Kitchen Renovation Cost in Ontario (2026 Guide)
Average prices by size and tier, a full cost breakdown, money-saving tips and how to hire.
In short
In 2026, most kitchen renovations in Ontario cost between $15,000 and $70,000+.
A cosmetic refresh runs about $12,000–$30,000, a mid-range remodel $25,000–$50,000, and a major or luxury renovation $50,000–$100,000+.
Cabinetry is usually the largest single cost (30–40%), and labour plus permits another 30–50%.
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Ontario?
The clearest way to budget is by renovation tier — how much you actually change. These are typical 2026 ranges across Ontario, with the GTA at the higher end.
| Renovation tier | Typical cost (2026) | What’s usually included |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh | $12,000 – $30,000 | Paint, cabinet refacing, new countertops, backsplash, faucet & hardware. Same layout. |
| Mid-range remodel | $25,000 – $50,000 | New stock/semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters, new mid-range appliances, lighting, minor layout tweaks. |
| Major / luxury | $50,000 – $100,000+ | Custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, layout or structural changes, premium stone, smart features. |
As a rule of thumb, many Ontario homeowners budget roughly 5–15% of their home’s value for a kitchen renovation, plus a 10–15% contingency for surprises.
Kitchen renovation cost by size
Square footage is a major cost driver. Most quality GTA renovations work out to roughly $150–$400 per square foot, with luxury exceeding $500/sq ft.
| Kitchen size | Approx. area | Typical cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Small | ≤ 70 sq ft | $12,000 – $25,000 |
| Medium | 100 – 150 sq ft | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Large | 200+ sq ft | $40,000 – $90,000+ |
Where the money goes: cost breakdown
Knowing how a kitchen budget splits up helps you decide where to spend and where to save.
| Element | Share of budget | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinetry | 30–40% | Stock $8K–$15K · Semi-custom $15K–$25K · Custom $25K–$40K+ |
| Labour & installation | 30–50% | Demolition, install and project management |
| Countertops | ~10% | Quartz $80–$150/sq ft · Granite/marble $100–$200/sq ft |
| Appliances | 10–20% | Standard $5K–$10K · Luxury $15K–$25K+ |
| Plumbing & electrical | varies | $2,000–$8,000 if relocating sinks, outlets or lighting |
| Flooring | varies | $2,000–$6,000 depending on material |
| Lighting, paint, backsplash, fixtures | varies | $1,500–$5,000 |
| Permits & fees | varies | A few hundred to $1,500+ depending on scope and municipality |
What affects the price most
Permits, electrical work and your rights in Ontario
Cosmetic updates usually don’t need a permit. Once you change structure, move plumbing, or alter electrical, you generally need a building permit from your municipality — check the local building department first. Electrical work must be done by a licensed contractor registered with the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA).
Ontario’s consumer protection rules for home renovations give you important protections before you sign:
More on the province’s consumer protection for homes and renovations page, and confirm any contractor carries valid coverage through the WSIB.
How to save on a kitchen renovation
How to hire a kitchen renovation contractor in Ontario
The contractor you choose matters more than any single material. Before you commit:
Browse and compare local renovation contractors on Ontario24, and find plumbing and electrical pros for the trades side.
Frequently asked questions
A contingency of 10–15%; older homes often reveal wiring/plumbing/structural issues.
Yes — strong investment, returning up to ~85% at resale in the GTA, plus daily livability.
Most take about 3 to 8 weeks; cosmetic faster, custom/structural longer.
Cosmetic updates usually don’t. Structural, plumbing or electrical changes generally do — check your municipality. Electrical must be done by an ESA-licensed contractor.
A small kitchen (≤70 sq ft) typically costs $12,000–$25,000.
Cabinetry, usually 30–40% of the budget. Labour and install another 30–50%.
In 2026, most cost $15,000–$70,000+. Cosmetic refresh $12,000–$30,000, mid-range $25,000–$50,000, major/luxury $50,000–$100,000+.
Costs on this page are general 2026 estimates for Ontario and the GTA and vary by project, location and finishes — always get written quotes. Ontario24 is a classified directory: we connect you with local businesses, we don’t vet them. Always verify credentials, licensing and insurance before you hire.