Kitchen renovation cost in the UK (2026 guide)
A full kitchen renovation runs from roughly £6,000 to £18,000 for a budget refit, up to £35,000 or more for mid-range and premium kitchens, according to published guides. Fitting alone costs far less than the whole project. London and the South East cost more.
The guides disagree, so use the ranges as a benchmark, because kitchens vary widely.
Kitchen renovation cost at a glance
| Level | Typical range | Source note |
|---|---|---|
| Budget refit | £6,200 to £18,000 | Checkatrade, BestBuilders |
| Mid-range | £18,000 to £35,000 | BestBuilders |
| Premium or bespoke | £15,000 to £75,000 or more | Checkatrade, BestBuilders |
| Fitting only (labour) | £1,700 to £3,000 | A standard installation |
| Average fitting price | About £5,200 | Checkatrade, range £3,700 to £9,300 |
| Fitter day rate | £250 to £350 | Higher in London |
Where the money goes
BestBuilders estimates the split of a typical project. For example, roughly 30% goes on units and carcases, 15% to 20% on worktops, 15% to 20% on appliances, and 30% to 35% on labour. That is why swapping a worktop or appliance range can change the total a lot.
What changes the price
Several choices matter more than the size of the room, because they drive the total.
- Moving services. Relocating the sink, hob or drains often adds £1,500 to £4,500.
- Units. Flat-pack costs less than made-to-measure.
- Worktops. Laminate is cheap and stone is dear.
- Appliances. Brand and number make a large difference.
- Location. London and the South East can add 20% to 30%.
- Condition. Old plaster, floors and wiring may need work first.
Who does the work
A kitchen project often needs several trades. While a fitter hangs units, while a plumber, an electrician and a plasterer may also be needed. Some firms manage the whole job for a single price. Ask who is responsible for each part. Electrical and gas work must be done by registered people, as explained on our electricians page and plumbers page.
How to save
Keep the layout, because moving services is costly. Choose mid-range units and spend on the parts you use daily. Buy appliances in a sale, and agree the fitting date after the units arrive. Compare at least three itemised quotes and read what each one includes.
Getting quotes
To compare, send us your job and we will pass it to local tradespeople, including builders and handymen. We do not vet them, so check each one using our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about builders near you.
Where these figures come from
We checked Checkatrade (its table dates from 2024), BestBuilders, Fantastic Services and Trade2base in October 2026. Prices vary by region and specification, and the sources differ.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in 2026?
Guides suggest about £6,000 to £18,000 for a budget refit, and £18,000 to £35,000 for mid-range. Premium kitchens cost more, because materials drive the price.
How much does it cost to fit a kitchen?
Labour for a standard installation is about £1,700 to £3,000 in one guide, and Checkatrade gives an average fitting price near £5,200. Fitters often charge £250 to £350 a day.
How can I renovate a kitchen on a budget?
Keep the layout, since moving services is costly. Choose flat-pack units and reuse good appliances. Painting or replacing doors can also refresh a kitchen at a lower cost.
Is the quote for fitting only?
Not always. Ask whether it includes units, worktops, appliances, plumbing, electrics and making good.