As a Central Florida homeowner, a kitchen remodel is one of the most significant home improvement projects you can undertake. Beyond enhanced functionality, it can also increase your home’s resale value and improve daily living.
However, the cost of a kitchen renovation can vary widely depending on several factors, including materials, labor costs, and the extent of the remodel.
If you’re ready to give your Central Florida kitchen a makeover, find out how much a remodel costs, what factors contribute to remodeling costs, and how you can make budget-friendly choices while still achieving your dream kitchen.
What is the Average Kitchen Remodel Cost?
When planning a complete kitchen remodel, understanding the average cost can help set realistic expectations.
According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, the national average cost for a minor to major midrange kitchen renovation typically falls between $27,000 and $80,000, while a high-end renovation can exceed $150,000. However, CSL’s remodeling packages start at just $15,000, so you can spend far less and still enjoy a high-quality result.
What are the different types of remodeling?
Minor remodels offer an effective solution for those looking to refresh their kitchen without making major structural changes. These updates provide a fresh, new look with minimal disruption and might include painting walls, adding a tile backsplash, upgrading lighting fixtures, and swapping out older appliances for energy-efficient models.
A midrange kitchen remodel typically strikes a balance between affordability and quality, making it a great choice for homeowners looking to make noticeable improvements without overspending. They typically include:
- New cabinetry
- New countertops
- High-quality flooring
- Updated appliances
Homeowners seeking a more noticeable transformation may opt for custom cabinets, a redesigned kitchen island, and premium surfaces such as granite, quartz, or marble. This type of renovation delivers a significant style and functionality boost while keeping costs in check.
A major remodel takes things further. This level of renovation often involves reconfiguring the space by removing walls to create an open floor plan, moving plumbing and gas lines, and expanding the kitchen’s footprint. High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, premium countertops, and luxury flooring—such as imported tile or hardwood—are then added to create a polished, sophisticated space.
Because these projects tend to use premium materials and often involve professional design services, they also come with a higher price tag.
Factors Affecting Kitchen Remodel Costs
Several factors influence the overall cost of your kitchen remodel, and each decision impacts the total bill:
Materials
Material costs and selection play a key role, as you can choose from various options to fit different budgets and styles. Stock cabinets, laminate countertops, and vinyl tile flooring provide cost-effective choices, while custom cabinets, granite countertops, and top-end appliances add a premium touch and raise the overall investment.
Scale of renovation
The scale of your renovation has significant cost implications. Homeowners pay far less for a small remodeling job than a complete renovation, and anything that involves structural changes will add to the bill.
Priorities
If you’re planning a major update, evaluate your priorities and ensure your budget supports your essential needs and design aspirations. A good way to think about it is to separate the “must-haves” from the “nice-to-haves” when envisioning the new space.
Labor
Labor costs contribute to overall expenses and can vary based on location, contractor expertise, and the complexity of the project. Remodels involving structural changes, custom-built features, or intricate installations typically require experienced professionals, which can significantly increase costs.
Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
Understanding the average kitchen remodel cost can help you plan your budget wisely and focus on upgrades that matter most.
Appliance costs
Appliances often account for a significant portion of renovation costs, with prices ranging from $100 for basic microwave models to over $5,000 for high-end refrigerators or wall ovens. Beyond this cost, installation fees typically fall between $100 and $350, depending on factors like the complexity of the setup and whether plumbing or electrical adjustments are needed.
Cabinets
New cabinets tend to be the largest investment in a full kitchen remodel, often accounting for 40% or more of the total budget. Homeowners have a range of options, from stock cabinets to fully custom designs, with prices between $5,000 and $24,000.
Stock cabinets provide an affordable solution, while semi-custom options offer more flexibility in design and layout. Since cabinets form the backbone of your kitchen, choosing the right style and material is an important decision.
Countertops
Countertop costs vary widely based on material and quality. Budget-friendly options like laminate start around $20 to $40 per square foot. Midrange materials like granite and quartz have a wide price range, starting at $80 to $150 per square foot.
For those wanting a high-end finish, luxury materials like marble can exceed $250 per square foot, making countertops one of the standout features of a premium kitchen remodel.
Florida’s climate and environmental conditions will also influence your material selection. Many homeowners opt for moisture-resistant cabinetry and durable countertops to ensure longevity in warm, humid conditions, and this may impact the price point.
Flooring
Flooring plays a big role in the look and functionality of your kitchen, and pricing depends on the material and installation needs.
Vinyl flooring is a cost-effective choice, ranging from $2 to $10 per square foot, while laminate flooring falls between $4 and $14 per square foot. Hardwood and natural stone can be significantly more expensive. Hardwood flooring for a 1,000-square-foot area can cost between $6,000 and $22,000, while natural stone options like marble or high-end granite can exceed $50 per square foot. Since flooring sets the tone for the entire space, choosing a durable, stylish option ensures a lasting upgrade.
Labor Costs and Hiring a Professional
Labor fees comprise a significant portion of a kitchen remodel budget, typically ranging from 25% to 40% of the total expense.
Since kitchen renovations involve a variety of specialized tasks—including cabinet installation, flooring, plumbing, electrical work, and appliance setup—hiring professionals can help ensure your project runs smoothly and meets high-quality standards. The cost of a general contractor varies depending on the scope of the remodel and your location.
On average, general contractors charge between $300 and $400 per hour. For extensive projects, contractors might charge a flat fee ranging from 10% to 20% of the total project cost.
For those aiming for a more customized, high-end kitchen design, working with an interior designer or design build firm can be a valuable investment. Interior design fees typically range from $50 to $200 per hour or $5 to $12 per square foot.
While this does add to the overall renovation cost, professional design services can help you avoid costly missteps and achieve a kitchen that blends style, efficiency, and long-term value.
The Role of an Interior Designer in Kitchen Remodels
An interior designer plays an essential role in shaping a kitchen remodel into a functional and visually appealing space. With expertise in kitchen layout planning, material selection, and color coordination, they ensure every element of the renovation comes together seamlessly.
One key advantage of working with a kitchen designer is their ability to offer good advice about selecting the right materials, fixtures, and appliances. Whether choosing cabinetry, countertops, or designing a backsplash, their expertise ensures the finished product ties together perfectly.
Designers also assist in selecting lighting fixtures, flooring options, and decorative touches, ensuring all aspects of the remodel align with modern design trends and long-term durability.
Beyond design, an interior designer can help you manage your budget effectively while still achieving a high-quality outcome.
Budgeting and Planning for Your Kitchen Remodel
Setting (and sticking to) a budget that aligns with your needs is a crucial first step in any kitchen remodel. By adopting a well-planned financial approach, you can focus on essential upgrades while avoiding unnecessary expenses.
When calculating your kitchen remodel costs, cabinetry is often one of the biggest costs, but it’s also one of the most flexible. Depending on your budget and design preferences, you can choose from stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets. Stock cabinets are usually the cheapest, while custom items are the most expensive.
Other key factors include appliances, flooring, plumbing, and countertops, all of which contribute to the final cost. Making careful material selections and comparing prices on countertops, high-quality flooring, and energy-efficient appliances will help you create a rough estimate that you can use to draw up your budget.
Pro tip: Setting aside a little extra for unexpected costs is also a good idea. Issues like hidden leaks, outdated plumbing, or structural surprises can arise during renovations, potentially adding to the overall expense. For any construction or remodeling work, it’s generally a good idea to dedicate 10-20% of your budget to covering any unforeseen challenges.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
If you’re looking to manage your kitchen remodel costs, a DIY project can be a practical way to reduce your labor expenses. Simple upgrades like installing a tile backsplash, replacing a garbage disposal, or painting walls require minimal expertise and can quickly refresh your kitchen’s look while keeping costs in check.
For those with more advanced skills, refinishing existing cabinetry offers an affordable way to update the space without replacing cabinets entirely. By sanding, painting, or re-staining your current cabinets, you can achieve a modern, refreshed appearance at a fraction of the cost of new installations.
Experienced DIYers may also take on projects like installing flooring, countertops, a new sink, or even cabinets, helping to stretch their budget further. However, these tasks require precision, the right tools, and a significant time commitment, so it’s worth considering whether a DIY approach is the best fit.
Certain complex or high-risk tasks are best left to professionals. For example, moving a heavy natural stone countertop requires specialized tools and expertise to prevent damage or injury. Similarly, tasks like rewiring electrical systems, adjusting gas lines, or modifying plumbing should always be handled by licensed Central Florida professionals to ensure safety, meet regulations, and avoid costly mistakes down the line.
Regional Variations in Kitchen Remodel Costs
Kitchen remodeling costs vary significantly depending on location, with some regions being more affordable than others.
Generally, kitchen remodel costs in the Midwest tend to be lower than in other parts of the country. In the South Atlantic, which includes Florida, the average cost of a midrange major kitchen remodel is $78,153. That’s about $1,000 to $2,000 less than similar projects in higher-cost areas like the Pacific and Middle Atlantic regions.
The average cost of a minor midrange remodel in the South Atlantic region is $27,336, while an upscale kitchen remodel costs about $155,293. In the Pacific region, costs are notably higher, with a midrange major remodel averaging $82,810 and an upscale remodel reaching $164,636.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the primary costs of a kitchen remodel, you should also consider additional expenses that may come up during the renovation process. These costs are sometimes overlooked in the initial budget but can noticeably impact the overall investment.
Permits and inspections: The cost of permits and inspections in Central Florida typically ranges from $60 to over $7,000, depending on the scale of the remodel and local regulations. Permits are usually required for projects involving structural changes, electrical work, plumbing updates, or gas line modifications.
Inspections help ensure that renovations meet building codes and safety standards, preventing potential issues down the line. While obtaining permits adds to the project cost, skipping this step can lead to delays, fines, or complications when selling the home.
Storage costs: Another factor to consider is the total cost of moving and storing appliances, especially if major renovations require the temporary removal of refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, or other kitchen essentials.
If offsite storage is needed, expenses vary depending on facility fees and moving costs. For a standard 10×10 unit, the average monthly cost in Central Florida is around $100, while a larger 10×20 unit averages $220. Additional expenses, such as moving costs and rental fees, may further impact the total storage investment.
If you’re planning a larger remodel that involves wall removal, expanding the kitchen’s footprint, or relocating appliances, you’ll need to set aside funds for storage solutions and temporary kitchen setups to ensure minimal disruption during the renovation.
Added accessibility: Accessibility improvements, such as modifying the kitchen layout to support mobility needs or aging-in-place features, may incur additional costs. While these upgrades may require specialized labor and custom materials, they can significantly improve long-term usability and add value to your home.
How to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel
While a complete remodel is an excellent investment, there are plenty of ways to keep the project cost manageable without compromising quality or functionality.
Set and stick to a budget
The first step in saving money is setting a clear budget before making major decisions. Establishing and sticking to a financial plan lets you focus on essential upgrades and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Make smaller but significant changes
One of the most effective ways to reduce costs is to maintain the existing kitchen layout rather than making structural modifications. Removing walls, relocating plumbing, or shifting appliances can quickly add to the overall expense. By keeping the kitchen’s footprint intact, you can allocate more of your budget toward upgrading cabinets, countertops, and new appliances instead of costly structural changes.
Similarly, refinishing or repainting existing cabinets instead of replacing them entirely can provide a refreshed look at a fraction of the cost.
Look for seasonal sales and discounts
Shopping around for deals on specific appliances, countertops, and flooring is another great way to maximize your budget. Many retailers offer seasonal promotions and clearance discounts, making finding high-quality materials at lower prices easier.
Sourcing items like granite counters, premium flooring, and decorative elements from local suppliers or wholesale outlets can also help reduce costs while maintaining durability and style.
Mix and match materials
Another smart approach is to blend high-end and budget-friendly materials. Investing in high-quality flooring and durable countertops while choosing stock or semi-custom cabinetry can create a well-balanced and stylish kitchen without exceeding budget limits.
Common Kitchen Remodel Pitfalls to Avoid
A kitchen remodel is a major investment, and avoiding common mistakes can save you time and money.
- One of the biggest pitfalls is underestimating your budget. Unexpected costs, such as plumbing issues, material delays, or permit fees, can quickly add up, so building in some flexibility is essential.
- Another common mistake is choosing the lowest bid without considering quality. While saving money is important, a deal that seems too good to be true often is. Instead, get multiple bids from different contractors, carefully review what’s included, and check for hidden fees or exclusions.
- It’s tempting to fall in love with luxury kitchen design trends, but staying realistic about what fits within your budget and space is crucial. Researching in advance and prioritizing essential upgrades over purely aesthetic choices ensures the final remodel is functional and financially manageable.
Does a Kitchen Remodel Increase Home Value?
On average, a minor kitchen remodel can recoup approximately 96% of its cost at resale, making it one of the best home improvement investments in terms of return on investment (ROI).
While major upscale remodels tend to have a lower ROI, a beautifully updated kitchen remains one of the most desirable home features, often helping properties sell faster by attracting more buyers.
Real estate professionals frequently highlight the kitchen as a key selling point, with buyers often willing to pay more for homes featuring new cabinets, new appliances, and stylish countertops.
A well-designed layout that maximizes space and improves workflow can make the kitchen even more appealing, helping to reduce the time a home spends on the market.
Certain upgrades can have an especially strong impact on your home’s value:
- Adding a kitchen island creates extra workspace and seating, making the space more versatile.
- Updating cabinetry—whether by installing custom cabinets or refinishing existing ones—gives the kitchen a fresh, modern feel.
- Replacing countertops with durable, high-quality materials like granite or quartz adds to the aesthetic appeal and longevity.
- Investing in new appliances that are energy efficient adds convenience and appeals to buyers looking for long-term cost savings.
- Designing a multipurpose kitchen with an open layout, smart storage solutions, and upgraded lighting can make the space feel larger, brighter, and more inviting, further boosting its overall appeal.
Create The Central Florida Kitchen Of Your Dreams
Whether it’s a minor refresh, a midrange update, or a full renovation, remodeling your kitchen is a wonderful way to enhance the heart of your home. With a bit of careful planning and budgeting, you can create your ideal kitchen while still keeping costs manageable.
At CSL Construction, we work with you to ensure your kitchen remodel is completed to the highest standards, on time, and within your budget. Contact us about your kitchen transformation today!
