One of the first and most important questions homeowners ask when considering a kitchen remodel is simple: How much does a kitchen remodel cost? Unfortunately, it’s also one of the hardest questions to answer with a single number.
The cost of a kitchen remodel depends on many factors, including the size of the kitchen, the scope of work, layout changes, materials, cabinetry, finishes, labor, and whether the project involves structural modifications. Two kitchens may look similar at first glance yet differ in cost by tens of thousands of dollars based on what’s happening behind the walls.
This guide breaks down realistic kitchen remodeling costs, what’s typically included at different investment levels, what affects pricing, and how to budget intelligently, especially for homeowners planning a long-term, high-quality renovation.
Kitchen remodels typically fall into three broad categories:
Medium kitchen updates
Large kitchen remodels
Open floorplan kitchen renovations
Each level reflects a different scope of work and investment.
This level is ideal for homeowners who want a full kitchen refresh while working within the existing footprint.
What’s typically included:
Fully gutted kitchen within the same layout
New plumbing for replacement fixtures (same locations)
Electrical upgrades, including under-cabinet lighting
Insulation, sheetrock, and trim
All-wood, American-made cabinetry
Quartz countertops
Tile backsplash
Hardwood or tile flooring
Undermount stainless steel sink and new faucet
Painting
Removal of all construction debris
Lifetime warranty on workmanship
What’s not included:
Decorative light fixtures
Appliances
Permit fees
This investment level delivers a major transformation without altering walls or relocating major systems, making it a strong option for homeowners who like their current layout but want improved function, storage, and style.
A large kitchen remodel goes beyond cosmetic upgrades and begins to reimagine how the space functions.
What’s typically included:
Fully gutted kitchen
Wall removal to open the space
New kitchen layout with additional cabinetry
Relocated plumbing for sinks or appliances
Expanded electrical work with cabinet lighting
Insulation and sheetrock
Detailed trim work, including crown molding
Hardwood or tile flooring extending into the new layout
All-wood, American-made cabinetry
Kitchen island with bar sink and faucet
Decorative tile backsplash
Painting
Removal of all debris
Lifetime workmanship warranty
This price range reflects a true transformation by opening walls, improving flow, increasing storage, and creating a kitchen designed for entertaining and daily living.
An open floorplan kitchen renovation is the most comprehensive level of investment and often impacts multiple areas of the home.
What’s typically included:
Full demolition of the existing kitchen
Structural modifications
New design layout spanning multiple spaces
Relocated plumbing and electrical systems
Expanded flooring throughout connected areas
Custom or semi-custom all-wood cabinetry
Large island with seating, sink, and storage
Quartz countertops
High-end decorative tile
Extensive lighting upgrades
Trim, crown molding, and finish carpentry
Painting
Complete debris removal
Lifetime warranty on workmanship
These projects are architectural in nature and require detailed planning, permitting, engineering, and experienced craftsmanship.
Homeowners often ask what they’re actually paying for beyond cabinets and countertops. A professionally executed kitchen remodel includes far more than visible finishes.
Layout planning and space optimization
Cabinet configuration and storage design
Finish coordination
Code compliance
Removal of existing cabinetry, flooring, and finishes
Proper disposal of debris
Site protection
Plumbing upgrades and relocation
Electrical rewiring and new circuits
Lighting installation
Ventilation improvements
Insulation and sheetrock
Flooring installation
Cabinet installation
Countertop fabrication and install
Tile backsplash installation
Trim and finish carpentry
Painting
Final plumbing and electrical connections
Cleanup and inspection readiness
Kitchen remodeling costs are influenced by multiple variables. Understanding these helps homeowners budget accurately and avoid surprises.
A cosmetic update costs significantly less than a fully gutted kitchen with layout changes. The more systems involved, the higher the investment.
Cabinetry is often the single largest line item in a kitchen remodel. All-wood, American-made cabinets cost more than stock options but deliver durability, longevity, and superior function.
Removing walls, relocating plumbing, or modifying structure increases costs due to engineering, permits, labor, and materials.
Material choice matters:
Laminate (lower cost)
Quartz (durable and popular)
Natural stone (higher maintenance and cost)
Professional-grade appliances require dedicated electrical circuits, ventilation, and sometimes gas upgrades, increasing overall cost.
Extending flooring into adjacent spaces or upgrading materials increases labor and material costs.
Tile, hardware, faucets, lighting, and trim details all add up and can significantly affect the final number.
Permit fees vary by township and scope. Structural work typically requires more approvals.
Experienced, licensed professionals cost more, but they ensure code compliance, craftsmanship, and long-term performance.
Older homes may reveal:
Outdated wiring
Plumbing issues
Structural deficiencies
Hidden water damage
A contingency budget is always recommended.
Many homeowners see online estimates like “$25,000 kitchen remodel” and wonder why professional quotes are higher. The reality is that those numbers often exclude critical components such as:
Full demolition
Electrical upgrades
Plumbing relocation
Insulation
Permits
Quality cabinetry
Skilled labor
A professionally remodeled kitchen is an investment in safety, durability, and long-term value, not just aesthetics.
Kitchen remodels consistently rank among the top home improvements for homeowner satisfaction and resale value. Beyond ROI, the real value comes from:
Improved daily function
Increased energy efficiency
Enhanced entertaining space
A kitchen designed for your lifestyle
A well-planned remodel improves how your home works, not just how it looks.
A realistic budget should include:
Design and planning
Construction and labor
Materials and finishes
Permits and inspections
A contingency for unforeseen conditions
Working with a design-build remodeling company helps align expectations early and ensures pricing reflects the full scope of work.
So, how much does a kitchen remodel cost? The honest answer is: it depends on what you’re building, how you want to live in the space, and the level of quality you expect.
In New Jersey, professionally executed kitchen remodels typically range from $80,000 to $160,000+, depending on scope, layout, materials, and structural complexity. While that investment is significant, it delivers a kitchen that functions better, lasts longer, and enhances your home for years to come.
The key is transparency, planning, and working with a reputable remodeling team that helps you understand exactly what’s included, and why. To schedule a free consultation with our team, click here.