How much does kitchen remodel cost in Chicago?
In Chicago, IL, a kitchen remodel typically costs $16,500–$49,500 for a mid-range remodel. Kitchen remodels span an enormous range — from a cosmetic refresh to a gut renovation that moves walls and plumbing. Scope, cabinetry, and finishes drive nearly all of the cost.
Get free kitchen remodel quotes from vetted Chicago pros
Compare a few local quotes before you commit — prices for the same job vary widely between contractors.
Compare local quotes →Cost by remodel tier in Chicago
These ranges are adjusted for Chicago labor and permit costs:
| Type | Chicago price range |
|---|---|
| Minor / cosmetic (paint, hardware, counters) | $11,000–$22,000 |
| Mid-range (new cabinets, counters, appliances) | $27,500–$49,500 |
| Major / upscale (layout change, custom) | $55,000–$110,000 |
Estimates for 2026; actual quotes vary by home, scope, and contractor. Always get written bids.
What drives kitchen remodel cost
- Scope: A cosmetic refresh costs a fraction of a full gut. Moving the sink, range, or walls triggers plumbing, electrical, and permits.
- Cabinets: Cabinetry is usually the single biggest line item — stock, semi-custom, and custom can differ by 3–4x.
- Countertops & appliances: Quartz, granite, and pro-grade appliances add up quickly versus laminate and standard models.
- Layout & structural changes: Removing walls, relocating utilities, or expanding the footprint adds labor, permits, and engineering.
- Finishes & labor rates: Tile, lighting, flooring choices and local contractor wages set whether you land at the low or high end.
Chicago cost factors
Chicago's harsh winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and union labor push project costs above the national average. Heating systems, snow-rated roofing, and weatherproofing matter more here than in milder climates, and city permitting can be slow.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Chicago?
A mid-range kitchen remodel in Chicago typically runs $16,500–$49,500. Cosmetic refreshes cost less; major layout changes with custom cabinetry run well above it.
Does a kitchen remodel add resale value?
Kitchens are among the highest-ROI remodels, with minor and mid-range projects generally recouping more of their cost than high-end gut jobs at resale.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A cosmetic update can be 1–2 weeks; a mid-range remodel 4–6 weeks; a major renovation with layout changes 8–12 weeks or more once permits and custom orders are factored in.
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?
Cabinetry is usually the largest single cost, followed by countertops and appliances. Layout changes that move plumbing or electrical add the most unexpected expense.
Get matched with vetted Chicago kitchen remodel pros and compare free quotes.
Compare local quotes →Kitchen Remodel costs in other cities
Sacramento, San Jose, Fresno, San Diego, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Denver, Atlanta, Miami
Other project costs in Chicago
- Roof Replacement in Chicago
- Hvac Installation in Chicago
- Water Heater Replacement in Chicago
- Bathroom Remodel in Chicago
- Window Replacement in Chicago
- Interior Painting in Chicago
- Flooring Installation in Chicago
- Electrical Panel Upgrade in Chicago
- Solar Panel Installation in Chicago
- Fence Installation in Chicago
- Garage Door Replacement in Chicago
Published 2026-06-16. Cost ranges are general 2026 estimates for guidance only, not quotes. Get written bids from licensed local contractors.