 Do's and Don'ts in Kitchen Design.”

Kitchen Remodeling Cost Factors

The costs involved in a kitchen remodel are diverse and cover various aspects. First, there's the cost of materials, this includes everything from cabinets and countertops to flooring and appliances. Next up is the labor cost. This involves paying professionals such as contractors, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and designers. Finally, the size of your kitchen plays a crucial role in determining the overall scope and scale of the renovation, thereby impacting the total cost.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors and see how they affect the final price of your kitchen remodel.

Cabinetry, Flooring & Appliance Cost

Cabinetry Costs

Cabinets are central to any kitchen renovation. The cost of cabinetry can fluctuate considerably, typically falling within a range of $5,000 to $25,000. This variation in cost is influenced by multiple factors, including the material used (such as solid wood, plywood, or particleboard) and the quality of craftsmanship. Higher-quality materials and intricate designs often result in higher costs, while more budget-friendly options can help keep expenses on the lower end.

Flooring Expenses

There are various flooring options available, ranging from tiles and hardwood to laminate. The cost of flooring materials and installation can vary widely, typically averaging between $1,000 to $8,000. Factors like the type of material, the square footage of the kitchen, and the complexity of the installation can influence these costs. For instance, hardwood flooring tends to be more expensive than laminate or tile options.

Appliance Price Ranges

Upgrading or replacing kitchen appliances is a notable cost factor in a remodel. The expense of new appliances can vary greatly, usually falling within a range of $2,000 to $10,000. The price variation depends on the brands chosen, the features desired (such as energy efficiency, size, and technology), and the number of appliances being replaced or upgraded. High-end brands such as GE Monogram, Sub-Zero, or appliances with advanced features typically command higher prices, while more basic models might be more budget-friendly.

Labor Cost in a Kitchen Remodel

When it comes to labor costs in a kitchen remodel, they can vary quite a bit. On average, professionals like contractors, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and designers charge different rates depending on where you live and the complexity of the job. For instance, in some areas, labor costs might range from $50 to $100 or more per hour per professional. However, for the entire project, these costs can amount to around 20% to 35% of your total budget.

The specific tasks and the scope of work also influence labor expenses. For example, if you're doing a major renovation that involves knocking down walls or moving plumbing or electrical wiring, it might require more specialized skills and, therefore, higher labor costs.

On the other hand, smaller projects like installing new cabinets or countertops might have relatively lower labor costs. Sometimes, professionals charge a flat fee for specific tasks, while others might work on an hourly basis. It's essential to get detailed estimates from different professionals before starting the project to understand the labor costs better.

DIY vs. Hiring Professionals

Deciding between doing a kitchen remodel yourself or hiring professionals is a bit of a balancing act. DIY projects often seem attractive because they can save you some cash. You get to control the project and may even find it satisfying to do the work yourself. However, it's important to remember that DIY isn't always the best route, especially for more complex renovations.

Impact of Kitchen Size on Remodel Costs

The size of a kitchen is a significant factor influencing the overall cost of a remodel. Here's a breakdown of how different sizes can impact expenses:

Small Kitchens

Smaller kitchens typically incur lower costs due to the reduced square footage. With less space to renovate, expenses for materials like flooring, cabinetry, and countertops tend to be more manageable. Upgrading a small kitchen might range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the extent of changes desired. However, intricate designs or high-end materials can push the costs toward the higher end of this range.

Medium-sized Kitchens

Medium-sized kitchens present a middle ground in terms of renovation costs. The expenses here can vary significantly based on the scope of the project. With more square footage than a small kitchen, the costs for materials and labor tend to increase. A comprehensive remodel for a medium-sized kitchen might fall within the range of $20,000 to $50,000. Factors such as the quality of materials, complexity of the design, and structural alterations contribute to this variance.

Large Kitchens

Larger kitchens often come with higher costs for a remodel. With more space to renovate, expenses for materials, labor, and additional structural changes can escalate rapidly. Renovating a large kitchen, especially with high-end finishes and extensive structural modifications, might start at $50,000 and easily exceed $100,000. Just like with smaller size kitchens, the space and the complexity of the redesign will influence the final costs.

Tips to Save on Kitchen Remodeling

Remodeling a kitchen can become an expensive project. If you want to save as much as possible, we encourage you to follow these tips:

Budget-Friendly Ideas

Opting in for cost-effective materials, exploring rebates, and refurbishing can substantially reduce your kitchen remodel cost.

Negotiation Tactics

Negotiating prices with contractors or seeking multiple quotes often leads to better deals without compromising quality.

Additional Considerations

Considering permits, adhering to regulations, and setting aside a contingency fund for unexpected costs are pivotal factors in a remodel's planning phase.

Make sure to visit our blog “4 Essential Tips To Keep Your Kitchen Remodel Within Budget” to learn more tips to save on your kitchen remodel.