Have you been imagining your life in a newly remodeled kitchen? Do you picture yourself sipping coffee at the kitchen island on a crisp New England morning? Can’t you almost feel the glistening countertops and sleek cabinetry?! You can probably see the smiles and hear the laughter as your family gathers for a holiday! As you imagine your new life, you can’t help but wonder how big an investment this dream will require. How much does a kitchen remodel cost in New Hampshire?
At Rothrock, we know how overwhelming remodeling can be, especially when it comes to budgeting. That’s why we’re here to shed a light on the matter. How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen in NH? What will cause costs to go up? What causes them to go down? What hidden costs do you need to be aware of? How can you budget properly for a remodel?
Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through all the details, so you can plan your remodel with confidence!
Typical Kitchen Remodel Costs in New Hampshire
Kitchen remodel costs are based on several factors, including location, scope of work, materials, and level of customization. The more extensive the remodel is, and the more challenging the existing conditions of the home are, the higher the cost will be.
Since every homeowner’s house, taste, and expectations are different, every kitchen remodel will be fully customized to the homeowner’s unique needs. To help you understand your options, the following are typical investment ranges for the most common kitchen projects:
- Kitchen Refresh ($15,000 – $40,000): A minimalistic transformation utilizing cosmetic updates rather than demolition & reconstruction.
- Builder-Grade Kitchen Remodel ($50,000 – $70,000): A cost-effective remodel utilizing basic materials and budget-friendly finishes.
- Quality-Grade Kitchen Remodel ($90,000 – $120,000): A balance of durability, customization, and style, utilizing products like semi-custom cabinetry, quartz countertops and tile backslashes.
- High-End Kitchen Remodel ($150,000 – $200,000+): When only the best will do, a high-end remodel utilizes products like custom cabinetry, high-end finishes, and cutting-edge features.
What is a Kitchen Refresh and How Much Does it Cost?
Unlike a kitchen remodel, where the kitchen is torn down to the studs and rebuilt, a kitchen refresh focuses on transforming the space in a less intrusive way. A kitchen refresh utilizes cosmetic updates, like cabinet refinishing, countertop replacement, or lighting upgrades, to transform your kitchen without major construction.
Updates in a Kitchen Refresh Can Include:
- Refinishing cabinetry to give new life to worn or outdated surfaces.
- Replacing countertops for a clean, modern finish.
- Installing a new backsplash to add color or texture.
- Swapping out hardware for a quick style update.
- Upgrading faucets and appliances for improved style and functionality.
- Updating lighting fixtures to brighten up the space and enhance ambiance.
Cost Range for a Kitchen Refresh:
The cost of a kitchen refresh can vary widely, typically requiring an investment of $15,000-$40,000. A kitchen refresh will mean something different to each individual. Therefore, the overall cost of a refresh will vary, depending on the tasks required, the size of the kitchen, the quality of the materials, and whether the work will be DIY or professionally done.
Who is a Kitchen Refresh Best For?
A kitchen refresh is a good way to update a kitchen that works well but is outdated. This type of project is perfect for homeowners who enjoy their existing kitchen layout, but desire an updated aesthetic. It’s also great for those who are preparing to sell their home and wish to boost the resale value without investing too much.
By focusing on strategic cosmetic updates, a refresh can transform a kitchen and make it feel new again, while keeping costs in check.
What Does a Builder-Grade Kitchen Remodel Cost in NH?
When you hear the term “builder-grade,” what comes to mind? If you picture basic cabinetry, laminate countertops, and simple (but functional) appliances, you’re on the right track!
What is Builder-Grade?
The term “builder-grade” typically refers to the type of finishes you might expect to find in a tract house or apartment building – functional, practical, but maybe not the most elegant.
Builder-grade materials are designed to provide functionality at a low cost. They’re functional and effective but they tend to lack the premium look and feel of higher-quality options. Builder-grade kitchens get the job done without breaking the bank, making them a popular choice for real estate investors or homeowners who are looking for a budget-friendly update.
To learn more about the different grades of building materials, be sure to check out the article: What is the difference between builder-grade, quality-grade, and high-end building products?
Updates in a Builder-Grade Kitchen Remodel Include:
- Vinyl or laminate flooring: Affordable, easy to clean, and available in many styles. These materials are water-resistant and durable enough for daily use but lack the look of hardwood or tile.
- Stock cabinetry: Prefabricated cabinets with simple designs and finishes. While they’re functional, they offer limited customization options and may not last as long as semi-custom or custom cabinets.
- Laminate countertops: Durable and low maintenance, though less visually striking than stone options. Modern laminate designs can mimic the look of granite or quartz for a cost-effective alternative.
- Builder-grade plumbing fixtures: Functional and reliable but without luxury features like pull-out sprayers or touchless operation.
- Standard lighting and hardware: Practical and straightforward, offering adequate functionality without extra frills. Options include basic ceiling-mounted fixtures and simple cabinet handles.
Cost Range for a Builder-Grade Kitchen Remodel
A builder-grade kitchen remodel will typically cost $50,000-$70,000. This includes all the basics from materials to labor. It’s everything you need to get the job done, without the premium features or custom work. You may be able to reduce the cost a little, by minimizing the scope of work or doing some of the work yourself, but the $50,000-$70,000 range includes a fully functional, professionally installed kitchen.
Who is a Builder-Grade Kitchen Remodel Best For?
A builder-grade kitchen remodel is great for real estate investors who need to make a property more marketable for as little investment as possible. It’s also perfect for homeowners who need a functional upgrade on a tight budget. This type of remodel is great for rental properties or starter homes where cost-effectiveness is key.
How Much Does a Quality-Grade Kitchen Remodel Cost in New Hampshire?
If you’re like most homeowners, a quality-grade kitchen is what you’ve been dreaming of. For many, a quality-grade remodel is the perfect balance of style, functionality, and durability. This type of project is all about combining high-quality products, professional craftsmanship, and thoughtful design to create a space that feels both timeless and functional.
What is Quality-Grade?
Quality-grade kitchens use the durable, stylish fixtures and finishes that homeowners expect from a professionally completed remodel. These products are a step up from low-cost, box-store (builder-grade) products. You can feel the quality when you open the soft-close cabinet drawer, run your hand across the smooth quartz countertops, or turn the handle of a premium faucet. Quality-grade kitchens are built to last while reflecting beauty and your sense of style.
Updates in a Quality-Grade Remodel Include:
- Semi-custom cabinetry: These cabinets offer a wide range of finishes, styles, and storage solutions for individual customization without breaking the bank.
- Quartz countertops: Durable, stain-resistant, and available in many colors and patterns, quartz provides both beauty and practicality.
- Tile backsplash: A carefully chosen backsplash adds texture and color to the design.
- Upgraded flooring: Hardwood or porcelain tile flooring adds warmth and elegance.
- Premium fixtures: Faucets and sinks that combine durability and functionality with style.
- Stainless steel appliances: Modern energy-efficient appliances that elevate both the look and functionality of the space.
- Improved lighting: Layered lighting plans, including under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights, and recessed fixtures to brighten and accentuate key areas.
Cost of a Quality-Grade Kitchen Remodel in NH
A quality-grade kitchen remodel will typically require an investment of $90,000-$120,000. This range reflects the level of customization, material quality, and craftsmanship involved in a high-quality kitchen remodel. More than a builder-grade remodel but less than a high-end remodel, this type of project delivers the perfect balance of durability, style, and cost for most New Hampshire homeowners.
Who is a Quality-Grade Remodel Best For?
A quality-grade kitchen remodel is perfect for homeowners who want a space that’s functional and beautiful. It’s great for families or individuals who spend a lot of time in the kitchen and need a durable setup that can handle daily use while looking good for years to come. This remodel is also great for those who plan to stay in their homes long-term and want to invest in quality that lasts.
How Much Does a Luxury Kitchen Remodel Cost in NH?
Sometimes, anything short of the best just won’t do! A luxury kitchen remodel delivers the customization and stunning aesthetics that only high-end materials and custom craftsmanship can provide. For those who want the very best of luxury and functionality, a high-end kitchen remodel delivers a space that’s as stunning as it is practical. High-end kitchens are where design meets technology and premium materials, to create a space that’s uniquely yours!
What is a Luxury Remodel?
A high-end kitchen remodel is characterized by luxury finishes, fully customized layouts, and the very best appliances and technology. It’s not just about cooking – it’s about the experience! A luxury kitchen is a place where you’ll love to spend time, whether you’re entertaining or preparing a quiet dinner for two!
Updates in a Luxury Remodel Include:
- Custom cabinetry: Fully customized to fit your kitchen’s dimensions and your lifestyle needs, these cabinets offer the ultimate in quality and unique finishes.
- Quartzite countertops: A natural stone that combines durability and elegance, quartzite adds sophistication to your kitchen.
- Radiant heated floors: Warm, luxurious flooring that’s perfect for cold New Hampshire winters.
- Luxury lighting: From statement chandeliers to under-cabinet LED strips, lighting in a high-end kitchen is as much about function as it is about ambiance.
- High-end appliances: Professional-grade appliances like built-in refrigerators, dual-fuel ranges, and steam ovens that elevate your cooking experience.
- Integrated smart technology: Features like touchless faucets, voice-controlled lighting, and smart appliances simplify and enhance everyday tasks.
Cost of a Luxury Kitchen Remodel in the NH Seacoast
The cost of a luxury kitchen remodel typically starts at $150,000 and goes up from there. This cost range reflects the level of custom work, the quality of materials, and the complexity of high-end installations. The sky is the limit with a luxury remodel, though, and it isn’t unheard of for homeowners to invest $200,000+ in high-end custom kitchen remodels in places like Portsmouth or Rye, NH. While it’s a big investment, the result is a one-of-a-kind kitchen that meets the highest standards of design and performance.
Who is a Luxury Remodel For?
A luxury remodel is for homeowners who want a kitchen that’s as much a showpiece as it is a workspace. For those who love to entertain, appreciate quality, and want a space customized to their specific needs and style, a high-end kitchen remodel is where it’s at! If your kitchen is the heart of your home, invest in a luxury remodel and it will be the crown jewel for years to come!
How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost Per Square Foot?
Unfortunately, the size of a kitchen is a terrible indicator of how much a remodel will cost. One of our colleagues puts it best:
“Pricing a residential construction project by the square foot is like pricing automobiles by the pound.”
As humorous as this statement is, it’s a great way to illustrate the reality of remodeling costs. Just as a car’s price is based on engineering, materials, and features—not just weight—the cost of a kitchen remodel is based on design, material quality, craftsmanship, and the condition of the existing space far more than its square footage.
Kitchens and bathrooms are typically the most expensive rooms in a home, but not because of their size. They’re expensive because of the number of fixtures, finish products, specialized labor, and intricate installations. Naturally, the quality of these products and finishes plays a huge role in the final price. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Budget kitchen remodel: $325–$400 per square foot
- Quality kitchen remodel: $600–$700 per square foot
- Luxury kitchen remodel: $1,200–$1,600 per square foot
As you can see, the choices you make—cabinets, countertops, appliances, and fixtures—have a much bigger impact on the cost of your remodel than the square footage of your space. So, if you’re trying to estimate your costs based on size alone, it’s worth rethinking your approach!
What Affects the Cost of a Kitchen Remodel?
Several factors affect the cost of a kitchen remodel. We have mentioned a few of them already, but it’s worth digging a little deeper, to help you budget better and avoid surprises. Whether you’re looking for a simple refresh or a full transformation knowing what drives costs up or down will allow you to make informed decisions.
A. Cost Drivers
Here are the most common factors that increase remodeling costs:
- Material upgrades: To put it simply, high-end materials cost more. Whether it’s natural stone flooring, custom cabinetry, or luxury plumbing fixtures, choosing premium materials will come at a cost premium.
- Layout changes: Changing the layout requires moving plumbing, electrical wiring, or even walls which requires more labor and material. For example, moving a sink or stove means rerouting water and gas lines which can add thousands to your project.
- Custom design elements: Adding features like built-in shelving, hidden storage or a custom range hood will elevate your kitchen’s look and functionality but will also cost more due to specialized labor and material.
- Structural work: Fixing underlying issues like water damage or uneven flooring can quickly add up costs. Removing walls to create an open concept or reinforcing the floor system to support heavy natural stone countertops may require costly structural work.
- Labor costs: Skilled labor for specialty tasks like custom tile installs, intricate woodwork or advanced plumbing reroutes is another big cost driver. Hiring pros ensures quality but costs more.
B. Cost Savers
These factors can help decrease your remodeling costs:
- Keeping the existing layout: Keeping the same layout minimizes the need for major plumbing and electrical work which can save you alot. It’s a way to refresh your kitchen without the added expense of reconfiguring the space.
- Mid-range materials: Choosing mid-to-low cost options like granite countertops or stock cabinetry offers a balance between quality and cost.
- Simplify the design: Reducing custom elements and using standard-sized products can save cost. For example, choosing prefabricated cabinetry over custom-built saves time and money.
- Economies of scale: Bundling multiple updates into one project can save you money. Contractors can offer better pricing when they can do multiple tasks in one project, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency.
In summary: Knowing these cost drivers allows homeowners to prioritize their spending and adjust to fit their budget. Whether you’re treating yourself with upgrades or finding ways to save without sacrificing style being aware of these variables will help you have a successful kitchen remodel that meets your needs and wants.
Learn more: What Will Affect the Cost of My Kitchen Remodel?
How Much of Your Kitchen Remodel Budget Goes to Materials vs. Labor?
We get asked all the time: “Why does a kitchen remodel cost so much?” And more specifically, “How much of that is materials, and how much is labor?”
The short answer? Labor & project management is typically 50-60% of the total cost of a kitchen remodel, and materials & fixtures make up the other 40-50%.
The Breakdown
Let’s say you’re looking to do a quality-grade kitchen remodel for $90,000 – $120,000. This means that:
✔ $45,000 – $72,000 goes towards installation and project management labor
✔ $36,000 – $54,000 for materials like cabinets, countertops, flooring and appliances
Why Does Labor Cost So Much?
It’s easy to look at the cost of materials and think, “If I can buy cabinets for $20,000, why is my remodel quote so much higher?” The answer is expertise, time and what’s happening behind the scenes.
Here’s what labor costs actually covers:
✔ Skilled craftsmanship – Carpenters, electricians, plumbers, tile setters, and other specialists with years of experience take the time to ensure everything is done right the first time.
✔ Design & project management – A well-planned remodel doesn’t just happen. It takes careful coordination to keep the project on schedule, prevent costly mistakes, and handle all the moving parts.
✔ Unforeseen work – Older homes often hide surprises, like outdated wiring, uneven floors, or hidden water damage. Fixing these issues ensures your kitchen is safe and built to last.
At the end of the day, a kitchen remodel is more than just picking out beautiful cabinets and countertops – it’s about making sure everything works seamlessly, lasts for decades, and adds value to your home.
Want more info? Check out our full guide: How Much of a Remodel Goes to Materials vs. Labor?
Does Location Affect Kitchen Remodel Costs?
Your location will absolutely affect your remodeling costs, but these effects are mostly regional.
For example, New England has a high cost of living compared to most of the country. So, you can expect to pay a lot more for your kitchen renovation in New Hampshire or Maine than you would in a lower-cost-of-living area like the southern states or the Midwest.
Costs can vary a little bit from city to city within the same region, but these differences are small and are mostly driven by local regulations and permitting costs.
Just because a house on Rye Beach costs twice as much as a similar house in Durham, it doesn’t mean your remodeling costs between the two will be different (for the same type of project). You can expect to pay the same price for a kitchen renovation whether you are in Hampton, Rye, Portsmouth, or Exeter.
Unexpected Costs to Watch Out For
Kitchen remodels have hidden costs and knowing what to expect can help you avoid budget bumps. Here are some of the most common:
- Permit Fees & Inspections – Depending on your location and scope of the project, building permit fees can range from $500 to $3,000+.
- Structural or Code Compliance Issues – Older homes may have hidden problems like outdated wiring or plumbing that needs to be brought up to code.
- Material Shipping & Delays – High-end materials, custom cabinetry, and specialty items often have longer lead times and shipping fees.
- Living Arrangements During Remodel – If your kitchen is out of commission for an extended period, you may need to budget for eating out, setting up a temporary kitchen, or even short-term housing if your remodel is extensive.
- Unexpected Repairs – Once demo starts, contractors may find water damage, mold, or weak subflooring that needs to be fixed.
- Change Orders – Mid-project changes, whether it’s upgrading finishes or changing the layout, can add to both cost and timeline.
Pro Tip: Build a 15-20% contingency fund into your budget to cover surprises without derailing the project.
Learn more: Hidden Costs in Kitchen Remodeling
How to Budget for Your Kitchen Remodel
Budgeting is key to keeping your remodel on track. Here are a few expert tips:
✔ Define Your Priorities – What’s most important? Do you want custom cabinetry or premium appliances?
✔ Set a Realistic Budget – Align your budget with the type of remodel you want. A high-end kitchen isn’t possible on a builder-grade budget.
✔ Get a Detailed Estimate – A detailed quote helps you understand where your money is going and prevents cost overruns.
✔ Plan for Hidden Costs – Set aside an extra 15-20% of your budget for surprises.
✔ Explore Financing Options – Many homeowners use home equity loans, personal loans, or contractor financing options to fund their remodel.
Need help with budgeting? Reach out! Book a consultation today to get a quote for your kitchen remodel.
Learn more: How to Budget For a Kitchen Remodel
Ready to Transform Your Kitchen? Let’s Talk!
No matter your budget, we can help bring your dream kitchen to life with quality craftsmanship and expert guidance. Schedule a consultation today to get a cost breakdown tailored to your home and goals!