Kitchen Remodel Cost and How to Save Money
A 2024 report from Remodeling Magazine states that a small kitchen remodel costs an average of $27,000. Larger kitchens getting full overhauls with mid-range upgrades approach $80,000.
Several factors influence the numbers. Your location is one of the biggest ones. So is the kitchen’s size, the remodel’s complexity, and your chosen materials and appliances.
How can we reduce the cost of our kitchen remodels and save money without constantly compromising? Let’s examine the most effective kitchen remodel cost-saving tips and a breakdown of why these remodels cost what they do.
Kitchen remodel cost-saving tips
You can have a brand-new kitchen for a bit less than you originally thought. These kitchen remodel cost-saving tips will work for most projects.
Keep the current layout
This is by far one of the easiest ways to cut the budget. Agree to keep cabinets, sinks, and appliances where the old ones currently are. This reduces the amount you’ll spend on moving/installing appliance hookups and utilities.
Get creative with cabinetry
Cabinets are the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel. Consider refacing them instead of replacing entire units. Swapping in new doors will allow you to enjoy a fresh new look on a lower budget.
Buy quality pieces on sale
Hunt down specific parts of your vision for a price. A reputable designer or contractor can save money on some things by going to their supplier. That doesn’t mean you can’t grab that Italian brass faucet from a big box store if you see it go on sale.
A custom countertop at a fraction of the price
Were you looking forward to replacing your old laminate with quartz or granite? A new countertop can eat up too much of the budget. Consider replacing the most high-use areas with quality stone and using less costly materials (think butcher block) for other areas.
DIY parts of the process
The best budget kitchen remodeling ideas often involve cutting labor costs. Identify areas where you can reasonably do the work yourself. Demolition and painting are two popular DIYs.
However, be cautious about taking on too much yourself. Decide up front what a contractor will handle and read our expert guide to planning a kitchen remodel.
Trim away little luxuries you don’t truly need
It’s nice to dream big until inspiration takes you way out of your budget. High-end lighting fixtures, slide-out bins, intricate tile work, and other details may not be practical.
Remember, there’s always time down the line to treat yourself to a little upgrade. Save the budget for quality necessities.
Cost breakdown of a kitchen remodel
Here’s how kitchen remodeling costs break down by percentage, as well as current national average pricing:
| Cost breakdown of a kitchen remodel | ||
| Expense | Percent of budget | Avg. pricing |
| Cabinets | 30-40% | $12,000-$20,000 |
| Labor | 20-40% | $8,000-$16,000 |
| Countertops | 10-20% | $3,000-$8,000 |
| Flooring | 5-15% | $2,000-$6,000 |
| Appliances | 5-15% | $2,000-$6,000 |
| Plumbing/Electric/HVAC | 5-15% | $2,000-$5,000 |
| Lighting | 2-5% | $800-$2,000 |
| Painting | 2-5% | $800-$2,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 15-20% | Includes reserve budget for unforeseen expenses, extras such as tile backsplash, the cost of permits |
Let The Designery help you find affordable kitchen remodel solutions
There are many ways to save money on a kitchen remodel, but it’s not always obvious. A professional can show you options you were unaware of that free up more of your budget. Plus, they’ll help you avoid costly mistakes.
Best of all, there’s no risk to learning more. Reach out for a free design consultation today.
FAQ
What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel?
The average cost of a simple remodel to a smaller kitchen is approximately $27,000 or $150 per square foot. This figure changes based on the remodel specifications and the price of materials and labor in your area.
Many experts advise keeping the cost of a kitchen remodel between 5-15% of your home’s value. If your home is currently worth $500,000, allocate between $25,000 and $75,000 for a kitchen remodel.
How can I save money on a kitchen remodel?
Meet your remodeling budget’s demands by refurbishing existing elements such as cabinets, keeping the current layout, buying fixtures and appliances on sale, and doing tasks like demolition and painting yourself.
What is the cheapest way to remodel a kitchen?
The cheapest kitchen remodel would involve ready-to-assemble cabinetry or painting existing cabinets. Other budget basics include laminate countertops and flooring and repairing some appliances instead of replacing them.
