KitchenJune 18, 2026· 10 min read
Kitchen Remodel Cost in 2026: Real Numbers by Project Size
Honest 2026 pricing for kitchen remodels — from a cabinet refresh to a full-gut open-concept renovation.
By QOTA Team
What a kitchen remodel actually costs in 2026
- Minor cosmetic (paint, hardware, backsplash, faucet): $4,000–$10,000
- Mid-range (new cabinets or refacing, quartz countertops, mid-tier appliances): $25,000–$50,000
- Major / full gut (move walls, custom cabinets, premium appliances): $60,000–$150,000+
The 2026 national median for a mid-range kitchen remodel is about $32,000.
Where the money goes
| Line item | Share of budget |
|---|---|
| Cabinets | 25–35% |
| Labor (general + trades) | 20–30% |
| Appliances | 10–18% |
| Countertops | 8–12% |
| Flooring | 5–8% |
| Plumbing & electrical | 4–8% |
| Lighting + backsplash | 3–6% |
| Permits + design | 2–5% |
Where smart homeowners spend extra
- Soft-close drawers & doors — small upcharge, huge daily-quality lift.
- A 36" induction or pro-style range — anchor of a usable kitchen.
- Under-cabinet lighting — transforms how you cook at night.
- A larger sink (single-basin 30"+) — better than fancy faucets.
- A real designer or KD — saves 5–10% by avoiding ordering mistakes.
Where you can save without regret
- Stock or semi-custom cabinets vs. custom: 30–50% savings.
- Quartz over quartzite or marble: less maintenance, lower price.
- Pull existing appliances forward instead of relocating gas lines.
- Keep the plumbing where it is.
Timeline
A mid-range kitchen takes 6–10 weeks of active construction once cabinets arrive. Cabinets are usually a 6–14 week lead time — order before demo starts.