How to Set Your Kitchen Refresh Budget
A kitchen refresh can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000+. The key is knowing where your money has the most impact. Use the calculator below to plan your budget.
Kitchen Refresh Budget Calculator
Quick Summary
Time needed
15-30 minutes
Typical range
$200 - $2,000
Buffer to add
15-20%
Kitchen Refresh Budget Tiers
Here's what you can realistically accomplish at each budget level. All prices are for DIY—professional labor adds 2-3x to most projects.
Basic Refresh
$200 - $500High-impact, low-cost updates that can transform the look without major work.
- New cabinet hardware - $80-200 for 20-40 pieces
- Wall paint - $30-80 for one gallon
- Deep cleaning supplies - $20-40
- Under-cabinet lighting - $30-100 for LED strips
Moderate Refresh
$500 - $1,200All the basics plus painted cabinets and updated lighting. This is where you'll see dramatic change.
- Cabinet paint + primer + supplies - $150-300
- New cabinet hardware - $100-300
- Updated light fixtures - $100-300
- Soft-close hinges - $60-150 (full kitchen)
- New faucet - $100-250
Comprehensive Refresh
$1,200 - $2,000+Everything above plus backsplash and countertop updates. Maximum impact without a full renovation.
- Everything in Moderate tier
- Peel-and-stick backsplash - $50-200
- Countertop paint/refinish kit - $100-300
- Higher-end faucet - $200-400
- Cabinet organizers - $50-200
Money-Saving Tips
Buy hardware in bulk
Amazon and hardware stores offer multi-packs at 30-40% less per piece than buying individually.
Check ReStore or Habitat
Habitat for Humanity ReStores often have discounted faucets, light fixtures, and cabinet hardware.
Wait for sales
Home Depot and Lowe's run major sales on Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. Plan ahead.
Don't overbuy paint
One gallon of cabinet paint covers 350-400 sq ft. Most kitchens need 1-2 gallons total.
Reuse what works
If hinges work fine and won't be visible, keep them. Don't replace things just because they're old.
Sample before committing
Buy one knob or a paint sample before ordering everything. A $5 test can save a $200 mistake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen refresh cost in 2025?
A DIY kitchen refresh typically costs $200-$2,000 depending on scope. A basic refresh (new hardware and paint touch-ups) runs $200-$500. A moderate refresh (painted cabinets, new hardware, updated lighting) costs $500-$1,200. A comprehensive refresh (all the above plus new faucet and backsplash) ranges from $1,200-$2,000+.
What's the cheapest way to update a kitchen?
The cheapest high-impact kitchen updates are: new cabinet hardware ($80-200), deep cleaning everything ($0-30 in supplies), painting the walls ($30-80), and updating light fixtures ($50-150). These four changes can transform a kitchen for under $400.
Is painting kitchen cabinets worth the cost?
Painting kitchen cabinets is one of the best ROI updates at $100-300 in materials for a DIY job. Professional cabinet painting costs $2,000-$5,000. New cabinets cost $5,000-$25,000+. If your cabinets are structurally sound, painting them saves 90%+ compared to replacement.
Should I set a budget before or after gathering inspiration?
Set a rough budget first, then gather inspiration within that range. This prevents falling in love with ideas you can't afford. However, be flexible—if inspiration reveals a $200 fix that would transform your kitchen, it may be worth adjusting your budget.
Ready for the Next Step?
Now that you have a budget in mind, it's time to check if your cabinets are in good enough condition for a refresh (vs. needing replacement).