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Kitchen Renovation Cost Estimator

What would you like to change in your kitchen?
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Written by Ramona Sinha - Last Updated Monday, Jun 26, 2025. 5-min read

Ramona is the senior content writer for Kukun. This professional uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home renovation, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she's a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.

Kukun's Kitchen Renovation Cost Estimator provides ZIP-code-based pricing that factors in kitchen size, layout, material finishes, appliances, and regional labor costs, empowering you to plan your dream kitchen with confidence.

  • Localized Pricing: Aligns estimates with local ZIP code data on labor, materials, and permits
  • Finish-Level Control: Budget, mid-range, and luxury options for cabinetry, countertops, and appliance upgrades
  • ROI Calculator: Anticipate resale value boosts (55-78% ROI on kitchens)
  • Time & Permit Estimates: Know your timeline and expected fees before starting
  • Contractor Matching: Access vetted professionals in your area
  • Minor Refresh: $10k-$25k (paint, hardware, low-cost countertops)
  • Mid-Range Remodel: $22k-$80k (new cabinets, appliances, flooring)
  • Luxury Renovation: $65k+ (custom layouts, high-end finishes)
  • Per Square Foot: $75-$250+

Use Kukun to refine these estimates with your ZIP, kitchen size, layout changes, and finish preferences.

Project Type Cost Range Typical ROI
Minor Refresh $10k-$25k 55-65%
Mid-Range Remodel $22k-$80k 60-70%
Luxury Renovation $65k+ Up to 78%

Choose between cabinet refacing, full replacement, layout reconfiguration, or eco-friendly upgrades to balance budget and impact.

  • Cabinetry (40-45%): Stock, semi-custom, or custom units, biggest variable
  • Countertops (10-15%): Laminate to exotic stone, measured per sqft
  • Appliances (5-15%): Standard to smart, energy-efficient units
  • Flooring (5-10%): Vinyl, tile, hardwood options
  • Labor & Installation (20-25%): Includes cabinet set-up, plumbing, electrical
  • Permits & Overhead (3-8%): Local fees, design costs

Expect surprises, mold, wiring upgrades, layout adjustments, or supply delays. Kukun recommends a 15-25% contingency buffer based on industry data.

  • Refresh/Refacing: 1-2 weeks
  • Mid-Range Remodel: 3-6 weeks
  • Gut/Luxury Remodel: 6-12+ weeks (Add 10-20% buffer for permit processing and material lead times.)

Urban areas often run 15-30% higher than rural areas. Kukun's estimator adjusts for ZIP-level variations in labor, material cost, and permitting.

Task DIY Feasible? Risk
Painting, Hardware Low
Countertops, Backsplash Medium
Cabinets & Layout Changes High
Plumbing, Electrical High Risk

Kukun helps you analyze where DIY saves costs and where professional skills are worth investing.


Save energy and qualify for rebates with these options:

Popular funding sources include HELOCs, home equity loans, personal loans, and credit cards. Use Kukun's robust Loan Calculator to compare interest, monthly payment, and total cost.

  • 1. Define your scope and budget
  • 2. Apply a contingency buffer and ROI goals
  • 3. Review local permit needs
  • 4. Inspect for hidden issues
  • 5. Select styles and materials early
  • 6. Get multiple contractor quotes via Find A Contractor
  • 7. Plan for temporary kitchen access
  • Popular styles: contemporary, farmhouse, mid-century modern
  • Trending finishes: quartz countertops, green/white cabinetry
  • Functional upgrades: smart appliances, multi-tier islands, sustainable flooring

Visit Kukun's design blog to explore design choices and cost impacts.

  • Q: How much does a mid-range kitchen remodel cost?
  • A: $22k-$80k, depending on locale and finish choices.
  • Q: What ROI can I expect from a kitchen renovation?
  • A: Typically between 55-78%.
  • Q: How long will the project take?
  • A: From 1 week (refresh) to 12+ weeks (gut remodel).
  • Q: How much should I budget for permits and contingencies?
  • A: Plan ~5% for permits and 15-25% buffer for surprises.

Click below to:

  • Enter ZIP code & project specifics
  • Choose your finish level and layout
  • Add buffers, eco-options, and financing
  • Connect with vetted local contractors
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Now you are ready to start your home renovation project