$10k – $25k
Paint, hardware, laminate counters, keep layout & cabinets
Updated May 2026 · National averages
Kitchen Remodel Cost (2026 Guide)
National average kitchen remodel costs range from $18,000–$75,000 depending on size, cabinet quality, countertops, appliances, layout changes, and location.
- Typical kitchen120–180 sq ft
- Most popular tierMid-range remodel
- IncludesCabinets, counters & labor
Quick Cost Snapshot
National kitchen remodel pricing for typical U.S. homes (2026 data)
$25k – $60k
New semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters, standard appliances
$60k – $150k+
Custom cabinetry, stone surfaces, pro appliances, layout changes
$42,500
Medium kitchen · mid-range finishes · no major plumbing moves
Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator
Get an instant national estimate based on kitchen size, remodel type, cabinets, countertops, appliances, layout changes, and your state — updated with 2026 labor and material rates.
Kitchen Remodel Cost by Type
Typical installed ranges for a medium kitchen (120–180 sq ft) — national averages, 2026
| Remodel type | Small kitchen | Medium kitchen | Large kitchen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh | $8,000 – $15,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Mid-range full remodel | $18,000 – $35,000 | $25,000 – $60,000 | $40,000 – $75,000 |
| High-end remodel | $35,000 – $55,000 | $50,000 – $90,000 | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Luxury custom | $55,000 – $85,000 | $60,000 – $150,000+ | $90,000 – $200,000+ |
| Gut & layout change | +15–25% vs. same tier | +15–25% vs. same tier | +20–30% vs. same tier |
Kitchen Remodel Cost by Component
How each line item contributes to your total — click to expand national installed ranges
Cabinets
Cabinets are typically the largest single expense — 30–40% of a full remodel. Stock lines run $4,000–$12,000 installed; semi-custom $12,000–$25,000; custom $25,000–$50,000+. Include demolition, fillers, crown, and hardware in your budget.
Countertops
Countertops account for 10–15% of total cost. Laminate: $1,500–$4,000; quartz: $3,500–$8,500; granite: $3,800–$9,500; marble: $5,500–$14,000+ for a medium kitchen with island.
Flooring
New kitchen flooring runs $2,500–$8,000 installed depending on material and subfloor prep. Luxury vinyl plank and porcelain tile are the most popular choices in 2026; hardwood adds cost when matching existing adjacent rooms.
Appliances
A full appliance package (refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave) costs $4,000–$12,000 at mid-range and $15,000–$35,000+ for pro-style brands. Panel-ready units add cabinetry coordination labor.
Backsplash
Tile backsplash installation runs $800–$3,500 for a typical run behind the range and counters. Slab backsplash matching countertops can add $2,000–$6,000.
Lighting
Kitchen lighting upgrades budget $1,200–$4,500 for recessed cans, pendants, and under-cabinet LED. Smart dimming and additional circuits may require electrical panel capacity review.
Plumbing
Plumbing rough-in and finish for a standard remodel runs $1,800–$5,500. Moving the sink or adding a pot filler adds $1,500–$4,000+ per relocation.
Island
A new kitchen island with cabinets, countertop, and electrical costs $3,500–$12,000+ installed. Structural floor reinforcement or gas cooktop rough-in increases the total.
Sink & faucet
Undermount sink and quality faucet packages run $400–$1,800 for mid-range; workstation sinks and touchless faucets reach $2,000–$4,500 installed with plumbing labor.
Kitchen Cabinet Costs
Installed pricing for a medium kitchen (30–40 linear feet), national average 2026
| Cabinet type | Material & build | Installed range | Lead time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock | Prefinished boxes, limited sizes | $4,000 – $12,000 | 1–3 weeks |
| Semi-custom | Sized to fit, more door styles | $12,000 – $25,000 | 4–8 weeks |
| Custom | Built to spec, premium wood | $25,000 – $50,000+ | 8–14 weeks |
Kitchen Countertop Costs
Installed pricing including fabrication, sink cutout, and edge profile
| Material | Per sq ft (installed) | Medium kitchen total | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $25 – $55 | $1,500 – $4,000 | Budget refreshes, rentals |
| Quartz | $55 – $95 | $3,500 – $8,500 | Low-maintenance daily use |
| Granite | $60 – $110 | $3,800 – $9,500 | Natural stone look, durability |
| Marble | $75 – $150+ | $5,500 – $14,000+ | Luxury baking & statement islands |
Kitchen Layout Remodel Costs
Layout changes drive labor and permit costs — compare common renovation types
Kitchen Remodel Cost by Style
Finish level and material choices shift your budget within each design direction
Kitchen Appliance Package Costs
Installed ranges for a standard 4-piece package, national average 2026
| Tier | Brands / type | Package range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Builder / basic | Standard big-box lines | $2,500 – $5,500 | Fridge, range, DW, OTR microwave |
| Mid-range | Stainless, fingerprint-resistant | $4,000 – $9,500 | Most common in $25k–$60k remodels |
| High-end | Panel-ready, dual fuel | $9,000 – $18,000 | Requires cabinet panel coordination |
| Pro / luxury | 48" ranges, built-in refrigeration | $15,000 – $35,000+ | Gas line & ventilation upgrades common |
Layout Changes & Plumbing Costs
Moving fixtures is the fastest way to increase labor and permit scope. Plan the work triangle before committing to a new layout.
- Move kitchen sink: $1,500 – $4,500 (drain + supply reroute)
- Relocate dishwasher: $800 – $2,200
- Move gas range / cooktop: $2,000 – $6,500+ (new gas line, vent hood)
- Remove non-load-bearing wall: $1,200 – $4,000
- Remove load-bearing wall + beam: $4,000 – $12,000+
- Add pot filler or second sink: $600 – $2,500
Keeping the sink, range, and refrigerator in their current locations typically saves 15–25% on total labor versus a full layout reconfiguration.
When a layout change is worth it
- Opening to a living area improves flow and resale appeal
- Adding an island requires clearances (42" walkways minimum)
- Gas line extensions need licensed plumbers and inspections
- Verify load-bearing status before any wall demo
Flooring & Lighting Costs
High-impact finishes that define the finished look — national installed averages
Flooring
- Luxury vinyl plank: $3 – $8 / sq ft installed
- Porcelain tile: $8 – $18 / sq ft installed
- Engineered hardwood: $10 – $22 / sq ft installed
- Subfloor leveling / repair: $500 – $2,500
Typical medium kitchen floors budget $2,500–$6,500.
Lighting
- Recessed cans (per light): $175 – $350 each
- Pendant fixtures (pair): $300 – $900 installed
- Under-cabinet LED: $400 – $1,200
- Circuit upgrades & dimmers: $350 – $1,100
Most remodels budget $1,200–$4,500 for a full lighting refresh.
Kitchen Remodel Labor Costs
Labor typically accounts for 35–45% of your total kitchen remodel bill. Licensed plumbers, electricians, and gas fitters are required for most rough-in work.
- General contractor coordination: 15–20% of project cost
- Cabinet installation: $2,500 – $8,000
- Countertop templating & install: included in slab quote
- Layout change premium: +$3,000 – $12,000+
Labor cost by region
| Region / state | Labor index | Mid kitchen labor |
|---|---|---|
| National average | 1.00× | $14,000 – $22,000 |
| Texas | 0.94× | $13,200 – $20,700 |
| Florida | 1.02× | $14,300 – $22,400 |
| California | 1.28× | $17,900 – $28,200 |
| New York | 1.22× | $17,100 – $26,800 |
| North Carolina | 0.96× | $13,400 – $21,100 |
Kitchen Remodel Permit Costs
Permits protect your investment and are required for most work beyond cosmetic surface updates. Your contractor typically pulls permits before rough-in inspections.
- Building / remodel permit: $200 – $600
- Electrical permit: $80 – $250
- Plumbing permit: $80 – $300
- Gas line permit: $100 – $350
Total permit fees for a full kitchen remodel typically run $500–$1,200 nationally. HOA review may add time but not always cost.
Work that usually requires permits
- Moving or adding plumbing drains and supplies
- New or relocated gas lines for ranges and cooktops
- Electrical panel upgrades or new circuits
- Removing or modifying load-bearing walls
- Structural changes for a new island or pass-through
Kitchen Remodel Timeline
Typical schedule for a mid-range full kitchen remodel with no structural surprises
- Design, measurements & material selection2–4 weeks
- Permits & ordering cabinets (long-lead)2–6 weeks
- Demolition & rough plumbing / electrical / gas3–7 days
- Drywall, flooring & paint prep3–5 days
- Cabinet install & countertop template3–5 days
- Counter install, backsplash & fixtures3–5 days
- Appliances, punch list & final inspection2–4 days
Total: 6–12 weeks on site; custom cabinets or layout changes may add 3–5 weeks.
Kitchen Remodel ROI
Kitchens are the most scrutinized room at resale. A thoughtful mid-range update typically returns 50–70% of project cost nationally, with variation by market and scope.
- Minor cosmetic refresh: 60–75% recovery — lower cost, faster sale
- Mid-range full remodel: 50–65% recovery — sweet spot for most homes
- Luxury over-improvement: 40–55% recovery — may not match neighborhood comps
Focus on layout, clean surfaces, and functional storage. Buyers notice dated cabinets and worn counters more than pro-style ranges in average-priced neighborhoods.
Best ROI upgrades in 2026
- Quartz or quality stone countertops
- Semi-custom or refaced cabinets in neutral tones
- LED lighting and a functional backsplash
- Stainless or black stainless appliance package
- Improved work triangle without over-customizing
Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes
Avoid these costly errors that blow budgets and timelines
Budget & planning
- Skipping a 15–20% contingency for hidden issues behind walls
- Ordering cabinets before final measurements are verified
- Not checking appliance dimensions against cabinet openings
- Underestimating permit and inspection lead times
Design & execution
- Insufficient counter space on both sides of the range
- Poor lighting — relying on a single ceiling fixture only
- Island too large for clear walkway clearances
- Hiring unlicensed trades for gas, plumbing, and electrical
Kitchen Remodel FAQs
Answers to the most-searched questions about kitchen remodel cost in 2026
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2026?
The national average kitchen remodel cost in 2026 is $18,000–$75,000 for a full kitchen, with most homeowners paying around $42,500 for a mid-range update. Cosmetic refreshes run $10,000–$25,000; luxury kitchens often reach $60,000–$150,000+ with custom cabinetry and premium appliances.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A typical full kitchen remodel takes 6–12 weeks from demolition to final punch list. Layout changes, custom cabinets, or supply delays can extend the timeline to 14–16 weeks. Cosmetic updates with stock cabinets may finish in 4–6 weeks.
What is the ROI on a kitchen remodel?
Homeowners typically recover 50–70% of a mid-range kitchen remodel cost at resale, according to national remodeling reports. Minor cosmetic updates often return a higher percentage than over-the-top luxury kitchens relative to neighborhood norms.
Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel?
Yes, most U.S. cities require permits when you alter plumbing, gas lines, electrical circuits, or load-bearing walls. Permit fees for kitchen work typically run $500–$1,200 nationally. Licensed contractors usually pull permits for rough-in plumbing, gas, and electrical inspections.
How much do kitchen cabinets cost?
Stock cabinets cost $4,000–$12,000 installed for a typical kitchen. Semi-custom runs $12,000–$25,000; fully custom cabinetry ranges from $25,000–$50,000+ depending on wood species, inserts, and finish level.
Is it worth moving the kitchen sink or gas range?
Moving the sink, dishwasher, or gas range adds $3,000–$12,000+ to your project because it requires new rough-in plumbing or gas lines and often opening floors or walls. It is worth it when the new layout significantly improves the work triangle or opens the room — otherwise, keeping fixtures in place saves 15–25% on labor.
What kitchen upgrades add the most value?
Quality countertops, updated cabinets, modern lighting, and a functional layout deliver strong buyer appeal. Stainless or panel-ready appliances and a tile backsplash are high-impact mid-range choices. Avoid over-improving beyond what comparable homes in your area support.