How much should you budget for a small kitchen remodel? It’s a common question, and the good news is that a smart plan keeps costs in check. Small kitchen remodels typically range from $9,000 to $25,000, with an average of around $16,000. This investment can pay off in a big way—Remodeling Magazine reports that a minor kitchen remodel can recoup up to 96.1% of its cost, making it one of the best ways to boost your home’s value.
Understand the typical cost range
When you’re planning a remodel, keep in mind that “small” usually means a kitchen of 70 to 200 square feet. Your final bill often hinges on materials, labor rates, and the complexity of changes (like updating plumbing or relocating appliances). If you want a deeper comparison for a kitchen around 100 square feet, take a look at our breakdown on how much does it cost to remodel a 10×10 kitchen?.
- Average national cost for a small kitchen remodel: $16,000
- Typical range: $9,000 to $25,000
- High-end projects with custom features: up to $25,000 or more
Consider cabinet and countertop expenses
Cabinets often account for the biggest chunk of your budget. If you’re not sure why, our article on what is the biggest expense in a kitchen remodel? walks through the details. Pre-made cabinets can cost $2,000 to $5,000, while semi-custom cabinets may range from $7,000 to $12,000. Fully custom cabinetry can climb as high as $15,000 to $25,000, so it’s wise to plan carefully.
Countertops run from budget-friendly to upscale. True laminate can be as low as $20 per square foot, while quartz can reach $150 per square foot. The style you pick influences both the look of your kitchen and the final price tag.
- Pre-made cabinets: $2,000–$5,000
- Semi-custom cabinets: $7,000–$12,000
- Custom cabinets: $15,000–$25,000
- Countertops (laminate): $20–$50 per square foot
- Countertops (quartz): $75–$150 per square foot
Factor in labor costs
Labor costs generally make up 25% to 35% of a small kitchen remodel, covering everything from demolition to tile installation. Skilled trades like electricians and plumbers charge $50 to $120 per hour, while cabinet installers might cost $65 to $110 per hour. If you’re focusing mostly on cabinets, you can also see how much does it cost to put in 10×10 kitchen cabinets? to get a clearer sense of potential installation fees.
- Labor share of total budget: 25–35%
- Cabinet, plumbing, and electrical work: $50–$120 per hour
- Project management by a general contractor can add to efficiency
Weigh professional vs. DIY approach
Doing it yourself may appear to save money, but the risk of mistakes is higher. If you’re learning on the fly, errors might lead to damaged cabinets or faulty wiring. Professionals typically help you stick to a timeline and handle permits, which can prevent expensive rework later.
- Professional advantages:
- Accurate estimates, so your budget stays realistic
- Streamlined coordination and scheduling
- High-quality workmanship
- DIY considerations:
- Skills and tool purchases may add unexpected costs
- Extended timelines can lead to extra living expenses (like dining out)
Try these budgeting tips
Stretch your budget by mixing cost-saving ideas with high-impact upgrades.
- Combine renovation projects
Tackling your kitchen and living area at the same time can cut down on travel fees or subcontractor visits. - Reuse existing elements
Keep quality items like cabinet frames or appliances that still work well. - Shop around for materials
Prices for tile, flooring, and countertops vary widely. Look for sales near holiday weekends. - Consider energy-efficient appliances
Energy Star data suggests you can save around $450 a year on utility bills this way.
If you’re thinking about your home’s resale value, feel free to explore what adds the most value to a kitchen remodel?.
Quick recap and next step
A small kitchen remodel can run anywhere from $9,000 to $25,000, with an average near $16,000. Cabinets pique the budget most, labor costs come next, and countertops often round out the top expenses. Hiring professionals helps avoid costly mistakes, although a careful DIY approach can still work if you have experience.
As you plan, remember the potential for a high return on investment and the chance to truly enjoy your upgraded space. When you’re ready to explore design ideas or nail down an estimate, you’ll find many ways to align your vision with your budget. You’ve got this—one well-planned step at a time.
