Kitchen Remodel Budget Guide: Where the Money Goes

Kitchens are the most expensive room to remodel per square foot, and the easiest to go over budget on. Knowing where the money goes helps you decide what matters most.

Where the money usually goes

Every project is different, but in a typical full kitchen remodel:

• Cabinets and hardware are usually the biggest single cost, often around a third of the budget.
• Labor and installation come next.
• Appliances vary the most: a basic set and a professional style set are worlds apart.
• Countertops, then flooring, lighting and electrical, plumbing, backsplash and paint.

Three levels of kitchen remodel

• Refresh: paint or reface cabinets, new hardware, faucet, lighting and backsplash. Same layout.
• Mid range: new stock or semi-custom cabinets, stone counters, new appliances and flooring. Same layout.
• Full remodel: custom cabinets, layout changes, moving walls, plumbing or gas lines, high end finishes.

Where to save

• Keep the layout. Moving the sink, range or walls is where costs jump.
• Reface instead of replace if your cabinet boxes are solid.
• Mix materials: premium stone on the island, a less costly option on the perimeter.
• Choose stock cabinet sizes instead of full custom.
• Do the paint yourself if you are handy.

Where not to cut corners

• Cabinet boxes and drawer slides: they take daily use for decades.
• Ventilation: a range hood vented outside keeps grease and humidity down.
• Electrical: enough circuits and outlets for modern appliances, up to code.
• A licensed contractor for plumbing, gas and electrical work.

Avoid budget overruns

1. Choose every finish before work starts. Changes mid project cost the most.
2. Keep a 10 to 20 percent cushion for surprises like water damage or old wiring.
3. Get bids with the same detailed scope so you compare fairly.
4. Ask what is excluded: permits, disposal, appliance install, drywall repair.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

A refresh can take a week or two. A full remodel often takes one to three months, mostly depending on cabinet lead times and permits.

Should I buy appliances first?

Choose them early. Cabinet and counter plans depend on exact appliance sizes.

Post your kitchen remodel with photos and your wish list, and compare bids from local remodelers.