Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator

How the kitchen cost estimate works

The calculator looks up the report's average job cost for the tier and region you choose, scales it by your size compared with the report's reference size, then adds your contingency. It also shows the lowest and highest regional average for the same tier, so you can see how much the answer moves.

scale       = your area ÷ report area
cost        = report job cost × scale
contingency = cost × contingency % ÷ 100
budget      = cost + contingency
low, high   = lowest and highest regional
              cost × scale, plus contingency

National averages for each tier

Source 1. Cost is job cost for the reference size shown under each project scope below; recouped is resale value divided by job cost. Resale value is the survey estimate of Realtors, not a sale price.

Project scope for each tier

Minor kitchen remodel, midrange (200 sq ft reference)

In functional but dated 200-square-foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of cabinetry and countertops, leave cabinet boxes in place but replace fronts with new shaker-style wood panels and drawer fronts, including new hardware. Replace cooktop/oven range and slide-in refrigerator with new energy-efficient models. Replace laminate countertops; install midpriced sink and faucet. Add new resilient flooring. Finish with painted walls, trim, and ceiling. (source 3)

Major kitchen remodel, midrange (200 sq ft reference)

Update outmoded 200-square-foot kitchen with functional layout of 30 linear feet of semi-custom wood cabinets, including 3×5-foot island; laminate countertops; and standard double-tub stainless-steel sink with standard single-lever faucet. Include energy-efficient range, vented range hood, built-in microwave, dishwasher, garbage disposal, and custom lighting. Add new resilient flooring. Finish with painted walls, trim, and ceiling. (source 4)

Major kitchen remodel, upscale (200 sq ft reference)

Update outmoded 200-square-foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of top-of-the-line custom white cabinets with built-in sliding shelves and other interior accessories. Include stone countertops with imported ceramic- or glass-tile backsplash; built-in refrigerator, commercial-grade cooktop and vent hood, wall oven, and built-in microwave unit. Install high-end undermount sink with designer faucets and water filtration system. Add new general and task lighting, including low-voltage undercabinet lights. Install tile or similar flooring that looks like wood. (source 5)

Job cost by region

Source 7. Regional averages for the report's reference project. A region covers many cities, so your local price can fall outside these figures.

Assumptions and limits

• Every dollar figure is from the 2025 Cost vs. Value report. The only arithmetic we add is the area scaling and your contingency.
• Area scaling is proportional. The report does not say costs scale that way, so it is a rough guide, not a forecast.
• Regional variation: the report's regional averages are for its reference project in nine regions. Labor rates, material prices, permit fees and the condition of your home change real prices, and we publish no multipliers beyond the report's own regional figures.
• The report's job costs are for the stated scope only. Moving walls, plumbing or electrical, structural repairs, lead or asbestos handling and design fees are outside most of these projects.
• The contingency range of 10% to 20% matches HUD's FHA 203(k) benchmark. It is a planning reserve, not a requirement for your project.
• This is a planning tool, not a quote or financial advice. Get written itemized bids.