California cost guide
Kitchen remodel cost in California
In California, kitchen remodel prices run well above the national average — whether you're in Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Jose. Here's what a complete, permitted job should cost, and how to tell whether the quote in your hand is fair.
Typical California range
$32,000 – $108,800
Mid-range full remodels commonly land near $150–$350 per sq. ft.
Included at this price: Cabinets, counters, appliances, plumbing/electrical, flooring, and permits.
California prices by project type
| Project | California range | Unit check |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh (paint, counters, hardware) | $10,200 – $35,800 | Refacing plus counters commonly lands near $80–$160 per sq. ft. |
| Mid-range full remodel (same layout) | $32,000 – $89,600 | Mid-range full remodels commonly land near $150–$350 per sq. ft. |
| Layout change, wall removal, or addition | $57,600 – $179,200 | Layout changes commonly land near $300–$600 per sq. ft. |
Reviewed 2026. Editorial benchmarks from public cost surveys (Zonda Media / Remodeling magazine, Houzz, Angi / HomeAdvisor), adjusted by a state construction-cost index. Not a bid, appraisal, or licensed estimating data.
What a common size costs in California
Mid-range full remodel: $150–$350 per sq. ft. of kitchen, adjusted for California construction costs.
| Size | California estimate |
|---|---|
| 10x10 (100 sq. ft.) | $19,200 – $44,800 |
| 10x15 (150 sq. ft.) | $28,800 – $67,200 |
| 12x20 (240 sq. ft.) | $46,100 – $107,500 |
| 15x20 (300 sq. ft.) | $57,600 – $134,400 |
Per-unit rate from the public cost guides cited above, multiplied by size and the California construction-cost index. Access, demolition, repairs, and permits can add to it — this is a benchmark, not a bid.
Red flags in California kitchen remodel quotes
- Every allowance named with a dollar figure and what happens if you exceed it
- Cabinet construction, box material, and door style — not just "custom cabinets"
- Countertop material, edge profile, and template/install responsibility
- Electrical and plumbing scope, including code upgrades triggered by the work
- Appliance supply-versus-install responsibility
Commonly missing line items: drywall repair and paint after cabinet changes, electrical panel or circuit upgrades, flooring transitions, range hood venting to the exterior, temporary kitchen or protection of adjacent rooms.
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Related cost guides
Homeowners in California can also read and write contractor reviews before choosing who to hire.