If you’re dreaming of a fresh, functional kitchen (let’s be honest, who isn’t?) custom to your family and lifestyle, there’s one big question bound to pop up: How much does a kitchen renovation cost?

You’re not alone—it’s one of the most common questions we hear.

The truth is, it depends on what you’re looking for and the space you’re working with. From materials, finishes, reno complexity, and the level of customisation you need, the numbers vary across the industry.

Please note: At Mint Kitchen Group, we specialise in mid-range to high-end kitchen renovations. The guide below is provided to help you understand general market pricing for different renovation levels, including options we do not offer (such as cosmetic updates).

Breaking Down the Figures: The Average Cost of Kitchen Renovations

According to the Housing Industry Association’s (HIA) annual Kitchens and Bathrooms Report, average kitchen renovation costs between $22,000 and $40,000. While no two kitchens are the same, we’ve worked on thousands of homes and can give you a solid starting point based on three tiers.

 

Type of Renovation	Estimated Cost Range
Cosmetic update or a smaller budget	$18,000 to $30,000
Mid-range remodel	$30,000 to $55,000
Luxury kitchen reno	$55,000+

 

These figures provide a useful range to work off of. Still, it’s important to remember the cost of kitchen renovations can vary depending on kitchen size, appliance choices, and who you engage for the job. The more structural changes, high-end materials, or custom details you want, the higher the cost.

Let’s take a closer look at the three tiers.

 

Budget Kitchen Renovation (Market Overview)

Budget Range: $18,000 to $30,000

In the broader market, a cosmetic kitchen renovation is the most budget-friendly way to refresh a tired kitchen. This is ideal for homeowners who are happy with their layout but want to improve the look and feel of their space. Common updates in this category often include:

• Repainting walls and cabinetry
• Updating cabinet handles and tapware
• Swapping out old benchtops or splashbacks
• Installing energy-efficient lighting or replacing basic appliances

These smaller-scale changes typically use cost-effective materials like laminate benchtops, flat-pack cabinetry, and entry-level appliances. Labour costs are also lower since there’s minimal demolition or structural work involved.

Note: Mint Kitchen Group does not offer cosmetic updates. Our focus is on custom mid-range and high-end renovations that deliver long-term value, performance, and design excellence.

 

 

Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation

Budget Range: $30,000 to $55,000

A mid-range kitchen renovation goes beyond surface changes to deliver a functional and visually appealing transformation. This level of renovation usually includes:

 

• Replacing all cabinetry and drawers
• Installing stone or upgraded laminate benchtops
• New splashbacks (often tiled or stone)
• Adding mid-range appliances
• Improved storage solutions like corner pull-outs and soft-close drawers

 

This price bracket also allows for more flexibility in layout adjustments. For example, repositioning appliances for better flow or improving bench space without moving plumbing or walls.

Many homeowners find the kitchen renovator cost in this tier offers the best return on investment. You’ll get long-lasting materials, smarter design, and greater visual impact without the full price tag of a luxury renovation.

Our cabinet makers often work with clients in this category to create stylish and practical semi-custom storage—ideal for growing families or homeowners planning to stay put for years to come.

Mint Kitchens Tip: If you’re upgrading an older home in good condition, reusing materials such as beadboard panels and existing storage or refinishing current floors rather than a complete overhaul can save you more. Simply speak to your builder or kitchen cabinet makers to see what’s possible!

 

High-End Kitchen Renovation

Budget Range: $55,000+

Want a kitchen that looks like it belongs in a design magazine? You’re likely looking at a high-end kitchen renovation. This tier covers full-scale transformations tailored to the smallest detail. It usually includes:

 

• Completely reimagined layout with structural changes
• Premium finishes like marble, granite, or porcelain benchtops
• Full-height stone or slab splashbacks
• Custom cabinetry with integrated storage, butler’s pantries, and feature lighting
• Designer appliances or even incorporating laundry renovations for more compact spaces
• Seamless integration of tech and smart features

 

The kitchen renovators’ cost at this level also accounts for extensive project coordination, engineering, high-end materials, and luxury fittings. You’ll often work closely with certified kitchen designers and experienced builders to bring the vision to life.

The cost of kitchen renovators can add up, especially in a bigger space or on a tighter timeline, but if you want your kitchen to perform as beautifully as it looks, this tier gives you full creative control, high functionality, and a true wow factor.

 

What About Kitchens in New Homes?

When designing a kitchen in a new build, the cost is often comparable to a full remodel but with fewer demolition and plumbing relocation needs. You’ll still need to budget for cabinetry, benchtops, appliances, and installation, but costs can be more predictable since you’re starting with a clean slate.

Many new home kitchens are designed in tandem with laundry or bathroom renovations, which can offer efficiencies in trade scheduling and project timing. Working with one team across all these spaces can help you stay on track, both financially and logistically, especially if your team’s a jack of all trades with designers, builders, and bathroom cabinet makers under one roof.

 

Design Choices Impacting Kitchen Renovation Cost

 

Cabinetry

Cabinetry is usually the most significant contributor to your kitchen renovation cost, taking up 30 to 40% of your budget, especially if you’re adding features like soft-close drawers or smart storage solutions. Whether you’re working with flat-pack or custom builds, your choices here shape the function and look of your space.

 

Benchtops

Benchtops are a defining visual feature in any kitchen and can impact aesthetics and performance. The spectrum starts from cost-effective laminate and goes up to luxurious natural stone, where the edge detail, thickness, and surface area will affect the final price.

 

Trades & Labour

From demolition to tiling, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work that makes your kitchen functional and safe. The cost of a kitchen renovator easily covers 40 to 50% of your total budget. This includes:

 

• Removal of existing kitchen
• Plumbing and electrical work
• Cabinet and benchtop installation
• Tiling, plastering, and painting

 

Working with experienced kitchen renovators ensures proper trade coordination and helps avoid budget blowouts or delays.

 

Appliances

If you’re after integrated appliances, induction cooktops, or high-spec ovens, be prepared to allocate a healthy part of your budget here. For best value, many of our clients choose to work with reputable brands like Bosch, Miele, Siemens, and Fisher & Paykel.

 

Flooring

Some clients keep their existing floors, but many update them to match their new space. The choices range from durable tiles or vinyl planks to engineered timber flooring for a warmer underfoot.

 

Permits & Structural Work

If your renovation involves removing walls or altering the layout significantly, you may need structural engineering, permits, and approvals.

 

Splurge vs Save: Mint Kitchen’s Expert Tips

When allocating your kitchen renovation budget, we recommend spending on areas that need durability for daily use.

For instance, cabinetry faces a day-in-day-out use by everyone in the family. Have them customised based on your storage needs and choose hardwood (such as oak and walnut) over softwood for a longer lifespan. However, if you like softer picks, we recommend a painted or sealed finish.

Another area to splurge on is appliances for functionality and energy efficiency, making cooking and entertaining enjoyable. Benchtops are also a high-ticket item as they can impact how your kitchen feels, looks, and experiences constant traffic.

Let’s look at where you should save next.

Firstly, splashbacks. You can get stylish yet durable results with tiles or budget materials. Lighting is another area where you can take the pocket-friendly route, with plenty of affordable fixtures and stunning designs available. You also want to save on hardware (such as handles and knobs) as there are low-cost options that are still big on style.

 

Prep for Your Kitchen Reno

You’ll be without your main kitchen for a little while, so it helps to be prepared. Here are our go-to tips:

 

1. Set up a temporary kitchen space with a microwave, portable cooker, or bar fridge (and if you have an outdoor space, a barbie never hurts).
2. Pack up and store fragile or valuable items so your builders have a clear space to work with.
3. If you’re reusing your existing appliances, move them to a dry, covered area like the garage. Deep clean your appliances and defrost your freezer to prevent any unwanted buildup.
4. Want to be away from the noise that comes with renos? Arrange alternative accommodation.
5. Get in touch with Mint Kitchens early so your timelines and planning are sorted.

 

Is a Kitchen Renovation Worth It?

Definitely. A thoughtful kitchen renovation can:

 

• Boost the value of your home—sometimes by over $100,000
• Improve functionality and your day-to-day lifestyle—how you cook, live, and entertain
• Be a wonderful space for growing families

 

Ready to bring your dream kitchen to life? Speak to our design specialist or visit your nearest showroom to get started.