How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?

Embarking on a kitchen remodeling project is exciting but can also feel overwhelming.

Updated kitchen with center island and exposed beams – remodeling cost guide for NJ homes

Questions like
What should we do?”,
How long will it take?”,
and most importantly,
How much will it cost?
are natural to ask.

Unfortunately, the cost question doesn’t have a straightforward answer. But you’re here for answers, and we’re here to provide them!
Let’s dive in.

Key Questions That Impact Kitchen Remodel Costs

Before we give you a ballpark figure, it’s important to understand some of the variables that can influence the cost of a kitchen remodel.

Here are just a few of the factors that make predicting costs tricky:

1. Is the kitchen in a single-family home or a condominium?

Condos often present unique challenges, such as stricter building codes or limited access for contractors.

2. Are major appliances or the sink changing locations?

Moving plumbing or electrical lines adds complexity and cost.

3. Is the electrical service sufficient for a modern kitchen?

Older homes may require an upgraded panel or additional wiring.

4. Was the home built before 1978?

If so, lead-safe work practices are required, adding time and expense.

5. Are walls being removed to create an open-concept space?

Structural modifications, such as adding beams, can increase costs.

5. Do windows or doors need to be relocated or replaced?

Changes to the exterior walls can quickly escalate a budget.


These factors, many of which are design-related, significantly influence the cost of your project. Additionally, the materials you choose—cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring—can vary wildly in price, adding another layer of complexity to budgeting.

Defining the Project Scope

kitchen remoding cost 1
kitchen remoding cost 2

To answer the big question—“How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen?”—we need to define some project parameters.

Here’s an example of a typical scenario we might work with:

  • The kitchen is in a single-family home in the suburbs of Chatham, NJ.
  • Professional designers will create the layout and assist with material selections.
  • Good-quality, name-brand materials will be used.
  • The project will comply with all building codes and require permits.
  • All work will be completed by a licensed and insured professional team.
  • A 5-year warranty will back the work.
kitchen remoding cost 3

Kitchen budgeting

Kitchen remodel (w/o appliances)
Budget Range

Tile backsplash

$0 – 5,000

Upgrade cabinetry specs (style, finish, etc.)

$0 – 25,000

Cabinet accessories (roll out shelves, etc.)

$0 – 5,000

Upgrade countertops/details (waterfall edge, etc.)

$0 – 10,000

Tile floors in lieu of hardwood

$0 – 10,000

Add second sink/mechanical for additional appliances

$0 – 5,000

Lead safe regulations/work practices

$0 – 5,000

Expand, reconfigure, relocate kitchen, etc.

$0 – 40,000

TOTAL PROJECT COST
(Assumes no additional space has been added (addition costs are extra). Appliance costs are extra – not included in budgeting numbers.)

$75 – 230,000

Breaking Down the Costs

To give you a clearer idea of what you might spend, let’s examine a few scenarios:

Scenario A

$100,000 – $125,000
Budget

This is often referred to as a “pull-and-replace” remodel. The existing kitchen layout remains the same, with no changes to the location of appliances, plumbing, or electrical systems. This scenario typically includes:

  • Less than 15 cabinets.
  • Semi-custom cabinetry.
  • Quartz countertops.
  • A standard backsplash.
  • Updated flooring and light fixtures.

This is a great option for smaller kitchens or projects focused on refreshing the space without significant structural changes.

Scenario B

$125,000 – $175,000
Budget

In this scenario, the space is larger, and the scope of the project increases. You may see:

  • More cabinetry, often semi-custom with upgraded finishes.
  • A new kitchen island with additional storage and seating.
  • Mid-range to high-quality materials, such as granite or premium quartz countertops.
  • Layout changes, such as relocating the sink or range, which require additional plumbing and electrical work.
  • Improved lighting, such as recessed fixtures and decorative pendants.

This scenario also accounts for the impact of design choices, as upgraded finishes can significantly influence the budget.

Scenario C

$175,000+
Budget

For homeowners looking for a luxury remodel, this scenario includes expanded spaces, high-end materials, and custom design elements:

  • Custom cabinetry with specialty finishes and built-ins.
  • Marble or quartzite countertops with waterfall edges.
  • Professional-grade appliances, such as Sub-Zero refrigerators and Wolf ranges.
  • Structural changes, such as removing walls or creating new openings.
  • Custom lighting solutions, including LED strips, under-cabinet lighting, and chandeliers.

This level of remodeling results in a dream kitchen tailored to your preferences but comes with a premium price tag.

The Cost of Appliances

Kitchen Appliances

An important note: none of the scenarios above include appliances.
Depending on your needs, you could spend:

  • $10,000 – $15,000 for standard appliances.
  • $30,000 – $50,000+ for high-end professional-grade appliances.

Hidden Costs to Consider

At KraftMaster Renovations, we aim to avoid surprises by addressing potential hidden costs during the planning phase. Here are some items that are often overlooked:

Permits and Inspections:

These can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on your location and the scope of the project.

Demolition:

Removing old cabinets, flooring, or walls can add significant labor costs, especially in older homes.

Upgrading Utilities:

Homes with outdated plumbing, electrical, or HVAC systems may require upgrades to meet modern standards.

Custom Features:

Specialty hardware, built-in storage solutions, and unique design elements can increase costs.

So, How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?

The short answer? It depends.
Kitchen remodels vary widely depending on the size of the space, the materials selected, and the complexity of the design. Most projects fall into these general ranges:

Small/Basic Remodel

$50,000 – $75,000

Mid-Range Remodel

$80,000 – $120,000

Luxury Remodel

$200,000 – $350,000

While kitchen remodeling is a significant investment, it’s also one of the most rewarding—transforming the heart of your home and adding value to your property.

Let’s examine a few more detailed scenarios

Scenario A

$75,000 – 100,000
Budget

  • Design & spec new space, procure permit
  • Painted cabinets – standard sizes
  • Level II quartz top with standard edge
  • No change to current fixture locations
  • “Average” number of new lights
  • Modest number of accessories
  • No additional appliances
  • Lead safe practices not required
  • Luxury vinyl tile flooring
  • 10-14 cabinets total

Scenario B

$110,000 – 150,000
Budget

  • Design & spec new space, procure permit
  • Painted, semi-custom cabinets
  • Level II quartz top with standard edge
  • No change to current fixture locations
  • Add recessed & under-cabinet lighting
  • Additional cabinet accessories
  • Cooktop + wall ovens ILO range
  • Requires lead safe work practices
  • 2 1/4” oak flooring
  • 15-20 cabinets total

Scenario C

$150,000 – 200,000
Budget

  • Design & spec new space, procure permit
  • Painted, inset cabinets with accessories
  • Quartz tops with waterfall detail at island
  • Relocate appliances and sink
  • Add recessed & under-cabinet lighting
  • Add second sink in the island
  • Upgraded tile backsplash
  • Take down wall separating kitchen
  • 2 1/4″ oak flooring
  • 24-28 cabinets total

Assumes no additional space has been added (addition costs are extra). Appliance costs are extra – not included in budgeting numbers.

Next Steps

Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?

At KraftMaster Renovations, we specialize in creating beautiful, functional kitchens tailored to your needs and style. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your dream kitchen!

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