Remodeling your kitchen is a significant investment, but it’s also one of the best ways to enhance your home’s functionality, style, and value. However, understanding the cost of a kitchen remodel can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many factors to consider and so many conflicting opinions.

This easy to digest guide dives into the details to help you better understand what influences kitchen remodeling costs, how these projects are calculated, and why choosing an experienced contractor is a critical part for projects ultimate success.

What Are the Most Expensive Parts of a Kitchen Remodel?

The cost of a kitchen remodel varies widely depending on the scope, materials, and features you choose. Here are the key components that tend to drive costs:

1. Cabinetry and Hardware: Why Are They So Expensive?

Cabinetry is often the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel, accounting for 30-40% of the total cost. Custom cabinets, built to exact specifications, offer tailored storage, premium finishes, and features like soft-close hinges and dovetail joints, making them a high-end investment. Semi-custom cabinets provide some customization at a lower cost, while stock cabinets are the most budget-friendly but lack personalization.

Door styles and materials also impact costs. Intricate designs like raised panels or shaker doors require more labor, while solid hardwood materials like maple or cherry are more expensive than MDF or plywood. Add-ons like pull-out trays, lazy Susans, and premium hardware further enhance functionality and style, but increase the overall price. Together, these factors make cabinetry a critical and costly element of any kitchen remodel.

2. Countertops: What Drives the Cost?

Countertops are a key feature in any kitchen remodel, with costs ranging from $3,000 for entry-level materials like laminate to $8,000 or more for premium options like quartz or granite. The size of the countertop area directly affects costs, as larger kitchens require more material and labor.

Material choice is a significant factor, with natural stone options like granite and marble being more expensive than engineered quartz or laminate. Customizations, such as decorative edge profiles, integrated sinks, or waterfall designs, add both aesthetic appeal and additional costs. Durability, appearance, and maintenance requirements also influence the price, making countertops a critical and often costly investment.

3. Labor and Skilled Trades

Labor costs account for about 20-35% of a remodel’s budget. Hiring licensed professionals ensures your project is done safely and to code. Trades typically involved include:

- Plumbers: Installing sinks, faucets, garbage disposals, and sometimes relocating plumbing lines.
- Electricians: Wiring for lighting, appliances, outlets, and ensuring everything meets modern code.
- Carpenters: Custom cabinetry, trim work, and framing.
- Tile Installers: Backsplashes and flooring.

4. Appliances: A Range of Options and Costs

Upgrading kitchen appliances can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000+ depending on the brand, size, and features. Built-in appliances, such as wall ovens and refrigerators, are more expensive due to the custom cabinetry and installation they require. Professional-grade or commercial-grade appliances, like six-burner gas ranges or oversized refrigerators, add significant functionality but come with a higher price tag.

Common appliance choices include gas ranges or electric stoves, dual ovens, refrigerators with integrated freezers, dishwashers, and microwaves. Luxury upgrades like wine fridges, integrated coffee machines, or smart appliances with app connectivity can further elevate the functionality of the kitchen while increasing costs. The combination of energy efficiency, advanced features, and premium finishes makes appliances a major investment (and often compromise) in any kitchen remodel.

5. Flooring: Costs and Considerations

Replacing kitchen flooring can range from $3,000 to $10,000+ depending on the material and complexity of installation. Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) are popular for their durability and affordability, while hardwood offers timeless beauty at a higher price point. Laminate provides a budget-friendly alternative to hardwood, and tile or natural stone add elegance but require more labor, increasing costs.

Additional considerations include transitions to adjacent rooms, kick panels, and ensuring a seamless fit around cabinets and islands. Materials like tile or stone demand precise fitting and setting, which raises labor costs. Flooring is both a functional and aesthetic upgrade, making it an important element of any kitchen remodel.

6. Lighting and Electrical

Proper lighting is a crucial element in any kitchen remodel, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. A well-lit kitchen not only makes cooking and meal preparation easier but also enhances the overall ambiance and design. The cost of kitchen lighting typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the type, quantity, and complexity of the lighting features you choose. Here's a breakdown of common lighting options and their associated costs:

Under-Cabinet Lighting ($200 - $1,000)

Under-cabinet lighting is both practical and stylish, illuminating countertops for tasks like chopping, measuring, and cooking.

- - - Types: Options include LED strips, puck lights, or tape lighting.
    - Costs: Basic plug-and-play options can be inexpensive, while hardwired LED systems with dimming capabilities are on the higher end.
    - Benefits: Adds task lighting without taking up space and can create a modern, sleek look.

Recessed Lighting ($800 - $2,500)

Recessed or "can" lights are a popular choice for general kitchen lighting, providing bright and even illumination.

- - - Installation Costs: Can vary based on the number of lights and the difficulty of running electrical wiring in your ceiling.
    - Features: Dimmable options allow you to adjust the brightness to suit the time of day or mood.

Decorative Fixtures ($300 - $2,000+)

Decorative lighting includes pendant lights, chandeliers, and statement fixtures that add personality to your kitchen.

- - - Pendant Lights: Ideal for lighting islands or dining areas, with costs ranging from $100 to $500 per fixture.
    - Chandeliers: Larger, more ornate fixtures can cost $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the design and material.
    - Benefits: Decorative lighting acts as a focal point, adding visual interest to the kitchen.

Ambient and Accent Lighting ($500 - $1,500)

Adding ambient or accent lighting can elevate your kitchen's overall design.

- - - Toe-Kick Lighting: Installed along the base of cabinets for a subtle glow, typically around $200 to $500.
    - Ceiling Washers: Lights that direct illumination upward to create a soft, diffused effect on the ceiling, costing $300 to $700.

Smart Lighting Features ($500 - $2,000+)

Modern kitchens often incorporate smart lighting systems that allow you to control brightness, color temperature, and even the color of your lights via an app on your phone or tablet or even with voice commands.

- - - Costs: Smart bulbs and hubs can be relatively affordable, but fully integrated systems may require a higher upfront investment for the components and installation.

Electrical Work

The cost of installing kitchen lighting also includes the labor required for running wires, upgrading or installing dimmer switches, and ensuring the electrical setup complies with local building and safety codes.

- - - Electrician Costs: Professional installation can cost $75 to $150 per hour, depending on the complexity of the work.

What to Consider When Planning Kitchen Lighting

- - Layered Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and decorative lighting for a well-balanced design.
  - Energy Efficiency: LED lighting is a cost-effective, energy-saving choice with long-lasting bulbs.
  - Style and Design: Choose fixtures that complement your cabinetry, countertops, and overall kitchen aesthetic.

Investing in quality lighting not only enhances the functionality of your kitchen but also adds to its overall value and appeal. By working with an experienced contractor like Armstrong Interiors, you can ensure your lighting plan is tailored to your needs, budget, and vision for the space.

Layout Changes: How They Impact Kitchen Remodeling Costs

Layout changes can significantly increase the cost of a kitchen remodel, as they often involve reconfiguring plumbing, electrical systems, walls, and ventilation. Depending on the scope, these changes can add $5,000 to $20,000 or more. Here's how specific layout adjustments affect costs and complexity:

Relocating Plumbing

- - Scope: Moving sinks, dishwashers, or refrigerators requires rerouting water lines, drainpipes, and sometimes gas lines.
  - Costs: $1,500 to $5,000+, with higher costs for slab foundations or older plumbing systems.
  - Why It’s Expensive: Plumbing changes often require significant labor and may involve opening walls or floors.

Adjusting Electrical Systems

- - Scope: Moving outlets, wiring for appliances, or adding new circuits for kitchen islands or heavy-load appliances.
  - Costs: $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the number of outlets and appliances involved.
  - Complexity: Adding new circuits or rewiring for upgraded appliances can be labor-intensive, especially in older homes.

Removing or Moving Walls

- - Scope: Creating an open-concept design by removing walls or reconfiguring spaces.
  - Costs:
    - Non-load-bearing walls: $500 to $2,500.
    - Load-bearing walls: $5,000 to $10,000+ due to structural reinforcements like beams or columns.
  - Challenges: Removing load-bearing walls requires structural engineering and precise execution to maintain the home’s integrity.

Adding or Expanding a Kitchen Island

- - Scope: Adding an island with electrical outlets, plumbing, or a cooktop.
  - Costs: $3,000 to $10,000+, depending on features.

Why It’s Costly: Requires additional electrical and plumbing work, plus custom cabinetry or countertops.

Expanding the Kitchen Footprint

- - Scope: Extending the kitchen into adjacent rooms or adding square footage with an addition.
  - Costs: Starts at $15,000 and increases with structural work or exterior changes like windows or siding.
  - Complexity: Includes foundation work, structural framing, and updates to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.

Relocating Ventilation

- - Scope: Moving range hoods or installing ductwork for appliances in new locations.
  - Costs: $500 to $3,000, depending on duct length and accessibility.

Importance: Proper ventilation ensures safety and compliance with building codes.

What Makes Layout Changes Expensive?

- - Permits and Inspections: Permits for structural, plumbing, and electrical changes can cost $500 to $1,500 or more.
  - Specialized Labor: Skilled professionals like plumbers, electricians, and carpenters increase labor costs.
  - Unforeseen Challenges: Older homes may require upgrades to meet modern codes, such as replacing outdated wiring or plumbing.

How Are Kitchen Remodeling Costs Calculated?

Kitchen remodeling costs are calculated based on several factors and this is why it's so difficult to pin-point pricing in a simple article on the internet. Every single kitchen we remodel is different and the scale and scope of the project varies. The following items can all impact the cost of your kitchen remodeling project:

Square Footage

The size of your kitchen directly affects costs. A larger kitchen requires more materials (cabinets, countertops, flooring) and more labor to complete.

Materials

High-end finishes like custom cabinetry, premium countertops, and professional-grade appliances come at a premium. Your choices in materials will heavily influence the final price and there are a wide plethora of options available.

Complexity

The more complex the project, the higher the cost. For example, relocating plumbing and electrical lines requires additional permits, labor, time, and materials.

Permits and Inspections

Kitchen remodels often require permits for electrical, plumbing, and structural changes, which can add $500 to $1,500 or more to the budget.

Customization

Custom features such as built-in shelving, kitchen islands, custom storage solutions, built-in seating, integrated appliances, or unique design elements also will increase costs.

Scheduling a Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen remodeling projects are carefully planned to minimize disruptions and ensure smooth progress. Here’s what to expect during the timeline:

1. Planning and Design (2-6 weeks):
  - Initial consultation to discuss your needs, design preferences, and budget.
  - Selection of materials, appliances, and finishes.
2. Permits and Ordering (2-4 weeks):
  - Obtain necessary permits.
  - Order materials such as cabinets, countertops, and flooring.
3. Demolition (1-3 days):
  - Old cabinets, countertops, and flooring are removed.
4. Rough-In Work (1-2 weeks):
  - Plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians complete necessary installations.
5. Cabinet Installation (1-2 weeks):
  - Cabinets are installed, and adjustments are made to ensure a perfect fit.
6. Countertop Installation (1 week):
  - Countertops are measured, fabricated, and installed.
7. Flooring and Finishing Touches (1-2 weeks):
  - Flooring, backsplashes, and painting are completed, along with appliance installation.
8. Final Inspection and Walkthrough:
  - Ensure all work meets your expectations and is up to code.

Why Choosing an Experienced Contractor Can Keep Your Costs Predictable

Hiring an experienced contractor is critical for staying on budget and avoiding any expensive surprises. A skilled contractor can:

- Provide accurate estimates based on previous projects.
- Anticipate potential challenges and suggest cost-effective solutions.
- Calculate material quantities precisely to avoid waste.
- Ensure that the project is completed on time and to your satisfaction.

At Armstrong Interiors, our team brings decades of experience to every kitchen remodel. We work closely with you to ensure your vision is realized while keeping your budget and timeline in focus.

Proudly Serving Homeowners in New Jersey

At Armstrong Interiors, we specialize in high-quality kitchen remodeling for homeowners in Hunterdon, Somerset, and Mercer Counties. Our expertise and attention to detail ensure stunning results that elevate your home and lifestyle.

We proudly serve the following cities:

- Flemington
- Raritan Township
- Clinton
- Lambertville
- Princeton
- Montgomery
- Hillsborough
- Bridgewater
- Hopewell

Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?

At Armstrong Interiors, we bring over 25 years of experience to every kitchen remodeling project, combining innovative design with expert craftsmanship. Our team has earned a reputation for delivering beautiful, functional spaces that exceed our clients’ expectations. From concept to completion, we guide you through every step of the process, ensuring clear communication, attention to detail, and a seamless remodeling experience.

Our satisfied clients consistently praise our ability to transform outdated kitchens into stunning, personalized spaces that elevate both their homes and lifestyles. Whether it’s a minor upgrade or a complete overhaul, we take pride in delivering exceptional results that enhance the heart of your home.

Let us show you how our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Contact Armstrong Interiors today (908) 806-7341 or fill out our online consultation form to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward the kitchen of your dreams. Experience the difference of working with a trusted team that truly understands your vision and brings it to life with precision and care.