Average price of a kitchen extension: Cost to extend a kitchen

What Is the Average Cost to Remodel a Kitchen in 2023

How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen?” is a common concern among folks hoping to increase home value and comfort. Getting to know the average kitchen remodel cost helps you plan your next home improvement project.

Putting together a kitchen remodel budget is one of the first steps you need to take to realize your dream kitchen. Whether you want a minor remodel or a major kitchen remodels, knowing the project cost is a great starting point.

To help you with your kitchen remodel, our remodeling contractors have put together this guide to kitchen remodel costs. Reading this will teach you everything about the overall cost of kitchen remodeling projects.

The Cost Of Remodel A Kitchen

The average kitchen remodels costs from $9,000 to $37,000+. Ultimately, it will also depend on the square footage, general contractor, labor costs, countertop materials, kitchen cabinet materials and other factors specific to your kitchen remodel.

If we translate that to the cost per square foot, then it will be $75 to $250. Meanwhile, below you will find other estimates for your kitchen renovation costs.

Minor Remodel – $9,000 to $12,000
Small Kitchen Remodel Cost – $13,500
Mid-Scale Remodel – $16,500
Upper Mid-Range – $21,000
Major Remodel – $26,000 to $50,000+

Your total kitchen remodeling costs will depend on many personal factors. Each project is unique and has a kitchen remodel cost all its own.

What Do I Get For Different Remodel Prices?

For the most part, you get more when you spend more on a kitchen remodeling project. To give you a better idea of what you can expect from your remodeling budget, we have broken down what each price means:

Minor remodel: $10,000 – $15,000

This sort of renovation could leave some existing fixtures in place like a sink, cabinets, or countertops. Painting the walls is a definite part of a minor kitchen remodel.

If you have cabinets that you can use again, you can probably manage a project of this cost. If your cabinets are free of damage and have the right amount of storage for your needs, there is a good possibility they will last for some more years.

Mid-level remodel: $15,000 – $29,000

This type of makeover might involve some minor layout changes and all new fixtures. Kitchen cabinets might be difficult to fit into this budget, but it is possible.

A mid-scale kitchen remodel can accommodate new countertops if they aren’t too intricate or from too expensive of a material. Rare marble or stainless steel might be out of the question, but there are plenty of beautiful options to fit this budget.

A major kitchen remodel: $29,000 – $64,000

This renovation level requires structural modifications such as changing the wall layout and changing plumbing and electrical connections. Your space will feel totally new and amazing with this size budget.

Still, not everything is possible at this price range and you might end up even crossing into six-figure territory. But, there is a lot you can do with a budget like this.

How do I estimate the cost of kitchen remodels?

The only way to get an accurate estimate is to have professional kitchen remodelers come to inspect your home and your plans. On your own, you are left with generalizations that can give you a good idea but could be inaccurate.

One of the first things you need to do to make a remodel cost estimate is to measure your kitchen. You need to know the square footage, then you can see how much kitchen remodels cost per square foot.

You also need to factor in your home’s location, which has a big impact on kitchen remodeling costs. In high-cost-of-living areas, your estimate should be higher than the average cost you find in this article or elsewhere.

Cost of a Kitchen Remodel | Understanding Your Budget

There are two great methods to come up with your kitchen remodeling budget:

One: Imagine what you want, and find the money to do it.

In this strategy, you come up with creative ways to get exactly the kitchen you want. This could mean many things from foregoing expenses to taking out loans, to depleting your savings.

Two: Figure out what you can afford, and see what you can do with that amount.

This is the safer strategy that might fit a more fiscally conservative home remodeler. To make this work, you might have to sacrifice on some of your desires if they are out of your price range.

Typical Kitchen Remodel Budget

Breaking down the overall cost of a kitchen remodel can help you know where you might be able to save money on the average cost. The fine details of a kitchen remodel add up to more than a few dollars and balloon the total project cost.

Installation costs – 17%
Fee for 3D model and designing of kitchen layout – 4%
Kitchen island – 10%
Installing flooring – 7%
New doors and windows – 4%
Painting walls and ceiling works – 5%
Plumbing or gas lines, the kitchen sink – 4%
Light fixtures – 5%
Replace kitchen cabinets – 29%
Energy efficient appliances and AC system – 14%
Permit costs – 1%

Remember, the percent of total cost per item will change depending on your kitchen remodel priorities. Moreover, you need a general contractor that works around your remodeling budget and delivers the best kitchen remodel.

Luckily, you have control over your kitchen remodel, and your kitchen remodeling project will become all you have dreamed of. Doing a kitchen remodel is a fun project, but getting through the kitchen remodel budget phase can be difficult.

What is a realistic budget for a kitchen renovation (the cost to remodel a kitchen)?

A realistic budget for a kitchen renovation is somewhere between $20,000 and $30,000. Most folks will find this amount sufficient to make great improvements in their homes.

Unfortunately, home improvement projects are expensive these days. But, most people feel satisfied with their new kitchens and think of it as a great use of money and time.

Size and Kitchen Remodeling Costs

Tile floors, countertop space, backsplash installation, and installing cabinets can all add to the kitchen remodel costs per square foot. For example, if your kitchen square footage is 70 and you decide to add a walk-in pantry to make it 100 square feet, then your budget increases from $6,000 to $15,000+.

Additionally, below is a general reference for your possible kitchen remodel budget per square foot:

30-70 square foot kitchen remodel– $9,500 to $20,000
100-150 square foot kitchen remodel– $15,000 to $40,000
200 square foot kitchen remodel and larger – $30,000 to $60,000+

Furthermore, for larger kitchen remodels your approximate budget will fall between $60,000 to $100,000. In line with this, here are some things you might consider for large kitchen remodels.

High-end appliances that will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Custom cabinets that look like fine art and last a lifetime.
Natural stone granite countertops to impress everyone who sees them.
Smart lighting fixtures that turn on when you enter and save electricity.
Kitchen island with kitchen sink to add more flexibility to your space.

Kitchen Renovation Components and the Prices

In many kitchens remodels, folks hope for custom cabinetry, new countertops, new appliances and to make their home like a remodeling magazine. Luckily, all of that is possible as long as it fits into your total budget.

The prices we display should be true over much of the country. But, there are variations in prices based on location, so you might want to check with a local supplier to get a closer estimate of costs.

To help you save money and understand your remodeling costs, we can break down everything you must buy. A great way to make your kitchen perfect and fit your budget is to spend more on the things you love and save on things your won’t notice.

New appliances

Whether you have broken appliances or you just want to upgrade to high-end appliances, many people make this part of their cost to remodel. Remember that energy-efficient appliances might cost more upfront, but they will save you every month on energy bills.

Cheaper new appliances might have a total cost of $100 to $500 per unit, excluding installation costs. On the other hand, high-end appliances could cost $1,000 to $10,000 per unit.

Appliances are the workhorses of the kitchen. Trying to save on them can often make your life less enjoyable.

Kitchen Cabinets

If your existing cabinets are too small or worn out, you need to replace them. Kitchen cabinets come in three main options, including:

Stock cabinets – $100-$300 per linear foot. This is the lower total cost way to go, with limited options for changes.
Semi-custom cabinets – $300-$500 per linear foot. You get more choices for cabinet hardware and colors, for a bit more of your total budget.
Custom cabinets – $500+ per linear foot. Commission a piece of fine furniture for your home, with a lot of labor costs.

There are also many types of cabinet doors you can choose from. Not only are there different styles, but you might even decide on using different species of wood.

Kitchen cabinets are one of the most commonly used items in the home. They take a big chunk of the budget, but their lifetime is anywhere from 10 years to 100, so the price goes down per year of use.

Cabinet Hardware

On top of your kitchen cabinets, you need to select the right cabinet hardware. Simply replacing hinges and knobs/pulls instead of doing the job of installing cabinets can make a big difference in your kitchen remodel.

You can select from many different styles and finishes to fit your kitchen design. There is quite a range of prices for this item, from $100 up to $10,000.

Natural Stone Kitchen Countertops

You might be replacing all your kitchen countertops, hoping to add counter space, or putting a top on a kitchen island. Natural stone is one of the most expensive options, with the cheapest being laminate.

You can expect to pay from $50 per linear foot on the low end, to $400 on the high end for new countertops. Remember, the more intricate your counter space is, the higher the labor cost will end up being.

There is also a trend to choose recycled materials for countertops. One option is recycled paper, which can cost from $75 to $125 per foot installed.

New Kitchen Floor

From ceramic tile to vinyl floors, you need a solid base as part of your remodeling project. Each type of kitchen flooring adds to your remodeling costs, but they could also add to your home value.

Overall, you can expect the average cost to be between $600 to $2,000 for your kitchen floor materials. The labor cost will also be relative to the type of flooring you choose and the size of your space.

Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice right now for its beauty and affordability. These floors can be purchased for $2 to $10 per square foot installed.

Light Fixtures

Having great lighting will make your new kitchen look much more beautiful. Every detail will show up the way you want it to.

The cost of lighting fixtures can run from $200, up to $1,200. even higher prices might be seen for artisan pieces of incredible beauty.

If you want to upgrade to smart lighting in your kitchen, you have several options. You can redo your electrical wiring for $1,989 to $2,654 per run.

Kitchen Sink

Many kitchens remodels require a new sink, which is an integral part of cooking. Furthermore, you can add $150 to $500 to your cost to remodel this fixture.

There are many kitchen sink options to choose from. You might like a modern stainless steel unit or a more rustic farmhouse sink.

Tile Backsplash

Many people these days are opting for white subway tile. On the other hand, there are many options for a tile backsplash that you could complete your dream kitchen, without adding too much to your cost to remodel.

A tile backsplash average cost is $150 to $800 for the materials. Next, the labor costs will be per square foot and depend upon the size of the tile backsplash.

Also, you might choose an alternative backsplash material for your kitchen. Some of the options you might consider are:

Venetian plaster – $10 to $25 per square foot
Glass – $7 to $30 per square foot
Metal – cost depends on metal type, from $300 to $500 per backsplash

Additional costs and considerations

There are a lot of odds and ends that add up during a kitchen makeover. Things like trim pieces, drywall repairs, new blinds, and others typically end up costing from $200 up to $1,000.

Something to know is that when you hire a professional contractor, normally any cost overruns are their responsibility. That means you won’t have to worry about unexpected charges for small details.

How much does it cost to install a kitchen island?

An island is a great way to add seating, storage, and workspace to your kitchen. These features normally cost from $3,000 to $5,000.

This could depend a lot on the type of countertop materials you choose for the island. For example, real marble will cost more than a simple laminate top.

Adding Windows To Your Kitchen?

Bringing more natural light into the home is a top priority for many folks. You can expand existing windows, add new windows, or add skylights to do this with great results.

Sometimes, adding windows to your kitchen could mean big structural changes. This makes the cost of the project higher overall but could be well worth it.

Adding a new window to an existing wall requires framing, siding, and finishing work. This all adds up to about $1,000 to $5,000 per window installed. There are modern kitchen cabinet ideas with amazing windows that complement the whole look of the kitchen.

Will Skylights Work In My Kitchen?

Skylights bring in a ton of natural light, but they don’t work in every home. First, your kitchen will have to be on the top floor, with the roof above it.

Additionally, skylights can be expensive and you have to see if they fit into your budget. They can easily cost $1,000 to $2,000.

If a skylight won’t work, you might consider adding a solar tube. They bring in tons of natural light but don’t give you a view of the sky above. The average cost of a solar tube installation is about $620.

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Kitchen Remodel

Amazingly, people get the most satisfaction and add the most to their home value with a minor kitchen remodel like painting walls. A remodeling magazine or general contractor might try to get you to buy the most expensive things, but that won’t always bring you happiness.

Kitchen remodels that revamp the kitchen layout might seem sexy, but there could be more important tasks like adding gas lines to focus on. Staying within your kitchen remodeling budget is a great way to enjoy your process and end up satisfied.

While you might want custom cabinets, stock cabinets might fit better into your budget and appeal to potential home buyers. In the end, stock cabinets might serve you just as well as custom cabinetry, and you will get more bang for your hard-earned bucks.

Is redoing a kitchen worth it?

In most cases, having a new kitchen all your own is a great investment. You will have many years of enjoying your kitchen, making memories, and preparing tasty meals.

Yes, a kitchen remodel is a big investment. But, the satisfaction you find over the years almost always makes the dollar figure seem insignificant.

Overall, a kitchen remodel is a deeply personal act that you will get so much out of. You will feel better and more satisfied each time you enter your new and amazing kitchen.

Is remodeling my kitchen a good investment?

Kitchens can be the most important room for many home buyers. But, they want a kitchen they can see themselves in, not one that you designed custom for your lifestyle.

Redoing your kitchen does add to your home value but might not pay for the overall cost. The amount you can expect to receive back for your kitchen renovation depends a lot on market conditions.

In the end, you have to decide what the purpose of your project is. If you want to get more enjoyment out of your house, a kitchen remodeling project is a great investment.

Return on investment(ROI): Spend wisely for the best return on investment

You can expect anywhere from 50% to 76% for an ROI on a kitchen remodel when you sell your home. This means for each dollar you spend remodeling, you get 50 cents to 75 cents back when you find a buyer.

You get the highest ROI on simpler improvements like painting walls or replacing light fixtures. Bigger ticket items have lower ROI.

This could be because buyers want to see a space that they can make their own. If a kitchen is full of your desired high-end fixtures and finishes, they might not be appreciated.

Remodel vs Renovation vs. Expansion

When researching home remodel prices homeowners often encounter various words whose meanings appear identical — or simply confused. If you plan on hiring someone as a contractor, you need clear instructions on the language used during the construction phase.

A remodel typically stripping a kitchen down to the bones and starting fresh. A renovation is normally lighter construction and repairs.

An expansion means making the space bigger in some way. This could be adding an addition, taking out walls, or some other way of expanding.

How can I enlarge my kitchen?

Getting a bigger kitchen is the dream of many homeowners. Unfortunately, a kitchen expansion means a great expansion in remodeling costs.

If you have space around your home, you could add an addition. This means making a new foundation might be almost as costly as a new home.

On the other hand, you could knock down walls in your home to expand your kitchen. This is the route most people choose, and you have to decide if you have enough extra space for that.

Small Kitchen Remodel Cost: DIY vs. Professional

Many people believe they can take on a small kitchen remodel themselves to save some money. While labor costs can make up a big part of a kitchen remodeling budget, there are some things to consider before starting.

The main thing is the tools you will need to make the job easy and look professional. You could easily end up spending more just buying tools than you would have spent hiring other people to do the work.

There is also the fact that you will make mistakes. Having to redo things will quickly kill your savings, and it could be dangerous in many situations.

Can you remodel a kitchen for $5000?

First, it is possible to remodel a kitchen for $5,000. But, the results might not be what you want.

For $5,000, you would get a bare-bones makeover, and you might struggle to finish the project. If you do all the work yourself, and you already have the tools you need, you might achieve a beautiful kitchen renovation for this price.

What You Can Do To Save Up?

Practically, every household loves to save a few bucks for their full kitchen renovation. With that, we are giving out these expert tips for you to keep in mind when you’re undertaking your complete kitchen remodel.

Be prepared to handle light works like painting or installing a backsplash.
Consider refacing or refinishing your old cabinets instead of installing new ones.
Don’t expand your kitchen, change the layout, or add gas lines, plumbing, or electrical fixtures.
Be prepared to compromise with quality and price in a few areas and spend more on things you care about.
Less detail equates to more savings and you can add details later on.
Recycle extra/old materials and donate things that are still usable for a tax write-off.
Search for cheaper materials on your own and look out for sales.

These are just suggestions on how you can save a few bucks on your kitchen remodel. At the USA Cabinet Store, we are more than willing to help you form a cost-efficient kitchen makeover to fit any budget.

Should I Get Financing For Kitchen Remodeling Costs?

Many people choose to take out financing for their kitchen upgrade. Getting to enjoy your kitchen now is usually worth the added debt.

To answer this question fully, talk to your financial advisor. They can explain to you exactly what you can afford, and what life could be like if you take out a loan.

How to hire a professional?

Remodeling the kitchen requires a variety of skills, which often means homeowners often hire a specialized contractor. Let’s see how we compare contractor services.

Communication Is Key

The first factor is communication. You must be able to explain what you want, and the contractor must understand what you say.

You could be spending a lot of time with this contractor, and there needs to be great communication. Bad communication leads to conflicts, and there is enough stress in kitchen remodeling without that.

Check References

You also need to check with some references and see what sort of work they do. Go deeper than just reading online reviews, try to call or meet someone who has worked with the contractor before.

Make Sure They Are Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

A professional contractor will have all the necessary accreditations to work in your area. You can do an online search to ensure they are up to date on everything.

These things don’t just protect you in case of accidents. They also show that the person takes their work seriously and follows the rules of the trade.

Need A Local Kitchen Remodeling Design Center?

USA Cabinet Store is one of the leading kitchen and bathroom remodeling design centers in the U.S. With more than ten years of experience, licensed contractors, and expert kitchen remodeling designers, we can guarantee the stunning outcome of any kitchen renovation. For your free design and consultation, you can call our office today. We have a wide variety of kitchen remodeling ideas. We serve various areas in Virginia, Maryland, and Texas.

Visit our showroom today or check us on Facebook, so you can view our wonderful designs.

Outdoor Kitchen Cost – 5 Helpful Considerations for You

When researching an outdoor kitchen project, one of the first questions that pop up:

How much does an outdoor kitchen cost?

Before getting too invested in the idea, you want to make sure it is feasible for you financially.

Put simply, the national average cost of an outdoor kitchen in America is about $12,000 – $13,000. This is just a sweeping average, however. Each project is unique and will have a different price tag attached.

Let this page serve as your personal outdoor kitchen cost guide. We’ll go over in detail the cost of every aspect of the outdoor kitchen purchasing process. This way you are equipped with the knowledge you need to move forward with your project.

Let’s dive in.

AVERAGE HOMEOWNER SPEND

Findings from the HPBA in 2018 and NKBA in 2019 show that a homeowners average costs were $11,300 to $13,000 for their outdoor kitchen. HomeAdvisor found the average typical price range to be around $12,690, which sits right in the middle of HPBA and NKBA findings.

AVERAGE COST PER LINEAR FOOT

The average cost of an outdoor kitchen can range from $1,200 to $2,000 per linear foot when built from scratch. This calculation includes base island construction, finish, countertops, grill head, and appliances.

AVERAGE PREFABRICATED AND MODULAR OUTDOOR KITCHEN COST

Prefab and modular outdoor kitchens range from $4,000 to $10,000 for barbecue islands. The cost can jump significantly once you begin upgrading appliances, countertops, and finishes.

BIG BOX OPTIONS

The basic outdoor kitchen prices at big box stores like Costco and Lowe’s range from $1,500 to $5,000. Some brands are poorly engineered, private labels of modular island brands. (We do not recommend these)

5 Factors That Affect Outdoor
Kitchen Cost

Depending on the decisions you make, there are multiple aspects that affect outdoor kitchen costs. We have condensed these factors into five main categories.

Quick Links

Scope of Your Outdoor Kitchen Project
Type of Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor Kitchen Costs Depend On Where You Live
When You Buy Can Impact Your Outdoor Kitchen Cost
What You Buy
Financing

1. Scope of Your Outdoor Kitchen Project

Before determining cost, you must understand the scope of your project. Knowing the limitations of your outdoor space will help determine your cost to build.

Is Access Limited?

In other words, how easy is your backyard to navigate? Depending on the outdoor kitchen solution you choose, access can become a sticking point.

For example, working with a contractor. Tight living quarters will make it difficult or impossible to use heavy equipment required for the project. Contractors will charge more for the inconvenience of working in a space with limited access.

In this case, RTA is a better solution. Our outdoor kitchen kits come shipped directly to your door. They’re packaged in manageable parts for easy assembly. Proper access is not crucial for this solution… Which does not increase your outdoor kitchen costs.

Can I put it on my Existing Patio?

This is also an important consideration. Your deck may or may not be able to handle the weight of an outdoor kitchen.

Traditional masonry or block construction specifically require structural footings. A paver, concrete patio, or deck without the necessary structural footings can become problematic… Over time, your patio or deck will settle and cause instability.

RTA does not require Structural Footings

If you’re not set up with structural footings, you may want to consider RTA. Our offerings are light-weight so they don’t require structural footings. Therefore, it’s ready to assemble on nearly any surface.

You’ll also have to consider the size of your deck or patio surface. Is it large enough to fit the design you are hoping for? You may have to extend your existing patio or add a whole new area for an outdoor kitchen.

Here Are Some Typical Cost Ranges For Most Patio Surfaces

Broom Finish Concrete

$6-10 per square foot

Brick Pavers

$5-15 per square foot

Stamped Concrete

$12-20 per square foot

Flagstone

$10-30 per square foot

Bluestone

$20-40 per square foot

RTA, however, has outdoor kitchen solutions for any size space. That means you don’t have to worry about the additional expense of altering your current situation just to get an outdoor kitchen. Your yard is perfect just the way it is with RTA.

Do I need Utility Lines Run to the Area?

Utility lines are often a hidden cost with an outdoor kitchen project. If you want a natural gas grill, refrigerator, and/or sink… You’ll have to run utility lines.

To keep costs down, consider placing your outdoor kitchen near the home. The closer to your home, the less work required to run utility lines. Less work = reduced cost. This is one of several ways you can save if you are building an outdoor kitchen on a budget.

Let’s find out how much utilities may cost:

Hiring an electrician costs about $50-$100 an hour. Depending on electric requirements of your space, expect them to work for about 6-10 hours.

New gas lines will run you about $15-$20 per linear foot when working with a licensed plumber.

The price tag for installing an outdoor sink is anywhere from $500 to $2,000. Again, this depends on accessibility of your space and amount of plumbing.

Now that we’ve discussed the scope of your project, let’s move on to the next category.

2. Type of Outdoor Kitchen

The type you choose will directly affect the cost for you to build an outdoor kitchen. We’ll start with lower cost options and end with the higher end solutions.

Prefab or Modular

These outdoor kitchens are pre-constructed and come to you ready to install. What you gain in convenience is often lost in quality here.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of prefab outdoor kitchens are not built to last. So while the upfront investment is low, you’ll end up with a higher ownership cost over time with possible costly repairs. Having to maintain and even replace your outdoor kitchen in 3-5 years is a high price to pay.

Ready-to-Assemble

RTA on average falls into the mid-range price point for outdoor grill islands. The cost is higher than most modular options because we use premium outdoor kitchen materials and outdoor appliances that are extremely durable.

That’s where the savings come in with RTA. Our outdoor kitchens are meant to be a one time purchase that will last you for decades in your living space. This means a low ownership cost over time.

We also add value through eliminating hassle, time, and headaches related to installation. The project is already thought out for you.

RTA also provides you with up-front pricing that doesn’t fluctuate. You’ll know exactly what our outdoor kitchens cost and what to expect.

The above is why many are flocking to RTA despite the mid-range price point. Homeowners value the convenience, installation speed, customization, and easy maintenance… Not to mention our structural lifetime warranty.

Contractor to Build an Outdoor Kitchen

Contractor built is your high end solution in the realm of outdoor kitchens. These projects are completed by a specialty builder.

This is a nice option for those who want zero limitations when it comes to their outdoor kitchen design. Of course, you’ll pay a premium when working with a credible builder.

You can reduce the cost of complete custom if you work with a local general contractor or landscaper. The problem? The lower cost generally points to their lack of experience working with outdoor kitchens. It also commonly means the materials and appliances used will be of a lower quality.

There are also hidden building and installation costs when selecting a contractor as your solution.

Change Orders
Time and Energy Coordinating the Project
Opportunity Cost (waiting weeks or months for the project to be completed)
Property Disruption and Heavy Machinery in your Outdoor Space
Possible Damage due to Construction Process

Your location is also a factor in your outdoor kitchen cost.

design the kitchen of your dreams…

from your couch.

With our 3d design tool and one-on-one expert
guidance, building the outdoor kitchen of your dreams can happen well.

.. from your couch.

3. Outdoor Kitchen Costs Depend On Where You Live

Location weighs in on the cost to build your outdoor kitchen in many ways. Here’s just a few:

Suppliers and Subcontractors

Suppliers and subcontractors are generally more available in areas where outdoor kitchens are popular. You can get lower prices due to increased competition and availability.

RTA doesn’t require a contractor to assemble our grill islands. If you’re handy, you won’t need one at all! And if you do require assistance, you only have to hire a contractor for a single day (which can help you with!) Therefore, this cost is significantly reduced with RTA.

Materials

Again, availability factors in here. Depending on your area, different materials will be more readily available. Take for example natural stone used in the surround and countertops. Certain areas have stone readily available… others not so much. Therefore, if you live in an area where stone is abundant, materials will cost less.

With RTA, it doesn’t matter where you live. You get the best product for a great price. By manufacturing ours in-house, you don’t have to worry about material scarcity.

Labor Markets

Labor market costs vary significantly depending on where you live. Areas such as NY and CA have high labor costs will significantly drive up the cost of your outdoor kitchen.

Again, RTA edges out here in terms of cost. Especially if you’re handy and don’t feel the need to hire a contractor. If you don’t hire a contractor, this cost is completely eliminated. If you do hire one, it’s only for a day.

Permitting

This is key to consider if you live in an area with strict permit requirements and building code. Permits not only add an extra cost… They add time to your outdoor kitchen project.

Some permits can take weeks or even months for approval. This caveat can make your project come to a screeching halt before it even gets started.

Now, what about cost? According to HomeAdvisor, expect to pay around $380 – $1,800 for the necessary permits. Likely, the cost will be on the lower end. This is because only permissions for gas and water lines are needed in most cases.

Can you bring this cost down? In some cases, yes. It once again depends on the outdoor kitchen solution you choose… And your local building codes.

Some outdoor kitchens are not considered permanent structures. Therefore, you can get away with not having a permit. Built from scratch options tend to be permanent, and thus, require permitting. Something to think about.

RTA does not require permit

Since this product is not considered a permanent structure, in most locales you do not need a permit (check local codes & regulations).

4. When You Buy Can Impact Your Outdoor Kitchen Cost

As you are aware, there is an inherent seasonality to outdoor kitchens. Most people want to get their dream outdoor kitchen in spring or early summer. That way they can maximize use during the short summer season.

However, the most popular time to buy is not always the best time. You’ll likely get the most bang for your buck purchasing in the off-season. During the late fall/winter months, many companies will offer promotions for a bbq kitchen.

Demand also naturally increases in the spring/summer months. Contractors are less available… Which often leads to charging a premium for their services. You won’t necessarily be getting ripped off, but you will be paying extra for their limited time.

Like any other outdoor kitchen company, RTA is beholden to seasonality. So the question is…

When Should I Buy an RTA Outdoor Kitchen?

You can certainly wait until the off-season when we may have some promotions. At the same time, our solution will be much faster than contractor built (even during peak season). You’ll just have to allow a couple extra weeks for delivery. Any time of the year is a great time to invest in an outdoor kitchen with us.

Another consideration is time. Planning your outdoor kitchen thoroughly is one of the most important tasks. Don’t rush it! If you purchase during the off-season, you’ll have time to properly think out your project. You won’t be rushed into decisions and fall victim to the ‘I want it yesterday’ syndrome.

5. What You Buy

Of course, we have to consider exactly what you’ll be buying to determine cost. A basic L-Shape kitchen with no add-ons can cost $13,000. Take that same design with upgraded finishes, grill, and appliances? You’ll easily bump the cost upward of $20,000.

Appliances

Naturally, a lower end appliance will drop down the cost of your outdoor kitchen area. At the same time, these units can be difficult to work with if anything goes wrong.

You may end up having to replace the grill and appliances… In which case you were likely better off opting for the high end version at the start.

Let’s expand on that. Most of us are used to replacing a standalone grill or appliance from time to time. It’s not an issue because there’s no need to fit it into a certain grill island opening.

Replacing a grill or outdoor appliance with an outdoor kitchen is more difficult. If you end up needing to repair in a couple years… The company may no longer manufacture the parts you need. It’s also possible you’re ready to upgrade so you don’t run into issues.

The problem with that?

Now you have to worry about fitting the new built-in grill into the cutout designed for your old grill. This leads to altering the island, or having to choose another grill altogether. That’s a headache!

Of course, materials factor in here. Take 304 stainless steel vs 430 stainless steel for example. While both are acceptable, there is a clear difference in longevity.

430 stainless steel does not contain nickel. As a result, it is more likely to crack, fail, and/or corrode. The corrosion is especially important to take note of if you live on the ocean.

In contrast, 304 stainless steel is much more resistant to corrosion. It is also known as food-grade stainless steel.

You’ll also want to pay attention to the material of the interior components of both the built in grill and other appliances. Some brands that advertise 304 stainless steel construction are a bit misleading. While the outside is constructed of 304 stainless steel, the interior is not. Ever wonder why the burner and interior of your grill is the first to break down? It’s all materials.

The longevity of material is why we work with Coyote Outdoor Living for appliances in our outdoor kitchens. Their entire line is made from 304 stainless steel and built to last. And yes, that includes the interior!

Finishes

Like appliances, quality matters here. You don’t want to only focus on style… The higher the finish quality, the more durable your outdoor kitchen will be. More durability = more years of enjoyment. A higher upfront cost can be worth it in the long run here.

That’s why every RTA finish is built to last year round in any climate. You don’t have to worry about picking a finish that will work where you live, we’ve got it covered.

Lighting

If you want to use your outdoor kitchen at night, consider budgeting for lighting. This will greatly improve your quality of life when entertaining during the evening.

Expect to invest about $150-$800 depending on how many fixtures you want. Additional electric requirements may be an added cost as well.

Structure & Countertops

The price of your outdoor kitchen cabinets and countertops will range from $350-$1,000 per linear foot. If your cost is toward the lower end… Keep in mind the materials used are likely a short-term solution. They’re meant for ideal weather. They won’t last in areas with harsh winters and lots of inclement weather.

Materials on the high end of the cost per linear foot tend to have upgraded finishes and cabinetry. If you live in an area with inclement weather, consider a more durable material. For this, expect to invest at least $600 per linear foot on your base cabinets and countertops.

Now, how does RTA fit into this scenario? RTA outdoor kitchens are built with high quality concrete or granite that will withstand the elements in any climate. No need to worry about buying the right kind of outdoor kitchen countertop.

The best part?

It’s all included in the price of the kitchen.

See the table below for general material cost of other bbq kitchen solutions:

Average Square Foot Countertops Pricing

Porcelain or Ceramic Tile

$10-$25 per square foot

Soapstone

$35-$60 per square foot

Concrete

$50-$70 per square foot

Granite Countertops

$60-$80 per square foot

Stainless Steel

$70-$100 per square foot

$100-$150 per square foot

RTA offers Concrete and Granite options

Financing

If your budget doesn’t allow for the full cost of an outdoor kitchen space, that is okay. We offer financing options so you can get your outdoor kitchen without the full cost burden upfront. If you’re interested in pursuing a financing option, set up a call with one of our design experts.

Building an Outdoor Kitchen on a Budget?

Building an outdoor kitchen on a tight budget is difficult but certainly doable. Here are other considerations to reduce the investment on your project:

Location. Pick an area close to your home. This will decrease material/labor cost of electrical lines and other utilities to your outdoor kitchen.
Use an existing patio (if you have one). If you’re able to fit the outdoor kitchen layout you want on your current patio… Do that! You’ll save money not having to extend your patio to accommodate the outdoor kitchen.
Appliance selection. You can save a lot of money by selecting appliances that don’t require utility lines. For example, a propane grill that runs off a 20 lb tank. Ruling out refrigerators, ice makers, sinks, etc… Will all eliminate the need for power and water lines to the area. You’ll also avoid any property disruption as a result of installing lines.
Must Haves vs. Nice to Haves. Understand what aspect of your project is most important to invest in… And what aspects are just nice to have. For example, appliances.
Choosing a lightweight system. This will help you save money on construction of the project. You’ll avoid the need for structural footings and supports.

Moving Forward

As you can see, the short answer for “how much does it cost to build an outdoor kitchen?” is “well it depends”…

Now that you’ve got a good idea of averages, all the factors, and have begun tabulating your budget… You may be ready to take the next step.

But you’re not sure what that next step is, exactly.