Quick answer: A kitchen remodel typically costs $15,000 to $100,000+. Most homeowners spend about $30,000–$50,000 on a mid-range remodel. A medium 100–200 sq ft kitchen costs about $18,000–$30,000 to refresh, $35,000–$65,000 to remodel and $75,000–$130,000 to gut.
Kitchen costs vary more than almost any other room, because the scope can range from new paint and hardware to moving walls and plumbing. Size and scope together give the best early estimate.
Kitchen Remodel Cost by Size and Scope
| Kitchen size | Cosmetic refresh | Mid-range remodel | Gut renovation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 100 sq ft) | $12,000–$20,000 | $25,000–$40,000 | $50,000–$80,000 |
| Medium (100–200 sq ft) | $18,000–$30,000 | $35,000–$65,000 | $75,000–$130,000 |
| Large (over 200 sq ft) | $25,000–$45,000 | $55,000–$100,000 | $120,000–$250,000+ |
Ranges from Block Renovation’s 2026 kitchen remodel cost guide.
Skip the math: enter your kitchen size, scope and cabinet run for a quick estimate. Open the free Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator →
What Each Level Includes
- Cosmetic refresh: paint, cabinet refacing or new doors, hardware, lighting, backsplash, possibly new counters. Layout stays the same.
- Mid-range remodel: new cabinets, countertops, sink and faucet, appliances and flooring in the existing layout.
- Gut renovation: everything removed, often with layout changes, new plumbing, wiring and walls moved.
Cabinets: The Biggest Line Item
| Cabinet grade | Installed price per linear foot | 25 linear ft kitchen |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | $100–$300 | $2,500–$7,500 |
| Semi-custom | $200–$650 | $5,000–$16,250 |
| Custom | $1,000+ | $25,000+ |
Is a Kitchen Remodel Worth It?
The 2025 Cost vs. Value report, cited by HomeLight, puts a minor mid-range kitchen remodel at about $28,458, recouping around 113% at resale. A major upscale remodel recouped only about 36%. Targeted updates usually pay back better than luxury overhauls.
Ways to Save
- Keep the sink, range and dishwasher in place to avoid plumbing and gas changes.
- Reface or paint sound cabinets.
- Choose quartz or laminate instead of premium stone.
- Do demolition, painting and cleanup yourself.
- Plan finishes with our tile calculator and flooring calculator.
Typical Budget Breakdown
Every project is different, but a mid-range kitchen budget usually goes to these areas, with cabinets and labor taking the largest shares:
- Cabinets and hardware
- Installation labor and project management
- Appliances
- Countertops
- Flooring, backsplash and lighting
- Plumbing and electrical
- Design, permits and a contingency of 10–20%
Example Estimates
| Project | Size | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh of a galley kitchen | 80 sq ft | $12,000–$20,000 |
| Mid-range remodel, same layout | 150 sq ft | $35,000–$65,000 |
| Gut renovation with new layout | 220 sq ft | $120,000–$250,000+ |
Hidden Costs to Plan For
- Electrical upgrades for new appliances or code-required outlets.
- Subfloor repairs once old flooring is removed.
- Moving gas lines or adding a range hood vent.
- Temporary kitchen setup or eating out while work is underway.
- Permit fees and inspections.
How to Get Accurate Quotes
- Decide your scope and layout before asking for quotes.
- Choose cabinet grade, counters and appliances so quotes are comparable.
- Get at least three itemized quotes.
- Ask what is excluded and how change orders are priced.
- Keep 10–20% of the budget in reserve.
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 10×10 kitchen remodel cost?
A 100 sq ft kitchen typically costs $18,000–$30,000 for a refresh or $35,000–$65,000 for a mid-range remodel.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets, followed by labor, appliances and countertops.
Can I remodel a kitchen for $20,000?
Yes, if you keep the layout, reface or paint cabinets and choose mid-priced counters and appliances.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A refresh can take two to four weeks; a full remodel often takes two to four months including design and ordering.
How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel?
Many planners suggest 5–15% of your home’s value, but the size and scope tables above give a more direct starting point.
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Try the free Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator or browse all home improvement calculators.