| Project Type | Cost Range | Best For | Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Kitchen Remodel | $20,000–$40,000 | Cosmetic upgrades, rentals, prepping to sell | Stock cabinets or refacing, entry-level counters, basic lighting & fixtures, minimal layout change |
| Enhanced Kitchen Remodel | $50,000–$80,000 | Long-term homeowners wanting quality & function | Semi-custom cabinets, quartz/granite counters, better appliances, new flooring, partial layout tweaks |
| Luxury Kitchen Remodel | $90,000–$150,000+ | Showpiece kitchens, major layout changes, custom design | Custom cabinets, luxury finishes, premium appliances, full reconfigurations, smart tech |
Whether you’re dreaming of a simple refresh or planning a luxury overhaul, knowing what a kitchen remodel actually costs is key to starting your project right. While there’s no one-size-fits-all price tag, understanding general budget ranges can help you set realistic expectations and avoid surprise expenses down the road.
At Quality First, we’ve been remodeling kitchens across Eastern Maryland for over 30 years. Here’s what you can expect to spend, and what you’ll get, at three different investment levels.
What Affects Kitchen Remodel Costs?
Before we dive into the tiers, let’s talk about what drives the price of a remodel:
Size of your kitchen – more square footage means more flooring, cabinetry, and labor
Scope of work – changing the layout or moving plumbing/electrical adds cost
Material selections – countertops, cabinets, appliances, and finishes vary widely in price
Permits and inspections – local codes in Maryland can add both time and cost
Labor – working with licensed professionals ensures quality, but also reflects in the price
Kitchen Remodel Cost Tiers
Here’s how kitchen remodel budgets typically break down in our region:
BASIC KITCHEN REMODEL ($20,000–$40,000)
This level is great for homeowners who want to modernize a dated space without moving walls or doing a full gut job. It focuses on cosmetic improvements while keeping your existing layout intact.
What’s typically included:
Stock cabinets or cabinet refacing
Entry-level laminate or basic quartz countertops
Simple backsplash (like subway tile)
Standard appliances (not panel-ready or luxury lines)
New sink and faucet
Updated lighting fixtures
Painting and minor floor updates
Best for:
Budget-conscious homeowners
Rental property upgrades
Prepping a home for sale
Benefits:
Quickest turnaround and lowest cost
Dramatically improves look and feel
Ideal for kitchens with good “bones” that just need a refresh
💡 Tip: While prices start around $20K, choosing higher-end finishes or better appliances can easily push this closer to $40K.
ENHANCED KITCHEN REMODEL ($50,000–$80,000)
This is where functionality meets beauty. Enhanced remodels often include partial layout improvements (like adding an island or opening a wall), better-quality materials, and more design flexibility.
What’s typically included:
Semi-custom cabinetry (more size and color options)
Stone countertops: quartz, granite, or butcher block
Custom or designer backsplash tile
Upgraded appliance suite (slide-in range, microwave drawer, etc.)
New flooring: tile, engineered wood, or high-end LVP
Under-cabinet and pendant lighting
Potential layout tweaks or modest structural updates
Best for:
Families planning to stay in their home for 5+ years
Homeowners who cook frequently or love to entertain
Spaces needing better workflow and function
Benefits:
High return on investment
Improves usability and appearance
Personalized design that reflects your lifestyle
🛠️ You’ll get more value per dollar here, but decisions on finishes and appliances will drive your total toward either end of the range.
LUXURY KITCHEN REMODEL ($90,000–$150,000+)
This level of remodel is for clients who want to create a showpiece kitchen — fully customized, beautifully crafted, and packed with high-end performance. It often includes structural changes, full layout reconfigurations, and best-in-class materials.
What’s typically included:
Fully custom cabinetry with premium inserts
Natural stone, quartzite, marble, or ultra-compact countertops
Slab or artisan tile backsplash
Professional-grade appliances (Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, etc.)
Designer lighting, layered for function and ambiance
Pot fillers, prep sinks, and built-in beverage centers
Smart home integration for lights, appliances, and sound
Hardwood or luxury tile flooring
Full plumbing/electrical upgrades and potential structural work
Best for:
Homeowners who want a “dream kitchen”
Entertainers and culinary enthusiasts
Homes undergoing a whole-house renovation
Benefits:
Fully personalized layout and design
Best in durability, performance, and style
Adds significant value and enjoyment to the home
🏗️ Structural changes, smart tech, and imported finishes can drive costs upward quickly, especially with rising material prices and potential tariffs on foreign products.
How Tariffs and Material Costs Could Impact Your Budget
With shifting trade policies and tariffs on imported goods back in the spotlight, the cost of materials like tile, cabinetry, and lighting fixtures (especially those made overseas) could rise significantly in 2025. That means:
Longer lead times on specialty items
Higher prices for certain materials (especially from Europe and Asia)
Increased demand for U.S.-made alternatives
Working with a seasoned remodeler like Quality First ensures you’ll get smart material recommendations — based on availability, durability, and budget — without getting caught off guard.
Not Sure Where You Fall? Let’s Talk
Your kitchen should work for you, not just your budget. Whether you’re ready for something quick and simple or envisioning a gourmet chef’s space, we’ll help you plan every detail with clarity and confidence.
Contact us to schedule a no-pressure consultation or stop by our showroom to explore layouts, samples, and finishes in person.