What Is a Realistic Budget for a Kitchen Renovation?
As a contractor, I get this question more than any other: “What does a kitchen renovation really cost?”
The honest answer is that it depends — not because we want to avoid the question, but because no two kitchens (or homeowners) are the same. Still, there are real patterns and numbers you can use to plan confidently. Here’s what we tell our clients at V&M Construction when they ask what’s realistic in today’s market.
Average Kitchen Renovation Cost Range (2025)
For most Ontario homes, expect to invest between $40,000 and $80,000 for a mid-range renovation, and $90,000 to $150,000+ for a high-end custom kitchen.
Here’s a rough breakdown by scope:
Kitchen Type
Description
Typical Cost Range
Cosmetic Refresh
Replacing countertops, cabinet doors, backsplash, and paint
$25,000–$40,000
Mid-Range Renovation
New cabinetry, stone countertops, flooring, lighting, appliances, and minor layout tweaks
$40,000–$80,000
Full Custom / Layout Change
Wall removals, structural work, new plumbing/electrical, custom cabinetry, and premium finishes
$90,000–$150,000+
Where the Budget Actually Goes
1. Cabinetry
Custom cabinetry is often the biggest cost driver, accounting for 30–40% of the total budget.
Stock or semi-custom: $15,000–$25,000
Fully custom millwork: $30,000–$50,000+
Upgrades like soft-close drawers, integrated spice pull-outs, or custom hood surrounds all add up but make a big difference in both function and feel.
2. Countertops & Backsplash
Quartz, granite, or porcelain countertops typically range $6,000–$12,000, depending on slab selection and edge profile.
Backsplashes can vary from $1,500 for basic tile to $5,000+ for full-height stone or specialty designs.
3. Flooring
Engineered hardwood, large-format tile, or LVP — expect $3,000–$8,000 installed. The choice of material, subfloor prep, and pattern (like herringbone) will influence cost.
4. Plumbing & Electrical
A proper kitchen upgrade almost always involves some level of system work:
Adding pot lights or under-cabinet lighting
Moving plumbing for a new sink or island
Upgrading outdated wiring to current code
Budget $5,000–$10,000 for mechanical updates in most cases.
5. Appliances
Depending on your taste and brand preference, a full appliance package can range from $8,000–$25,000+.
Built-ins, panel-ready fridges, or professional ranges (Thermador, Wolf, etc.) push the top end higher.
6. Finishes & Fixtures
Lighting, hardware, paint, trim, and accessories might sound small, but they typically total $3,000–$7,000. They’re also where design and craftsmanship shine.
7. Design & Permitting
Even a “simple” kitchen still requires planning. Allow $3,000–$8,000 for design, drawings, and permits — more if you’re modifying walls or structure.
This step keeps everything on track and prevents mid-project cost surprises.
What Drives Costs Up
Changing layout mid-project (especially moving plumbing or gas lines)
Choosing all high-end finishes at once
Older homes with outdated wiring or poor insulation
Custom cabinetry and millwork
Tight jobsite access that slows trade work
Rushed schedules that require overtime or extra mobilizations
How to Keep Costs Under Control
Start with a clear design plan. Know your layout, materials, and goals before demolition begins.
Decide on priorities early. Spend where it matters most to you — often cabinetry and lighting.
Avoid scope creep. Midway add-ons (new flooring throughout, ceiling beams, etc.) quickly snowball.
Reuse where practical. Keeping existing plumbing locations or refinishing solid cabinets can save thousands.
Partner with one design-build team. It avoids markup layering and miscommunication between designer, trades, and contractor.
Final Thoughts
A well-planned kitchen renovation isn’t just about looks — it’s about flow, function, and longevity. The right layout and quality craftsmanship will serve your family for decades, and that’s where true value lies.
At V&M Construction, we help homeowners across Wellington and Waterloo Counties design and build kitchens that balance beauty with practicality. If you’re ready to start planning your own project, we can guide you from concept to completion — with full transparency on costs every step of the way.
