How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

Select kitchen as room type, enter square footage, and choose a finish level (low, mid, or high). The estimator shows a budget range and lets you toggle DIY vs contractor labor to compare costs. It covers cabinets, counters, flooring, plumbing, appliances, and electrical.

What is included in a bathroom remodel estimate?

The calculator covers cabinets, countertops, flooring, plumbing fixtures, lighting, and electrical work. Check the scope items you plan to replace and the estimator builds a line-item budget with low, mid, and high finish tiers.

How much can I save by doing a remodel myself?

Toggle the DIY labor switch to remove contractor labor costs from the estimate. The calculator separates material costs from labor so you can see the difference between hiring out and doing the work yourself side by side.

Remodeling

Kitchen / Bathroom Remodel Cost Estimator

Estimate low, mid, and high remodel budgets with a DIY vs contractor labor toggle and room-by-room scope options.

A remodel budget gets clearer when you stop chasing one perfect number and start comparing realistic ranges. This free remodel cost estimator helps you plan around room size, finish level, labor approach, and a contingency buffer, so you can see how scope choices change the budget before you call contractors or buy materials.

How it works

Start with the area you plan to remodel, then choose a cost-per-sq-ft band that matches your project: low, mid, or high. The estimator uses a simple planning method: area x cost-per-sq-ft band. A low band might fit a cosmetic refresh, a mid band may suit a standard upgrade, and a high band is better for structural changes, premium finishes, or complex trade work. Next, think through labor. DIY can reduce contractor labor, but it can also add time, tool rentals, rework risk, and permit complexity. Contractor-led remodels usually cost more in labor but may move faster and include better coordination. Add a 10-20% contingency for surprises, because remodels rarely unfold perfectly.

Worked examples

Cosmetic room refresh, low band Use this when the layout stays the same and the work is mostly surface-level, such as paint, basic fixtures, simple flooring, or minor repairs. Enter the room area, select the low cost-per-sq-ft band, then calculate: area x low band. If you're handling some DIY tasks, separate the materials you’ll buy from any contractor labor you still need. Add a 10-20% contingency so small discoveries don't wreck the plan.
Standard remodel, mid band Use this for a more complete update where finishes, fixtures, and some trade work are involved, but the room layout is not being dramatically changed. Enter the remodel area, choose the mid cost-per-sq-ft band, then calculate: area x mid band. This gives you a planning range before bids come in. If a contractor is managing most of the work, keep labor in the estimate and use the 10-20% contingency for hidden issues, material changes, or scope creep.
Major remodel, high band Use this when the project includes premium finishes, layout changes, structural work, plumbing or electrical changes, or multiple trades working in sequence. Enter the project area, select the high cost-per-sq-ft band, then calculate: area x high band. This scenario is best treated as an early planning range, not a final quote. Keep contractor labor in the estimate, review permit needs, and add a 10-20% contingency before deciding what you can comfortably approve.

FAQ

Why does the remodel cost estimator use ranges instead of one fixed price?

Ranges are more honest for remodel planning. The same room can cost very different amounts depending on region, scope, finishes, labor, permits, access, and what is discovered after work begins. A range helps you compare low, mid, and high planning paths without pretending the first estimate is final.

How should I choose between the low, mid, and high cost-per-sq-ft bands?

Choose the low band for cosmetic updates, the mid band for standard remodels with typical fixtures and finishes, and the high band for complex projects with premium materials, layout changes, or heavier trade involvement. If you're unsure, start with the mid band and test how the budget changes.

Should I include DIY labor in my remodel estimate?

Yes, but be realistic. DIY can reduce contractor labor, especially for simpler tasks, but it doesn't make the work free. You may still need tools, materials, disposal, permits, inspections, or professional help for plumbing, electrical, structural, or finish-sensitive work.

How much contingency should I add to a remodel budget?

Use a 10-20% contingency buffer. Remodels can uncover hidden damage, outdated wiring, uneven framing, material delays, or scope changes once the work begins. A buffer gives you room to make decisions without turning every surprise into a budget crisis.