Kitchen Remodeling Cost in New York City

Given how much time we spend in the kitchen, a kitchen remodel is a top choice for renovations. But the costs of doing one can be very steep, especially in NYC, where everything often seems more expensive. Even a small-scale renovation can involve a lot of decisions and behind-the-scenes costs that are hard to estimate. This guide will help you to nail down the scope and expense of your project.

How much does an average Kitchen Remodel cost?

Sweeten, a free service that matches homeowners with the best contractors, has rough estimates based on data gathered from previous projects. In 2017, the average cost of a minor, mid-range kitchen renovation in NYC was $26,000. For a major mid-range renovation, it was $75,000, while an upscale one averaged $140,000. It largely depends on how much customization you want. Start by dividing your costs into two categories, the cost of materials and the cost of labor.

Materials and appliances

There are plenty of factors that can affect the cost of your kitchen remodel. It largely depends on the cost of the materials and the size of your kitchen. These are the biggest expenses.

Appliances

When it comes to the stove, fridge, and dishwasher, expect to pay between $400 and $3,000 on each. In addition, you can pick up a sink between $100 and $2,500 while faucet fixtures go for between $40 to $1,200.

Countertops

Here the prices can vary widely based on the types of materials you choose. For example, laminate counters start from below $10 per square foot to between $50 and $125 for specific materials like recycled glass. For high-end materials like marble, granite, and acrylic, the prices can vary from $100 to $300 per square foot.

Cabinets

For stock and made-to-order cabinets (Ikea, Home Depot, etc.), expect to pay between $600 and $2,000 per linear square foot. For custom cabinetry, the price goes up to $1,000-$2,000.

Lighting

You have a good deal of leeway when choosing how much to spend on lighting. You can spend between $25-$50 per piece on the low end, while you can easily spend $500 and above at the high-end.

Backsplash

On the low-to-mid-range, you can spend from $3 to $15 per square foot. For higher-end materials like stone or marble finish, prices can be $35 and up per square foot.

Behind the scenes costs of a Kitchen Remodel

The cost of materials is relatively easy to compute. What’s more, difficult are those behind-the-scenes costs.

Building Requirements

Your building requirements will play a large part in dictating your design and budget. For instance, there may be an insurance coverage minimum that will limit you from hiring contractors that aren’t carrying high-value insurance policies. If the building has an alteration agreement, that can place further limits on who you can employ. Contractors that have coverage for working in buildings with high requirements tend to have higher operating costs.

Design

The planning phase will work directly with your contractor and architect to create detailed drawings for the renovation. You’ll also make your final decision on materials at this point. Therefore, the design phase is critical and often represents 15-35% of the renovation cost.

Demolition & Site Prep

Some heavy work will be needed to get your kitchen ready for its makeover. To start with, the walls and flooring must be stripped to frame and level, respectively, before installation can begin. The average cost of this phase can easily reach $4,000.

City Permits

If you’re having extensive plumbing work done, you’ll need plumbing permits. These are required; by the City’s Department of Buildings and can run up to $2,000 per permit license. Likewise, any electrical work may require an electrical permit license which can run up to $900.

Installation

Appliances are installed once purchased. An added delivery and installation fee may apply. Negotiations with your contractor will allow you to determine final labor costs but keep extra funds in-store to cover any delays or unexpected problems.