Most Omaha homeowners budgeting for a kitchen remodel in 2026 are looking at $40,000 to $65,000 for a mid-range renovation that includes new cabinets, updated countertops, fresh flooring, and improved lighting.
That can be a frustratingly vague range until you understand what’s actually pulling the number up or down.
Kitchen Remodeling Cost: Three Real-World Examples
The table below shows how scope and size affect total project cost, based on three completed kitchen renovations by Pritch Remodeling. As you can see, cabinets and countertops are often the most expensive line items.
| Kitchen Size | Scope of Work | Total Cost |
| 15 × 8 ft | New cabinets, countertops, island, backsplash, lighting fixtures, plumbing fixtures | $40,000 |
| 15 × 15 ft | New cabinets, granite countertops, LVP flooring, soft-close drawers, backsplash, recessed lighting | $50,000 |
| 10 × 20 ft | Custom cabinetry, new appliances, kitchen island, LVP flooring, paint and trim | $70,000–$80,000 |
Even in the smaller project, cabinets and countertops combined ran $15,000. In the 10 × 20, custom cabinetry alone accounted for $25,000.
Factors That Influence Kitchen Remodeling Cost
Cabinetry is almost always the largest single cost driver in a kitchen renovation. The difference between stock cabinets, semi-custom cabinets, and custom cabinetry built to your exact dimensions is enormous in both price and lead time.
Beyond cabinetry, the following also adds up:
- Labor costs for trades work. Electrical work, plumbing, and structural modifications all carry separate labor hours. Moving gas lines or relocating plumbing for a new sink position can add several thousand dollars to a project that seemed straightforward on paper.
- Appliance tier. There’s a meaningful difference between standard new appliances and certified energy-efficient models. Choosing ENERGY STAR-certified products typically reduces long-term utility costs even when the upfront price is higher.
- Countertop materials. Engineered quartz remains the top countertop choice among homeowners, though its popularity has been gradually giving way to natural stone options like quartzite. Pricing varies widely based on thickness, edge profile, and slab grade.
- New flooring across the full kitchen footprint. LVP is popular and durable, while hardwood and tile require more labor hours and material costs.
- Delivery fees, permit costs, and project management time. These entries push the final cost above early estimates if not accounted for up front.
Minor vs. Mid-Range vs. Full Kitchen Remodeling Compared
A minor kitchen remodel keeps the existing layout intact. Painting cabinets or refacing cabinets, combined with new countertop materials, updated lighting fixtures, and fresh plumbing fixtures, can stay under $25,000 and significantly refresh how the kitchen looks and feels.
A mid-range remodel introduces new cabinets, new flooring, and updated electrical and plumbing while typically keeping the same layout to manage costs. This is where most homeowners end up.
A full remodel changes almost everything: layout, structure, custom cabinetry built to spec, high-quality materials throughout, and professional-grade appliances.
Knowing which tier you’re actually planning before getting quotes is one of the most useful things you can do to set a realistic budget.
Why Kitchen Remodeling Projects Go Over Budget And How To Avoid It
Existing cabinets that look fine during the initial walkthrough sometimes hide water damage once removed.
Homes built more than 25 years ago often have outdated wiring that must be upgraded before new appliances can be connected to code.
Layout changes that seem minor on paper, like moving a sink three feet, involve relocating plumbing, which carries significant labor costs.
To keep your budget on track, keep these in mind:
- Lock in material choices before demolition begins. Late substitutions cause delivery delays, which extend labor timelines and increase the final cost.
- Build in a 10-15% contingency above your total project cost estimate. Every experienced contractor in this industry will tell you the same.
- Compare contractor quotes at the scope level, not just the price. Bids that look dramatically different almost always reflect different scopes of work, not contractor quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most expensive part of a kitchen renovation?
Cabinetry is consistently the dominant expense, typically representing 30-40% of the total project cost. After cabinets, countertop materials and appliances are the next largest contributors, particularly when premium materials or professional-grade appliances are involved.
Can I live in my home during a kitchen remodel?
Yes, most homeowners stay in the house throughout. Access to the kitchen is limited during the project, which typically runs four to six weeks for a mid-range renovation. Setting up a temporary cooking and prep space before work begins makes day-to-day life easier.
Does a kitchen remodel improve resale value?
According to JLC, a well-executed minor kitchen renovation can recoup 113% of the cost during resale. Updated cabinets, durable countertops, and energy-efficient appliances are features buyers consistently notice.
Do kitchen renovations require permits?
Any work involving electrical, plumbing, gas lines, or structural changes requires permits. A reputable contractor handles permits as part of project management. Always confirm this in writing before work begins.
You’ve Got Better Things to Do Than Budget Countertops on Your Own
If you’d rather talk through what your specific kitchen needs, Pritch Remodeling has helped dozens of Omaha metro homeowners figure out exactly that.
Take a look at our full kitchen remodeling services page to see completed project photos and detailed breakdowns, or call us at (402) 677-6401 or message us here, and we’ll start you off with a free estimate.
