Key Takeaways
- $15K-$25K: Minor kitchen update (cosmetic refresh, no layout changes)
- $30K-$60K: Mid-range full remodel (new cabinets, countertops, appliances)
- $75K-$150K+: High-end luxury renovation (custom everything)
- Cabinets: 30-35% of budget (the single largest expense)
- KC Advantage: Labor costs 10-15% lower than coastal cities
If you're Googling "kitchen remodel cost Kansas City," you've probably already discovered that most websites give you useless national averages. A kitchen remodel in San Francisco costs very different than one in Kansas City, and you need real local numbers to plan your project.
I've been remodeling kitchens in Kansas City for 15 years. My team has completed over 500 kitchen projects across the metro, from $15,000 cosmetic updates in Gladstone to $600,000+ luxury renovations in Mission Hills. Here's what kitchens actually cost in our market.
According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, the Midwest region sees some of the best returns on kitchen investments in the country. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) reports that kitchen remodels remain the most popular home improvement project, with homeowners increasingly prioritizing functional layouts and durable materials over purely aesthetic upgrades.
Kitchen Remodel Cost by Project Type
The biggest factor in your kitchen remodel cost isn't the specific materials you choose. It's the scope of the project. Here's what Kansas City homeowners typically spend at each level:
Minor Kitchen Update
$15,000 - $25,000A cosmetic refresh without major construction. You keep the existing layout and don't move any plumbing or electrical.
Typically includes:
- • Cabinet refacing or painting
- • New countertops (laminate or butcher block)
- • Updated hardware and fixtures
- • Fresh paint and backsplash
Timeline
1-2 weeks
Best for
Fresh look without disruption, or pre-sale updates
Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel
$30,000 - $60,000The sweet spot for most Kansas City homeowners. A completely transformed kitchen with quality materials that will last 15-20 years.
Typically includes:
- • New semi-custom cabinets
- • Granite or quartz countertops
- • New mid-tier appliances
- • Tile backsplash and new flooring
- • Updated electrical and plumbing
Timeline
4-8 weeks
Best for
Homeowners staying 5+ years who want real transformation
High-End Kitchen Renovation
$75,000 - $150,000+A complete gut-and-rebuild with premium everything. Often includes structural changes like removing walls to create an open concept.
Typically includes:
- • Custom cabinetry
- • Premium countertops (marble, quartzite)
- • Pro-grade appliances (Sub-Zero, Wolf)
- • Structural changes and wall removal
- • Custom lighting and smart home integration
Timeline
10-16 weeks
Best for
Forever homes and chef's kitchens with no compromises
Where Your Money Goes
Understanding the cost breakdown helps you make smart decisions about where to splurge and where to save. Here's how a typical mid-range ($45,000) kitchen remodel breaks down:
| Component | % of Budget | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinets | 30-35% | $9,000 - $21,000 |
| Labor | 20-25% | $6,000 - $15,000 |
| Appliances | 15-20% | $4,500 - $12,000 |
| Countertops | 10-15% | $3,000 - $9,000 |
| Flooring | 5-10% | $1,500 - $6,000 |
| Electrical & Plumbing | 5-10% | $1,500 - $6,000 |
The cabinet decision matters most. Stock cabinets run $100-$300 per linear foot, while custom cabinets cost $500-$1,200. This single choice can swing your total budget by $15,000-$30,000.
Kansas City labor is a real advantage. Our rates run $50-$85/hour depending on the trade. Coastal cities often see $75-$125/hour for the same work, so your budget goes further here.
Kansas City Neighborhood Pricing
Kitchen remodel costs vary across the metro based on home values, kitchen sizes, and homeowner expectations. Here's what we typically see:
Mission Hills / Leawood
+15-25%$85K - $175K
Luxury expectations, larger kitchens
Prairie Village / Fairway
+5-15%$55K - $95K
Quality-focused, mid-century updates
Brookside / Waldo
Baseline$45K - $75K
Mix of historic and modern projects
Overland Park
-5% to +10%$40K - $80K
Wide range, starter to executive homes
Lee's Summit / Blue Springs
-5-10%$35K - $60K
Newer homes, builder-grade updates
Northland
-10-15%$30K - $55K
Cost-conscious, good value focus
Kitchen Remodel ROI: Is It Worth the Investment?
One of the most common questions we hear is whether a kitchen remodel is "worth it" from an investment standpoint. The short answer: it depends on what you're optimizing for.
According to HomeAdvisor's 2024 data, the national average kitchen remodel recoups about 50-80% of its cost at resale. But in Kansas City, we often see better returns because our baseline costs are lower than the national average while home values have been rising steadily.
Minor kitchen remodels tend to have the highest ROI (75-85%) because they address the most visible issues (dated cabinets, worn countertops, old appliances) without the expense of structural changes. A $20,000 update that makes your kitchen look modern can add $15,000-$17,000 to your home's value.
That said, most of our clients aren't remodeling purely for resale. They want to enjoy their new kitchen for years before selling. In that case, the "return" includes thousands of meals, family gatherings, and daily satisfaction, which is harder to quantify but very real.
Popular Kitchen Trends in Kansas City (2025)
Kansas City homeowners have distinct preferences that differ from coastal trends. Based on the projects we've completed this year, here's what's popular in our market:
White and light gray cabinets continue to dominate, but we're seeing more two-tone kitchens with darker islands or lower cabinets. Navy blue islands are having a moment, especially in Prairie Village and Brookside.
Quartz countertops have overtaken granite as the most requested material. Homeowners appreciate the consistent patterns and lower maintenance. Brands like Cambria, Silestone, and Caesarstone are the most popular. Budget-conscious clients often choose MSI or other value-oriented quartz brands that offer similar durability at lower prices.
Large format tile backsplashes are replacing the classic subway tile. We're installing a lot of 4x12 and 6x12 tiles in matte finishes. The larger format means fewer grout lines and a more modern, clean look.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become the default choice for kitchens, replacing hardwood and tile in many projects. It's waterproof, durable, comfortable underfoot, and costs significantly less than hardwood. Many clients can't tell the difference from real wood.
Open shelving peaked a few years ago and is now declining. Most homeowners prefer the clean look of closed upper cabinets with maybe one or two open sections for display. The Instagram-worthy open shelving look requires constant styling that most families find impractical.
If you're curious about current design options and what might work for your home, check out our kitchen remodeling services page for examples from recent Kansas City projects.
Smart Ways to Save Money
Want to stretch your budget further? Focus on these high-impact savings:
High-Impact Savings
- Keep existing layout – Save $3,000-$8,000 by not moving plumbing
- Reface instead of replace – 40-50% of new cabinet cost
- Stock or semi-custom cabinets – $100-$300/ft vs $500-$1,200 for custom
- Mid-tier appliances – GE Profile vs Sub-Zero saves $10,000+
- Do your own demo – Save $500-$1,500 in labor
Where NOT to Cut Corners
- Countertop installation – Bad seams can't be fixed
- Electrical work – Safety hazard; use licensed electricians
- Cabinet quality – Cheap boxes fail in 5-7 years
- The contractor – Cheapest bid often costs more to fix
How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take?
Timeline surprises more homeowners than cost. Here's a realistic breakdown for a mid-range remodel:
Design & Planning
1-2 weeksFinalize layout, select materials, sign contract, pull permits
Material Lead Time
4-10 weeksCabinets, countertops, and specialty items ordered and fabricated
Demolition
1-3 daysRemove existing cabinets, countertops, appliances, flooring
Rough-In Work
1-2 weeksElectrical, plumbing, HVAC, any structural modifications
Cabinet Installation
1-2 weeksInstall and level all cabinets, prepare for countertops
Countertops & Backsplash
1 weekTemplate, fabricate, install countertops; tile backsplash
Finishing
3-5 daysAppliances, fixtures, hardware, final electrical, paint, cleanup
Bottom line: Plan for 3-4 months from signing a contract to cooking in your new kitchen when you factor in design and material lead times. Construction itself takes 4-8 weeks once materials arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Kansas City in 2025?
Kitchen remodel costs in Kansas City range from $15,000-$25,000 for minor updates, $30,000-$60,000 for mid-range full remodels, and $75,000-$150,000+ for high-end luxury renovations. Kansas City's labor costs are typically 10-15% lower than coastal cities, making your remodeling dollar go further here.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets are typically the largest expense, accounting for 30-35% of your total budget. The difference between stock cabinets ($100-$300 per linear foot) and custom cabinets ($500-$1,200 per linear foot) can mean a $15,000-$30,000 swing in your total project cost.
How long does a kitchen remodel take in Kansas City?
Timeline depends on scope: minor updates take 1-2 weeks, mid-range remodels take 4-8 weeks, and high-end renovations take 10-16 weeks. Add 2-4 weeks for design and material lead times before construction begins. Custom cabinets can add 6-10 weeks to lead time.
Is $30,000 enough for a kitchen remodel?
Yes, $30,000 is a solid budget for a mid-range kitchen remodel in Kansas City. You can get new semi-custom cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, a tile backsplash, new appliances, and updated flooring. This budget works best when you're not making major layout changes or moving plumbing.
What is the ROI on a kitchen remodel in Kansas City?
According to Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value report, mid-range kitchen remodels in the Kansas City region recoup 60-75% at resale, while minor kitchen updates can recoup 75-85%. The best ROI comes from updating dated kitchens to match neighborhood standards rather than over-improving for your area.
Should I remodel my kitchen before selling?
It depends on your kitchen's current condition and your neighborhood. If your kitchen is significantly dated compared to nearby homes, a minor update ($15K-$25K) often pays for itself in faster sale time and fewer buyer objections. Full remodels rarely make sense purely for resale unless you'll enjoy the kitchen for at least 2-3 years first.
Do I need permits for a kitchen remodel in Kansas City?
Cosmetic updates (paint, cabinets, countertops) typically don't require permits. However, any work involving electrical, plumbing, gas lines, or structural changes requires permits in both Kansas and Missouri. Permit costs in KC typically run $200-$500. Reputable contractors include permit costs in their quotes.
How can I save money on my kitchen remodel?
The biggest savings come from: keeping your existing layout (moving plumbing adds $3,000-$8,000), choosing stock or semi-custom cabinets over custom, selecting mid-tier appliances, doing your own demolition, and being flexible on timeline. Avoid the cheapest contractor because poor work often costs more to fix than doing it right the first time.
Ready to Get Started?
Every kitchen is different. The numbers in this guide give you a solid starting point, but your specific kitchen, goals, and home will determine your actual costs.
If you'd like a detailed quote for your project, we offer free consultations with no obligation. We'll walk through your kitchen, discuss your goals, and give you a realistic budget range, usually within 24-48 hours.
About the Author
Bob Coulston, Owner of Coulston Construction
Bob is a 4th generation contractor who founded Coulston Construction 15 years ago. His team of 30+ employees has completed over 500 kitchen remodels across the Kansas City metro, from $15,000 updates to $600,000+ luxury renovations. The company maintains a 5.0 Google rating with 500+ reviews and an A+ BBB rating.
Learn more about Bob →