Planning a kitchen makeover can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out costs.
The good news is that you don’t need to replace everything to get a fresh new look. Many homeowners skip buying new appliances and focus on other updates instead.
Understanding what you’ll spend on things like cabinets, counters, and flooring helps you plan better. It also prevents budget surprises down the road.
This guide breaks down real costs for small kitchen projects without appliances. You’ll learn about different price ranges, what affects your total cost, and smart ways to save money.
Let’s make your kitchen dreams happen without breaking the bank.
What Is a Small Kitchen Remodel?
A small kitchen usually measures between 60 and 100 square feet. Think of it as the size of a large bedroom. These compact spaces need smart planning to make the most of every inch.
Kitchen remodeling can mean different things to different people. Some folks just want to paint walls and change cabinet handles. Others prefer to replace cabinets, counters, and flooring completely.
The main goal is to make your kitchen work better for you. This might mean adding more storage, updating the style, or making it easier to cook and clean.
Most small kitchen projects focus on improving what’s already there rather than making the space bigger.
Average Cost to Remodel a Small Kitchen Without Appliances
Most homeowners spend between $6,500 and $23,200 on a small kitchen remodel without new appliances. That’s a pretty wide range, but there’s a good reason for it.
The typical project falls somewhere between $10,500 and $20,000. Your final cost depends on what you choose to change and what materials you pick.
If you break it down by square footage, expect to pay about $142 to $160 per square foot. A 70-square-foot kitchen would cost around $9,940 to $11,200 using this method.
Keep in mind that smaller kitchens often cost more per square foot because you still need basic elements like cabinets and counters.
Key Cost Factors (Excluding Appliances)
Several factors influence the cost of your kitchen project. Understanding these factors helps you plan your budget better.
The size of your kitchen matters, but so does the complexity of its layout. A simple galley kitchen costs less to update than one with lots of corners and angles.
Your project scope makes a big difference, too. Painting walls and changing hardware costs much less than replacing all your cabinets. Think about whether you want cosmetic updates or major changes.
Material quality has the greatest impact on your budget. Basic laminate counters cost way less than granite or quartz. Stock cabinets from the home store are cheaper than custom-built ones.
Labor costs vary by location. Workers in big cities usually charge more than those in smaller towns. If you need to move plumbing or electrical lines, expect to pay extra for those trades.
Cost Breakdown by Component (No Appliances)
Let’s look at what each part of your kitchen remodel might cost. These numbers give you a starting point for planning your budget.
1. Cabinetry ($2,000 – $12,000+)
Cabinets take up the biggest chunk of most kitchen budgets. Stock cabinets from home stores run $2,000 to $5,000 for a small kitchen.
Semi-custom options cost $4,000 to $8,000 and offer more sizes and finishes. Custom cabinets can hit $12,000 or more, but fit perfectly in tricky spaces.
2. Countertops ($1,400 – $5,000+)
Your counter choice makes a big difference in both cost and daily use. Laminate starts around $1,400 installed and comes in lots of colors now.
Granite and quartz run $2,500 to $4,000 for most small kitchens. Don’t forget to include installation and any special edge treatments in your budget.
3. Flooring ($280 – $1,400)
Small kitchens need about 70 square feet of flooring on average. Vinyl plank flooring costs $4 to $8 per square foot installed and looks great today.
Ceramic tile runs $6 to $12 per square foot with installation. Hardwood flooring costs $10 to $20 per square foot but adds real value to your home.
4. Backsplash ($560 – $2,100)
A typical small kitchen needs about 70 square feet of backsplash coverage. Simple subway tile costs $8 to $12 per square foot installed.
Mosaic patterns and natural stone run $15 to $25 per square foot. The amount of cutting around outlets and windows affects your final cost.
5. Sink and Faucet ($150 – $1,000+)
Basic stainless steel sinks start around $150, while farmhouse and specialty sinks cost $400 to $800.
Kitchen faucets range from $100 for basic models to $600 for commercial-style pull-downs. Don’t forget installation costs if you’re moving plumbing locations.
6. Lighting ($300 – $1,500)
Good lighting transforms any kitchen and typically includes several types. Recessed ceiling lights cost $100 to $200 each installed.
Pendant lights over islands run $150 to $500 each. Under-cabinet LED strips add $200 to $400 for a small kitchen.
7. Painting and Wall Finishes ($500 – $2,000)
Fresh paint makes everything look new and costs less than most other updates. Professional painters charge $500 to $1,200 for a small kitchen, including prep work.
High-end paints and specialty finishes can push costs toward $2,000. DIY painting saves money but takes time and skill.
Ways to Save on Your Small Kitchen Remodel
Smart planning can help you get more for your money. Here are proven ways to keep costs under control.
Refinish or reface your existing cabinets instead of replacing them. This can save thousands while still giving you a fresh look. New doors and drawer fronts cost much less than whole new cabinets.
Choose materials carefully. Butcher block counters look great and cost less than stone. Luxury vinyl plank flooring mimics hardwood at a fraction of the price.
Keep your existing layout if possible. Moving plumbing and electrical lines adds major costs. Work with what you have and focus on finishes instead.
Do some work yourself if you’re handy. Painting, installing new hardware, and simple tile work are good DIY projects. Leave plumbing and electrical work to the pros.
Shop around for materials. Check out home improvement stores, local suppliers, and online retailers. End-of-season sales and clearance items can offer big savings.
Additional Considerations
Don’t forget about the extras that can add to your total cost. These often catch people by surprise.
- Permits and Inspections: Check with your local building department about requirements for electrical or plumbing work. Permit fees usually run $100 to $500, depending on your area and project scope.
- Temporary Kitchen Setup: Plan for living without a full kitchen during the remodel. You might need a mini fridge, microwave, and paper plates for several weeks while work is being done.
- Project Timeline: Most small kitchen remodels take 2 to 6 weeks to complete from start to finish. Simple cosmetic updates finish faster than major overhauls with new cabinets and layout changes.
- Unexpected Cost Buffer: Set aside 10% to 20% of your budget for surprise issues that come up. Old houses often have problems hiding behind walls that you won’t see until work starts.
- Takeout and Dining Costs: Factor in extra food expenses while your kitchen is out of order. Many families spend $200 to $500 more on meals during a typical kitchen remodel.
- Storage for Belongings: You’ll need somewhere to put all your kitchen items during construction. Consider renting a storage unit or clearing space in your garage or basement beforehand.
Sample Budgets & Real-World Examples
Here are three real examples with detailed budget breakdowns to help you picture different project levels.
Example 1: Cosmetic Update ($7,500)
A 65-square-foot kitchen needed a fresh look without significant changes. The owner did most of the work herself to save money.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet painting supplies | $300 | Primer, paint, brushes, sandpaper |
| New cabinet hardware | $200 | Brushed nickel handles and knobs |
| Butcher block countertops | $800 | DIY installation |
| Subway tile backsplash | $400 | Materials only, DIY install |
| Paint for walls | $150 | Two coats of premium paint |
| Under-cabinet LED lighting | $250 | Professional electrical work |
| New kitchen faucet | $180 | Mid-range stainless steel |
| Light fixture over sink | $120 | Simple pendant light |
| Electrical work (lighting) | $300 | Licensed electrician |
| Tools and supplies | $200 | Tile saw rental, misc supplies |
| Total | $3,000 | DIY saved $4,500 in labor |
Total project cost: $7,500 (including the owner’s time valued at $4,500)
Example 2: Full Mid-Range Remodel – Mike’s Kitchen ($16,000)
A 70-square-foot kitchen received new cabinets, counters, and flooring, all with professional installation.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stock cabinets | $4,200 | Home store brand, soft-close doors |
| Cabinet installation | $800 | Professional installer |
| Quartz countertops | $2,100 | Includes template and installation |
| Vinyl plank flooring | $800 | Luxury vinyl, 80 sq ft |
| Flooring installation | $400 | Professional installation |
| Ceramic tile backsplash | $600 | Subway pattern with trim |
| Backsplash installation | $500 | Professional tile work |
| Undermount sink | $300 | Stainless steel, double bowl |
| Kitchen faucet | $250 | Pull-down sprayer |
| Plumbing work | $400 | Sink and faucet installation |
| Recessed lighting (4 lights) | $600 | LED fixtures and installation |
| Pendant lights (2) | $300 | Over the peninsula area |
| Electrical work | $700 | New circuits and switches |
| Paint and wall prep | $400 | Professional painter |
| Trimming and finishing | $300 | Baseboards and crown molding |
| Permits | $150 | Electrical permit |
| Total | $12,700 | Materials and professional labor |
Total project cost: $16,000 (including 20% contingency for unexpected costs)
Example 3: High-End Custom Work ($28,500)
An 80-square-foot kitchen received custom cabinets and premium finishes, along with layout changes.
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Custom cabinets | $8,500 | Solid wood, soft-close everything |
| Cabinet installation | $1,200 | Specialist cabinet installer |
| Granite countertops | $3,200 | Premium slab with edge detail |
| Hardwood flooring | $1,600 | Red oak, 90 sq ft |
| Floor installation | $800 | Professional hardwood installer |
| Natural stone backsplash | $1,200 | Travertine with decorative border |
| Backsplash installation | $900 | Detailed tile work |
| Farmhouse sink | $600 | Fireclay, single bowl |
| Premium faucet | $400 | Commercial-style pull-down |
| Plumbing work | $800 | New sink location, disposal |
| Track lighting system | $500 | Adjustable LED spots |
| Pendant lights (3) | $600 | Designer fixtures |
| Under-cabinet lighting | $400 | Professional LED strips |
| Electrical work | $1,200 | New circuits, outlets, switches |
| Wall removal | $800 | Opening the dining room |
| Drywall and painting | $900 | Premium paint, detailed work |
| Crown molding | $400 | Custom millwork |
| Design consultation | $1,500 | Kitchen designer fees |
| Permits and inspections | $300 | Multiple permits required |
| Project management | $800 | General contractor oversight |
| Total | $26,500 | High-end materials and finishes |
Total project cost: $28,500 (including 7% contingency and design fees)
Conclusion
Remodeling a small kitchen without buying new appliances typically costs between $6,500 and $23,200. Your final number depends on material choices, how much work you do yourself, and whether you change the layout.
The key is planning carefully and getting quotes from multiple contractors. Focus your money on updates that matter most to you.
Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint and new counters can transform your space without breaking the budget.
Remember that small changes can make a big impact in a compact kitchen. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to tackle some projects yourself. Your new kitchen is waiting.
