Kitchen Remodel Costs in 2026: What to Expect

## Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown A kitchen remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home, with an average ROI of 60-80%. But costs can vary wildly. Here's what to expect in 2026. ## Average Costs by Scope ### Minor Remodel: $15,000-$30,000 - Cabinet refacing - New countertops - Updated appliances - Fresh paint - New lighting ### Mid-Range Remodel: $30,000-$75,000 - Semi-custom cabinets - Granite/quartz countertops - New flooring - Modern appliances - Updated plumbing fixtures - Improved lighting ### Major Remodel: $75,000-$150,000+ - Custom cabinetry - High-end appliances - Premium countertops - Layout changes - Structural modifications - Custom lighting design ## Cost Breakdown by Category | Category | Percentage | Mid-Range Cost | |----------|------------|----------------| | Cabinets | 30-35% | $15,000-$20,000 | | Labor | 20-25% | $10,000-$15,000 | | Appliances | 15-20% | $8,000-$12,000 | | Countertops | 10-15% | $5,000-$8,000 | | Flooring | 5-10% | $3,000-$5,000 | | Lighting | 5% | $2,000-$3,000 | | Plumbing | 5% | $2,000-$3,000 | | Other | 5% | $2,000-$3,000 | ## Where to Save Money ### 1. Keep the Same Layout Moving plumbing and electrical is expensive. Work with your existing layout when possible. ### 2. Reface Instead of Replace Cabinet refacing costs 40-50% less than new cabinets and can look just as good. ### 3. Choose Mid-Range Appliances The difference between mid-range and high-end is often just brand name. Focus on reliability ratings. ### 4. Consider Alternatives - Laminate countertops that look like stone - Luxury vinyl flooring instead of hardwood - Open shelving instead of upper cabinets ### 5. DIY What You Can - Painting - Demo (carefully!) - Installing hardware - Minor electrical (with permits) ## What to Splurge On ### Don't skimp on: - **Cabinets:** You'll use them daily for decades - **Countertops:** High-traffic surfaces need durability - **Plumbing fixtures:** Cheap faucets fail fast - **Lighting:** Good lighting transforms a space ## Timeline Expectations - **Minor remodel:** 2-4 weeks - **Mid-range:** 6-8 weeks - **Major:** 12-16+ weeks ## Get an Accurate Estimate Every kitchen is different. Get a personalized estimate based on your specific goals and budget. **Ready to start planning?** [Request a remodel estimate](/remodel) and we'll walk you through your options.