The cost of remodeling a kitchen: What you need to know

It doesn’t take much for a kitchen to look outdated. Maybe your appliances need an upgrade, your cabinets are too traditional, or your backsplash looks 20 years too old. If you’re dreaming of an update, the possibilities are endless — but so is the potential investment. Whether you’re looking to make a few budget-friendly updates or dreaming of a high-end renovation, understanding the cost of remodeling a kitchen can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial surprises.

The good news is that a kitchen upgrade is a cost-effective way to add value to your home, which can be beneficial whether you’re looking to sell or you simply want to enjoy your current home even more. According to The Journal of Light Construction’s (JLC) 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a kitchen remodel can add, on average, an additional value of $13,500 to $25,920 to your home. Here’s what to consider as you weigh your options.

If your kitchen is functional but could use a facelift, a budget-friendly refresh might be all you need. A minor kitchen remodel is a low-stress way to breathe new life into your kitchen without disrupting your day-to-day living. Typically, this type of remodel consists of simple upgrades like updating hardware and changing light fixtures. Hardware like drawer pulls and cabinet knobs can cost anywhere from $2 to $20 per piece, depending upon the type of quality you’d like for your home. And light fixtures can brighten your space for $150-$600, depending on the fixture style.

Instead of replacing your cabinets, a fresh coat of paint can dramatically transform their appearance. You can purchase the materials yourself to paint cabinets, which may require sandpaper, primer, and paint. Or, you could consider hiring professionals who cost, on average depending on the size of the kitchen, around $1,000. You can also update a backsplash with peel-and-stick tiles or basic ceramic tile installations, which range from $100 to $1,000.

The good news is that a minor kitchen remodel offers a great return on investment: an average of 93.5 percent in the Triangle area, according to JLC. A minor remodel is a cost-effective way to enhance your home.

If you don’t want to completely overhaul your kitchen but you want to do more than just paint and swap out fixtures, you may want to consider a midrange, yet minor kitchen remodel. A mid-range remodel involves more substantial changes and often includes replacing outdated appliances, upgrading countertops, or installing new flooring. JLC reports this update costs, on average, $26,296. Yet even this type of facelift results in a 93.5 percent ROI in the Triangle area.

When determining the cost of remodeling a kitchen, consider the type of appliances and countertops you’d want to invest in. High-end, energy-efficient appliances can range from $2,500 to $10,000 for a full set. And materials like quartz or granite can cost anywhere from $40-$100 per square foot installed. If you’d like to upgrade your flooring, you may be investing between $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the size of your home.

At this level, you may want to consider hiring a contractor to tackle the remodel, who may charge you a percentage of the cost of the remodel and will keep the job on schedule and budget.

Would you rather invest more into customizing your kitchen? Then you may want to consider a major, mid-range remodel. These remodels require a contractor to do the work due to the level of work that goes into them. In today’s market, many kitchen remodels result in new cabinetry with laminate countertops, an island, energy-efficient appliance packages, custom lighting, and new flooring.

These types of kitchen remodels average around $76,913 in the Triangle. The key point here is that the return on investment drops to 44.9 percent, so this type of upgrade shouldn’t be done if you’re going to turn around and sell the home. But if you’re looking to enjoy your home for a longer amount of time, mid-range may be the way to go.

If you want to completely transform your kitchen, a high-end renovation might be your best option. The cost of remodeling a kitchen this way is significant: an average of $151,628 in the Triangle. You’ll want a highly-experienced contractor to take on this renovation, which should be factored into the cost.

Typically, in a renovation of this kind, you’ll include custom cabinetry that is built for your space. These cabinets start at $500 per linear foot and are often outfitted with sliding shelves and accessories. A high-end kitchen includes premium appliance brands like Sub-Zero and Wolf, which can add $10,000 to $25,000 to your kitchen costs.

High-end kitchens are often designed with natural stone countertops such as marble, which can exceed $200 per square foot. Luxury flooring like hardwood or imported tile typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the kitchen. These kitchens may include the need for structural changes such as removing walls or reconfiguring the layout, which can add $10,000 or more to the project.

This type of kitchen should be reserved for a home you’ll want to enjoy for some time. The ROI on a remodel of this level is 35 percent in the Triangle.

There’s a lot to weigh as you consider the cost of remodeling a kitchen. Keep in mind that a remodeled kitchen improves your home’s functionality while also boosting its resale value. No matter your budget or vision, remodeling your kitchen can be a rewarding project that enhances your daily life and adds value to your home. The key is to set your priorities and to determine the budget you’re more comfortable with. And don’t forget to get multiple quotes that you can compare to get the best value and most trustworthy team on your side.

By understanding the costs and planning accordingly, you can create a space you’ll love for years to come.