What Is a Realistic Budget for a Kitchen Remodel?

The Kitchen Master

Remodeling your kitchen in the Chicagoland suburbs is a big investment, so setting a budget is important to keep your vision grounded in reality. Without an idea of what you’re willing to spend, the costs can easily climb higher than intended. But what’s a realistic budget for a kitchen remodel in Naperville? Get the numbers right from the start to help you enjoy the remodeling process instead of stressing over surprise expenses.

How to Set a Budget for Your Kitchen Remodel Project

A kitchen remodeling budget must account for many moving parts. As a rough benchmark, plan to budget 5% to 15% of your home’s value for a kitchen remodel. With an average home value in Naperville of around $600,000, a typical renovation may cost $30,000 to $90,000.

Here are the major cost drivers you should factor into your budget:

• Kitchen size: A larger kitchen naturally demands more materials and labor. For a small kitchen of 100 square feet or less, you might be looking at $10,000 to $20,000 for cosmetic upgrades. An extensive renovation in a 250-square-foot kitchen could easily cost $100,000 or more.
• Project scope: Are you just upgrading the finishes or reconfiguring the layout? Installing new countertops, cabinets, backsplashes, and fixtures costs less than knocking down walls, rerouting the plumbing, and adding an island.
• Material selection: Your material choices may double or triple the cost, depending on how luxurious you go. Budget finishes (stock cabinets, laminate countertops, and vinyl flooring) cost the least. Mid-grade finishes (semi-custom cabinets, quartz countertops, and luxury vinyl or tile flooring) offer a step up at a slightly higher cost. And high-end finishes (custom cabinetry, marble or granite countertops, and exotic hardwood floors) come at a premium.
• Customization: Features like custom built-ins, artisan backsplashes, extensive layout changes, and hidden storage raise the cost.
• Labor: Labor typically accounts for 30% to 40% of the total renovation cost. You want a skilled professional to lay tiles, install countertops, and set up electrical and plumbing systems. Still, you can handle simple tasks yourself, like painting or installing cabinet hardware, to shave off some of the cost.
• Permits and inspections: Residential remodeling work in Naperville requires permits and inspections to comply with code. Expect to pay small clerical and review fees, plus $50 per inspection. In total, permits and inspections may cost several hundred dollars, depending on project size and scope.
• Contingencies: Unexpected expenses are almost inevitable, especially if you live in an older home. Set aside 10% to 20% of your budget for hidden damage, delays, and change orders.
• Living and eating arrangements: If you stay in your home but can’t use your kitchen during the remodel, you might eat more meals out. If you opt for alternative accommodations or a temporary kitchen setup, these situations need to be budgeted, too.
• Miscellaneous expenses: Plan for material delivery costs, dumpster rentals, site cleanup, and electrical, plumbing, or HVAC upgrades so they don’t sneak up on you.

Cabinet Replacement vs. Refacing

New cabinetry is usually the largest single cost in a kitchen remodel, often making up 20% to 30% of the total cost. Naperville homeowners have two main options: cabinet replacement or refacing.

Full cabinet replacement involves removing the existing boxes and installing new ones, enabling layout changes, upgraded storage options, and a fresh style. This approach costs more, especially if you opt for custom cabinets, but it delivers a whole new look and improved functionality.

Refacing preserves the existing cabinet boxes but replaces the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. New veneer or laminate may also be added to the frames. This is a smart, budget-friendly choice when the current layout works well and the cabinets are structurally sound.

Costs of Countertop Installation

Countertops are another significant piece of the remodel. Expect them to contribute roughly 8% to 12% of the project cost, depending on the material and installation complexity. Be sure to account for removing old countertops, any required substrate work, and necessary cut-outs.

Appliances to Budget For

Appliances typically account for 10% to 15% of your total remodel cost. This includes the basics like a range, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. If you go high-end with built-ins, smart upgrades, panel-ready appliances, or specialty wine fridges, budget higher.

Flooring Options

Flooring may contribute 7% to 10% of your overall budget, depending on the material and square footage. If you add heated flooring or need subfloor repairs, the cost can climb.

Lighting and Plumbing

New lighting and plumbing fixtures account for 5% to 8% of the total cost. This covers general lighting, pendant lights, task lighting, and in-cabinet and toe-kick accents, plus a new sink, faucet, and garbage disposal. If a reconfigured layout requires moving pipes and electrical wires behind the walls, expect the cost to increase.

Why Trust The Kitchen Master for Your Remodeling Project?

Since 1977, The Kitchen Master has built a reputation for award-winning designs and service. Our signature remodeling process takes you smoothly from concept to completion. We offer high-quality cabinetry at multiple price points, custom countertops in a wide variety of materials, and expert cabinet refacing with many wood and laminate options.

If you’re still looking for ideas, browse our project gallery or stop by our 4,000-square-foot showroom in Naperville to explore styles and ask questions. We treat you like family and offer a five-year warranty on all installations for your peace of mind.

Call The Kitchen Master in Naperville Today

Now that you have a better idea of what a kitchen remodel costs in Naperville, you may be ready to move forward. Your vision is our inspiration, and we would love to help you design a space that fits your lifestyle, needs, and budget.

Schedule a free consultation to get started on your dream kitchen. Your home is in great hands with us!