Budget Kitchen Remodel: No Need To Break The Bank!

Dreaming of a kitchen remodel but your budget seems too tight? We’ve been there many times, and I’m excited to share how you can transform your kitchen without breaking the bank. From savvy shopping to smart design choices, I’ll guide you through cost-effective strategies that deliver impact and add value to your home.

In our journey over 35 years of homeownership with 9 homes, we’ve discovered that a stunning kitchen overhaul doesn’t require a fortune. Stick with me, and I’ll reveal how to prioritize updates like cabinets and hardware, countertops, budget friendly appliances, cool organization tips, etc. to refresh your space for less. Let’s make your kitchen dreams a reality, affordably.

What Does A Kitchen Remodel Cost? Set a Budget

When it comes to a budget kitchen remodel, I like to start by assessing my needs. What exactly do I expect from my kitchen update? Now, I know not everyone spends their evenings pouring over recipes or hosting dinner parties, but we all have our unique kitchen habits. But let’s look at what typical Kitchen Remodels cost.

The average cost to remodel a kitchen ranges from approximately $12,000 to $60,500, with the average kitchen remodel costing around $27,000. This cost varies depending on the size of the kitchen and the extent of the remodel. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you might expect:

1. Labor Costs: If you opt for a contractor to do the remodel, it can be expensive. Labor can account for 18% to 25% of the total project cost, with prices ranging from $2,200 to $15,100. This is where a homeowner who is an avid DIY’er can turn a costly project into a budget friendly kitchen remodel.
2. Cabinets: The largest expense in a kitchen remodel is often the cabinets if you decide to replace them, which can represent nearly 30% of the budget. The average cost for new cabinets is about $8,200. This is why I’m an advocate of painting existing kitchen cabinets if they are in decent structural shape. However, make sure you learn how to properly paint them, otherwise, you could be wasting time and money.
3. Appliances: Purchasing and installing kitchen appliances can take up nearly 15% of the remodeling budget, averaging around $3,800. Looking for scratch and dent appliances can save you a lot and still get quality appliances.
4. Countertops: Replacing countertops can account for about 10% of the total project cost, with prices ranging from $1,200 to $7,780. Options like butcher block countertops instead of granite can be a cost friendly way to go.
5. Flooring: Flooring typically represents around 7% of the total project cost, with an average cost of $4,200. There are some great deals on laminate flooring that will bring a dramatic transformation. The newer tech flooring is so realistic, with some brands, it’s difficult to tell they are not real wood or tile.
6. Lighting and Electrical: Lighting and minor electrical work can make up about 5% of the overall cost, averaging $1,400.
7. Backsplash: Installing a backsplash can also represent around 5% of the total project cost, averaging $1,400.
8. Walls and Ceilings: Demolition and painting can vary greatly in cost, from around $100 for DIY painting to $13,000 for more extensive work.
9. Faucets and Plumbing: This can account for about 4% of the total project costs, averaging around $1,000.

The actual cost of a kitchen remodel can vary based on factors like the kitchen’s size, the materials chosen, and the complexity of the project. It’s also important to consider geographical location, as costs can differ based on local labor rates and material availability. Here’s a summary table of what typical remodeling costs can run:

Cost Component	Percentage of Total Cost	Average Cost (USD)
Cabinets	~30%	$8,200
Appliances	~15%	$3,800
Countertops	~10%	$1,200 – $7,780
Flooring	~7%	$4,200
Lighting and Electrical	~5%	$1,400
Backsplash	~5%	$1,400
Walls and Ceilings	Variable	$100 – $13,000
Faucets and Plumbing	~4%	$1,000
Labor	18% – 25%	$2,200 – $15,100

What’s Important To You?

For us, the coffee maker is front-and-center each morning. So, ensuring it has a dedicated spot in any remodel we takt on is non-negotiable. We added this to our current home in Pennsylvania and it’s our first stop in the morning. The Breville espresso machine was a nice addition last year giving us some variety to our morning joe. I did a review on the Best Espresso Machines, check it out here

I always suggest thinking long and hard about what you do most in your kitchen and letting those activities guide your design choices. Perhaps, like us, the coffee station could be a feature you splurge on. Or maybe, you’re all about baking, which makes ample counter space vital. Consider how essential features like a new island or an innovative trash can hideaway can make your daily routine smoother.

I’ve detailed the pros and cons of butcher block countertops in a post a few weeks ago, which has been helpful for us as we are currently in the midst of a whole house renovation on my daughter’s townhome. (We will do a whole series on that remodel when it’s finished)

Setting a strict budget is like giving yourself a roadmap. However, We’ve learned from our own kitchen updates that surprise expenses will pop up, so I always advise leaving a little wiggle room in the form of a contingency. Don’t forget, the goal here isn’t to drain your savings, and the emergency fund is there for one reason – unexpected expenses. You can use the cost table above as a starting point to building your budget.

I’m a big advocate of painting, it’s an inexpensive way to update the old. I wrote a guide on how to properly paint kitchen cabinets for those considering this DIY task to save on costs. We did this in our shore home and here’s a few before and after pictures. We didn’t specifically take before and after’s for a blog when we did the painting, but we do have a few we took for personal reasons. I think these show the impact.

Keeping your space clutter-free can be a great way to upgrade your kitchen. It may not be as visual as other changes, however, it’s a great functional change. Check out our Kitchen Drawer Reset tips, which might just spark some ideas that’ll integrate seamlessly into your budget-friendly kitchen remodel. Here’s quick short on a kitchen drawer reset we did last year.

Prioritize Updates That Make a Big Impact

When tackling a budget kitchen remodel, it’s important to focus on changes that offer the most significant visual and functional bang for your buck. We’ve done this about 4 times on a tight budget and were determined to make changes that felt substantial. Let’s talk about a few strategies that can transform your kitchen without draining your wallet.

I’ve mentioned painting your kitchen cabinets. Paint is one of the most cost-effective methods to refresh the space. With the right supplies and a bit of sweat equity, you can give your kitchen a completely new look.

Butcher Block Countertops Can Make A Dramatic Impact

Changing your countertops can also be a game-changer. Butcher block countertops, for instance, are a beautiful and versatile choice that won’t break the bank. We purchased 2-6ft slabs from Lowes and spent about $300 for each of them. They bring warmth and a natural feel to your kitchen. I weighed out the pros and cons of butcher block countertops extensively in a recent post, uncovering that not only are they cost-effective, but they also offer a forgiving surface that’s relatively easy to maintain.

When we first tackled a kitchen remodel a few decades ago, we wanted that fresh, magazine-cover look without breaking the bank. We learned there are amazing materials out there that not only fit the budget but also bring that luxury feel we all crave.

We discussed painting cabinets, dedicated coffee stations, and butcher block countertops, but there’s another low cost face lift option. Don’t underestimate the impact of new hardware. Swapping out knobs and pulls is like jewelry for your kitchen, and it’s doable over a weekend. I’ve seen how stunning gold hardware can set a warm, inviting tone, or how sleek silver can add that dash of modern chic. You’d be surprised how these tiny pieces can change up your space while keeping your pockets happy!

New Flooring:

I mentioned we’re in the midst of a townhome remodel now for my daughter. She found a wood look Vinyl plank flooring at Lowes for about $1/Sq Ft. It’s an amazing price, it looks fantastic, and it’s an easy DIY project if you plan properly. Here’s a look at the flooring goin into the kitchen remodel in her townhome, it’s a dramatic upgrade at a very affordable price!

Small Kitchen Design Tips

If you have a small kitchen, designing changes that make sense can be a little more difficult. Mark Tobin does a great job at describing how you can take a small space and incorporate some great design ideas for a more efficient design.

Smart Shopping!

Remember, it’s not about how much you spend, but how you spend it. Smart shopping goes a long way—like snagging deals from Lowes Damaged Appliances. Trust me, there are some great deals to be had in this section. It’s usually found in the back of the store by regular appliance section. We’ve seen deals on things like refrigerators, dishwashers, sinks, etc. for as much as half off, and they look like new with only a small ding or dent here or there.

The earlier you start looking, the more likely you are to catch some great deals, and you can then incorporate them into your design. Remember to research well, so you know the quality you’re getting for your money. We’ve found some incredible discounts online and at discount outlets. And let’s not overlook in-stock merchandise. They generally cost less because they’re readily available. If something you like is out of your budget, look for similar styles at less expensive retailers. Reuse centers and salvage stores are a goldmine for fixtures and fittings at a fraction of the cost.

As a homeowner, you probably know your neighbors pretty well. Don’t hesitate to ask around or post on a local community board. Often times, someone nearby is upgrading their kitchen and looking to offload appliances that are still in good shape.

When you’re choosing your new appliances, consider the long-term savings of Energy Star Rated and smart models. Though they may cost a little more upfront, you’ll see the savings in your utility bills.

I’ve put a spreadsheet together from some remodels we’ve done over the years (because yes, I love a good spreadsheet), the average price for replacing kitchen appliances was around $3,800, which is on average about 15% of the total remodeling budget.

Here’s a quick breakdown of appliance costs based on my experience:

Appliance	Low-End Cost	High-End Cost
Oven	$400	$1,300
Refrigerator	$500	$4,000+
Dishwasher	$300	$1,200

Refrain from overspending on fancy features you’ll never use. An oven that bakes cookies just the same as any other doesn’t need to cost you three extra paychecks.

DIY vs Hiring Professionals: Weigh the Pros and Cons

When tackling a kitchen remodel, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to go the DIY route or hire professionals. Each has its merits. Diving into a DIY project can be incredibly rewarding—there’s nothing like the feeling of standing back and admiring a finished job, knowing you did it all yourself. But, be realistic and know your limits. Don’t attempt a project if you are not completelyt comfortable in your abilities to complete it. Stretching to far could not only be more costly than hiring a professional upfront, it could be dangerous. If your not an avid DIY’er with experience, I’d stay away from thins like electrical and structural changes..

If I’m rolling up my sleeves and deciding to paint my kitchen cabinets, I’ll start by referring to my detailed guide on How to properly paint kitchen cabinets. This task is perfectly suited for homeowners looking to save some bucks. And trust me, with a bit of patience and the right technique, you can achieve results that might surprise you.

There are certain tasks where the precision and expertise of a professional can’t be underestimated. I’ve mentioned Butcher Block Counter tops. This is one countertop material that unlike granite, you may try your DIY hand at, but still be cautious. A poorly cut countertop can kill the aesthetics of a newly renovated kitchen.

What it boils down to is time versus money. DIY can certainly save you cash—sometimes a considerable amount—if you’re willing to dedicate the time. Hiring pros, however, often means a faster turnaround, warranty-backed work, and arguably less stress. But remember, cutting corners by choosing the lowest estimate can end up costing you more in the long run. Always ensure your chosen contractors are reputable and come with glowing recommendations.

Final Thoughts

I’ve walked you through some thoughts on a budget kitchen remodel, from the painting cabinets to the wisdom of hiring pros for more complex tasks. I’ve shared my insights to help you navigate the balance between cost and quality. Remember, it’s about making smart choices that align with your budget and your vision for the space. Whether you’re rolling up your sleeves or dialing up the experts, your dream kitchen is within reach. Embrace the journey and watch as your culinary corner transforms without breaking the bank.