How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Really Cost in 2025?

There’s something about a kitchen renovation that stirs equal parts excitement and dread. One minute you’re daydreaming about quartz worktops and handleless cabinets, the next you’re clutching your tea wondering how on earth a tap can cost more than a weekend in Paris.

If you’ve found yourself typing kitchen renovation cost into a search bar, you’re in good company – it’s one of the most common home improvement queries this year, and for good reason.

Kitchens, after all, are the heart of the home – or at the very least, the place where everyone loiters despite you shouting that dinner’s not ready yet.

They’re where daily life unfolds, and increasingly, where people are putting their money when it comes to upgrading their homes.

So, what does a kitchen renovation really cost in 2025? The honest (if slightly annoying) answer is: it depends.

But let’s get into the details – because when you’re potentially spending more than you did on your car, vague answers simply won’t do.

What I Paid – and What You Might Expect

I live in the Netherlands, where a complete kitchen renovation typically costs somewhere between €12,000 and €30,000, depending on size, materials, and whether you’re rearranging plumbing or sticking to the existing layout.

My own renovation fell on the higher end of the mid-range – a full redesign with custom elements, a ceramic worktop, and some lessons learned along the way.

My kitchen

For comparison: in the UK, similar projects tend to range between £10,000 and £25,000, though if you’re in London (or working with premium suppliers), you can easily spend more.

In the US, kitchen remodels span a wide range, but $25,000–$50,000 is typical for a mid-range job, with high-end projects heading north of $75,000.

Where the Money Goes

Cabinetry will almost always be your biggest expense – particularly if you’re adding height, custom finishes, or awkward corner solutions.

I chose a mix of off-the-shelf and bespoke pieces, which helped manage the budget without compromising the result.

Then there’s the worktop. I opted for ceramic and have absolutely no regrets – it’s nearly indestructible, heatproof, stain-resistant, and tough as nails.

If you’re curious why I didn’t even consider wooden counters, I wrote an entire blog post on that subject: Kitchen Design: Why I Prioritise Durability Over Butcher Block Looks

Appliances are usually another major line item, but in my case, I kept the existing ones as they were relatively new. In hindsight, I wish I’d replaced the stove during the renovation – when it eventually failed a few years later, I was stuck with the original cavity size, which made finding a replacement unnecessarily complicated. A lesson in always double-checking dimensions, not just for what you have now, but for what might be available later.

Always double-check dimensions, not just for what you have now, but for what might be available later.

Speaking of sizing – I also designed a cavity specifically for my large Australian fridge, which fits beautifully. The catch? It’s an unusual size by Dutch standards. When that fridge eventually dies (and they all do), I may have a minor crisis finding something else that fits.

If you’re importing appliances or using models not common in your country, do your future self a favour and research replacement options.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Every renovation comes with a few surprises – and the kitchen is no exception. Even if you’re meticulous with your planning, there are costs that don’t always make it onto Pinterest mood boards.

Common examples include:

• Permit or inspection fees – These are not always needed, but if you’re making structural changes or living in a protected building, they may apply.

  
  

• Waste removal – Depending on how much you’re ripping out, this can become a logistical (and financial) exercise.

• Contingency fund – Always build in at least 10% for the unexpected. Whether it’s a leaky pipe, an awkward corner, or the sudden need for an electrician on a Sunday, something usually crops up.

Cooktops in Islands – A Trend Worth Rethinking

One of the most popular design trends in recent years is placing the cooktop on the kitchen island. It looks sleek, allows for social cooking, and creates a focal point – I completely understand the appeal.

But it’s not without its downsides, from awkward ducting and ventilation issues to grease splatter and disrupted sightlines.

Personally, I never place a cooktop on an island in any of my designs – and I’ve written about why in detail here: Why I'll Never Install a Stove in My Kitchen Island

Regrets, Realities, and Practical Advice

As much as I love my kitchen, and genuinely do – especially that glorious ceramic worktop – there are things I’d do differently.

The appliance situation I’ve already mentioned. And while I saved money by not buying everything new, I also learned that trying to make existing pieces fit perfectly into a brand-new layout comes with its own compromises. The fridge cavity issue is a good example – always check which sizes are common where you live, and make sure your cabinetry allows for flexibility.

On the positive side, not moving plumbing or gas lines kept my labour costs in check, and sticking to a simple layout helped things run more smoothly. Labour, by the way, tends to account for 30–40% of your total budget, so anything that reduces hours on-site is worth considering.

Was It Worth It?

Absolutely. A well-designed kitchen isn’t just a pleasure to use – it’s a smart investment too. In the Netherlands, you can expect to recoup a fair portion of your spend when you sell your home.

More importantly, it adds daily comfort. You cook more. You enjoy the space. You stop gritting your teeth every time a drawer jams.

Planning Your Own Project?

If you’re considering your own renovation – or simply love reading about how others survived theirs – I’ve written more on kitchen design, layouts, material choices, and planning mistakes to avoid.

Have a look at the rest of my blog for practical tips and ideas, or sign up for the newsletter to get the latest posts delivered straight to your inbox.