What is a Good Budget for a Kitchen Renovation in 2025?

If you’re considering a kitchen renovation, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: “What should my budget be?” The truth is, a “good” budget varies widely depending on your needs, location, and goals. Here in Ontario, homeowners typically spend between $20,000-$100,000+ on kitchen renovations.

Establishing a realistic budget is the foundation of a successful renovation project. Without it, you risk scope creep, unexpected costs, and potentially an unfinished kitchen. Let’s break down the factors that influence your budget and help you determine what’s appropriate for your specific situation.

The scope of your renovation significantly impacts your budget:

• Cosmetic refresh ($10,000-$25,000): Updating surfaces, hardware, and possibly appliances while keeping the existing layout
• Complete remodel ($25,000-$60,000): New cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances with minor layout adjustments
• Structural changes ($60,000-$125,000+): Moving walls, relocating plumbing/electrical, and completely reconfiguring your kitchen layout

The materials and finishes you choose create another significant variable:

• Budget tier: Standard builder-grade materials and basic finishes
• Mid-range tier: Better quality materials with improved durability and design options
• Luxury tier: High-end custom materials with premium finishes and features

Square footage directly affects your budget. A larger kitchen requires:

• More cabinetry
• More countertop material
• More flooring
• Potentially more lighting fixtures

Moving plumbing, gas lines, or electrical connections dramatically increases costs. For example:

• Relocating a sink to an island could add $500-$1000 to your budget
• Moving a gas range to a different wall might add $1,500-$3,000
• Creating a new window or door opening could add $3,000-$7,000

Understanding typical cost percentages helps you allocate your budget effectively:

Cabinetry often represents the largest portion of your kitchen budget:

• Prefabricated cabinets: $9,500-$15,000 for a standard kitchen installed
• Semi-custom cabinets: $15,000-$25,000 for enhanced quality and some customization installed
• Custom cabinets: $25,000-$35,000+ for completely bespoke options installed

Material quality varies significantly in this category. Particleboard with laminate will cost far less than plywood construction with dovetail joinery and premium finishes.

Countertop prices vary dramatically based on material:

• Laminate: $25-$50 per square foot installed
• Solid surface: $50-$120 per square foot installed
• Quartz/granite: $70-$150+ per square foot installed

Edge profiles, thickness, and installation complexity also affect pricing. For a typical kitchen with 30-40 square feet of countertop space, budget $1,000 – $6,000 depending on material.

Appliance costs vary based on brand and features:

• Builder-grade package: $3,000-$8,000 for basic functional appliances
• Mid-range package: $8,000-$15,000 for better quality and additional features
• Premium package: $15,000-$50,000+ for professional-grade appliances

Energy efficiency is an important consideration as it affects both upfront costs and long-term utility expenses.

For 150-200 square feet of kitchen flooring:

• Vinyl or laminate: $900-$1500 installed
• Engineered hardwood: $1500-$2000 installed
• Porcelain or ceramic tile: $2,500-$4,500 installed
• Natural stone or hardwood: $4,500-$10,000+ installed

For 25-30 square feet of backsplash:

• Basic ceramic tile: $950-$1,200 installed
• Glass or specialty tile: $1,200-$3,000 installed
• Premium materials (stone, porcelain) $3,000-$5,000+ installed

A comprehensive lighting plan typically includes

• Ambient lighting: $1,200-$2,000
• Task lighting: $1,200-$2,000 (including under-cabinet lighting)
• Accent/decorative lighting: $350-$1,200 (pendant lights, chandeliers; Installation only)

• Standard sink and faucet: $1,000-$1,200 installed
• Mid-range sink and faucet: $1,200-$2,500 installed
• Premium fixtures: $2,500-$5,000+ installed

Professional installation is crucial for a successful renovation:

• General contractor management: 10-15% of project cost
• Specialized trades: Plumbers ($35-$75/hour), electricians ($45-$120/hour), and carpenters ($45-$85/hour)

A basic refresh typically includes:

• Cabinet refacing or painting
• New countertops (often laminate or entry-level solid surface)
• Updated hardware
• New sink and faucet
• Fresh paint
• Possibly new flooring or backsplash (but not always both)

What’s usually excluded: Moving walls, relocating plumbing/electrical, premium appliances

A mid-range renovation generally includes:

• New semi-custom cabinetry
• Quality countertops (quartz, granite)
• New flooring
• Full backsplash
• Updated lighting
• New sink and faucet
• Mid-range appliances
• Minor layout adjustments
• Fresh paint and trim work

A high-end remodel typically includes:

• Custom cabinetry with specialized storage solutions
• Premium countertops with decorative edge profiles
• Designer backsplash with specialty materials
• High-end flooring (often hardwood or porcelain)
• Comprehensive lighting design (ambient, task, and accent)
• Premium appliances
• Architectural details and custom features
• Potentially structural changes and layout reconfiguration
• Designer fixtures and hardware

Smart homeowners plan for the unexpected by setting aside 15-20% of their budget for contingencies. Common surprises discovered during kitchen renovations include:

• Water damage or mold behind walls
• Outdated electrical systems requiring upgrades
• Structural issues requiring additional support
• Plumbing complications
• Asbestos or lead in older homes

Additional costs often overlooked include:

• Permit fees & Inspection costs ($1,800 – $2,500 depending on project scope)
• Temporary accommodations during renovation
• Dining out expenses while your kitchen is unavailable
• Design fees for complex projects

Here’s how to get the most from your renovation dollars:

Where to splurge:

• Cabinetry quality (affects durability and function)
• Countertops (high visual impact and daily use)
• Professional installation (crucial for longevity)

Where to save:

• Cabinet interiors vs. exteriors (focus on visible surfaces)
• Lighting fixtures (style without sacrificing function)
• Appliances (mid-range often provides excellent value)

Invest in quality where it affects daily function and long-term durability:

• Cabinet hardware and drawer slides
• Sink (used constantly and difficult to replace)
• Faucet (a frequently used item where quality is noticeable)
• Flooring (high traffic area requiring durability)

• Open shelving instead of upper cabinets in select areas
• Quartz that mimics marble rather than actual marble
• Standard-depth refrigerator instead of counter-depth
• Stock cabinetry with custom details added
• Luxury vinyl instead of porcelain or hardwood in appropriate applications

The “right” budget for your kitchen renovation depends on your specific goals, home value, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Generally, kitchen renovations should represent 5-15% of your home’s value for optimal return on investment.

Working with experienced professionals is crucial for accurate budgeting and achieving the best results. At Floor and Bath Design, we tailor renovation plans to your specific budget, helping prioritize elements that deliver the most impact for your investment.

With over 35 years of experience renovating kitchens throughout Durham Region and the east GTA, we understand how to maximize value at every price point. Our design team takes time to understand your priorities, helping you make informed decisions about where to invest and where to save.

Ready to determine the ideal budget for your kitchen renovation goals? Contact us today for a personalized consultation that will help you create a realistic budget and timeline for your dream kitchen.