Estimate your kitchen remodel cost by size, scope, and state. Includes labor, cabinets, countertops, appliances, and permits — adjusted for your local market.
2026 National Averages
How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost in 2026?
Remodel Type
Cost Range
Per Sq Ft
ROI
Minor Refresh
$5,000–$15,000
$75–$125
80–90%
Mid-Range Remodel
$20,000–$50,000
$150–$250
65–75%
Full Gut Remodel
$50,000–$100,000
$250–$400
60–70%
Luxury Kitchen
$100,000–$200,000+
$400–$700+
50–60%
The average kitchen remodel costs $25,000–$60,000 for a mid-range project in 2026. Minor updates start around $5,000. Luxury custom kitchens can exceed $150,000.
Your Location
Kitchen Size
Small
Under 100 sq ft
70 sq ft avg
Medium
100–200 sq ft
150 sq ft avg
Large
200–300 sq ft
250 sq ft avg
Open Concept
300+ sq ft
350 sq ft avg
Remodel Scope
Minor Refresh
Paint, hardware, fixtures
Mid-Range
Cabinets, countertops, appliances
Full Gut Remodel
Everything including layout
Luxury
Custom everything, high-end finishes
How to Budget Your Kitchen Remodel
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The 5–15% rule for kitchen budget
Most financial advisors recommend spending 5–15% of your home's value on a kitchen remodel. If your home is worth $400,000, a $20,000–$60,000 kitchen remodel is reasonable. Spending more than 15% rarely returns full value at resale.
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Cabinets are your biggest lever
Cabinets typically represent 29–35% of a kitchen remodel budget. Stock cabinets ($60–$200/linear ft) cost 60–70% less than semi-custom ($150–$400/linear ft). Refacing existing cabinet boxes can save $5,000–$15,000.
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Countertop ROI by material
Quartz ($55–$120/sq ft installed) and granite ($45–$100/sq ft) have the best resale ROI. Laminate ($20–$40/sq ft) is the most cost-effective for budgets. Marble ($75–$250/sq ft) is beautiful but lower ROI.
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Don't move plumbing or electrical if you can help it
Relocating the sink, dishwasher, or range adds $1,500–$8,000 in plumbing and electrical work. Keeping appliances in their current locations saves significant money.
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Timing affects cost
Starting your remodel in fall or winter (October–February) typically means 5–10% lower labor rates and better contractor availability than the spring/summer rush.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2026?
The average kitchen remodel costs $25,000–$60,000 for a mid-range project in 2026. Minor refreshes (paint, hardware, fixtures) start around $5,000–$15,000. Full gut remodels run $50,000–$100,000. Luxury custom kitchens can exceed $150,000.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets are typically the most expensive single line item at 29–35% of total cost. For a $50,000 remodel, expect $14,000–$17,000 on cabinets alone. Countertops (15%), appliances (18%), and labor (22%) are the next largest categories.
Is a kitchen remodel worth it?
Mid-range kitchen remodels return approximately 65–75% of cost at resale. Minor updates return 80–90%. Kitchens are among the top 3 features buyers look for, making them valuable for both resale and daily quality of life.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A minor refresh takes 1–2 weeks. A mid-range remodel takes 3–6 weeks. A full gut remodel takes 6–12 weeks. Custom cabinetry has an 8–16 week lead time — order before demolition starts.
Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel?
You need permits for any work involving plumbing, electrical panel changes, structural modifications, or gas line work. Cosmetic updates generally don't require permits. Permit costs range from $500–$3,000 depending on your municipality.