What to Expect When Budgeting for a Kitchen Remodel in PA, DE, or MD

Your guide to planning, prioritizing, and investing wisely.

Remodeling your kitchen is one of the most exciting—and significant—projects you can take on as a homeowner. It’s a chance to reinvent the heart of your home, improve functionality, and increase your home’s overall value. But before the first cabinet is installed or the first tile is laid, it all starts with one critical step: creating a realistic budget.

At First State Building & Design, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland navigate the budgeting process. Whether you’re dreaming of a full kitchen transformation or a targeted upgrade, understanding what drives the cost of a remodel will help you make smarter decisions from the start.

The cost of a kitchen remodel depends on many factors—size, materials, finishes, and the level of customization. In our region (PA, DE, MD), most homeowners can expect to invest between $50,000 and $150,000+ for a professional design-build kitchen remodel.

Here’s how that typically breaks down:

• Small to Mid-Range Remodel ($50,000–$85,000):
  Ideal for homeowners who want updated finishes, new cabinetry, and improved layout efficiency without moving walls or changing plumbing.
• Major Remodel ($85,000–$120,000):
  Often includes semi-custom cabinetry, new flooring, upgraded lighting, quartz or stone countertops, and appliance upgrades. May involve moderate layout changes.
• Luxury or Full Custom Remodel ($120,000–$200,000+):
  A complete transformation—custom cabinets, high-end materials, statement islands, professional-grade appliances, and architectural reconfiguration.

While national averages can offer perspective, local pricing is influenced by the craftsmanship, permitting requirements, and the quality of materials chosen. First State Building & Design’s in-house design-build process helps homeowners plan accurately—so there are fewer surprises and more confidence along the way.

Understanding where your investment goes can make budgeting feel less overwhelming. Here’s how the typical kitchen remodeling budget breaks down by category:

• Cabinetry (25–35%) – The backbone of your kitchen design. From standard styles to fully custom builds, cabinetry has the largest impact on both budget and aesthetics.
• Countertops (10–15%) – Quartz, granite, and natural stone remain top choices for their durability and visual appeal.
• Appliances (10–15%) – Built-in ovens, professional ranges, and energy-efficient upgrades can enhance both function and value.
• Flooring (5–10%) – Popular options include engineered hardwood, tile, and LVT – luxury vinyl tile that balances beauty with practicality.
• Lighting & Electrical (5–10%) – Modern lighting plans layer function and atmosphere with recessed lights, pendants, and under-cabinet lighting.
• Plumbing Fixtures (3–5%) – Quality faucets, sinks, and filtration systems bring everyday comfort and style.
• Labor & Installation (20–30%) – Skilled trades, carpentry, and project management ensure craftsmanship and smooth execution.

This breakdown provides a general framework, but your priorities will determine where to invest more or save strategically. For example, some families allocate extra budget to a statement island or walk-in pantry—features that improve everyday life.

Even the best-planned remodels can include unexpected expenses. It’s wise to set aside 10–15% of your total budget as a contingency for surprises such as outdated wiring, plumbing adjustments, or structural reinforcements.

Other common costs to plan for include:

• Permits and Inspections: Required for most major remodels.
• Temporary Kitchen Setup: Eating out or using a temporary cooking area adds small but real costs.
• Design Fees: A worthwhile investment that ensures a cohesive, functional, and visually stunning end result.

The design-build model simplifies these moving parts. At First State Building & Design, all costs—design, materials, and construction—are integrated from day one, so you know the majority of what to expect before the project begins.

Every homeowner has a different vision and set of priorities. The key is to decide what matters most to you.

Ask yourself:

• What problems do we want this remodel to solve?
• Which upgrades will improve how we live day-to-day?
• What features will add long-term value to our home?

For most families, that means balancing form and function—splurging where it counts and saving where it won’t be missed. First State Building & Design’s design team helps homeowners strike that balance by walking through design options, materials, and finishes that fit your goals and your budget.

A successful kitchen remodel is as much about preparation as it is about design.Start by defining your goals, setting a realistic budget range, and getting professional guidance early.

Our team at First State Building & Design combines in-house designers, craftsmen, and project managers under one roof. That means transparent pricing, consistent communication, and results that reflect your family’s lifestyle—not just your budget.