The Kitchen Remodel Cost Guide: What to Expect in 2026

Understanding your kitchen remodel cost is the first step in planning a successful project. Prices have always depended on materials, labor, and scope, but heading into 2026, new market pressures are shaping budgets. Recent tariffs on imported cabinetry are already influencing material costs and availability.

National data shows that even modest kitchen updates can reach the mid-five figures, while full luxury remodels often exceed six figures. These ranges reflect differences in cabinetry quality, finish level, and the complexity of the work.

Cabinetry remains the biggest driver of kitchen remodel cost, taking up anywhere between 30-50% of the total budget in many projects. Countertops, appliances, and skilled labor make up most of the remainder, especially in custom or high-end renovations.

This guide breaks down what shapes kitchen remodel cost in 2026, how tariffs and material trends influence pricing, and what you can expect at different levels of renovation. Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a full custom build, you’ll find clear numbers and practical insights to help you move forward confidently.

Explore The Guide

• National Cost Benchmarks for 2025-2026
• Typical Kitchen Remodel Costs in Rhode Island & New England
• What Contributes to Your Kitchen Remodel Cost (with Estimates)
• Impact of 2025-2026 Tariffs on Kitchen Remodel Cost
• How to Plan Your Kitchen Remodel Budget
• Timeline & Living Through a Kitchen Remodel
• Planning with Confidence: Your Remodel Cost Recap

National Cost Benchmarks for 2025-2026

Kitchen remodel cost varies significantly depending on scope, materials, and size. Most mid-range full remodels fall between $75,000 and $125,000*.

For smaller or cosmetic-only remodels, such as cabinet refacing, minor updates, or fresh finishes, costs can start closer to $20,000*.

If you opt for a full renovation — including new cabinetry, premium finishes, layout changes, or structural updates — expenses can rise well beyond those mid‑range numbers. Materials, complexity, and labor all contribute heavily.

These ranges offer a realistic baseline for budgeting. Knowing where your project fits, from a minor refresh to a full luxury remodel, helps you plan realistically and avoid unexpected surprises.

*Actual costs and timelines can vary significantly based on your location, project scope, materials, and contractor availability.

Notes for readers:

• Prices vary by region, kitchen size, and material choice.
• Labor, permits, and high-demand finishes can increase costs.
• Recent tariffs on imported cabinetry may affect material costs in 2026.

Typical Kitchen Remodel Costs in Rhode Island & New England

Kitchen remodel costs in Rhode Island and across New England tend to exceed national averages due to higher labor rates, material costs, and the prevalence of custom, full-service renovations.

In Rhode Island, full-service kitchen remodels exceed $75,000, particularly when custom cabinetry, design services, and structural modifications are involved. This reflects local labor rates, material sourcing, and the level of craftsmanship expected in the region.

Higher Labor Costs and Skilled Trade Demand

New England relies heavily on experienced, licensed trades. Skilled union-affiliated labor commands higher rates, especially for complex renovations involving electrical, plumbing, or structural work.

Skilled labor reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes, code issues, or rework down the line, especially in older homes where conditions are often unpredictable. For homeowners, this translates into a remodel that not only looks better, but performs better over time.

Older Homes and Structural Complexity

Many New England homes feature historic charm, unique layouts, and architectural details that simply don’t exist in newer construction. While older homes often require additional planning, structural updates, or infrastructure improvements, they also present an opportunity to create kitchens that feel authentic, intentional, and deeply connected to the home’s character.

Tastefully renovating these spaces requires careful design, skilled craftsmanship, and an understanding of how to blend modern function with original details that ensure the finished kitchen feels elevated without sacrificing what makes the home special.

Material Sourcing and Transportation Costs

Many cabinetry, stone, and specialty materials must be shipped into the Northeast, increasing delivery costs and lead times compared to other regions of the country.

Material Price Fluctuations and Tariffs

Ongoing tariffs and supply chain volatility continue to impact cabinetry, hardware, and imported finishes. These factors can affect both pricing and availability, particularly for custom or specialty selections.

Together, these factors mean that New England kitchen remodels reflect not just materials, but craftsmanship, compliance, and long-term durability which are all critical considerations for a successful renovation.

What Contributes to Your Kitchen Remodel Cost (with Estimates)

Understanding where the money goes helps you budget realistically. Here’s a breakdown of what typically drives costs in a kitchen remodel, with ballpark numbers and estimates to guide planning.

Cabinetry & Storage

Cabinetry costs can vary significantly based on style and build quality. Many New England projects using semi-custom or custom cabinetry often represent 30-40% of the total renovation investment depending on scope.

Because cabinets also determine layout, storage capacity, and long-term functionality, this is usually where many homeowners choose to splurge.

Countertops & Surfaces

Countertop pricing depends heavily on material and finish. Typical installed costs for common surfaces in New England remodels vary for quartz, granite, and marble options, with additional installation charges depending on profile and edge detail.

Premium natural stone or luxury surfaces will increase cost, but also add lasting value and design impact, useful for homeowners focused on high-end finish and resale value.

Labor & Skilled Trades (Installation, Plumbing, Electrical, etc.)

Skilled labor is a major part of the budget. For professional remodels, labor includes cabinet installation, countertop setting, plumbing and electrical work, finishing, etc. Labor costs vary significantly depending on scope and complexity.

Appliances & Fixtures

Upgrading or replacing appliances, lighting fixtures, sinks, faucets, and plumbing fixtures adds to the total. Depending on appliances chosen (standard vs high-end), this portion of the budget can shift noticeably upward.

Flooring, Backsplash & Finishes

Upgrading flooring, backsplash, wall finishes, trim, hardware, and other details also contributes, though generally less than cabinetry or countertops. Depending on materials (tile vs hardwood vs laminate) and scope, these can add a few thousand to the budget.

Contingency & Unexpected Costs

It’s wise to include a contingency, often 10–20% of the total projected cost, to accommodate unforeseen issues (structural repairs, permit delays, last-minute changes, material availability, etc.).

Impact of 2025-2026 Tariffs on Kitchen Remodel Cost

The remodeling world is facing a new reality: as of October 2025, the U.S. government imposed tariffs on imported kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and certain wood products — with rates starting at 25%, and rising to 50% for cabinets and vanities in 2026.

What This Means for Remodel Budgets

• The tariffs raise the cost of imported cabinetry and materials. Some vendors of imported cabinets have already indicated they may raise their prices by around 10% to offset the added duty cost. Looking at vendors that source American-made products can offset these price increases.
• Kitchens that rely on imported cabinets or materials could see their cabinetry costs, often the largest portion of a remodel budget, increase significantly.
• Homeowners should revisit previous budget estimates, especially for mid-range or cost-sensitive projects.

Material Availability & Selection Impact

The tariffs are already causing shifts in what suppliers import and stock. Some companies plan to absorb the added cost for now, but others are limiting offerings, cutting back on less popular import lines, or switching to more expensive domestic alternatives.

This could affect the availability of certain styles, finishes, or cabinetry lines — forcing homeowners to choose from a narrower selection than expected.

Advice for Homeowners Budgeting in 2026

• Source materials carefully. KCCNE carries a wide range of American-made cabinetry brands, giving homeowners high-quality options that avoid tariffs and provide both style and durability.
• Plan for a contingency buffer. Set aside 10–20% extra in your remodel budget to accommodate potential price jumps or limited availability.
• Lock in pricing early. If you find cabinets or finishes you like and they’re reasonably priced, consider ordering or committing early, before tariffs-related increases take full effect.
• Be flexible with materials and finishes. Adjusting design plans slightly, like choosing alternate cabinet lines or finishes, can maintain style while keeping costs more predictable.

How to Plan Your Kitchen Remodel Budget

Budgeting for a kitchen remodel starts with understanding the costs and prioritizing your goals. By planning carefully, you can manage expectations, avoid surprises, and make smart choices throughout the project.

1. Set Your Overall Budget

Decide on a total remodel budget early. Include all elements: cabinetry, countertops, appliances, flooring, labor, permits, and a contingency fund (10–20%) for unexpected costs. Knowing your overall limit helps guide material and design choices without overspending.

2. Prioritize Key Investments

Identify the features most important to you — cabinets, high-quality countertops, or premium appliances. Allocate a larger share of your budget to these priorities, while trimming costs on secondary elements like flooring or backsplash if needed.

3. Account for Material Costs and Tariffs

Materials can fluctuate in price. Tariffs on imported cabinetry may impact costs in 2026, so factor in potential increases. Using domestic cabinetry or American-made brands, like those offered at KCCNE, can help control expenses while maintaining quality.

4. Include Labor and Professional Fees

Installation, plumbing, electrical, and finishing work are essential to a successful remodel. Don’t underestimate labor costs — skilled professionals ensure the project is safe, functional, and built to last.

5. Add a Contingency Fund

Unexpected challenges including structural surprises, backordered materials, or last-minute design changes, can affect your budget. Setting aside 10–20% extra helps absorb these costs without derailing your plans.

6. Track Your Budget

Keep a running total of expenses as decisions are made. This allows you to adjust choices proactively and ensures the project stays within your financial plan.

Timeline & Living Through a Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel is an exciting transformation, but it can also be disruptive. Understanding the timeline and preparing for day-to-day life during construction helps keep stress low.

Typical Timeline

Most remodels take about 8-12 weeks* on average from start to finish, depending on the project scope:

• Planning & Design: 2–3 weeks* for finalizing layout, selecting materials, and approving budgets.
• Demolition & Prep Work: 1–2 weeks* to remove old cabinets, countertops, and flooring.
• Installation: 3-6 weeks* for cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and finishes.
• Final Touches & Inspections: 1–2 weeks* for hardware, plumbing, lighting, and quality checks.

Large or luxury projects may take longer, especially when custom cabinets, stone countertops, or structural changes are involved.

Tips for Living Through Construction

• Create a temporary kitchen: Set up a microwave, mini-fridge, or portable cooking area to make meal prep easier.
• Plan storage & organization: Keep essentials accessible and protect items from dust and debris.
• Stay flexible: Unforeseen delays in materials or labor can occur, so allow some buffer in your timeline.

How KCCNE Makes it Easier

KCCNE offers a full-service approach to kitchen remodeling, managing design, material sourcing, installation, and finishing. By handling all aspects in-house, they minimize coordination headaches and help homeowners enjoy a smoother, more predictable remodeling experience.

Planning with Confidence: Your Remodel Cost Recap

Planning a kitchen remodel in 2026 requires both vision and practicality. Costs are influenced by materials, labor, appliance choices, and now tariffs on imported cabinetry and wood products. Understanding these factors — and budgeting accordingly — ensures a smoother project and fewer surprises.

If you're ready to begin your kitchen remodel, be sure to check out our Complete Guide to Kitchen Remodels to learn what's involved in a kitchen remodel, from planning to installation.

Homeowners can take control by prioritizing key investments, planning for contingencies, and making informed decisions about materials and finishes. Working with a full-service remodeler like KCCNE can simplify the process, from design and material selection to installation, helping maintain both schedule and quality.

Use this guide as a realistic reference point to navigate costs, anticipate potential challenges, and plan a kitchen remodel that balances style, functionality, and investment value. With careful planning, your 2026 remodel can deliver both luxury and long-term satisfaction.

*Actual costs and timelines can vary significantly based on your location, project scope, materials, and contractor availability.