How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost in 2026

If you search for kitchen remodel costs online, you will find the same vague ranges repeated everywhere: "$15,000 to $75,000" with no context, no detail, and no way to figure out where your project actually falls.

This guide is different. These numbers come from real projects completed in the Los Angeles area. Your market may vary, but the structure and line items apply everywhere.

The Three Tiers of Kitchen Remodels

Kitchen remodels fall into three categories based on scope, and the cost difference between them is massive.

Tier 1: Cosmetic Refresh — $15,000 to $35,000

A cosmetic refresh keeps the existing layout, plumbing locations, and electrical. You are updating the visible surfaces without moving anything.

What is included:

• Cabinet refacing or painting
• New countertops (quartz or butcher block)
• Updated backsplash
• New hardware and fixtures
• Fresh paint
• Upgraded lighting (using existing locations)

What is NOT included:

• Moving plumbing or gas lines
• New cabinets
• Structural changes
• Permit work

This is the right move if your kitchen layout works but looks dated. It is the fastest path to a modern kitchen with the least disruption.

Tier 2: Mid-Range Renovation — $45,000 to $85,000

A mid-range renovation replaces cabinets and may include minor layout changes. This is where most homeowner projects land.

What is included:

• New custom or semi-custom cabinets
• Quartz or natural stone countertops
• New appliance package (mid-range)
• Plumbing fixture upgrades
• Electrical panel evaluation
• Backsplash tile
• New flooring in kitchen area
• Permit and inspection fees

Common add-ons that push costs up:

• Moving a gas line: $1,500 - $3,500
• Adding an island with plumbing: $5,000 - $12,000
• Upgrading electrical panel: $2,500 - $5,000

Tier 3: Full Gut Renovation — $90,000 to $175,000+

A gut renovation takes the kitchen down to studs and rebuilds everything. This is common in older homes (pre-1970) or when the layout needs to change completely.

What is included:

• Full demolition to studs
• New framing, drywall, and insulation
• Complete plumbing rough-in
• Complete electrical rough-in
• Custom cabinetry
• Premium countertops
• High-end appliance package
• Custom lighting plan
• Flooring
• All permits and inspections

The Line Items Most People Miss

Every kitchen remodel budget should include these items. Leaving them out is the number one reason projects go over budget.

The contingency is not optional. On every project, something unexpected comes up once you open the walls — old plumbing, outdated wiring, water damage, or structural issues. Budget 10-15% above your planned spend.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

1. Define your scope first. Know which tier your project falls into before you call a contractor.
2. Get three bids. Not one, not five. Three bids from licensed contractors give you enough data to compare.
3. Compare line by line. Do not compare bottom-line numbers. Compare the scope of work, materials specified, and what is excluded.
4. Ask about allowances. If a bid says "allowance for countertops: $3,000" — that is the budget, not the cost. Know what that actually buys.
5. Check the exclusions. The exclusions section of an estimate is more important than the inclusions. That is where surprise costs hide.

Timeline Expectations

These timelines assume permits are pulled and materials are ordered before demo starts. Add 2-4 weeks for permitting in most LA jurisdictions.

Bottom Line

A kitchen remodel is one of the highest-ROI home improvements you can make, but only if you plan it correctly. Start with a clear scope, get competitive bids, and always carry a contingency.

If you want a spreadsheet to track all of this, check out our Kitchen Remodel Budget Planner — it is the same tool we use to estimate kitchen projects for our clients.