The kitchen is more than just the place you cook—it’s where mornings begin, where family gathers, and where guests tend to linger. It’s also one of the smartest places to invest in your home.
But how much does it really cost to remodel a kitchen? If you’ve tried researching this already, you’ve probably run into a lot of vague language: “It depends on a lot of factors.” “Call for a quote.” That’s not helpful when you’re trying to set a real budget.
This guide lays out the real numbers behind kitchen remodeling in 2025—from minor facelifts to full-scale transformations—plus what influences the final cost, and how to make smart decisions at every step.
Surface updates, cabinet refacing, new appliances, paint, and fixtures
Semi-custom cabinets, new countertops, appliances, flooring, lighting
Custom cabinetry, luxury finishes, reconfiguration, built-ins, structural changes
For a 200 sq. ft. kitchen, the national average hovers around $26,000–$80,000, depending on your market, materials, and the scope of the work. Custom projects can climb well into six figures.
Several key factors determine where your remodel lands on that pricing spectrum:
1. Size of the Kitchen
Larger kitchens mean more materials, more cabinetry, more labor. Here’s how that breaks down:
| Kitchen Size | Typical Remodel Range |
|---|---|
| 10×10 | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| 12×12 | $22,000 – $36,000 |
| 10×20 | $25,000 – $45,000+ |
2. Scope of the Remodel
A “remove and replace” project—where everything stays in roughly the same spot—is far more budget-friendly than changing the layout or opening up walls.
Cabinet Refacing: Save 20–40% over full replacement
Layout Changes: Expect $5,000–$15,000 in additional costs (plumbing, electrical, structural)
DIY vs. Professional Install: Professional labor typically makes up 20–35% of your budget
3. Material Choices
Materials can swing your budget dramatically. For example:
| Item | Budget Range | Upscale Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinets | $3,000 – $8,500 | $15,000 – $25,000+ (custom) |
| Countertops | $900 – $4,000 | $5,000 – $10,000+ (quartz, stone) |
| Appliances | $2,000 – $6,000 | $10,000 – $20,000+ |
| Flooring | $1,000 – $3,000 | $4,000 – $7,000+ |
| Lighting & Wiring | $1,200 – $4,000 | $5,000 – $8,000+ (custom, undercabinet) |
Here’s a typical budget allocation for a mid-range kitchen remodel:
| Category | % of Budget |
|---|---|
| Cabinets | 29% |
| Appliances | 17% |
| Installation/Labor | 13% |
| Countertops | 11% |
| Lighting & Electrical | 10% |
| Plumbing | 6% |
| Flooring | 5% |
| Backsplash | 5% |
| Miscellaneous/Contingency | 4%–10% |
Pro tip: Always reserve 10%–20% for unexpected expenses. Kitchen remodels often uncover electrical issues, hidden water damage, or outdated plumbing behind the walls.
Minor Remodel ($14,000 – $30,000)
Cabinet refacing or RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets
New countertops (laminate or butcher block)
Fresh paint and backsplash
Energy-efficient appliances
Basic lighting and faucet swap
Major Remodel ($30,000 – $70,000)
Semi-custom cabinets and island
Quartz or granite countertops
Updated appliances and sink
Durable flooring (tile, LVT, engineered wood)
Custom lighting and new layout tweaks
Upscale Remodel ($70,000 – $150,000+)
Full layout redesign (structural changes)
Custom cabinetry and luxury finishes
Smart appliances and integrated storage
Water filtration, wine fridge, pot filler, etc.
Heated floors and layered lighting systems
Are you remodeling to sell soon? Focus on ROI and classic designs.
Are you creating your forever kitchen? Personal style and comfort matter more.
Knowing your square footage and cabinet count helps estimate costs more accurately.
Reface or Refresh: Best for solid cabinet boxes and light updates
Full Remodel: Needed for functionality, flow, and aging infrastructure
Luxury Build: For custom needs or high-end property markets
Home equity loans, personal loans, and contractor financing can make large remodels more accessible.
Set a monthly payment range you’re comfortable with and work backward from there.
Layout changes drive up labor. Keeping the toilet, sink, and tub in place saves thousands.
New tile, lighting, or paint can completely change the feel of a space—even without a full gut.
Splurge on a standout feature (like a luxury showerhead) and save elsewhere (like choosing prefab cabinets over custom).
Compare prices on tile, vanities, and accessories. Outlet stores and online deals can yield surprising savings.
If you’re not paying cash, here are a few popular ways homeowners finance bathroom remodels:
Home Equity Loans / Lines of Credit
Personal Loans
Contractor Financing Plans
Credit Cards (for smaller projects)
Before signing anything, make sure you understand interest rates, repayment terms, and total cost.
Cabinetry. It can consume nearly a third of your budget. Custom cabinets add storage and beauty—but expect to pay for the craftsmanship.
Minor refresh: 2–4 weeks
Full remodel: 6–12 weeks
Structural changes: 3–6 months
If your cabinet boxes are in good shape and you’re happy with the layout, refacing can offer huge savings while updating the style. But if storage, function, or quality are lacking, full replacement may be smarter long-term.
Absolutely. Focus first on what matters most—appliances, flooring, or cabinets—and save for the rest. Just plan with the big picture in mind so future changes integrate seamlessly.
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]