Kitchen Renovation vs. Kitchen Remodeling: What's the Difference?
Before determining costs, it is important to differentiate between two types of kitchen improvement projects:
- Kitchen Renovation: Focuses on updating the existing kitchen without altering its structure. This includes installing new countertops, refinishing cabinetry, lighting, and appliance upgrades. These projects typically cost $10,000 - $20,000 and are completed within a shorter timeframe.
- Kitchen Remodeling: Involves major structural changes such as moving walls, reconfiguring layouts, or installing custom cabinetry. Costs can range from $20,000 to over $130,000, depending on the complexity and choice of materials.
Kitchen Remodeling Project With Layout Change
For homeowners with older Massachusetts properties, plumbing and electrical updates required to meet modern safety codes may incur additional costs.
At Lofty Builders, we offer both kitchen renovation and kitchen remodeling services. Explore our kitchen renovation packages starting at just $10,000.
How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost?
This table shows the estimated 2025 costs based on kitchen size and project scope. Boston area projects may cost more due to higher worker rates and permit fees.
Cost Table for Quick Planning
| Project Type | Small (<70 sq.ft.) | Medium (100–200 sq.ft.) | Large (>200 sq.ft.) |
| Minor Updates | $4,000–$8,000 | $7,000–$15,000 | $10,000–$25,000 |
| Moderate Renovations | $8,000–$16,000 | $15,000–$30,000 | $25,000–$60,000 |
| Major Renovations | $16,000–$28,000 | $30,000–$50,000 | $45,000–$100,000 |
| Complete Remodel | $28,000–$40,000 | $50,000–$75,000 | $75,000–$150,000 |
| Luxury Remodel | $40,000–$80,000 | $75,000–$150,000 | $120,000–$250,000 |
Disclaimer: These are estimates. Contact Lofty Builders for a more exact price for your specific project. It’s free!
Factors Affecting Kitchen Renovation Cost
Kitchen Size
Bigger kitchens need more materials and work:
- Small (under 70 sq.ft.): Typically found in apartments or condos.
- Medium (100-200 sq.ft.): Standard in most Massachusetts homes, with room for an island.
- Large (over 200 sq.ft.): Big family kitchens. Common in luxury homes with open layouts.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Affected by Size
Most American kitchens are 150-200 sq.ft., but larger Massachusetts homes often have kitchens over 250 sq.ft., which means higher costs.
Kitchen Design Levels
- Budget-Friendly Design ($4,000 - $15,000): Stock cabinets, laminate countertops, and basic appliances.
- Mid-Range Design ($15,000 - $40,000): Semi-custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, energy-efficient appliances.
- High-End Design ($40,000 - $100,000): Custom cabinetry, stone countertops, smart appliances, and upgraded lighting.
- Luxury Design ($100,000 - $250,000): Fully custom kitchen, premium natural stone countertops, designer fixtures, and high-end appliances.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Affected by Design Levels
Project Scope
- Small Updates ($4,000 - $10,000): Minor cosmetic changes to refresh the space without structural modifications.
- Medium Updates ($10,000 - $25,000): Enhancing aesthetics and functionality while keeping the existing kitchen layout intact.
- Major Updates ($25,000 - $50,000): Comprehensive upgrades while maintaining the current kitchen footprint.
- Complete Change ($50,000 - $100,000+): A full renovation that reconfigures space but does not involve major structural alterations.
- High-End Transformation ($100,000 - $250,000): A luxury remodel featuring premium materials, high-end appliances, and a reimagined kitchen layout.
Kitchen Renovation Costs Vary by Scope
Older Massachusetts homes may require additional costs due to hidden plumbing or electrical issues.
Materials
The choice of materials significantly influences the budget:
- Countertops: Laminate ($15–$40/sq. ft.) is budget-friendly and low-maintenance, while granite or quartz ($50–$120/sq. ft.) adds luxury and resale value.
- Cabinets: Stock cabinets ($100–$300/linear ft) are affordable and quick; custom ones ($500–$1,200+/linear ft) maximize quirky MA layouts but cost more. Refacing ($100–$250/linear ft) is a smart middle ground.
- Flooring: Vinyl ($2–$7/sq. ft.) resists moisture cheaply; hardwood ($8–$15/sq ft) boosts value but needs care in humid New England winters.
- Appliances: Basic models ($300–$1,000 each) keep costs down; high-end or smart options ($1,000–$10,000+) may need electrical upgrades, which are common in older MA homes.
- Wall Tiles: Simple ceramic ($5–$15/sq. ft.) saves money; glass or stone ($20–$50/sq ft) elevates style but hikes labor costs.
- Lights: Basic fixtures ($20–$100) light small kitchens well; decorative pendants ($100–$500+) add flair, plus $100–$300 for installation.
- Sinks/Faucets: Standard sinks ($100–$300) and faucets ($50–$150) are practical; designer picks ($500–$1,500 sinks, $200–$800 faucets) may need extra plumbing.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Affected by Materials
Choose materials that fit both your style and budget. Lofty Homes offers options at different price points.
Hidden Costs
Watch out for these extra expenses:
- Plumbing & Electrical Work ($2,000–$5,000): Includes moving gas/water lines, higher in complex layouts.
- Permits & Compliance ($460–$2,770): Varies by municipality, covers structural, plumbing, and electrical permits.
- Demolition & Waste Removal ($500–$2,000): Covers cabinet, flooring, and appliance removal and disposal fees.
- Unforeseen Issues (15% of budget): Contingency for hidden damage, scope changes, recommended industry standard.
Read more: Do You Need a Permit to Remodel a Kitchen in MA?
Tips to Save on Your Kitchen Renovation
Try these approaches to stay within your budget:
- Set a Clear Budget: Decide how much you can spend (like $20,000) and add 15% extra for unexpected circumstances.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Comparing contractor estimates helps secure the best price. Check out the Contractor Due Diligence Checklist
- Choose Affordable Options: Consider vinyl instead of hardwood floors, or update cabinet doors instead of replacing entire cabinets.
- Schedule During Off-Peak Seasons: Renovating in winter may reduce labor costs due to lower contractor demand.
Renovate Your Kitchen with Lofty Builders
Important Points
- Kitchen projects can cost from $4,000 for simple updates to $250,000 for luxury changes.
- In Massachusetts, Boston-area worker rates ($70-$75/hour) and permit fees ($460-$2,770) add to costs.
- Good planning includes extra money for surprises and talking to professionals.
How Lofty Builders Can Help
As a member of the New England Professional Remodeling Organization (NEPRO), Lofty Builders specializes in both kitchen renovation and kitchen remodeling services, ensuring that homeowners receive tailored solutions that fit their needs:
- Materials: We provide everything from basic countertops to high-end materials.
- Design Help: Our team creates plans for kitchens of all sizes.
- Full Service: We handle everything from tear-out to installation.
- Package Options:
- Basic Package ($10,000-$20,000): Essential updates
- Better Package ($20,000-$30,000): Quality improvements
- Best Package ($30,000+): Luxury changes
Kitchen Renovation Packages from Lofty Builders
All packages include payment plans to fit different budgets.
Contact Lofty Builders today for a free meeting and a detailed price estimate for your Massachusetts kitchen project.