Kitchen Remodel Cost in 2026: Average $28,000
Average cost: $28,000 (typical range $12,000 – $60,000) — based on BLS hourly wage data for Carpenters (47-2031). Updated 2026-08-06.
Quick answer: Most U.S. homeowners spend $12,000–$60,000 on a kitchen remodel in 2026. The national midpoint is about $28,000. Minor refreshes often stay under $15,000; mid-range cabinet and counter projects run $20,000–$40,000; full gut luxury jobs can exceed $60,000–$100,000 in high-cost metros.
Estimates combine BLS labor data for carpenters and related trades with typical material baskets. Use the free kitchen remodel calculator for a quick personalized range. Compare wet-area trade costs with our bathroom remodel cost guide when planning a multi-room renovation.
Kitchen remodel cost by project scope
| Scope | Typical range | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh | $5,000–$15,000 | Paint, hardware, faucet, lighting, minor backsplash |
| Minor remodel | $12,000–$25,000 | Countertops, sink, appliances, limited cabinet refacing |
| Mid-range remodel | $25,000–$45,000 | New cabinets, counters, flooring, appliances, electrical updates |
| Major / luxury | $50,000–$100,000+ | Layout change, island, custom cabinets, high-end appliances |
What drives kitchen remodel prices
- Cabinets — often 30–40% of budget (stock vs semi-custom vs custom).
- Countertops — laminate is cheapest; quartz and stone cost more installed.
- Labor market — coastal and large metros pay higher trade wages (BLS).
- Layout changes — moving plumbing, gas, or electrical multiplies cost and permits.
- Appliances & finishes — easy to under-budget; set a hard cap early.
Labor vs materials
A useful planning split for mid-range projects is roughly 40–50% labor / 50–60% materials, plus 5–10% for permits, haul-away, and contingency.
Regional cost index
- Lower-cost regions: ~0.80–0.90× national
- National-average metros: ~1.0×
- Large coastal metros: ~1.15–1.40×
DIY vs hire a pro
DIY paint, hardware, and simple backsplash can save money. Cabinet install, gas lines, electrical, and structural changes belong with licensed pros.
How to save without wrecking resale
- Keep the existing layout (biggest savings lever).
- Reface or paint solid cabinet boxes instead of full replacement.
- Mix materials strategically (e.g. premium on island only).
- Get 3 written quotes with the same scope sheet.
- Hold 10–15% contingency for hidden issues.
Related: bathroom remodel cost · kitchen calculator · methodology
🧮 Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator
Get a personalized estimate based on your project size, complexity, and location. Our calculator uses BLS labor rate data ($$26.40/hr median) combined with material cost ranges.
💡 Based on BLS wage data + national material cost averages. Get 3 local quotes to verify.
Free tools: Kitchen remodel calculator · All tools · How we calculate prices
Kitchen Remodel Costs by State
Major states with local city pricing (BLS-adjusted). We focus on high-demand markets first:
Kitchen Remodel Costs in Major Cities
Deep-dive cost guides for large metro areas:
Top Kitchen Remodel Brands
Kitchen remodel cost FAQs
What is the average kitchen remodel cost in 2026?
About $28,000 midpoint; most projects fall between $12,000 and $60,000.
How much does a minor kitchen remodel cost?
Often $5,000–$20,000 when you keep the layout and focus on surfaces, paint, and fixtures.
Does a kitchen remodel increase home value?
Minor remodels often recoup a high share of cost; luxury gut jobs recoup less percentage-wise but can help sellability.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
Cosmetic: 1–2 weeks. Mid-range: 4–8 weeks. Major layout changes: 2–4+ months.
What costs the most in a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets usually dominate, followed by counters, appliances, and any plumbing/electrical layout moves.
Related Home Repair Services
Comparing costs across different services helps you budget your renovation project: