How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost? (2026)
Most kitchen remodels cost $14,600 to $41,600. A minor remodel averages about $28,500; a major midrange one about $82,800. Where the money goes.
Published Oct 27, 2026. 2 min read.
Most US kitchen remodels cost about $14,600 to $41,600, with a national average near $27,000. A minor remodel (new counters, flooring, refaced or painted cabinets, a few appliances) averages about $28,500. A major midrange remodel with new cabinets and all-new appliances averages about $82,800, and an upscale one over $160,000.
Kitchen remodel cost by scope
| Scope | Typical cost | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh | $10,000 – $20,000 | Paint, hardware, backsplash, lighting, one or two appliances |
| Minor remodel | ~$28,500 | Cabinet refacing, new counters, sink, flooring, some appliances |
| Major midrange | ~$82,800 | New cabinets, counters, all appliances, flooring, lighting |
| Major upscale | $160,000+ | Custom cabinets, high-end appliances, layout changes |
Where the money goes
Cabinets are usually the biggest single cost. Next come labor, countertops and appliances. Moving plumbing, gas or walls adds the most surprise cost — keeping the sink, range and fridge where they are is the biggest money-saver.
Watch out for "allowances"
Many kitchen quotes include allowances: a set budget for items you pick later, like $2,000 for tile or $3,000 for appliances. If your choices cost more, you pay the difference. A low quote with small allowances can end up costing more than a higher quote with realistic ones. Ask for every allowance in writing and compare them line by line.
Value when you sell
According to the 2025 Cost vs. Value report, a minor kitchen remodel recovered roughly its full cost in resale value, while a major midrange remodel recovered about half. Big remodels are mostly for your own enjoyment.
What a complete kitchen quote includes
- Cabinet brand, line, construction and finish
- Countertop material, edge and backsplash
- Every allowance with its dollar amount
- Plumbing, electrical and permit work
- Demolition, disposal and drywall repair
- Payment schedule tied to finished stages
See remodel ranges in our cost estimator, send contractors the same scope with our kitchen quote request template, and compare kitchen remodel quotes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A minor remodel often takes 3 to 6 weeks. A major remodel commonly takes 2 to 4 months, plus time for design and ordering cabinets.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets are usually the largest single cost, followed by labor, countertops and appliances.
How can I lower the cost?
Keep the layout, reface or paint cabinets instead of replacing them, choose mid-range counters, and set realistic allowances up front.
Sources
Prices are national ranges for planning only. Your price depends on your home, your region and the contractor. This guide is general information, not professional, legal or insurance advice.
Related guides
Quote tips
Kitchen Remodel Quotes: How Allowances Can Hide the Real Price
A low kitchen quote with small allowances often ends up costing more. How to compare remodeling quotes properly.
Oct 25, 2026, 1 min read
Cost guides
How Much Does a New Roof Cost? (2026 Prices)
A new asphalt shingle roof usually costs about $4.50 to $11 per square foot installed. See what drives the price and how to check your quotes.
Oct 27, 2026, 4 min read
Cost guides
Tankless Water Heater Cost: Is It Worth It?
A tankless water heater usually costs $1,400 to $3,900 installed, versus $600 to $2,500 for a tank. When the switch pays off and what drives the price.
Oct 27, 2026, 3 min read