Kitchen Remodel Cost (2026)
By the Home Repair One data team · Updated July 2026 · Ranges from our estimator engine
Short answer: In 2026, a kitchen remodel ranges enormously by size and finish tier: a minor refresh can start near $12,000, a mid-range remodel runs into the tens of thousands, and a major or luxury remodel exceeds $50,000. Cabinetry is usually the single largest line, followed by countertops and appliances. The two biggest ways to control cost are keeping the existing layout (so plumbing and electrical don't move) and choosing semi-custom over fully custom cabinets. Kitchens are among the highest-return remodels, so a well-chosen mid-range update often recovers a strong share of its cost at resale.
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Kitchen remodel cost by size
Kitchen remodels are priced roughly by square footage blended across cabinets, counters, appliances, and labor. Here are 2026 national ranges by kitchen size at mid-range finishes, computed from our cost model.
| Scope | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Small kitchen (~80 sq ft) | $12,000–$17,750 |
| Average kitchen (~160 sq ft) | $24,000–$35,000 |
| Large kitchen (~240 sq ft) | $35,000–$52,000 |
Cost by finish tier
Finish level is the widest swing in any kitchen budget. Here's an average kitchen across budget, mid-range, and high-end finishes, the same footprint can more than double depending on cabinets, countertops, and appliances.
| Material / finish | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Budget finishes | $16,000–$24,000 |
| Mid-range finishes | $24,000–$35,000 |
| High-end finishes | $40,000–$60,000 |
Where the money goes
In a typical remodel, cabinetry is the largest share, then countertops, then appliances, then labor and the rest. Moving the layout, relocating the sink, range, or walls, adds plumbing and electrical cost and is the most common budget-buster, so keeping the footprint is the single biggest saver.
What changes your price
- Kitchen size and whether the layout or walls change.
- Finish tier, cabinets, countertops, and appliances.
- Moving plumbing, gas, or electrical for a new layout.
- Custom versus semi-custom or stock cabinetry.
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FAQ
How much does a kitchen remodel cost?
A minor refresh starts near $12,000; a mid-range remodel runs into the tens of thousands; a major remodel exceeds $50,000. Cabinets and counters are the biggest levers. Our estimator ranges it by size and finish.
What adds the most to a kitchen remodel?
Custom cabinetry, stone countertops, high-end appliances, and moving the layout. Keeping the footprint and choosing semi-custom cabinets are the two biggest cost savers.
Does a kitchen remodel pay back?
Kitchens are among the highest-return remodels, especially mid-range updates that don't over-improve for the neighborhood. A minor refresh often recovers a larger share of its cost than a luxury gut.