How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen? (2026)
A kitchen remodel is one of the biggest checks most homeowners write — and the range online runs from a few thousand to six figures. Here are the real numbers for 2026: what each level of remodel costs, where the money actually goes, and what pushes your quote up or down.
Typical range
$15,000–$40,000
$75–$250 per sq. ft.Most homeowners pay around
$26,000
Mid-range, full kitchen remodel, U.S. national average.
Cost by remodel scope
Minor / cosmetic refresh
Paint, hardware, counters — no layout change
$10,000–$15,000
Mid-range full remodel
New cabinets, counters, appliances, flooring
$15,000–$40,000
Upscale / luxury
Custom cabinetry, premium appliances, new layout
$50,000–$80,000+
Where your budget goes
Cabinets
The single largest line item
25–30%
Appliances
15–20%
Labor & installation
15–20%
Countertops
10–15%
Flooring
7–10%
Plumbing & electrical
5–10%
What moves your price
Scope & layout changes
Moving plumbing, gas, or walls is the biggest multiplier. Keeping the existing layout saves thousands.
Cabinets
The largest single cost. Stock is cheapest, semi-custom is mid, full-custom is the priciest.
Countertops
Laminate is budget; quartz and granite are mid; marble and exotic stone run highest.
Appliances
Builder-grade keeps costs down; pro-style and premium packages add quickly.
Kitchen size
More square footage means more cabinets, counters, and flooring — the cost scales with it.
Labor & location
Skilled trades and metro areas command higher rates, and good crews book out.
Common questions
What's the average cost of a kitchen remodel?
Nationally the average lands around $25,000–$27,000, with most full remodels falling between $15,000 and $40,000 depending on size and finishes.
What's the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets — they typically eat 25–30% of the budget, more if you go semi-custom or fully custom.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A typical mid-range remodel runs about 6–12 weeks. Layout changes, custom cabinets, and permitting can stretch it longer.
Does a kitchen remodel add value?
It's one of the better-returning home projects. Minor and mid-range remodels usually recoup a higher share of their cost than upscale luxury builds.
Can I remodel a kitchen for $10,000?
Yes — a cosmetic refresh (paint, new hardware, refinished or stock cabinets, new counters) with no layout change can land near $10,000–$15,000.
Do I need a permit to remodel a kitchen?
Usually yes if you're moving plumbing, electrical, or walls. A like-for-like cosmetic refresh often doesn't require one — your contractor will know your local rules.
The only number that matters is your quote.
These are national averages. Get real, no-pressure estimates from trusted local remodelers and compare for yourself.
Find local remodelersFigures are 2026 U.S. national averages compiled for general guidance and will vary by region, scope, and contractor. They aren't a quote.