A small kitchen remodel costs anywhere from $14,613 to $41,407. For small-scale remodels, the average lies between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on various factors like design choices, materials, and labor costs. In this guide, we will break down all these components to help you budget for your project.
Small Kitchen Remodeling Cost Breakdown
Size
The cost of remodeling a kitchen is typically calculated per square foot. On average, it costs about $150 to $160 per square foot to remodel a kitchen. Considering the average size of a small kitchen is between 70 square feet, you can expect to spend between $10,500 and $11,200 depending on the square footage.
Project Scope
The scope and complexity of your project will also dictate the pricing. Minor kitchen remodeling involves refreshing your space without changing the layout—like refinishing cabinets, updating hardware, replacing countertops or flooring, and painting the walls. This kind of upgrade can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $20,000. On the other hand, a major kitchen renovation project, even for small kitchens, can cost a minimum of $50,000. This includes moving plumbing and electrical work, structural changes, custom cabinetry, luxury flooring, appliances, countertops, backsplashes, a new kitchen island, fresh paint, and new lighting.
Common Remodeling Materials and Their Average Costs
Cabinets
Cabinets are a crucial part of any kitchen, and they also come at a cost. For a small kitchen, the cost of cabinets can range from $1,900 to $9,400—making up about 50% of the total cost of your project! The cost per linear foot can range from $100 to $1,200, depending on the size, depth, and material of your cabinets. Most small kitchens need around 15 linear feet of cabinets.
Appliances
Home appliances can cost between $350 and $8,000 per appliance, including installation. The price range accounts for high-tech appliances like stainless steel smart refrigerators and smaller appliances like microwave ovens. Installation can increase the price if you need new electrical wiring or plumbing.
Countertops
Countertops in a small kitchen can cost between $1,050 and $7,000. The installation generally costs between $15 and $70 per square foot. Materials like granite, marble, and stainless steel cost more than laminate, wood, or Corian, so consider your options carefully.
Backsplash
Installing a backsplash in a small kitchen typically costs around $600 to $1,300, with the cost per square foot falling between $15 and $40. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are usually more cost-friendly, while glass and stainless steel backsplash cost more.
Flooring
Flooring for a small kitchen usually costs between $1,000 and $1,250. The type of flooring material you choose impacts your total cost, with vinyl or linoleum flooring coming in at the lower end and ceramic, stone, porcelain tile, and hardwood flooring coming in at the higher end.
Common Kitchen Remodeling Upgrades and Their Average Costs
Plumbing, Sinks, and Faucets
Installing or replacing plumbing fixtures can add $350 to $2,000 to your project. Installing a kitchen faucet typically costs between $160 and $360, while installing a sink usually costs between $200 and $650. Repiping a kitchen can cost $3 to $10 per linear foot on average. Additionally, you might need to acquire a permit before starting a plumbing project, which can add $500 to $1,500 to your project.
Lighting
Enhancing your kitchen lighting can cost an average of $50 to $500. This includes pendant lighting, recessed lights, high-tech features, interior cabinet lighting, under-cabinet lighting, chandeliers, and flush-mount lighting. However, if you want a more high-end look, you could pay $2,000 to $4,500 to illuminate your kitchen.
Electrical
You will need to hire a local electrician to install your new kitchen lighting, which can cost $50 to $100 per hour. Here are the costs to install typical kitchen renovation lighting:
- Ceiling lights: $90–$130 per fixture
- Recessed lighting: $150–$230 per fixture
- Specialty light fixtures: $150–$900 per fixture
- Outlet installation: $200–$300 per outlet
- Light switch: $85–$200 per switch
Paint
Painting kitchen cabinets and drawers can cost around $400 to $1,400. Meanwhile, painting the walls of a kitchen typically costs between $2 and $6 per square foot, or $140 to $600 for an average small kitchen. If you paint your kitchen yourself, you will only need to pay for the paint, which averages $25 per gallon.
Drywall
Installing drywall can cost between $105 and $300 on average for a small kitchen. This breaks down to $1.50 to $3 per square foot. Thicker, moisture-resistant panels cost more than thin, generic drywall panels.
Common Renovation Expenses and Their Average Costs
Labor
The average labor cost for a small kitchen remodel is between $1,900 and $2,700, or roughly 18% of your project’s total cost. Projects that require new electrical wiring and plumbing will cost the most, as you will likely need to hire separate contractors for these specialized installations.
Permits
Acquiring permits for your kitchen remodel can cost between $500 and $1,500. Your expenses may vary depending on your location, the scale of your project, and your kitchen’s current condition. You may need building permits for any kitchen renovation that involves structural changes, plumbing, or electrical work. You may also need separate permits for plumbing, electrical, and gas line work.
Professional Designer
Hiring a professional designer or kitchen planner can help to maximize the space in your small kitchen. Expect to pay $65 to $250 per hour for their services. This cost may be included in your contractor’s bid or could be a separate expense.
Demolition
Demolition in a small kitchen usually costs between $350 and $1,500, or $4 to $17 per square foot. Removing old flooring, cabinets, appliances, and fixtures may be necessary to create a new kitchen. Some contractors include demolition in their total cost, while others bill it separately. If you plan to do the demolition yourself, you can save on labor costs, but be sure to remove everything carefully to avoid damaging your home’s structure or utilities.
Cleanup and Disposal
Cleaning up and disposing of debris after a kitchen remodel costs between $130 and $370. Your contractor may include this cost in their bid or bill it separately. Some contractors remove debris as part of the project, while others leave it for the homeowner to dispose of.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Here are some considerations to keep in mind when deciding between DIY and hiring a pro:
- Skill Level: Are you skilled in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work? If not, you may want to hire a pro for some or all of your kitchen remodel.
- Time: Do you have the time to dedicate to a kitchen remodel? A full kitchen remodel can take several weeks to complete, even with a professional team.
- Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, doing the work yourself can save money. However, keep in mind that mistakes can be costly to fix.
- Tools: Do you have the necessary tools to complete the project? If not, you may need to purchase or rent them, which can add to the cost.
How to Save When Remodeling a Small Kitchen
- Do Your Own Demolition: Save on labor costs by doing the demolition work yourself. Just make sure to remove everything carefully to avoid damaging your home’s structure or utilities.
- Paint Cabinets Instead of Replacing Them: If your cabinets are in good shape, consider painting them instead of replacing them. This can save a significant amount of money.
- Keep the Same Layout: Changing the layout of your kitchen can be expensive because it often involves moving plumbing and electrical work. If possible, try to keep the same layout.
- Choose Budget-Friendly Materials: Opt for budget-friendly materials like laminate countertops and vinyl flooring. They may not be as luxurious as marble or hardwood, but they can still look great and help you save money.
- Do Some of the Work Yourself: As mentioned above, doing the work yourself can save on labor costs. However, make sure you have the necessary skills and tools to complete the project.
Conclusion
Remodeling a small kitchen is a significant investment, but it can also have a big impact on the value and functionality of your home. By understanding the small kitchen remodel costs and finding ways to save, you can create a beautiful, functional kitchen that fits your budget.
FAQ
How much does it cost to remodel a small kitchen?
- The cost to remodel a small kitchen can range from $10,500 to $50,000, depending on the scope of the project, the materials used, and labor costs.
- A minor kitchen remodel, which includes refinishing cabinets, updating hardware, replacing countertops or flooring, and painting, can cost between $7,000 and $20,000.
- A major kitchen remodel, which includes moving plumbing and electrical work, structural changes, custom cabinetry, luxury flooring, appliances, countertops, backsplashes, a new kitchen island, fresh paint, and new lighting, can cost a minimum of $50,000.
How can I save money on a kitchen remodel?
You can save money on a kitchen remodel by doing the demolition work yourself, painting cabinets instead of replacing them, keeping the same layout, choosing budget-friendly materials, and doing some or all of the work yourself. Be sure to plan carefully and consider your skill level and the tools you have available before deciding to do the work yourself.
Is it worth it to remodel a small kitchen?
Remodeling a small kitchen can be a great investment. It can increase the value of your home, make your space more functional, and improve your quality of life. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a minor kitchen remodel can recoup 77.6% of its cost in increased home value, while a major kitchen remodel can recoup 53.5% of its cost.