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One of the most significant factors in renovations is the budget. However, estimating how much it may cost to remodel a kitchen can be pretty complicated. 

Thus, hiring a home improvement contractor in San Diego hastily or without careful thought and research is not recommended. You may have heard stories of contractors giving inaccurate estimates, negatively affecting the project’s outcome.

This article covers some tips on estimating kitchen remodeling costs so that you can budget accordingly for your renovations. 

Average cost of remodeling a kitchen

The average cost of a kitchen remodeling varies substantially depending on the size, finish quality, and depth of the refurbishment. Here are some size-specific estimates for a broader overview.

How much does it cost to remodel a 12×12 kitchen? 

A 12×12 kitchen is usually regarded as the standard size kitchen. This dimension gives you an opportunity to do almost any sort of remodeling you want. 

Depending on materials and labor, remodeling a kitchen of this size may cost between $14,000 and $36,000.

10×10 kitchen remodel cost

A 10×10 kitchen is a typical medium-sized kitchen. This kitchen size allows you a decent amount of creativity in most cases.

You may want to consider putting an island in the centre of the kitchen, and larger appliances may also be added. 

The average cost is $15,000, although it may range from $10,000 to $30,000.

More information on things to consider for kitchen remodeling for kitchens of various sizes and places can be found on our blog.

The average cost of small kitchen remodel

Whether your kitchen needs a little makeover or a complete overhaul, the cost of remodeling a small kitchen is less than that of a large one. That is fantastic news, especially if you’re operating on a tight budget. 

However, every nook and cranny must be utilized when space is limited. And that’s something you can take advantage of throughout the remodeling planning process.

So, what does a small kitchen makeover cost? According to Forbes, the typical cost of a modest kitchen makeover is between $9,500 to $14,250, based on an industry estimate of $150 per square foot for materials and labor. 

That is, if your kitchen is between 60 and 120 square feet. High-end renovation projects may cost anywhere between $25,000 and $35,000, while minor projects might cost between $3,000 and $5,000.

Kitchen remodeling cost breakdown

This guide will walk you through the processes of estimating your remodel. However, it is recommended to get a quotation from kitchen remodeling contractors for a more accurate estimate.

Basic Kitchen Remodel 

Kitchen renovation can be quite expensive; however, a small budget may suffice with a basic kitchen remodel.

To keep costs low, it is advised to retain the kitchen’s original structure and add simple improvements.

Countertops: Choose a cost-smart countertop material (granite, marble, or quartzite) – $3,500-$6,500.

Cabinets: Repaint and refinish existing cabinets, as well as change the hardware. If the budget allows, replace cabinet doors – $1,500-$3,500.

Minor plumbing: Update the faucet and sink – $750-$2,500.

Paint walls and ceiling: $750-$2,000.

Replace socket and light switch plates: $75-$125 per hour for an electrician and $5-$25 per socket.

Lighting: Do a lighting exchange with existing fixtures – $250-$750.

Flooring: Install low-cost laminate flooring or polish existing wood floors – $1,000-$2,500.

basic kitchen remodel
Photo by Sven Brandsma on Unsplash

Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel 

This is where the average kitchen remodeling falls. At this point, homeowners often hire kitchen designers, do some basic improvement themselves, and leave the rest to the professionals.

Keep the room’s basic structure to remain in this price range. Remove the old elements and replace them with improved alternatives.

Cabinets: Make them more efficient and stylish by installing new cabinets – $7,500-$15,500.

Countertops: Upgrade countertops top quality materials, such as marble – $3,500-$7,000.

Lighting: Modify lighting with new fixtures, and add undercabinet task lighting – $1,000-$2,500.

Appliances: Upgrade existing appliances with energy-efficient versions – $3,800-$8,500.

Paint walls, and ceiling: $1,000-$1,500.

Plumbing: Replace worn-out faucet, sink, and fixtures with modern versions like the single-basin sink, gooseneck faucet, or built-in soap dispenser – $800-$2,500.

Flooring: Replace old floors with tiles or laminate – $2,500-$4,500.

Backsplash: Add design with a tile backsplash – $1,000-$2,500.

Deluxe Kitchen Remodel

Make a wish list, engage a designer, and create the perfect space for the core of your home. A deluxe kitchen remodel includes comprehensive remodeling and redesign of space.

Open space: Remove walls and open up the kitchen to make it more livable, functional, and visible to the rest of your home (Price varies).

Reposition of exterior doors and windows: To bring more light and expand your kitchen space, the area must be reorganized, including repositioning exterior doors and windows (Price varies).

Custom cabinets: Hire a cabinet maker to make cabinets with features such as cherry wood, soft-close doors, and crown molding – $15,000-$20,000.

Unique countertops: Create workstations instead of counter spaces with no function. It’s more efficient and appealing to the eye. Use a substantial, stylish material like natural stone or marble – $7,500-$10,000+.

Built-in appliances: These appliances may feature a convection oven with a warming drawer, a microwave drawer, and some other built-in appliances – $12,500-$20,000.

Upscale sink and faucet: Choose from a farmhouse sink, a triple-basin sink, or a nickel-plated faucet with a pullout spout, according to your taste and needs – $3,000-$4,500.

Lighting: Install track lighting, recessed lighting, and undercabinet workstation lighting – $3,750-$5,500.

Flooring: Install natural stone for long-lasting flooring or cork for an eco-friendly choice. Install the same flooring across the home to create a consistent flow – $4,500-$7,500.

Paint the walls and ceiling: $750-$2,000.

Add other stylish elements: Add crown molding, glass tile backsplash, and concealed under cabinet electrical outlets $1,000+.

Things to consider when estimating kitchen remodeling cost

Home Value

Considering your home’s overall market worth when determining a kitchen renovation budget is a reasonable rule of thumb. 

This will determine the amount of money you should budget for the project. There are no fixed criteria for this since everyone’s idea for their kitchen varies.

However, a kitchen remodeling for a mansion should typically be more expensive than a studio apartment.

Location

Where you live is also a component that may affect your costs. In fact, location can be more important in estimating than even the size and condition of the house.

Therefore, your home’s proximity to highways, utility lines, and public transit can impact the amount of money you may spend on remodeling it.

For example, the estimate for remodeling a kitchen in California would significantly be different from that of Indianapolis. This is because California is a metropolis, hence, the higher cost of living.

Project scale & kitchen size

The overall cost of your kitchen makeover will be significantly influenced by the size of your kitchen and the scope of your project.

Smaller kitchens usually cost less than larger kitchens.

Elements

The cost of a kitchen remodel may also be determined by the individual components you intend to include in the kitchen, such as furniture, appliances, tiles or floors, décor, and so on.

Certain pieces will cost more than others because of their function, size, and basic material.

Labor 

Finally, don’t forget about labor costs. Depending on the circumstances, they may cost up to a decent fraction of your budget. 

Can you remodel a kitchen for $5000?

Yes! As discussed above, you can remodel a kitchen for as little as $5,000, especially if the kitchen is a small one.

What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?

The most expensive part of a kitchen remodel usually is the cabinets, followed by new appliances.

Countertops are also a big expense but they generally cost just under $6,000.

cabinets
Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash

Are cabinets or countertops more expensive?

On average, installing cabinets costs $5,050, whereas installing countertops costs $3,300. Prices for both are dependent on the chosen materials.

How much should I budget for new kitchen cabinets? 

Cabinets may range from $2,500 to $24,000, depending on the materials and quality. However, the majority of new cabinet costs are between $4,000 and $10,000.

How much do kitchen appliances cost?

For an energy-efficient cooking experience, most appliances will range in price from low-cost freestanding units to bespoke built-in appliances with additional capabilities such as sensors and Bluetooth connectivity.

The following are the average pricing for common kitchen appliances, as well as the most essential elements to consider when deciding which ones to include in your kitchen remodel:

Dishwasher

A simple dishwasher may be purchased for under $250. Products in this price range, however, are not as efficient, effective, or silent as more costly models.

Anticipate paying between $600 and $1,000 for a high-quality product with strong energy-efficiency reviews.

Bear in mind that large capacity or stainless steel dishwashers will be more expensive.

Refrigerator

Many people choose side-by-side refrigerators because they have a greater capacity and convenient access to both the refrigerator and the freezer.

A basic model will cost roughly $700, while a refrigerator with all the bells and whistles will cost over $2,500. Fridges with a bottom-mounted freezer typically cost from $800 to $1,800.

A refrigerator with a top-mounted freezer, which costs between $350 and $600, is likely to be the most cost-effective alternative if you’re on a budget.

Cooking range

The cooking range, also known as the powerhouse of most busy kitchens, has a wide price range. For $350, you can get a basic model, but don’t expect a lot of features.

Premium versions include a warming drawer, convection and induction cooking, and even a double oven if you want to go all out. They cost about $7,000.

The top-of-the-line stainless steel range will set you back at around $2,000, but you’ll be able to customize the layout, burner style, and oven size to fit your needs.

Microwave

Don’t forget to include a microwave in your budget for kitchen equipment.

A cheap, no-frills model will set you back roughly $80, while a luxury model will set you back $300 or more.

microwave
Photo by JOSBRA design on Unsplash

Conclusion

A kitchen remodel is an improvement guaranteed to add value to your home and the way you live. One of the best ways to reduce the overall cost is to have one company handle both design and construction.

At Style & Structure, kitchen remodeling is more than just a service that we offer; it’s what we specialize in.

We are experienced and licensed professional home remodeling contractors in San Diego that offers advisory services to help you choose an appropriate kitchen remodeling design and select suitable materials that will last at a reasonable price.

We also designate a dedicated project manager to handle the kitchen remodel process from start to finish, including your budgeting.

Feel free to browse our client’s testimonials on kitchen remodeling projects in San Diego for more information on our previous projects.

If you’re not sure whether it’s the correct time for some kitchen works, read ‘10 Signs Your Kitchen Needs Remodeling’ or contact us for more information.