Though a small kitchen remodeling project sounds like a manageable undertaking, working with limited space can be tricky, especially if you want to get creative. You'll need to consider the position of everything in your kitchen– hence it's crucial to plan the remodeling accordingly.
One significant factor that comes into play is your budget. Keep in mind that a small kitchen remodel cost will vary, depending on the location of your property, total size, materials, and more.
Now, let's dive right into everything you need to know about how much it costs to remodel a small kitchen. (Related: Kitchen Remodeling: A Cost & Consumer Guide)
Small Kitchen Remodel Average Costs
On average, a small kitchen remodel may cost you between $18,000 and $22,000 for a 70 sq. ft. set-up. The estimated per square foot cost is around $280. (Related: Kitchen Remodel Cost Per Square Foot: We Break It Down)
Then again, you can always find a way to work with your budget if you throw in some DIY aspect. With a budget of $7,000 to$12,000, you can expect newly painted walls, a sink upgrade, and refaced cabinets. High-end projects may cost you as much as $56,000, including custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, new hardwood floors, and granite counters.
Keep in mind that the small kitchen remodel cost can vary significantly, as no one size fits all. Not every aspect of your kitchen makeover project will cost the same.
Small Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
Here's a brief breakdown of a standard small kitchen remodel project:
Professional Labor Costs
A huge chunk of your small kitchen remodeling budget will fall under labor costs. We've rounded up the average prices for different services.
Cabinets
New cabinetry is something to consider, especially with the functionality they offer. These are usually among the most expensive aspect of your kitchen remodel project– but these can significantly improve the value of your kitchen.
If you're still stuck with outdated cabinets, it might be time to consider having new ones installed. Fortunately, plenty of cabinets fit different price points, so you'll find something you can afford. You can also choose from different styles, brands, and functionality.
Backsplash
If you want to give your kitchen the proper makeover, consider investing in decorative pieces such as a mosaic tiles backsplash. Homeowners working with a tight budget can space them out in the kitchen design to not hike the costs.
The professional installation of a kitchen backsplash will cost you $9 to $20. But if you're looking to cut costs, you can turn it into a DIY weekend project, but that's only if you have the proper skillset and experience. Don't worry; backsplash only covers relatively tiny square footage.
Consider porcelain and ceramic tile if you're looking for cost-effective options. High-end materials stone tile (marble), mosaic, and art glass will naturally cost you more, but these add another level of sophistication to your kitchen.
Sink and Faucet
The most popular sink options went beyond the usual farm or apron sinks in recent years. Now, more homeowners opt to buy an under-mount stainless steel kitchen sink. A double sink will be of great help for those who cook frequently.
A standard kitchen sink may cost anywhere between $250 and $2,900 (with the installation costs at $180 to $400).
Relocating an existing kitchen sink will cost you $2,400 at the very least– depending on the scope of the project and a plumber's local rates.
Countertop
Another focal point of your kitchen is the countertop, so it's best to consider investing in a great choice as it's one of the most prominent kitchen highlights. Nobody wants a countertop with limited space and overflowing spinks.
Many homeowners still go by the crowd-favorite granite or quartz countertops, but today, you have more materials to consider, such as Avonite, Cambria Quartz, and Silestone. Before purchasing, always look into the material's durability, maintenance, and heat resistance.
Flooring
Large tiles will easily give the space a brand new look when it comes to your kitchen floors. It will only require a few grout lines and cuts during installation, and the upkeep is more manageable than smaller tiles.
Small kitchens' most popular flooring options include tile (porcelain or ceramic), hardwoods, laminates, or natural stone. This will cost you anywhere between $10 to $18 per square foot. If you have a 70 sq. ft. small kitchen, this will be priced at $700 to $1,260.
Expert Tip: In installing new kitchen floors, always ensure it is installed under the cabinets. If you leave the old floors under new cabinets, it may only lead to rot and moisture problems which cause damage in the long run.
Kitchen Appliances
The cost of appliances will be another essential consideration in your kitchen remodel budget. Before you even think about new cabinetry or countertops, it's best to prioritize new appliances to avoid dealing with incorrect measurements and insufficient funds.
A set of dishwasher, fridge, stove, and range costs about $700 to $1,000 on average. But, if you opt for energy-efficient brands, these appliances may get up to $5,000. There's also the cost of pro installation to consider. This runs for an average of $250 per appliance, depending on the difficulty of the set-up.
Expert Tip: Look for energy-efficient appliances with an Energy Star sticker on them if you want to ensure long-term savings in your utility bills.
Paint
Lastly, one of the most straightforward ways to give your old kitchen a makeover is by repainting it. Small kitchens are ideal for this, as you only deal with limited areas, so it's pretty easy and quick.
This may cost you as low as $250, even if you opt for high-quality paint materials. You may also hire a contractor to paint your kitchen, with average labor costs ranging between $2 to $4 per square foot.
Small Kitchen Remodel: Is It a Worthy Investment?
Remodeling a small kitchen allows you to recoup around 80% of your renovation costs in the long run. In contrast to large, upscale kitchens, small kitchen remodeling projects bring at least 20% more ROI on average. But, this estimated ROI will depend on your neighborhood, the property prices, and more.
It's best not to rush things as you embark on a kitchen remodeling project. Prioritize the pre-planning stage, so you can determine a detailed breakdown of where your budget will be spent accordingly.
Ask yourself crucial questions such as, "Should I change the layout of my kitchen?", "Which cabinet brands are the best for my aesthetic?", and "Which appliances can I buy within my budget?". As such, take your time and do thorough research on your contractors. Doing so will help you ensure that your small kitchen remodeling project will be a breeze.
Checklist for Remodeling a Small Kitchen
A small kitchen remodel project might take some serious elbow grease, but before you grab your tools, it's recommended to follow a checklist to ensure everything's in place.
First, consider your current kitchen layout and determine the fixtures you want to be added. You can also decide whether (or not) it's best to hire a professional to carry on some tasks. Once you've sorted out your budget, start with a mood board (either physical or online such as on Pinterest) to visualize all your ideas and let your creativity flow.
Before hiring a local contractor, get multiple quotes from professionals or ask your loved ones for personal recommendations. Here's a list of the contractors you may need to hire for this undertaking: