Planning a kitchen remodel is exciting — but figuring out a budget can be overwhelming. You’ve probably seen cost estimates online that range from “simple updates” to “full luxury makeovers,” but those numbers are rarely accurate. That’s because every kitchen is unique, and your total investment depends on factors like layout changes, exact materials, the size of your space and the level of customization you want.
In this guide, we’ll break down the main cost categories, show you how much homeowners typically invest in each, and share four real-world sample budgets from luxury to basic so you can see what’s possible.
Why Kitchen Remodel Costs Vary So Much
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “How much will my kitchen remodel cost?” — and that’s a good thing. The range allows you to tailor your investment to your goals and your home, whether that means a refresh with updated surfaces or a fully customized, luxury-level space.
Common cost drivers include:
- Scope of work – Are you keeping the existing footprint or starting fresh?
- Structural changes – Removing walls, adding windows, or relocating plumbing.
- Material choices – From standard finishes to imported stone or designer fixtures.
- Custom features – Built-in storage, statement lighting, integrated appliances, luxury countertops.
- Scope Creep - Adding in additional areas after contracts are signed.
Tampa designer, Larissa Hicks, notes,
“Another common cost driver is scope creep. Many homeowners get excited when they start visualizing their new space and decide to add in areas outside the kitchen like new flooring and other spaces.”
Average Investment by Category
Before you dive into numbers, it helps to see how most homeowners allocate their budget in a kitchen remodel. These percentages are based on national averages and 3rd party sources for a full remodel, and they can shift depending on your priorities.
category | % of Total INVESTMENT |
|---|---|
Cabinetry | 25% - 35% |
Countertops & Surfaces | 8% - 12% |
Appliances | 8% - 12% |
Flooring | 2% - 4% |
Lighting and Electrical | 3% - 5% |
Plumbing Fixtures | 2% - 4% |
Design, Labor and Installation | 40% - 55% |
One Space, Four Sample Kitchen Remodel Budgets
Now, let’s turn those percentages into real numbers so you can better visualize how a budget comes together.
Here are 4 examples based on typical scopes of work we see with our clients.
Note: We’ve estimated these four budgets for a 200-250 sq ft kitchen as a point of reference. This is a standard midsize kitchen. If your kitchen is bigger or smaller, the appliances will be roughly the same amount, and materials will be more or less to account for space.
Option 1: $150K + Luxury Custom Remodel
Includes: Full gut, layout changes, premium materials, and custom cabinetry
category | % of Total INVESTMENT |
|---|---|
Cabinetry | $55,000 |
Countertops & Surfaces | $18,000 |
Appliances | $15,000 |
Flooring | $10,000 |
Lighting and Electrical | $7,500 |
Plumbing Fixtures | $5,000 |
Design, Labor and Installation | $39,500 |
TOTAL INVESTMENT: $150,000
Option 2: $85K+ Major Remodel
Includes: High-quality finishes, semi-custom cabinetry, limited layout changes
category | % of Total INVESTMENT |
|---|---|
Cabinetry | $23,800 |
Countertops & Surfaces | $10,200 |
Appliances | $9,350 |
Flooring | $6,800 |
Lighting and Electrical | $5,100 |
Plumbing Fixtures | $3,400 |
Design, Labor and Installation | $26,350 |
TOTAL INVESTMENT: $85,000
Option 3: $55K+ Refresh “Remove and Replace” Remodel
Includes: No layout changes, affordable but stylish finishes, and minimal structural work
category | % of Total INVESTMENT |
|---|---|
Cabinetry | $14,850 |
Countertops & Surfaces | $6,050 |
Appliances | $6,600 |
Flooring | $4,400 |
Lighting and Electrical | $3,300 |
Plumbing Fixtures | $1,925 |
Design, Labor and Installation | $17,875 |
TOTAL INVESTMENT: $55,000
Option 4: $30K+ Basic “Partial” Remodel
Includes: Keeping some elements as-is such as the countertops, cabinets or appliances, while other areas such as plumbing fixtures or lighting are replaced for a fresh, updated look without a full remodel. Minimal labor.
category | % of Total INVESTMENT |
|---|---|
Countertops & Surfaces | $6,000 |
Appliances | $4,500 |
Flooring | $6,500 |
Lighting and Electrical | $2,500 |
Plumbing Fixtures | $1,500 |
Design, Labor and Installation | $9,000 |
How to Set Your Own Remodel Budget
Every homeowner’s needs and priorities are different when it come to a kitchen remodel, but here’s how to start building a budget that works for you:
1. Define your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves – Focus on what will make the biggest difference in how you use your kitchen.
2. Consider your home’s value – A good rule of thumb is to invest in a remodel that’s in proportion to your home’s value. Overspending can make it harder to recoup costs if you ever sell, while underspending might not bring the transformation (or durability) you’re looking for.
Winter Park Designer, Krista Agapito, often advises her clients to budget 15–20% of their home’s value for a full kitchen remodel.
“High-end homes usually lean toward the higher end of that range, especially in neighborhoods where buyers expect chef’s kitchens and premium finishes,” she explains.
3. Plan for the long term – Choose materials and layouts that will stand the test of time.
Tampa Designer, Larissa Hicks, tells her clients to think carefully about maintenance before making material selections:
““Ask yourself how much upkeep you’re willing to have. For example, natural stones like marble are stunning, but they need to be resealed every 6–12 months. If that sounds like too much, quartz or porcelain may be a better option.”
4. Consult early – A design consultation can help you refine numbers based on your space, layout, and wish list.
5. Length of time you plan on staying in the home -- this should come into play on the “nice to haves” or possible luxury products.
“How long you plan to stay in your home can really shape the design and the budget,” says Melbourne designer, Lindsey Schwartz. “If you’re planning to move in the next few years, it makes sense to prioritize updates that will appeal to future buyers and boost resale value. But if this is your ‘forever home,’ investing in aging in place design, luxury finishes, and higher-end materials can be well worth it for years of everyday enjoyment. The neighborhood also plays a role — buyers in certain areas have specific expectations when it comes to quality and style. A design plan for someone selling in three years looks very different from a plan for someone settling in for the long haul. That’s why understanding your goals upfront helps us create a design that fits your life, your timeline, and your investment.”
Plan Your Dream Kitchen
Every beautiful kitchen starts with a plan — and the right budget. Our design team can help you evaluate your space and your needs, explore your options, understand what drives cost, and create a beautiful space that fits your home and lifestyle.
Schedule your design consultation or visit one our our seven showrooms near you and let’s start planning your dream kitchen.
Article contributors: S&W designers Krista Agapito, Larissa Hicks and Lindsey Schwartz
