Build a clear budget before hiring contractor. Adjust room size, quality level, and upgrades easily. See totals, breakdowns, and downloads in one place now.
| Scenario | Size | Quality | Labor | Tax | Contingency | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quick preset estimate | 12 ft × 10 ft | Standard | 28% percent method | 7.5% | 10% | $ 19,000 – $ 28,000 |
| Mid upgrade with appliances | 14 ft × 12 ft | Premium | 30% percent method | 8% | 12% | $ 30,000 – $ 45,000 |
| Small refresh, custom totals | 9 ft × 8 ft | Economy | $ 4,500 fixed | 5% | 10% | $ 9,000 – $ 14,000 |
A remodel budget works best when it reflects the scope you actually want. Start by listing must-haves such as new cabinets, improved workflow, and durable counters. Then add “nice-to-haves” like upgraded lighting, specialty storage, or premium finishes. This calculator supports both approaches by letting you use preset estimates or enter custom amounts for each category.
Room dimensions set the baseline because many components scale with area, including flooring, backsplash, paint, and some cabinetry allowances. If you are changing the layout, costs can rise quickly due to additional labor and possible plumbing or electrical moves. Use the labor controls to reflect complexity, and reserve a higher contingency when walls or floors will be opened.
Cabinets and countertops often dominate the materials portion of a kitchen budget, followed by appliances and flooring. The quality level in this calculator applies a multiplier to the most price-sensitive categories, helping you model economy, standard, premium, and luxury selections. If you already have vendor quotes, switch to custom mode and enter real numbers to replace presets for a tighter estimate.
Labor varies by region, timeline, and project complexity. Many homeowners estimate labor as a percentage of materials and other direct costs, while fixed bids are common when the scope is clearly defined. Permits, inspections, and delivery charges are easy to overlook, so the include toggles help keep these items visible. Add your local sales tax rate and choose whether labor should be taxed based on your area rules.
Contingency is not wasted money; it is a buffer that keeps decisions calm when surprises appear. Common triggers include hidden water damage, uneven subfloors, code upgrades, and long lead times that force substitutions. A 10–20% contingency is typical, with higher percentages recommended for older homes or major layout changes. After calculating, export CSV or PDF to compare options, share with contractors, and track budget updates over time.
Use preset estimate for early planning and quick comparisons. Switch to custom amounts when you have quotes for cabinets, countertops, appliances, or labor. Mixing is fine—blank fields can stay preset while key items use your numbers.
Quality level applies a multiplier to major material and fixture categories, such as cabinets, counters, flooring, and appliances. It helps model different finish grades without editing every line item. Permits and tax calculations are not multiplied.
Start with 25–35% for many mid-scope projects, then adjust based on complexity. Layout changes, new electrical circuits, plumbing moves, or tight timelines often push labor higher. If you have a bid, use the fixed labor option instead.
Kitchens often hide issues behind cabinets, under floors, and inside walls. Contingency protects your plan from repairs, code updates, and substitutions caused by long lead times. It also reduces the chance of cutting safety or durability later.
It captures those costs indirectly through labor and custom line items. If you expect significant trades work, increase labor percent or add the expected amounts into miscellaneous and design. For small changes, the preset estimate may be sufficient.
Run your scenario, then download the PDF or CSV from the results panel. Use the line-item breakdown to discuss scope, allowances, and alternates. Updating the calculator with new quotes keeps everyone aligned as decisions evolve.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.