Kitchen planning

How much does a kitchen remodel cost? A 2026 planning guide

Estimate kitchen remodel costs by scope, set a realistic contingency, and make the decisions that matter before requesting contractor quotes.

Updated October 7, 20268 min read

Quick answer

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2026?

For a typical U.S. kitchen, a cosmetic update often lands around $18,000–$35,000, a mid-range full remodel around $35,000–$75,000, and a high-spec or layout-changing project at $75,000–$150,000+. Your location, cabinet choice, structural changes, and how far plumbing or electrical moves drive the final number more than the room size alone.

Budget framework

Plan by scope, not a single average

Low / cosmetic

$18k–$35k

Keep the footprint, refinish or use stock cabinets, choose durable laminate or entry-level quartz, update lighting, paint, and a limited appliance package.

Mid / full remodel

$35k–$75k

Replace cabinets, counters, flooring, appliances, and lighting; allow modest plumbing or electrical work and professional installation.

High / reconfigure

$75k–$150k+

Move walls or utilities, use semi-custom or custom cabinets, premium stone, integrated appliances, detailed tile, and higher-cost labor markets.

Planning ranges are directional U.S. estimates, not contractor quotes. Local labor, permit requirements, existing conditions, and selections can move them materially. Confirm scope and price with qualified local professionals.

Phased timeline

Give decisions time before construction starts

1
Scope and measurements
1–3 weeks
Document pain points, measure walls and openings, decide what must stay, and set a maximum all-in budget.
2
Design, bids, and selections
4–10 weeks
Compare like-for-like bids, confirm appliance dimensions, approve cabinets and counters, and identify permit requirements.
3
Ordering and permits
4–12 weeks
Order long-lead items before demolition; permit review and cabinet lead times can overlap but still control the start date.
4
Construction
6–12 weeks
Demolition, rough trades, inspections, cabinets, counters, finishes, and punch-list work happen in sequence.

Planning checklist

Five decisions to make before you hire

Choose one primary goal: better storage, better flow, more seating, easier cooking, or resale preparation.
Set a project cap, then reserve 15–20% for discoveries behind walls, code upgrades, or material substitutions.
Price the full scope: demolition, disposal, permits, design, labor, appliances, delivery, and tax—not only visible finishes.
Get at least three detailed bids and compare allowances, exclusions, supervision, and schedule assumptions line by line.
Order appliances before finalizing cabinets so clearances, panel sizes, ventilation, and electrical needs are accurate.

Materials and finishes

Choose for performance first

Cabinets

Stock is usually the value choice, semi-custom adds sizing and finish flexibility, and custom makes sense when the layout or details truly require it. Spend on durable boxes and hardware before decorative upgrades.

Counters and backsplash

Quartz is low-maintenance and consistent; natural stone needs more care; laminate can free budget for cabinets or labor. Keep backsplash area and edge details in the written scope.

Flooring and lighting

Choose water-resistant flooring that suits adjacent rooms. Layer task lighting at work zones, ambient ceiling light, and dimmable accent lighting rather than relying on one fixture.

Reasonable DIY

Painting, demolition only after utilities are made safe, cabinet hardware, and simple finish installation when you have the tools and time.

Bring in a pro

Gas, plumbing, electrical, ventilation, structural changes, waterproofing near sinks, permits, and any work requiring inspection or warranty coordination.

Common questions

What is the biggest cost in a kitchen remodel?

Cabinetry, labor, and layout changes are usually the biggest categories. Appliance packages and stone fabrication can also change the total quickly.

Should I budget for a contingency?

Yes. Reserve 15–20% of the construction budget, especially in older homes or whenever walls, floors, plumbing, or electrical systems will be opened.