Free estimate — verify against local code before building
Kitchen Remodel Cost Calculator
Create a category-by-category low, expected, and high kitchen remodeling budget from editable assumptions.
What this calculator includes
This kitchen remodel planner separates cabinets, countertops, flooring, backsplash, general demolition and trade work, appliances, layout changes, permits, and contingency. Presets are only visible starting allowances: every low, expected, and high rate can be replaced with current supplier or contractor information before the result is used for budgeting.
Next step in your project
Turn the backsplash allowance into a purchase-ready takeoff
Measure the actual run, openings, box coverage, mortar, grout, edge trim, waste, and material cost.
Open Backsplash Tile Calculator →How to use this kitchen remodel cost calculator
- 01
Measure the finish quantities
Enter kitchen floor area, cabinet run, countertop area, and backsplash area instead of relying only on one room-size price.
- 02
Choose a starting scope
Use refresh, standard, or premium only to load visible planning assumptions, then edit the rate bands to match the intended products.
- 03
Identify layout and trade work
Include layout change only when plumbing, electrical, gas, walls, or major cabinet locations move, and replace its allowance with scoped proposals.
- 04
Compare like-for-like proposals
Use the category table to request consistent inclusions, exclusions, permit, cleanup, warranty, and change-order terms.
Worked example
Example: 180-square-foot standard kitchen
A 180 sq ft kitchen with 24 linear ft of cabinets, 45 sq ft of countertop, 30 sq ft of backsplash, standard editable rate bands, an appliance allowance, no layout change, permit allowance, and 15% contingency produces low, expected, and high category totals rather than one precise-looking bid.
Practical buying and overage guidance
Create one scope schedule covering cabinets, hardware, counters, backsplash, flooring, appliances, lighting, plumbing, electrical, ventilation, paint, trim, demolition, disposal, protection, permits, cleanup, warranty, exclusions, and change-order rates before comparing proposals.
Calculation sources and review
Primary references and formula assumptions are linked so you can verify them against the selected product, supplier, and adopted local requirements.
Internal formula review completed July 13, 2026. What this review covers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (opens in a new tab)
Trade labor markets vary; the calculator does not claim local wage or bid accuracy.
- EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Program (opens in a new tab)
Lead-safe requirements may affect pre-1978 renovation work.
- ENERGY STAR certified residential products (opens in a new tab)
Appliance selection, utility connections, performance, and rebates require product-specific review.
Frequently asked questions
Is this an exact kitchen remodel quote?
No. It is a planning range built from visible editable assumptions. Existing conditions, layout, selections, region, contractor scope, and schedule can materially change proposals.
Why are cabinets priced by linear foot?
Linear feet provide a planning basis, but tall cabinets, islands, drawers, organizers, panels, finishes, installation, and hardware can change cost. Replace the rate with a cabinet proposal.
What is included in general work per square foot?
It is an editable allowance for demolition, basic carpentry, paint, plumbing, electrical, lighting, coordination, and installation work not already represented. Define the real scope before using it.
Should contingency be added to a kitchen remodel?
Contingency makes unresolved conditions visible, especially in older kitchens. Set it based on known scope and inspection, or reduce it when written proposals cover the uncertainty.
Does this verify electrical, plumbing, gas, or structural work?
No. Those systems, permits, load changes, ventilation, hazardous materials, and structural alterations require project-specific review and qualified trades.