What Impacts Kitchen Remodel Costs?
Size of Your Kitchen
A small galley kitchen costs less to remodel than a large open-concept kitchen. More square footage means more cabinets, more countertops, more flooring, and more labor.
Scope of Work
Are you doing a cosmetic refresh with new paint and countertops? Or are you gutting the space and changing the layout? Moving plumbing and electrical lines increases costs significantly.
Cabinet Choices
Cabinets are typically the single biggest line item in a kitchen remodel. Stock cabinets from big box stores are the cheapest option. Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility. Custom cabinets are the most expensive but give you exactly what you want.
Countertop Materials
Laminate is the budget option. Quartz and granite are mid-range. Marble, quartzite, and high-end materials push costs higher.
Appliances
Entry-level appliances from brands like GE or Whirlpool are affordable. Mid-range brands like KitchenAid or Bosch cost more. High-end brands like Wolf, Sub-Zero, or Thermador can add $10,000 to $20,000+ to your budget.
Labor and Installation
Labor costs in Charlotte typically run 30% to 40% of your total budget. This includes demolition, installation, plumbing, electrical, and finishing work.
Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown by Scope
Cosmetic Refresh
$25,000 to $35,000
This is a surface-level update. You’re keeping the existing layout and cabinets but making cosmetic improvements.
What’s included:
- Paint or refinish existing cabinets
- New countertops (quartz or granite)
- New backsplash
- New hardware and fixtures
- New lighting
- Possibly new flooring
This is a good option if your layout works but the finishes are outdated.
Mid-Range Remodel
$40,000 to $60,000
This is a more substantial renovation. You might change the layout slightly, replace cabinets, and upgrade appliances.
What’s included:
- New semi-custom cabinets
- New countertops and backsplash
- New appliances (mid-range brands)
- New flooring
- Updated plumbing and electrical
- New lighting and fixtures
- Minor layout changes
This is the sweet spot for most Charlotte homeowners who want a modern, functional kitchen without overbuilding.
High-End Remodel
$60,000 to $100,000+
This is a full-scale renovation with custom features and high-end materials.
What’s included:
- Custom cabinets with specialty storage
- Premium countertops (marble, quartzite)
- High-end appliances
- Custom tile backsplash
- Structural changes (removing walls, adding islands)
- High-end lighting and fixtures
- Premium flooring
This is for homeowners who want a showpiece kitchen and aren’t compromising on quality or design.
Where Should You Spend Your Budget?
Not all upgrades are created equal. Here’s where to prioritize:
Spend More On:
- Cabinets: You use them every day and they define the look of your kitchen
- Countertops: They take a beating and are highly visible
- Layout: A good layout makes cooking easier and adds value
You Can Save On:
- Hardware: You can always upgrade later
- Backsplash: A simple subway tile looks great and costs less than intricate patterns
- Appliances: Mid-range appliances perform just as well as high-end ones for most people
What About Hidden Costs?
Budget for the unexpected. When you open up walls, you might find outdated or unsafe electrical wiring that needs replacement, plumbing that doesn’t meet code, water damage or mold, or structural issues.
A good rule of thumb is to add 10% to 15% to your budget as a contingency.
Is a Kitchen Remodel Worth It?
In Charlotte, a well-executed kitchen remodel typically recoups 60% to 80% of its cost when you sell. But the real value is how it improves your daily life. If you cook at home, a functional, beautiful kitchen is worth the investment.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Remodel?
Kitchen remodels in Charlotte range from $25,000 for a cosmetic refresh to $100,000+ for a high-end renovation. The key is understanding your goals, prioritizing where to spend your budget, and working with a contractor who can help you make smart choices.
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and want an accurate estimate based on your specific project, reach out. We’ll walk you through the options and help you figure out what makes sense for your budget and your home.