Instead of giving you a vague range and calling it a day, this guide breaks down the specific factors that shape the final cost of your kitchen remodel—from simple updates under $15,000 to fully customized luxury spaces that exceed $150,000. We’ll explore how each element contributes to the overall investment, so you can make informed choices based on your vision, lifestyle, and budget.
Cosmetic improvements, partial DIY, entry-level products
Semi-custom cabinetry, better materials, professional labor
Full reconfiguration, higher-end finishes, branded appliances
Bespoke cabinetry, structural changes, integrated tech, top-tier brand
Your project’s place on this scale depends on the scope of work, size of your kitchen, finish selections, layout changes, & labor needs.
Cabinets often represent the single largest line item in a kitchen remodel budget. Why? They’re permanent fixtures, central to both functionality and aesthetics, and they influence almost every other decision in the space.
Refacing Existing Cabinets: $6,000 – $18,000
Involves replacing cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and applying new veneers to frames. A solid option if boxes are in good condition and layout works.
Stock Cabinets (Prefab): $3,000 – $10,000
Budget-friendly and widely available, but limited in customization and sizes.
Semi-Custom Cabinets: $8,000 – $20,000
Allows for adjustable dimensions, styles, and configurations. Most midrange remodels fall here.
Custom Cabinets: $20,000 – $60,000+
Built to order by a cabinet maker. Includes specialty materials, unique finishes, and tailored storage solutions.
Note: Organizational add-ons—like pull-out pantries, spice racks, and hidden waste bins—can add $200–$1,200 per feature.
Your countertops are both work surfaces and focal points. Material choice dramatically affects cost, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Laminate: $25 – $50/sq. ft.
Affordable, but prone to scratching and not heat-resistant.
Butcher Block: $50 – $100/sq. ft.
Warm and timeless; requires regular sealing.
Granite: $70 – $140/sq. ft.
Durable natural stone; sealed for stain resistance.
Quartz (Engineered Stone): $75 – $150/sq. ft.
Non-porous, consistent appearance, minimal upkeep.
Marble: $100 – $250/sq. ft.
Elegant, but soft and prone to etching/staining.
Dekton, Soapstone, or Concrete: $120 – $300+/sq. ft.
Niche materials that make a high-design statement but require skilled installation.
Edge profile (e.g., mitered, waterfall) and cutouts (for sinks or cooktops) can tack on hundreds to the final bill.
Appliances are more than utilitarian. They impact efficiency, design, and resale appeal. Costs vary depending on performance features, finish (stainless vs. panel-ready), and brand reputation.
Basic electric or gas range: $600 – $1,500
Professional-style range: $3,000 – $15,000+ (Wolf, Viking, La Cornue)
Standard unit: $800 – $2,500
Counter-depth or built-in: $3,000 – $12,000+
Standard models: $400 – $1,200 each
Integrated or designer versions: $2,000 – $5,000 per unit
Installation costs, ventilation upgrades, and custom appliance panels can push totals upward, especially in luxury kitchens.
Kitchen floors must be tough enough for heavy traffic, spills, and shifting temperatures—all while supporting your design vision.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): $2 – $6/sq. ft. (budget-friendly and water-resistant)
Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: $5 – $15/sq. ft.
Engineered Hardwood: $6 – $15/sq. ft.
Natural Stone: $10 – $30+/sq. ft. (more labor-intensive and requires sealing)
Professional installation adds $3–$10 per square foot, depending on prep work.
Behind-the-scenes infrastructure accounts for a large portion of your budget—especially in older homes or when the layout is changing.
Plumbing reroute: $1,500 – $5,000
Includes moving sink, dishwasher, gas line for range, or installing a pot filler.
Electrical upgrades: $2,000 – $8,000
Required for additional outlets, new lighting zones, appliance circuits, and code compliance.
HVAC adjustments: $500 – $2,500
For range hoods, ductwork changes, or when walls are removed.
If your home’s systems are outdated or not up to code, upgrades will be mandatory before work can proceed.
Modern kitchens blend task lighting, ambient lighting, and decorative fixtures.
Recessed lights: $150 – $300 per unit installed
Pendant or chandelier: $200 – $1,500+ depending on style and wiring
Under-cabinet lighting: $300 – $1,200 per run
Lighting control systems (smart dimmers, zones): $500 – $3,000
Good lighting planning is essential—it enhances function, highlights design, and sets the tone for your entire space.
The cost of skilled labor depends on your location, the complexity of the work, and who you hire (general contractor vs. separate tradespeople).
Design & Planning: $2,000 – $10,000
Includes design drawings, layout reconfigurations, material selection
Demo & Disposal: $1,000 – $5,000
Installation Labor (All Trades): 20%–35% of the total remodel cost
Permits & Inspections: $500 – $3,000 depending on scope and region
Labor also includes coordination, scheduling, and warranty—so while DIY may seem cheaper, it doesn’t always pay off in quality or time.
Luxury remodels often include details that go beyond the basic kitchen:
| Feature | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Wine fridge | $1,000 – $6,000 |
| Built-in coffee system | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Hidden walk-in pantry | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
| Smart home integration | $1,000 – $8,000+ |
| Slab backsplash (matching countertop) | $2,000 – $6,000+ |
| Water filtration system | $500 – $2,000 |
| Heated floors | $3,000 – $8,000 |
While optional, these additions often define a luxury kitchen’s feel and function—and significantly shape resale appeal in high-end markets.
Location: Urban, coastal, or high-cost-of-living areas drive up both labor and material pricing.
Access: Second-floor kitchens or those in condos with limited access may have higher logistics costs.
Time of Year: Scheduling work during the off-season (late fall through early spring) can sometimes reduce labor costs or lead times.
A well-executed kitchen remodel is a blend of smart investment and personal expression. Some homeowners aim for long-term value and function; others seek a space that delivers daily joy and design impact. Both approaches are valid—but understanding what contributes to the cost is key to getting the most out of your remodel.
When you know what’s behind the numbers, you’re not just budgeting—you’re building a plan that works.
At Precision Heritage, we offer a complete design-build experience that goes far beyond what a typical general contractor can provide. With our in-house custom cabinetry, skilled craftsmanship, and a dedicated design team, we manage every aspect of your project from start to finish, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
504 Main Street Gaithersburg, MD 20878
(240) 686-5099 [email protected]