How much does a kitchen renovation typically
cost?
How Much Will Your Kitchen Renovation Really Cost? See the Simple Price Ranges That Tell You What to Expect
Thinking about a kitchen renovation? Don’t guess. Know. Here’s a direct, no-fluff breakdown of kitchen renovation cost so you can plan, negotiate, and maximize your return.
Real cost ranges you can use
- Cosmetic refresh (paint, hardware, lighting): $3,000–$12,000 — quick impact, low cost.
- Mid-range remodel (new cabinets, countertops, appliances, some layout changes): $20,000–$60,000.
- High-end renovation (custom cabinets, premium appliances, structural changes): $60,000–$150,000+.
These are typical ranges for North American markets. In Toronto, expect mid-range jobs often in the $30,000–$80,000 band because labour and permits run higher.
How that money breaks down
- Cabinets: 30–40% of budget.
- Labor (contractors, trades): 20–35%.
- Appliances: 10–15%.
- Countertops: 8–12%.
- Plumbing/electrical/permits: 5–10%.
- Flooring/finishes/hardware: remaining 5–10%.
Tip: cutting corners on cabinets or layout rarely saves money long-term. Spend where daily use and resale value matter.
ROI and resale value
A kitchen remodel typically recoups 60–80% of cost at resale, depending on neighbourhood and quality. In strong markets like Toronto, a well-executed mid-range kitchen can push a sale price and speed up the listing. Focus your spend on layout, cabinets, and visible finishes to maximize ROI.
Fast, practical steps to control cost
- Define outcome: cosmetic, functional, or luxury. Your choices change costs dramatically.
- Prioritize layout and storage. Changing footprints (moving walls or plumbing) multiplies cost.
- Get three fixed bids. Compare scope, not just price.
- Choose durable mid-range materials for best value.
- Time your project: avoid peak construction season to reduce lead times and sometimes price.
Timeline expectations
- Cosmetic: 1–2 weeks.
- Mid-range: 4–8 weeks.
- High-end: 8–16+ weeks.
Example scenarios
- Small condo refresh: $8,500 — new counters, paint, new faucet, hardware.
- Family home mid-range: $45,000 — semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters, new mid-range appliances, flooring.
- Luxury remodel in established neighbourhood: $120,000 — full gut, custom island, premium appliances, structural changes.
If you want precise numbers for your property, you need one-on-one advice that factors in layout, permits, neighbourhood values, and timing.
Contact a local expert who knows renovation cost, market impact, and resale math. Tony Sousa is a local realtor who connects renovation budgets to real market value. For a clear, honest assessment that helps set the right budget and maximize ROI, email tony@sousasells.ca or call 416-477-2620. Visit https://www.sousasells.ca for more.
Plan with data. Spend where value shows. Get the job done on time. That’s how you turn renovation dollars into real home value.
