How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost in Seattle?

Cost is usually the first concern, and for good reason. Kitchen remodels can swing widely depending on finishes, layout changes, and the condition of the home. In the Seattle market, a mid-level kitchen renovation typically ranges from about $30,000 to $60,000. High-end kitchen remodels with custom cabinetry, premium appliances, or structural changes can cost significantly more.

Seattle’s labor and material costs are above national averages, so it’s smart to get detailed quotes and build a realistic budget from the start. A good rule is to include a 10–20% contingency for surprises, especially in older homes.

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Quick Answer: Typical Seattle Kitchen Remodel Ranges

• Mid-level remodel: $30,000–$60,000
  (Common upgrades, improved layout efficiency, quality finishes)
• High-end remodel: $60,000+
  (Custom cabinets, major layout changes, premium materials, structural work)

Every kitchen is different. Your exact price depends on size, scope, finish level, and whether you’re moving plumbing/electrical or changing walls.

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What You Usually Get for $30,000–$60,000 in Seattle

A mid-level kitchen remodel budget often covers a mix of functional upgrades and visual improvements, such as:

• New or upgraded cabinetry (often semi-custom)
• New countertops (commonly quartz or similar)
• Updated backsplash
• Upgraded sink and faucet
• New lighting (including under-cabinet lighting)
• Updated flooring
• New appliances (sometimes partial, depending on brand and package)
• Painting and finish carpentry
• Moderate electrical/plumbing updates (without major relocation)

This tier is popular because it balances durability, style, and resale value without turning into a full construction project.

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Why High-End Kitchens Cost More

High-end remodels typically go beyond finishes and into major complexity. Costs climb quickly when you add:

• Custom cabinetry (built-to-fit, specialty storage, custom finishes)
• Layout changes (moving plumbing, gas lines, or electrical)
• Structural changes (removing walls, adding beams, reconfiguring windows/doors)
• Premium appliances (pro ranges, built-in refrigeration, specialty ventilation)
• Luxury materials (natural stone, custom tile work, designer fixtures)
• Complex permitting and inspections

In Seattle, even a single “big move” like relocating a sink or range can increase labor and permit requirements.

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The Biggest Factors That Impact Your Kitchen Remodel Cost

Here are the cost drivers that most often determine where your remodel lands:

1) Layout and “Moving Stuff”

Keeping your sink, dishwasher, and range in roughly the same spots is one of the easiest ways to control costs. Moving plumbing, gas, and electrical usually adds time, labor, and inspections.

2) Cabinets (Often the #1 Line Item)

Cabinets can be one of the largest budget components. The price depends on:

• Stock vs semi-custom vs custom
• Door style and finish
• Storage features (pull-outs, pantry systems, organizers)

3) Countertops and Backsplash

Materials and edge profiles matter. Fabrication complexity (waterfall edges, multiple seams, custom cutouts) also affects pricing.

4) Appliances

Appliance costs vary dramatically by brand and package. Ventilation can be a hidden cost if you need ducting upgrades or a higher-capacity hood.

5) Condition of the Home

Seattle has many older homes and condos where surprises are more likely:

• Outdated wiring or plumbing
• Uneven floors or out-of-square walls
• Hidden water damage
• Older materials that require specialized handling

6) Permits, Condos, and Building Rules

Permitting and building requirements can affect both cost and schedule. Condos can add another layer (HOA approvals, work-hour restrictions, elevator scheduling, etc.).

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Budget Smart: Plan for a 10–20% Contingency

In Seattle, a 10–20% contingency is a practical buffer, not a luxury. It protects you from:

• Unexpected repairs discovered during demo
• Material or labor price changes
• Necessary code upgrades
• Scope creep (the classic “while we’re at it…”)

A contingency makes the difference between a controlled project and a stressful one.

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How to Get an Accurate Quote (Without Wasting Weeks)

If you want pricing that reflects reality, these steps help a lot:

1. Define your scope clearly
   Are you replacing cabinets? Changing layout? Upgrading electrical? Be specific.

2. Choose your finish level early
   Countertops, cabinets, and appliances should be roughly selected before you request final pricing.

3. Ask for itemized bids and allowances
   Make sure you understand what’s fixed-price vs what’s an allowance.

4. Confirm what’s included
   Demo, disposal, permits, appliance installation, painting, and final punch-list items should be spelled out.

5. Discuss timeline and change orders upfront
   A clear change-order process prevents budget surprises later.

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Is a Kitchen Remodel “Worth It” in Seattle?

Kitchens remain one of the best remodeling investments. In many cases, a well-executed kitchen remodel can recoup roughly 60–80% of its cost in added value. Beyond resale, it also improves daily life: better storage, better workflow, better lighting, and a space that actually functions.

If you’re planning to stay in your home, “worth it” often comes down to usability and durability, not just resale math.

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Next Step: Build a Realistic Seattle Kitchen Budget

If you’re early in planning, start by estimating your project range, then refine it with quotes based on your exact scope and finishes. A good budget is detailed, location-aware, and includes contingency.

If you want a faster starting point, use Kolmo’s cost estimator to map your kitchen remodel budget based on Seattle pricing, then compare it to contractor bids to make sure you’re in the right range.

Disclaimer: All pricing is a general estimate for the Seattle market. Your actual cost depends on kitchen size, scope, finishes, permitting, and site conditions.