A kitchen remodel is a significant investment in your home’s value and your family’s daily life. But to make sure it’s a smart investment, you need a firm grasp on the numbers. The total cost to remodel kitchen is a puzzle made of many different pieces, from the cabinets and appliances you can see to the plumbing and electrical work hidden behind the walls. Understanding how these pieces fit together is essential for making informed decisions. In this guide, we’ll explore where your money actually goes, discuss common budgeting mistakes to avoid, and share practical tips for saving money without sacrificing the quality you deserve.
Key Takeaways
- Plan for the full picture, not just the pretty parts: A successful budget includes a 10-20% contingency fund for surprises, plus easily forgotten expenses like permits, design fees, and the cost of setting up a temporary kitchen.
- Get a high-end look without the total splurge: Keep your existing layout to avoid major plumbing and electrical costs, mix statement materials with budget-friendly choices, and focus on high-impact details like new hardware or lighting.
- A new kitchen pays you back in two ways: It can significantly increase your home’s resale value, but the immediate return is a functional, beautiful space that improves your daily life and brings you joy for years to come.
How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Really Cost?
Figuring out a realistic budget is one of the first, and often most stressful, steps of any home renovation. When it comes to a kitchen remodel, the price can swing dramatically based on your vision, the size of your space, and the materials you choose. While every project is unique, kitchen renovations generally fall into three main categories: a minor refresh, a major overhaul, or an upscale transformation.
Understanding these tiers can help you set realistic expectations and decide which path is right for your home and your finances. Think of these numbers as a starting point for your conversation. They give you a general idea of what to expect before you sit down with a design-build team to create a detailed plan tailored to your specific needs. Let’s break down what you can expect to invest at each level.
Cost Breakdown: A Minor Refresh
If you’re looking for a significant change without tearing down walls, a minor refresh is a fantastic option. This type of project typically costs around $27,000. The key to keeping costs down is working with your kitchen’s existing layout, which avoids the expense of moving plumbing or electrical lines. A refresh focuses on high-impact cosmetic updates like installing new countertops, refacing or painting cabinets, adding a new backsplash, and updating hardware. These simple changes can completely transform the feel of your kitchen and often provide a great return on investment if you plan to sell your home down the road.
Cost Breakdown: A Major Overhaul
For those dreaming of a completely new kitchen, a major overhaul is the way to go. A midrange project of this scale costs approximately $80,000. This budget allows for more significant changes, such as reconfiguring the layout for better flow, installing all-new semi-custom cabinets, and upgrading to a full suite of new appliances. It’s important to remember that labor costs for a project this involved can account for 50% to 60% of the total price. We also always advise setting aside a contingency fund of an additional 10-20% to cover any unexpected issues that might pop up once the walls are opened.
Cost Breakdown: An Upscale Transformation
When you want the absolute best in materials, craftsmanship, and technology, you’re looking at an upscale transformation. These high-end renovations can easily exceed $150,000. This budget accommodates top-of-the-line everything: fully custom cabinetry, professional-grade smart appliances, natural stone countertops, and designer fixtures. In these projects, the custom cabinets often represent the single largest expense. While a luxury kitchen can be a joy to live in and cook in, it’s wise to consider your home’s overall value. Investing in an ultra-luxe kitchen in a more modest home may not yield the financial return you hope for. You can see examples of these beautiful spaces in our project gallery.
What Factors Shape Your Remodel’s Budget?
When you start planning a kitchen remodel, one of the first questions is always, “How much will this cost?” The truth is, there’s no single answer. Your final budget is a unique puzzle built from several key pieces. The choices you make for each one will directly influence the total investment. Think of it less as a fixed price tag and more as a flexible range shaped by your specific goals and priorities.
The main factors that determine your project’s cost are the size and layout of your space, the quality of the materials you select, the level of professional craftsmanship required, and even your location here in the Chicagoland area. Understanding how each of these elements contributes to the bottom line is the first step toward creating a realistic budget that aligns with the beautiful, functional kitchen you’re dreaming of. Let’s break down what you can expect.
Your Kitchen’s Size and Layout
It makes sense that the bigger your kitchen, the more it will cost to remodel. More square footage means more materials for flooring, countertops, and cabinets, plus more labor to get it all done. But it’s not just about size—the layout is a huge factor, too. A simple refresh that keeps your existing footprint is always more budget-friendly than a complete overhaul that involves moving walls, plumbing, or electrical lines. For example, a standard 10×10 kitchen remodel can have a wide cost range depending on the complexity. If you’re dreaming of a new open-concept design or a spacious island where a wall used to be, be sure to account for the additional structural work in your budget.
The Quality of Your Materials
Your material selections are where your personal style really shines, and they also play a major role in your budget. From custom cabinetry to quartz countertops and high-end appliances, every choice has a price point. Cabinets are often the single largest expense in a kitchen remodel, sometimes accounting for nearly a third of the total cost. While it can be tempting to opt for lower-cost materials, investing in quality products pays off in durability and longevity. A great strategy is to work with your design team to find a balance, perhaps splurging on a statement backsplash while choosing a more modest flooring option. You can see how different materials come together in our project gallery.
The Cost of Professional Craftsmanship
A successful remodel depends on the skill and expertise of the people bringing your vision to life. Labor is a significant part of any renovation budget, often making up about half of the total cost. This isn’t just for the installation; it covers the entire project management process, from initial design to final walkthrough. Hiring an experienced design and build team means you have professionals handling permits, scheduling tradespeople like plumbers and electricians, and ensuring every detail is executed perfectly. While it might seem like a large expense, investing in professional craftsmanship is what guarantees a smooth process and a beautiful, lasting result you’ll love for years to come.
Your Chicagoland Location
Where you live also has an impact on remodeling costs. In a major metropolitan area like Chicagoland, expenses for labor and materials can be higher than the national average due to a higher cost of living and greater demand. Local building codes and permit fees also vary from one suburb to another, adding another layer to the budget. Working with a local contractor who understands the market is key. We have years of experience remodeling homes throughout the area and can provide a detailed, accurate estimate that reflects true local costs. The best way to understand the investment for your specific home is to contact us for a personalized consultation.
Where Does Your Remodel Budget Actually Go?
When you get your total estimate for a kitchen remodel, it can be hard to picture where all that money is going. It’s not just one big expense; it’s a collection of materials, products, and skilled labor all coming together. Understanding the breakdown helps you see the value in each component and make informed decisions about where to invest and where you might be able to save. Think of your budget as a pie chart—some slices will naturally be bigger than others.
From the cabinets that define the room’s character to the wiring hidden behind the walls, every element has a price tag. The biggest ticket items are often the most visible, like cabinetry and countertops, but the labor and foundational work are just as critical to a successful, long-lasting renovation. Let’s pull back the curtain and look at the four main categories where your budget will be allocated during a kitchen remodeling project. This way, you can plan with confidence and know exactly what you’re paying for.
Cabinets: Your Biggest Expense
It might be surprising, but cabinets are almost always the single largest line item in a kitchen budget, often accounting for a third or more of your total cost. Why? They take up the most visual real estate and are essential for your kitchen’s function and flow. The price varies widely based on whether you choose stock, semi-custom, or fully custom cabinets. Materials, finishes, and hardware also play a significant role. While it’s a hefty investment, high-quality cabinetry sets the tone for the entire space and is built to withstand daily use for years to come.
Countertops and Backsplashes
Your countertops are your kitchen’s primary work surface, so they need to be durable and stylish. This is another area with a vast price range. Materials like laminate are on the budget-friendly end, while natural stones like granite or engineered quartz command a higher price. The cost depends on the material’s rarity, durability, and the complexity of the fabrication and installation. Your backsplash is the perfect partner to your countertops, and while it’s a smaller area, the choice of tile or material can add a beautiful design element. You can see how different combinations come to life in our project gallery.
Appliances and Modern Fixtures
A beautiful kitchen needs functional appliances. This category can fluctuate dramatically depending on your preferences. You can find a reliable refrigerator for around $1,000, or you can opt for a high-end, built-in model that costs several times that. The same goes for your stove, dishwasher, microwave, and vent hood. Beyond the major appliances, don’t forget about the fixtures that complete the space. Your sink, faucet, and lighting all contribute to the final cost. These smaller details are what make a kitchen feel truly finished and tailored to your needs.
The Essentials: Flooring, Plumbing, and Electrical
This category covers the foundational work that makes your kitchen run smoothly and safely. Labor itself is a huge component, often making up a significant portion of the project cost. This is especially true if you decide to change your kitchen’s layout. Moving a sink, gas stove, or refrigerator means rerouting plumbing, gas, and electrical lines—a complex job that adds to the bottom line. New flooring, paint, and drywall are also part of this group. Investing in professional design and build services ensures this critical work is done right, meeting all local codes and preventing costly issues down the road.
Avoid These Common Budgeting Mistakes
Creating a budget for your kitchen remodel is a huge step, but it’s just as important to manage it wisely. Even the most detailed plans can go off track if you’re not prepared for a few common pitfalls. The good news is that knowing what to look out for ahead of time can save you from stress and unexpected expenses down the road. By sidestepping these mistakes, you can ensure your project stays on budget and true to your vision.
A successful remodel is all about setting realistic expectations from the start. Let’s walk through the most frequent budgeting blunders homeowners make and how you can steer clear of them.
Underestimating the Full Cost
It’s easy to focus on the big-ticket items like cabinets and countertops, but a realistic budget accounts for everything. Homeowners often underestimate the total time and money required for a project. The final cost of a kitchen remodel includes not just materials and labor but also design fees, permits, delivery charges, and taxes. Forgetting these can quickly throw your numbers off. A detailed, all-inclusive estimate from your contractor is your best tool for understanding the true scope of the investment and planning accordingly.
Forgetting a Contingency Fund
No matter how carefully you plan, remodeling can uncover surprises, especially in older Chicagoland homes. That’s why a contingency fund is non-negotiable. You should always set aside an extra 10% to 20% of your total budget to cover unforeseen issues like outdated wiring, hidden leaks, or structural problems that need addressing. Think of it as a financial safety net. Having this buffer in place means an unexpected repair won’t derail your entire project or force you to compromise on the features you really want.
Blurring Your Needs vs. Wants
When you’re surrounded by inspiration, it’s easy for your wish list to grow. To keep your budget grounded, it’s crucial to distinguish between your “must-haves” and your “nice-to-haves.” Start by making a list and prioritizing what is essential for your kitchen to function beautifully for your family. Do you absolutely need more counter space, or would you simply like a wine fridge? Our design and build services always begin with this conversation, helping you allocate your funds to the elements that will make the biggest impact on your daily life.
Making Changes on the Fly
One of the fastest ways to inflate your budget is by making changes after the project has already started. While a new idea might seem small, altering the plan mid-stream can create a domino effect, leading to added material costs, extra labor, and project delays. These are often called “change orders.” While some adjustments are unavoidable, try to finalize all your decisions—from layout to finishes—before demolition begins. Sticking to your original plan is the most effective way to ensure your project finishes on time and on budget.
How Can You Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality?
A dream kitchen doesn’t have to come with a nightmare price tag. While it’s easy to get carried away pinning gorgeous, high-end designs, a smart remodeling strategy is all about balancing your vision with your budget. The good news is that you can achieve a stunning, high-quality result without overspending. It just takes some careful planning and a few insider tricks. By focusing your budget on the elements that matter most, you can create a space that looks and feels luxurious for less. Here are a few practical ways to save money on your kitchen remodel without compromising on the final result.
Keep Your Existing Layout
One of the most effective ways to keep your budget in check is to work with the kitchen layout you already have. Moving walls, plumbing lines, and electrical wiring is where costs can quickly add up due to the extra labor and materials involved. By keeping your sink, dishwasher, and stove in their current spots, you can significantly reduce your overall expenses. This simple decision allows you to allocate more of your budget toward the things you’ll see and touch every day, like beautiful countertops, modern fixtures, and quality cabinets, giving you a major transformation without the major expense of a complete reconfiguration.
Mix High-End and Budget-Friendly Materials
Think of your kitchen design like a great outfit: it’s all about the high-low mix. You don’t need every single element to be a top-of-the-line splurge. Instead, be strategic. Pick one or two show-stopping features—like a durable quartz countertop or a custom backsplash—and then choose more affordable options for other areas. For example, you can pair that statement countertop with classic, budget-friendly subway tile. Choosing mid-range materials for things like cabinets can also make a huge difference in your total cost. This approach lets you get a personalized, high-end feel without the high-end price tag on every line item. Check out our project gallery to see how we blend different materials to create stunning results.
Reface Cabinets Instead of Replacing Them
If your existing cabinets are in good shape and you like your kitchen’s layout, why replace them? Cabinet refacing is a fantastic, cost-effective alternative to a full tear-out. This process involves keeping your existing cabinet boxes while replacing the doors and drawer fronts with new ones. The exterior is then covered with a matching veneer, giving you the look of brand-new cabinetry for a fraction of the cost. While new cabinets can run thousands of dollars, refinishing or refacing is often a much more budget-friendly option. It’s a smart way to completely change the style of your kitchen while saving a significant portion of your budget for other upgrades.
Focus on High-Impact Upgrades
Not all upgrades deliver the same visual punch. To get the most from your budget, focus on changes that make the biggest impact. Swapping out dated light fixtures for modern pendants, installing a sleek new faucet, or updating cabinet hardware can instantly modernize your entire kitchen. These smaller changes are relatively inexpensive but have a huge effect on the overall look and feel of the space. Investing in new, energy-efficient appliances is another smart move that improves functionality and adds value. A kitchen remodel can often increase your home’s value, and focusing on these high-impact details ensures you’re making an investment that you’ll not only love using but that will also pay off down the road.
What Hidden Costs Should You Plan For?
You’ve meticulously planned for cabinets, countertops, and appliances, but a kitchen remodel budget has more layers than just the big-ticket items. Several costs can pop up unexpectedly if you aren’t prepared for them. Planning for these potential expenses from the start is the best way to keep your project on track and your stress levels low. Think of it as building a financial buffer that ensures a smooth process, no matter what surprises are hiding behind the drywall.
Permits and Inspections
Before any walls come down, you’ll likely need permits from your local government. These aren’t just bureaucratic red tape; they ensure all work is done to code, keeping your family safe. The costs for permits and subsequent inspections are rarely included in initial estimates but are a mandatory part of the process. The specific fees vary depending on your Chicagoland municipality and the scope of your project. A professional contractor can help you figure out exactly what your project requires and manage the application process for you.
Addressing Structural Surprises
Especially in older homes, you never know what you might find once you open up the walls. Issues like outdated wiring, hidden leaks, or unexpected structural problems are more common than you’d think. That’s why it’s smart to set aside an extra 10-20% of your budget for unexpected problems. This contingency fund isn’t for splurging on fancier tile; it’s a safety net for tackling necessary repairs that ensure the long-term integrity of your home. An experienced team that handles full home renovations will know how to handle these surprises efficiently.
Setting Up a Temporary Kitchen
Your kitchen could be out of commission for several weeks, and the cost of daily takeout can add up fast. It’s wise to budget for setting up a temporary kitchen space elsewhere in your home. This might involve buying a mini-fridge, a microwave, or a hot plate to handle simple meals. While it’s a temporary inconvenience, planning for it makes living through the remodel much more manageable. Factoring these small expenses and a slightly larger food budget into your plan prevents financial strain while the work is underway.
Design and Planning Fees
Great design is the foundation of a great kitchen. While some homeowners tackle this themselves, partnering with a professional can save you from costly mistakes and deliver a more functional, beautiful space. These professional design and build services are a separate cost but are invaluable for creating a cohesive plan. Being upfront about your budget allows a designer to create a vision that honors your goals while making the most of your investment, ensuring the final result is exactly what you dreamed of.
Is a Kitchen Remodel a Good Investment?
A kitchen remodel is one of the most popular home improvement projects, and for good reason. It’s the heart of your home—the place where you cook, gather, and make memories. But it’s also a significant financial commitment, which naturally leads to the big question: is it actually worth it? The answer is a resounding yes, but the “worth” isn’t just measured in dollars and cents. It’s an investment in your daily life, your comfort, and your home’s functionality.
When you decide to pursue a kitchen remodel, you’re doing more than just updating a room; you’re enhancing your lifestyle. A well-planned project can completely transform how you experience your home, making everyday routines more enjoyable and creating a space you’re proud to share with friends and family. As you think about the return on your investment, it’s important to consider both the financial upside and the immediate improvement to your quality of life. Let’s break down what that really means for you and your home.
How a New Kitchen Affects Resale Value
When it comes to resale, an updated kitchen is a major selling point. It’s often the room that makes the strongest impression on potential buyers, and a modern, functional space can make your home stand out and justify a higher asking price. While you may not recoup every single dollar you spend, the financial return is often substantial.
According to NerdWallet, a minor kitchen remodel can add back about 96% of its cost to your home’s value, showing that smart, targeted updates can be an incredibly effective investment. Even larger projects offer a solid return, making your home more competitive on the market. A beautiful kitchen signals to buyers that the home has been well-cared for, which can speed up the selling process.
The Value of Everyday Enjoyment
Beyond the numbers, you can’t put a price on loving the space you live in every day. Think about the daily frustrations your current kitchen causes. Is it a lack of counter space, outdated appliances that don’t work efficiently, or a cramped layout that makes cooking feel like a chore? A remodel solves these problems, turning a source of stress into a place of joy and ease.
Imagine starting your day in a bright, organized kitchen or hosting loved ones in a space that’s perfect for entertaining. This is the intangible return on investment—the daily enjoyment and improved functionality that you get to experience long before you ever think about selling. Take a look at our project gallery to see how a new kitchen can completely change the feel of a home.
Understanding Your Return on Investment (ROI)
So, what does your total return on investment (ROI) look like? It’s a blend of tangible financial gains and intangible lifestyle benefits. Financially, you can generally expect to recoup a significant portion of your remodeling costs, with some reports showing returns between 50% and 81% or more, depending on the project’s scope.
But the true ROI is the total value you receive. It’s the added property value plus the years of happiness, convenience, and pride you get from your new kitchen. When you partner with a professional team for design and build services, you can create a plan that maximizes both aspects of your return, ensuring your new kitchen is not only a smart financial move but also a perfect fit for your life.
Related Articles
- Kitchen Remodel Cost Estimator: A 2025 Guide
- Kitchen Remodeling Benefits: Value, Efficiency & Comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my kitchen remodel actually take? The timeline for a kitchen remodel depends entirely on the scope of your project. A minor refresh with cosmetic updates might only take a few weeks. A major overhaul involving layout changes and custom elements can take several months from the initial design phase to the final walkthrough. The best way to get an accurate timeline is to work with a design-build team who can map out every step of the process before any work begins.
What’s the very first step I should take to get started? Before you do anything else, take some time to think about how you use your current kitchen and what isn’t working for you. Make a list of your must-haves, like more counter space or better storage, and a separate list of your nice-to-haves. Once you have a clear idea of your goals, the next step is to schedule a consultation with a professional remodeling firm to discuss your vision and establish a realistic budget.
Is a 10-20% contingency fund really necessary? Yes, absolutely. Think of it as your project’s essential safety net. Especially in the Chicagoland area, where many of us live in older homes, it’s common to find surprises like outdated plumbing or electrical issues once the walls are opened up. Having that fund set aside means these necessary fixes won’t derail your budget or force you to compromise on the finishes you love.
Can I save money by managing the project myself or doing some of the work? While it can be tempting to take on parts of the remodel yourself to cut costs, it often leads to more headaches and expenses in the long run. Professional contractors have established relationships with trusted tradespeople and can manage the complex scheduling of plumbers, electricians, and installers. Investing in professional craftsmanship and project management is what ensures your remodel is completed efficiently, correctly, and to code.
How do I know if I should reface my cabinets or replace them completely? Refacing is a great money-saving option if two things are true: your cabinet boxes are still in solid structural condition, and you are happy with your kitchen’s current layout. If you want to change the footprint of your kitchen, add an island, or if your existing cabinets are falling apart, then a full replacement is the better path forward.
