Years of daily use take a toll on kitchen cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, and lighting, whether you’re a master chef or a skilled microwaver. Because the kitchen is such an important and frequently used space in most homes, it is the most frequently remodeled room in New Hampshire and across the United States.
Although everything in your kitchen may still work, the room might no longer be up-to-date, comfortable, or large enough for your needs. A remodel will refresh or expand the space and breathe new life into your kitchen. Are you wondering how much your kitchen renovation will cost? Here’s what you need to know to create a realistic budget in our corner of New England.
New Hampshire Remodeling Costs
Everything’s gotten bigger in recent years, from the size of soft drinks at fast food restaurants to the square footage of kitchens. While previous generations of homeowners may have been perfectly happy as long as their kitchens were big enough to hold a sink, range, and refrigerator, basic kitchens don’t pass muster with today’s homeowners. Whether you want to update or enlarge the space, you can expect to pay about $186,168 for a major, upscale kitchen remodel or $101,675 for a major, midrange kitchen remodel in the Seacoast New Hampshire area. Those figures come from Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report for the Portsmouth, NH, region. We remodel in Massachusetts, Maine, and throughout the Seacoast, but these local averages can give you a starting point.
What Does a Kitchen Remodeling Price Include?
Midrange Remodel Project Scope Example
Remodeling Magazine bases its midrange estimates on a standardized 200-square-foot kitchen with these features:
- 30 linear feet of semi-custom wood cabinets
- 3’ by 5’ island
- Laminate countertops
- Double-tub stainless steel sink with standard single-lever faucet
- Energy-efficient range
- Vented range hood
- Built-in microwave
- Dishwasher
- Garbage disposal
- Custom lighting
- Resilient flooring
- Painted walls, trim, and ceiling
A midrange remodel can completely change the look of your kitchen but may not give you all of the features you want, expand your space, or change your layout. It includes quality, moderately priced materials.
Upscale Kitchen Remodeling Costs
An upscale renovation is in order if you’ve been dreaming of quartz countertops, custom cabinets, and high-end appliances. The upscale, major kitchen renovation project in Remodeling Magazine's survey of local experts is also based on a 200-square-foot kitchen and includes these features:
- 30 linear feet of top-of-the-line, custom, white cabinets with built-in sliding shelves
- Stone countertops
- Ceramic or glass tile backsplash
- Built-in refrigerator
- Commercial-grade cooktop and vent hood
- Wall oven
- Built-in microwave
- High-end under-mount sink with designer faucets
- Water filtration system
- General and task lighting
- Tile or flooring that looks like wood
Factors That Affect the Cost of Kitchen Remodels
The Cost vs. Value figures give you a rough idea of typical remodeling costs, but of course, your actual costs will vary depending on the project you have planned. These factors and features will influence just how much you’ll pay for your remodel this year.
Square Footage
Do you want to increase the size of your kitchen? If you borrow space from another area of your home or build an addition, walls, windows, plumbing, and electrical systems may need reconfiguring, adding to your cost. Generally, the cost to remodel a small kitchen will be significantly less than a larger one, with all other variables constant.
Labor
Labor can often be the most expensive part of your kitchen remodel. Materials that are difficult or time-intensive to install, such as an intricate small tile backsplash or flooring, will cost more than materials that require less effort and expertise.
Layout
Do you want to swap the locations of your range and sink and add an under-the-counter wine chiller? Are we building a kitchen island or adding other new elements? Changing the location of appliances usually requires extra fees for electrical and plumbing work. Many clients are surprised to learn about the cost of moving kitchen plumbing.
Materials
From countertops to cabinetry, flooring to fixtures, each selection plays a significant role in determining your final budget. So, how much does it cost to remodel a kitchen? It often comes down to the quality and type of materials you select.
- Cabinetry: Cabinets are often the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel. Custom wood cabinets, for example, can drastically increase your kitchen remodel prices, while made-to-order factory-built cabinets provide a more affordable option without sacrificing style.
- Countertops: High-end materials like marble or quartz will increase the average cost for a new kitchen, while laminate or butcher block offer a more budget-friendly alternative.
- Flooring and Backsplash: Tile, hardwood, and natural stone can drive up kitchen renovation prices, but cost-effective materials like vinyl plank or ceramic can still deliver great style at a lower price point.
Ways to Keep Remodeling Costs Down
We've all heard horror stories about construction costs that balloon mid-project. The best way to save money on a remodel is to get it right the first time. Ensure that budget woes don't plague your project by setting yourself up for success.
Stick to Your Plan
You need a clearly-articulated process and plan before you begin construction. Changing your mind about the layout or materials causes delay and expense. Rescheduling professionals, ordering new materials, and ripping out completed work will end up costing you more than you expect.
Hire a Reputable Contractor
Hire a contractor who has a large body of happy customers in your area. A reputable contractor respects the budget you've outlined together and communicates about any unexpected changes so you can make an informed decision.
Preserve Elements You Like
You don't have to part with every part of your kitchen. If you like your backsplash, range hood, flooring, or built-ins, you can keep them. Historic homes often offer one-of-a-kind charm that deserves to be honored, not demoed.
Popular Kitchen Design Ideas
Our budget blogs can be a bit dry. Here's a peek at some of the kitchen design trends for 2025 to inject some fun into designing your new kitchen.
Natural Materials
Homeowners are increasingly seeking out eco-friendly, natural materials for their kitchen renovations. Expect to see more kitchens featuring sustainable woods, stone countertops, and organic textures. Incorporating natural elements can add warmth and a timeless appeal to your home.
Smart Kitchens
Technology is continuing to play a larger role in kitchen design. From smart appliances to touchless faucets, integrating tech solutions into your remodel can increase both convenience and efficiency. While this trend might raise kitchen remodel prices, it’s a popular feature among homeowners who want a cutting-edge, connected kitchen.
Open Shelving and Minimalist Storage
Sleek, open shelving and minimalist storage solutions are set to be a major trend in 2025. Homeowners opt for clean lines and uncluttered spaces that create a more airy, open feel. Combine open and traditional shelving to keep the peace between clutter and curation.
Multifunctional Islands
Kitchen islands continue to evolve, offering more than just additional counter space. In 2025, islands will be designed with built-in storage, integrated appliances, and seating areas. This multifunctional approach works well in kitchens of all sizes, from average kitchen square footage to more spacious layouts.
Oxland Builders Creates Quality Kitchens Near Seacoast, NH
Have you been considering a kitchen remodel? If you live in the Seacoast New Hampshire, Northern Massachusetts, or Southern Maine areas, give us a call and tell us a little about what you have in mind. We cannot wait to design and execute your dream space together!
