Design Ideas

Cost to Renovate a Small Kitchen

By Jessica E. Baker 8 min read

Introduction

Why Small Kitchen Renovation is a Big Deal

You might think a small kitchen means small effort and small costs, right? Not quite. Small kitchens pack a punch in both function and personality—but they also come with unique challenges when it’s time for a makeover. Renovating a small kitchen isn’t just about making it prettier; it’s about maximizing every square inch, improving efficiency, and creating a space that brings joy to your everyday cooking.

Think about it: the kitchen is where morning routines begin and family memories are made. A renovation can dramatically improve your home’s value and the quality of your life—especially when done right.

What You’ll Learn in This Article

In this guide, we’ll break down the actual cost of renovating a small kitchen. We’ll walk through budget ranges, material choices, hidden expenses, and pro tips to save money without sacrificing style. Whether you’re planning a modest refresh or a complete transformation, this article will help you plan smart, spend wisely, and make the most out of your space.

Average Cost to Renovate a Small Kitchen

National Average Breakdown

So, how much does it actually cost to renovate a small kitchen?

The national average cost for a small kitchen renovation falls between $13,000 to $15,000. But this number can go up or down depending on your personal preferences and local market prices.

Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Low-End Renovation: $5,000–$10,000

  • Mid-Range Renovation: $12,000–$20,000

  • High-End Renovation: $25,000–$40,000+

If you’re only replacing cabinet doors and adding a new backsplash, you might stay in the low end. Full gut jobs with luxury appliances? That’s when the price skyrockets.

Budget vs. Mid-Range vs. High-End Renovations

Let’s put it into perspective with three categories:

Renovation Tier Description Typical Cost
Budget Minor cosmetic updates, refaced cabinets, affordable materials $5,000 – $10,000
Mid-Range New appliances, semi-custom cabinets, quartz countertops $12,000 – $20,000
High-End Full layout change, custom cabinetry, high-end finishes $25,000 – $40,000+

Understanding where you fall in these tiers helps you plan accordingly—and avoid nasty surprises later.

Factors That Influence Kitchen Renovation Cost

Kitchen Size and Layout

Even though we’re talking about “small kitchens,” the square footage still matters. A 70-square-foot galley kitchen is going to cost less than a 100-square-foot L-shaped kitchen—especially if you’re knocking down walls or moving plumbing.

The layout also plays a huge role. Rearranging appliances and reconfiguring space means more electrical and plumbing work, which drives up the cost.

Material Choices

Materials can make or break your budget. Want granite countertops or Italian tiles? Be ready to spend more.

Compare:

  • Laminate countertops: $20–$50 per sq. ft.

  • Quartz countertops: $50–$100 per sq. ft.

  • Granite countertops: $60–$120 per sq. ft.

The same goes for cabinets, flooring, and backsplash—your choices set the tone and the total cost.

Labor Costs

Labor can eat up 30–50% of your renovation budget. And let’s be honest, unless you’re a professional, you’ll likely need help with things like electrical rewiring, plumbing, tiling, or custom installations.

Average labor rates range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on your location and the job complexity.

Location Matters

Where you live has a huge impact on renovation costs. For example:

  • A kitchen remodel in New York City might cost 30–50% more than one in Omaha, Nebraska.

  • Urban areas usually have higher labor rates, permit fees, and contractor availability issues.

Always get local estimates!

Breakdown of Kitchen Renovation Expenses

Let’s break it down by category so you can see where the money actually goes.

Cabinets

Cabinets usually consume the largest portion of your budget—up to 30% or more. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Stock cabinets: $100–$300 per linear foot

  • Semi-custom cabinets: $150–$650 per linear foot

  • Custom cabinets: $500–$1,200+ per linear foot

If your cabinets are still structurally sound, consider refacing instead of replacing to save thousands.

Countertops

Countertops are the crown jewel of your kitchen—but they’re not cheap.

Material Cost (Installed) per sq. ft.
Laminate $20 – $50
Butcher Block $35 – $70
Quartz $50 – $100
Granite $60 – $120
Marble $75 – $200+

Choose wisely, especially in a small space where you don’t need tons of square footage to make an impact.

Flooring

Flooring adds both beauty and function, and it costs 5%–10% of your budget on average.

Options include:

  • Vinyl: $2–$5 per sq. ft.

  • Laminate: $3–$8 per sq. ft.

  • Tile: $5–$15 per sq. ft.

  • Hardwood: $8–$20 per sq. ft.

Waterproof and easy-to-clean surfaces are ideal for kitchens.

Appliances

In a small kitchen, you may need smaller or space-saving appliances—but don’t assume that means cheaper. Compact appliances can actually be more expensive.

  • Basic range: $400 – $1,000

  • Refrigerator: $500 – $2,500

  • Dishwasher: $300 – $1,200

  • Microwave: $100 – $500

Want smart tech or stainless steel finishes? That bumps up the price.

Plumbing & Electrical

If you’re changing layouts or upgrading outdated systems, this can cost a good chunk—up to 10% of your budget.

  • Plumbing work: $1,000 – $3,000

  • Electrical upgrades: $1,000 – $2,500

  • Adding new outlets, lights, or switches? That’s extra.

Older homes may need rewiring or pipe replacement, so always inspect before you plan.

Lighting

Lighting can totally transform the vibe of your kitchen. Expect to spend $500 to $2,000, depending on the fixtures and labor involved.

Consider a combo of:

  • Overhead lights

  • Under-cabinet lights

  • Pendant lights over an island (if you have one)

Paint & Finishes

One of the cheapest upgrades you can make! A fresh coat of paint can make your kitchen feel brand new.

  • DIY: $100 – $300 for paint and supplies

  • Pro job: $500 – $1,500 depending on size and prep work

Don’t forget about hardware, trim, and sealing—it adds up, but not much.

Hidden Costs You Might Overlook

Permits and Inspections

Depending on your city, you might need permits for plumbing, electrical, or structural changes.

Unexpected Repairs

Once demo day hits, don’t be surprised by mold, rotted wood, or outdated wiring.

Temporary Kitchen Setup

Eating out or creating a makeshift kitchen in another room? Those costs add up, too.

Cost-Saving Tips for Small Kitchen Renovation

Reface Instead of Replace

If your cabinet structure is solid, just update the doors and hardware.

DIY What You Can

Painting walls? Installing cabinet knobs? You got this.

Shop Sales and Discounts

Look for discontinued models or clearance sales. You can score brand-name items for half the price.

Work with a Budget-Friendly Contractor

Ask for referrals, check reviews, and always get multiple quotes.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: What’s Worth It?

Pros and Cons of DIY

DIY saves money, but it can also cost you more in the long run if you make mistakes.

When to Call in the Experts

Plumbing, electrical, and structural work? That’s pro territory.

How Long Does a Small Kitchen Renovation Take?

Timeline Overview

Most small kitchen renovations take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on complexity.

Factors That Can Delay the Process

Backordered materials, permit delays, or surprise repairs can throw off your schedule.

Budget Templates and Tools

Free Online Calculators

Sites like HomeAdvisor and Remodeling Calculator help you estimate costs quickly.

Spreadsheets to Track Costs

Use Google Sheets or Excel to keep an eye on every penny.

Real-Life Small Kitchen Renovation Examples

Budget Makeover – $7,500

Painted cabinets, new lighting, and peel-and-stick backsplash.

Mid-Range Transformation – $15,000

New semi-custom cabinets, quartz countertops, and upgraded appliances.

High-End Remodel – $35,000

Custom cabinets, high-end finishes, and a full layout redesign.

Financing Options for Your Kitchen Remodel

Personal Loans

Quick to access but often higher interest.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

Great for larger budgets—lower rates and tax benefits.

Credit Cards

Only recommended for small updates or if you have a 0% APR intro offer.

Mistakes to Avoid During Renovation

Ignoring the Workflow (Kitchen Triangle)

Fridge, sink, stove—if it’s hard to move between these, your kitchen won’t function well.

Going Overboard on Trends

Trends fade, but your kitchen’s price tag doesn’t. Aim for timeless over trendy.

Sustainable and Affordable Renovation Ideas

Energy-Efficient Appliances

Save on your electric bill while helping the planet.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Think bamboo flooring or recycled glass countertops for style and sustainability.

Final Thoughts on Renovating a Small Kitchen

Renovating a small kitchen can feel overwhelming, but with a clear budget, the right planning, and smart decisions, it’s totally doable. Focus on function first, add a dash of style, and remember—every inch counts.

Conclusion

So, how much does it cost to renovate a small kitchen? The short answer: it depends. But with all the tips and details we’ve covered, you now have the power to plan your renovation with confidence. Whether you’re going budget or going bold, a beautiful, functional kitchen is within reach. Go on—make that dream kitchen a reality.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to renovate a 10×10 kitchen?

Renovating a 10×10 kitchen (which is considered average-sized for a small kitchen) typically costs between $15,000 and $30,000 depending on your materials, layout changes, and whether you go DIY or hire professionals. If you go for high-end finishes or change the structure, costs can rise above $35,000.

2. Can I remodel my kitchen for under $10,000?

Absolutely! A budget of under $10,000 is doable if you focus on cosmetic updates. Consider painting cabinets, replacing hardware, installing a peel-and-stick backsplash, or upgrading appliances during sales. DIY can also save a ton.

3. Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?

Yes, refacing is much cheaper than replacing. Cabinet refacing costs about 30%–50% less than installing new cabinets. It’s a great option if your existing cabinet boxes are still sturdy and you just want a refreshed look.

4. How long does a small kitchen renovation take?

A typical small kitchen renovation takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the scope. If you’re only doing surface updates, it could be done in 2–3 weeks. Major layout changes or custom cabinetry might push the timeline longer.

5. What adds the most value in a kitchen remodel?

The upgrades that add the most value are:

  • Cabinet and countertop upgrades

  • New appliances

  • Improved lighting

  • Functional layout changes

Energy-efficient appliances and timeless finishes also tend to offer a strong return on investment (ROI).