What Is the Most Expensive Part of a Kitchen Remodel?

So, you’re considering remodeling your kitchen? Great choice! A new kitchen can make your space feel fresh, current and much more functional. But before you get to picking out fancy countertops and stylish cabinets, you may be asking yourself: What is the biggest expense in a kitchen remodel?

Get a snack (if your kitchen is still intact), and let’s break it all down. Spoiler alert: It’s often the cabinets. But let’s get into why, as well as other significant costs to look out for when planning your kitchen remodel in Houston or anywhere else.

Cabinets: The Budget Busters

Yep, you read that right. Cabinets can constitute the largest share of your budget, often adding up to 30 percent to 40 percent of the total. That’s because:

• They take up a lot of space — Cabinets occupy most of your kitchen walls, making replacement not a cheap proposition.
• Custom vs. stock — Custom cabinets are tailor-made for your kitchen and are way more expensive than pre-made (stock) options.
• The same applies to material – Wood, laminate, glass panels—each choice impacts the price.
• 💡 Saving tip: If your existing cabinets are in good condition, reface or paint them instead of replacing.

Appliances: Fancy = Pricey

The next category is appliances, which can devour 15% to 20% of your budget. If you’re aiming for high-end, smart or commercial-style appliances, expect to shell out even more.

What drives the cost up?

Stainless steel, energy-efficient and smart appliances are more expensive but can pay off in utility bills over time.

Built-in appliances (such as a fridge concealed behind cabinet doors) are gorgeous, but cost more to install.

Gas vs. electric — changing from one to the other can involve additional plumbing or wiring work.

💡 Money-saving tip: Purchase last year’s models or shop during big sales such as Black Friday or Labor Day.

Countertops: Luxe vs. Affordable

Countertops will account for 10% to 15% of your kitchen-remodeling budget, depending on the material you select.

Here’s a smattering of the usual suspects:

Quartz ($$$) – Sturdy, fashionable and little upkeep, but pricey.

Granite ($$-$$$) – Timeless and durable; requires sealing.

Laminate ($) – Inexpensive, but not very durable.

Butcher Block ($$) – Attractively warm, but requires constant oil.

💡 Cost-cutting advice: Combine materials! Use quartz or granite in high-use areas and a less expensive material in less trafficked areas.

Flooring: Can’t Skip This One

Hardwood or carpeting generally runs 5% to 10% of your budget. It costs depending on what material you want:

Tile and hardwood are durable, but pricier.

Vinyl and laminate are inexpensive and can be beautiful, but may not last as long.

💡 Save some cash: Refinishing can really save you some bucks if your existing floors are in decent shape.

Labor & Installation: The Other Hidden Elephant

Using cost-effective materials is no surefire way to save; labor is expensive and can be 20% to 35% of your budget.

Why? Because people like plumbers, electricians and carpenters actually know what they’re doing (and frankly, you don’t want to screw up the wiring just to save a few bucks).

💡 Money-saving tip: If you’re handy, try doing some of the work yourself, like demolition or painting. But plumbing and electrical are best left to the pros.

Other Costs to Watch Out For

Lighting ($500-$2,000) — Chic fixtures can really lift a room.

Backsplash ($600–$2,500) – A small area can make a big impact, but prices vary significantly.

Permit Fees ($500-$2,000) – Some remodeling projects need city approval.

Kitchen Remodel Pricing Guide in Houston

As for how much it costs to renovate a kitchen in Houston, here’s a ballpark:

Low-budget remodel: $10,000 — $20,000

Workhorse remodel: $25,000 — $50,000

High-end remodel: $60,000+

The final price varies based on the size of your kitchen, the materials you opt for and the level of work needed.

Final Thoughts

Cabinets tend to be the biggest single expense in a kitchen remodel, followed by appliances, countertops and labor. But with some smart strategies, you can save money while still ending up with a beautiful new kitchen.

So whether your still-on-the-table fantasy makeover is luxe or just the most basic of makeovers, knowing where your dollars go will help you make the best decisions. Want to get started on your kitchen remodeling Houston project? You just need to set a budget — you might even want to start saving!

*Pro Tip* You always want to add those little extras (because, let us be honest, surprises happen) 10-20%

If you are considering a kitchen renovation in the Houston area turn to Houston Kitchen Co. for the kitchen remodel Houston residents can rely on!

Happy remodeling!