Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator

A kitchen remodel costs $100–$250 per square foot for a minor cosmetic refresh, $175–$350/sq ft for a mid-range update, $250–$500/sq ft for a major upscale remodel, and $450–$875/sq ft for a luxury overhaul. For an average 150 sq ft kitchen, a mid-range remodel runs $26,250–$52,500. Total project costs typically range from $10,000 for a minor refresh to $175,000+ for a luxury renovation.

Cabinets are consistently the most expensive component, consuming 30–35% of the total budget. For a mid-range remodel, expect $8,000–$18,000 for stock or semi-custom cabinets. Custom cabinets for a luxury remodel can exceed $40,000. Countertops (10–15%) and appliances (15–20%) are the next largest line items. Labor and installation account for 15–25% depending on scope.

A minor cosmetic refresh takes 2–4 weeks. A mid-range remodel takes 6–8 weeks. A major upscale remodel takes 8–12 weeks. A luxury gut renovation with layout changes can take 12–20 weeks. These timelines assume materials are pre-ordered. Custom cabinetry lead times (6–12 weeks) and permit approvals can extend the schedule significantly.

Yes. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value report, a mid-range kitchen remodel recoups approximately 75% of its cost at resale. A minor cosmetic update can recoup 80–90%. Kitchens are one of the first rooms buyers evaluate, so an updated kitchen can also speed up the sale. Avoid over-improving beyond your neighborhood’s price range.

Absolutely. Keeping the existing layout avoids moving plumbing, gas lines, and electrical — which can add 15–30% to the total cost. A same-layout remodel with new cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring delivers a dramatic transformation without the expense and disruption of structural changes. This is the most cost-effective approach for most homeowners.

Refacing (new doors and drawer fronts on existing cabinet boxes) costs $4,000–$10,000 vs. $8,000–$20,000+ for new semi-custom cabinets. Refacing makes sense if your cabinet boxes are solid, the layout works, and you want to save 40–60%. Replace cabinets if the boxes are damaged, you want to change the layout, or you’re doing a major remodel that involves moving plumbing.

Quartz offers the best value for most homeowners at $50–$120 per square foot installed. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and available in many styles. Granite ($40–$100/sq ft) is another strong option. Laminate ($10–$40/sq ft) is the most budget-friendly. Marble ($75–$200/sq ft) and quartzite ($80–$150/sq ft) are premium choices for luxury kitchens.

Permits are typically required if you’re moving or adding plumbing, electrical circuits, gas lines, or removing walls. Cosmetic changes like painting, new cabinets, countertops, and flooring generally don’t require permits. Permit fees range from $200 to $2,000+ depending on scope and municipality. Always check with your local building department before starting work.