Insights • Cost & Planning
Kitchen Remodel Cost in Washington, DC
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in Washington, DC, your investment depends heavily on layout changes, building conditions, and finish selections. This guide explains realistic ranges, what drives cost in DC homes, and how to plan your budget with confidence.
Prefer quick ranges first? See our Pricing & Packages page for planning-level numbers.
Typical investment ranges
What a DC Kitchen Remodel Usually Costs
Local note
Older rowhomes + condos often require extra electrical, plumbing, and permit coordination.
| Remodel type | Typical range (DC) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Refresh (same layout) | $20k – $40k | New cabinets/counters + light updates without moving plumbing. |
| Mid-level remodel | $40k – $75k | Better cabinetry, upgraded lighting, improved storage, and selective layout adjustments. |
| Full remodel (layout changes) | $75k – $130k+ | Moving plumbing/walls, premium materials, structural work, and complex coordination. |
| High-end / custom | $130k – $200k+ | Fully custom cabinetry, specialty appliances, bespoke lighting, and architectural detailing. |
These are planning ranges based on typical scopes in DC, MD, and Northern VA. Final pricing depends on measurements, existing conditions, permits, and selections.
The biggest cost drivers
What Changes the Price the Most in DC Homes
1) Layout + plumbing moves
Keeping the sink, range, and major plumbing in place is the easiest way to control cost. Moving them typically triggers more labor, permit complexity, and schedule risk.
2) Electrical + lighting upgrades
Older DC homes often need panel capacity checks, GFCI/AFCI upgrades, and layered lighting (task, ambient, accent) to meet modern expectations.
3) Cabinetry level
Stock vs semi-custom vs fully custom cabinetry can shift the budget dramatically. Storage features (pullouts, organizers, integrated trash) also add cost—often worth it.
4) Permits + building constraints
Condos/co-ops, limited working hours, elevator reservations, insurance requirements, and inspection timing can all affect both budget and timeline.
Example scopes
Example Budgets: Practical “Good / Better / Best”
Good: $25k–$45k
- • Same layout, controlled scope
- • Durable cabinetry + stone counters
- • Updated lighting and basic electrical
- • Practical finishes and fixture selections
Better: $45k–$85k
- • Improved layout + storage optimization
- • Higher-end cabinetry and hardware
- • Quartz/stone, upgraded backsplash, better lighting plan
- • Stronger design direction + detailing
Best: $85k–$160k+
- • Structural/layout changes
- • Custom cabinetry + premium appliances
- • Architectural lighting + specialty finishes
- • Highest design complexity and coordination
Timeline
Realistic Kitchen Remodel Timeline in Washington, DC
Planning + design
Most delays happen before construction—because good design and selection decisions save money during the build.
- • Consultation + measurements: 1 week
- • Concept + layout refinement: 1–3 weeks
- • Selections + final scope: 1–3 weeks
- • Ordering lead times: 2–10+ weeks (varies)
Construction
Typical construction duration depends on whether layout changes, electrical upgrades, or inspections are involved.
- • Refresh: ~3–5 weeks
- • Mid-level remodel: ~5–8 weeks
- • Full remodel (layout changes): ~8–12+ weeks
- • Condo constraints can extend schedules
FAQ
Kitchen Remodeling Cost FAQ
What’s the fastest way to keep costs under control?
Keep the layout stable, make selection decisions early, and invest in a coherent lighting + storage plan. Design clarity prevents change orders.
Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in DC?
Often yes—especially if you’re moving plumbing, modifying electrical, altering walls, or doing structural work. Condo rules may add extra approvals beyond city permits.
Should I remodel before selling?
If your kitchen is functionally outdated, a well-designed remodel can improve buyer confidence. But the best approach depends on your timeline, target buyer, and the home’s price bracket.
Want a real number for your home?
Share photos and your goals. We’ll recommend a scope, outline investment ranges, and map next steps.
Cost ranges are for planning purposes and can change based on site conditions, selections, lead times, permits, and structural scope. A detailed proposal follows after consultation and measurements.