The truth is, small kitchen remodel costs can be low, medium, or high. It all depends on what you want to change. This article will explain everything in simple, easy-to-understand words so you can plan your remodel without stress.
Table of Contents:
- What Is a Small Kitchen Remodel?
- Average Cost to Remodel a Small Kitchen
- What Factors Affect Small Kitchen Remodeling Costs?
- Small Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
- Small Budget Remodel
- Medium Budget Remodel
- Full Remodel for a Small Kitchen
- Hidden Costs You Should Know
- How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Small Kitchen?
- Tips for Planning a Small Kitchen Remodel
- FAQs
Key Takeaways
- Small kitchen remodels cost between $4,000 and $45,000, depending on what you change and the materials you choose.
- Cabinets, countertops, and appliances are usually the most expensive items, even in a small kitchen.
- Hidden costs like water damage, old wiring, mold, and trash removal can add to the total, so make sure to plan for them in your budget.
What Is a Small Kitchen Remodel?
A small kitchen remodel means you are updating a small kitchen that’s between 75 and 100 square feet. Small kitchens usually have less floor space, fewer cabinets, and shorter counters. But even though the space is small, the work can still be big.
You can choose:
- A small remodel (simple updates)
- A medium remodel (better updates)
- A full remodel (major changes)
Each level has a different cost.
Average Cost to Remodel a Small Kitchen
Here is a simple breakdown of what homeowners spend:
- Small remodel: $4,000 to $12,000
- Medium remodel: $12,000 to $25,000
- Large or full remodel: $25,000 to $45,000
Small kitchens cost less because they have fewer cabinets, shorter counters, and less flooring to replace. Still, the total price can go up quickly if you choose high-end materials, upgrade appliances, and change the layout.
What Factors Affect Small Kitchen Remodeling Costs?
Many things can change the total cost of your small kitchen remodel. Here are the biggest ones:
| Category | Percentage of Total Budget |
| Cabinets | 30% to 40% |
| Countertops | 10% to 15% |
| Appliances | 10% to 15% |
| Flooring | 7% to 10% |
| Labor | 30% to 40% |
| Electrical and plumbing work | 5% to 10% |
| Design, permits, and fees | 5% to 10% |
Cabinets
Cabinets are often the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel, even in a small kitchen.
- Painting cabinets: cheapest
- Refacing cabinets: medium
- Replacing cabinets: expensive
- Custom cabinets: very expensive
Since small kitchens have fewer cabinets, you can save money here.
Read More: How Much Does It Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets?
Countertops
Countertop material makes a big difference.
- Laminate: cheap
- Butcher block: medium
- Quartz and granite: more expensive
- Marble: very expensive
Small kitchens have less countertop space, so you can sometimes afford nicer materials.
Appliances
A new stove, fridge, or microwave adds to the cost. You can choose:
- Basic appliances: cheaper
- Mid-range appliances: medium
- High-end appliances: expensive
Small kitchens sometimes use apartment-size appliances, which cost less.
Flooring
The floor cost depends on the material you choose.
- Vinyl: cheap
- Laminate: medium
- Tile: medium to high
- Hardwood: high
Because small kitchens have little floor space, flooring is usually not too pricey.
Labor
Labor is what you pay workers to install cabinets, floors, and countertops. It’s often 30% to 50% of the project cost.
Electrical and Plumbing
If you move your sink or stove, the cost goes up. Keeping the same layout saves money.
Design, permits, and fees
If you hire a designer or need city permits, it adds to the cost. You’ll also need to get permits if you make major changes to your kitchen.
Small Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
Here’s a simple cost breakdown of how much each part costs, including labor, for a 75-square-foot kitchen.
- Cabinets: $1,500 to $8,000
- Countertops: $600 to $3,500
- Appliances: $1,000 to $5,000
- Flooring: $300 to $2,000
- Lighting: $100 to $1,000
- Sink and faucet: $150 to $800
- Backsplash: $200 to $1,200
- Labor: $2,000 to $10,000
Not everyone spends the same amount on these, and not every contractor charges the same amount. Costs can vary based on the quality of materials and the cost of labor in your area, but these numbers can give you a good estimate.
Small Budget Remodel
Cost: $4,000 to $12,000
You keep the same layout and make simple updates like:
- Painting cabinets
- New handles or knobs
- New faucet
- New lighting
- New backsplash
- Basic appliances
- Low-cost countertops
- Small flooring changes
This gives your kitchen a fresh look without spending too much.
Medium Budget Remodel
Cost: $12,000 to $25,000
You can update more features with this budget, such as:
- New cabinets
- Better countertops
- New flooring
- New sink and faucet
- New mid-range appliances
- Improved lighting
- Small layout changes
A medium budget remodel makes your kitchen feel modern and new.
Full Remodel for a Small Kitchen
Cost: $25,000 to $45,000
This remodel changes almost everything:
- Custom cabinets
- High-end countertops
- New tile or hardwood floors
- Luxury appliances
- New lighting everywhere
- New sink, faucet, and plumbing lines
- Possible wall changes
- Full redesign with a contractor
A full remodel gives you a brand-new kitchen that looks stylish and high-quality.
Read More: Ultimate Kitchen Renovation Checklist
Hidden Costs You Should Know
Here are some hidden expenses that usually come with a kitchen remodel:
- Old wiring: Older homes may need electrical upgrades.
- Water damage: Leaky pipes can cause damage that needs to be repaired.
- Mold: If mold appears, it must be removed before new work begins.
- Delivery and installation fees: Stores often charge extra to deliver and install items.
- Trash removal: Disposing of old cabinets, tiles, and floors comes with extra costs.
How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Small Kitchen?
A small kitchen remodel is faster than a big one.
- Small remodel: 1 to 2 weeks
- Medium remodel: 3 to 6 weeks
- Full remodel: 6 to 10 weeks
Several factors determine how long your remodel takes:
- Material delivery: On-time arrival of your cabinets, appliances, tile, and everything else is important. Delays can set back the entire project.
- Worker availability: Make sure your remodeling contractor has a reliable crew and that everyone will be available when needed.
- Level of renovation: Are you simply replacing countertops, or moving walls and changing the layout? The more you change, the longer it takes.
Read More: Different Styles of Kitchen Cabinets
Tips for Planning a Small Kitchen Remodel
Here’s an easy way to plan your project:
- Assess your needs: Make a list of your must-have fixes and possible changes to help guide your decisions.
- Plan budget wisely: Don’t overestimate what you can afford. Set a realistic budget based on your finances and local prices.
- Choose materials carefully: Check for styles online, then visit local stores to compare quality and choose the ones that match your budget and taste.
- Compare prices from multiple contractors: Try to get quotes from at least three contractors to understand the average cost and make cost-effective decisions.
- Pick items that last: Always go for quality materials. They may cost more upfront, but they will last longer and save you money over time.
Read More: Custom vs Ready-Made Cabinets
FAQs
How can I save money on a small kitchen remodel?
Paint cabinets instead of replacing them, choose affordable countertops, stick to your current layout, and handle simple tasks yourself, like removing hardware.
Is remodeling a small kitchen worth it?
Yes, even small updates can improve your kitchen’s appearance and increase the value of your home.
Do I need a permit for a small kitchen remodel?
You’ll need a permit if you move plumbing, electrical lines, or change the layout. Cosmetic upgrades don’t require a permit.
The Final Word
Remodeling a small kitchen can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $45,000, depending on what you change. A small remodel is affordable and simple, a medium remodel adds more updates, and a full remodel can completely transform your space.
Even though a small kitchen is compact, the changes can make a big difference. With the right budget and planning, you can create a kitchen that looks beautiful, works better, and brings you joy every day.
If you’re in San Diego and want to remodel your kitchen, get in touch with Family Interiors. With over 49 years of experience, our pros can transform your kitchen into a beautiful place where you can cook, dine, and make memories with your family.
