What Is the Typical Kitchen Renovation Cost in Vancouver?

The big question for any kitchen renovation in Vancouver is always the same: what’s it going to cost? While every project is unique, you can generally expect a basic refresh to start around $35,000, a full mid-range gut and remodel to land between $65,000 and $95,000, and a high-end, luxury kitchen to start at $130,000 and go up from there.

These aren't just numbers pulled out of thin air; they reflect the realities of renovating in the Metro Vancouver market.

Understanding Vancouver Kitchen Renovation Costs

It’s easy to get excited about planning a new kitchen, but nailing down a realistic budget is the first—and most important—step. Here in Metro Vancouver, we're dealing with a different set of rules compared to the rest of Canada. The high demand for top-tier tradespeople, coupled with the cost of quality materials, creates a pretty specific financial landscape for any project, big or small.

Whether you're updating a modern condo in Burnaby or restoring a heritage home in New Westminster, the final bill comes down to three things: the scope of your project, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the work involved.

Think of this guide as your financial starting point. It’s a snapshot to help you align your vision with a practical budget. At Domicile Construction, our job is to help you navigate these costs, making sure you end up with a kitchen that you love and that makes financial sense.

Establishing a Realistic Budget

Before you fall in love with that perfect slab of marble, it’s crucial to get a feel for what different budgets can actually accomplish in our local market. The cost spectrum is wide, and knowing where your ideas fit is the key to a smooth planning process. Looking at the national average cost of a kitchen remodel can give you a general idea, but it's just a starting point.

Here in Vancouver and its surrounding communities like Coquitlam, Richmond, or North Vancouver, those national averages often represent the low end. To give you a clearer picture, we can break down typical projects into three tiers.

To help you get a quick sense of where your project might land, here’s a look at the typical investment levels for a kitchen renovation in our market.

Vancouver Kitchen Renovation Cost at a Glance

Renovation Tier	Typical Cost Range (CAD)	Best For	Scope of Work
Basic Refresh	$35,000 – $60,000	Homeowners wanting cosmetic updates without changing the kitchen's footprint.	Refinishing existing cabinets, new countertops (e.g., laminate, entry-level quartz), new backsplash, updated fixtures, and new appliances in existing locations.
Mid-Range Remodel	$65,000 – $95,000	A full gut-and-replace project where the layout stays largely the same. The most common choice.	New semi-custom cabinets, quality quartz countertops, a full suite of new mid-range appliances, and necessary plumbing and electrical updates.
High-End Renovation	$130,000+	Projects involving structural changes, custom millwork, and premium finishes.	Removing walls, reconfiguring the layout, custom cabinetry, natural stone countertops, professional-grade appliances, and extensive lighting and electrical work.

This table provides a solid framework, but remember that every detail, from the cabinet hardware to the type of under-cabinet lighting, will influence the final cost.

Now, let's dig into what defines each of these tiers:

• Basic Renovation ($35,000 – $60,000): This is all about smart, cosmetic upgrades. Think of it as a major facelift, not a total teardown. We're talking about painting or refacing cabinets, swapping out countertops, putting in a new backsplash, and replacing fixtures and appliances without moving any plumbing or walls.
• Mid-Range Renovation ($65,000 – $95,000): This is the sweet spot for most Vancouver homeowners. It involves a full gut and replacement of everything in the kitchen. You'll get new semi-custom cabinetry, quality countertops like quartz, a complete set of new appliances, and all the necessary updates to your plumbing and electrical. The key here is that the kitchen's layout typically stays put.
• High-End or Luxury Renovation ($130,000+): At this level, everything is on the table. These projects are defined by custom-milled cabinetry, premium natural stone, and professional-grade appliances. They almost always involve structural changes like removing walls to create an open-concept space. This is where meticulous project management becomes non-negotiable, especially in areas like West Vancouver where expectations are high.

Ultimately, a kitchen renovation is an investment—not just in your home's market value, but in your daily life. A well-executed project, guided by an experienced team, ensures every dollar you spend adds function, beauty, and lasting quality to your home. To get started on the right foot, see our guide on how to plan your home renovation.

A Closer Look at the Mid-Range Kitchen Budget

For most homeowners across Vancouver, from Richmond right out to Port Moody, the sweet spot for a kitchen renovation lands squarely in the mid-range. This popular tier, typically running between $65,000 and $95,000, is where quality, everyday function, and a smart investment really come together. But what does that number actually get you?

Think of your budget less as a single price tag and more as a pie chart. Each slice represents a crucial part of your new kitchen, and not all of it is the shiny, visible stuff. A good chunk of that investment goes into the foundational work that ensures your kitchen doesn't just look good, but lasts for years.

In this price range, we're talking about a full gut of a standard-sized kitchen—stripping it back to the studs and building it back up with quality, durable materials that can handle the realities of daily life.

Visualizing the Renovation Tiers

To get a better feel for where the mid-range option sits, this chart provides a great overview of the different investment levels for a kitchen project.

As you can see, a mid-range project hits that perfect middle ground. It's a world away from a simple cosmetic refresh but stops short of a full-blown luxury overhaul. This is where most people find the best value, achieving a truly transformative change without the high-end, custom price tag.

Where Does the Money Go in a Mid-Range Renovation?

So, let's break down where the funds go on a typical $80,000 renovation in a place like Burnaby or North Vancouver. The key is balancing the beautiful finishes you'll see every day with the essential, behind-the-scenes work that guarantees safety and longevity.

Here's what that budget generally covers:

• Semi-Custom Cabinetry: This is almost always the biggest line item. It gives you a near-custom fit and a huge range of styles without the premium cost of fully bespoke millwork.
• Durable Countertops: Quartz is the undisputed champion here. It’s beautiful, non-porous, and tough enough to stand up to the chaos of family life.
• Reliable Appliances: You can expect a complete suite of quality stainless steel appliances—fridge, range, dishwasher, and microwave—from reputable, hardworking brands.
• Flooring and Backsplash: This means durable flooring like luxury vinyl plank or engineered hardwood, complemented by a stylish tile backsplash that adds personality and protects your walls.

Of course, the budget also includes fixtures like a new sink and faucet, modern lighting, and a fresh coat of paint. The cost of cabinets, in particular, can vary quite a bit based on quality and features. We dive much deeper into this in our guide on the factors influencing kitchen cabinet costs.

A Sample Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation Budget Breakdown

To make this more concrete, here’s a sample breakdown of an $80,000 mid-range kitchen renovation. This table illustrates how the budget is typically allocated across different expense categories in a Vancouver project.

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (CAD)	Percentage of Total Budget
Labour & Installation	$24,000	30%
Cabinetry & Hardware	$20,000	25%
Appliances	$12,000	15%
Countertops	$8,000	10%
Design & Permits	$4,000	5%
Flooring & Backsplash	$4,000	5%
Plumbing & Electrical	$4,000	5%
Lighting & Fixtures	$2,400	3%
Paint & Drywall	$1,600	2%
Total	$80,000	100%

This breakdown shows that while finishes like cabinets and counters are significant, the skilled labour required to install everything correctly is the single largest expense.

The Critical 'Unseen' Costs

What often catches homeowners by surprise is the cost of skilled labour. The "unseen" work done by licensed tradespeople is absolutely essential, and in a mid-range project, it's a huge part of the budget.

In Metro Vancouver, a typical mid-range kitchen renovation averages around $65,000 to $95,000 CAD. This reflects our region's high labour costs and demand for quality materials. That price range covers a complete gut job for a 120-200 sq ft kitchen, including new cabinetry, quartz countertops, mid-tier stainless steel appliances, and crucial electrical and plumbing updates to meet the current BC Building Code.

Driven by Vancouver's tight market for skilled trades, labour alone—from plumbers and electricians to tilers and carpenters—can easily account for 25-30% of the total budget. That’s roughly $16,000-$28,500 dedicated to professional installation.

This is exactly where a professional contractor proves their worth. We’re the ones coordinating all these skilled trades, making sure the electrical is safe, the plumbing is sound, and every single component is installed to code. That meticulous management is what turns a pile of materials into a functional, reliable kitchen that you can trust.

Finally, there are two other non-negotiable line items in any responsible budget: permits and a contingency fund. Municipal permits are a legal requirement for most kitchen renovations, ensuring the work is done safely and passes inspection. Equally important is a 10-15% contingency fund. With older homes in the Vancouver area, you just never know what you'll find behind the walls—from ancient wiring to hidden water damage. This fund is your safety net, making sure that unexpected surprises don't derail your entire project.

Exploring High-End and Luxury Renovations

When your vision for a kitchen goes beyond the ordinary, you're stepping into the world of high-end, luxury renovations. For projects in sought-after areas like West Vancouver or the City and District of North Vancouver, this is where the typical kitchen renovation cost often starts at $130,000 and climbs from there. At this level, you’re creating a space that’s as much a personal statement as it is a functional kitchen.

This isn't just about standard upgrades. We're talking about a commitment to uncompromising quality, meticulous craftsmanship, and features that cater to a very specific lifestyle.

What Defines a Luxury Kitchen Renovation?

So, what exactly sets a luxury kitchen apart? It comes down to superior materials, professional-grade appliances, and deep customization. The focus shifts from simply being functional to being exceptionally curated, where every single element is hand-picked for its performance and beauty.

Essentially, you move past the world of semi-custom options and into a fully bespoke approach for the heart of your home.

Here are the key elements that truly elevate a renovation to this top tier:

• Professional-Grade Appliances: This is the undisputed hallmark. Think high-performance brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Miele—appliances engineered for precision, durability, and a restaurant-quality cooking experience right at home.
• Custom-Milled Cabinetry: Unlike stock or semi-custom boxes, custom cabinetry is designed and built to the exact millimetre of your space. This opens the door to unique storage solutions, flawless appliance integration, and the use of premium woods and bespoke finishes.
• Imported Natural Stone: Countertops and backsplashes become stunning focal points. We're talking about rare and dramatic slabs of marble, quartzite, or granite sourced from quarries around the world. These natural materials bring a beauty and character you just can't replicate. You can learn more about the options in our guide on the cost of granite countertops.

Beyond Materials: The Scope of High-End Work

While premium materials are a big piece of the puzzle, the real cost driver in a luxury renovation is often the sheer complexity of the work itself. These projects frequently involve significant structural changes to completely redefine the home's living area.

In Vancouver's demanding market, it's not uncommon for high-end kitchen remodels to push past $130,000-$185,000 CAD. That figure reflects our city's unique construction landscape. A project at this level often includes professional-grade Wolf ranges ($15,000-$25,000), custom cabinetry milled from local heritage woods ($30,000-$50,000), and imported stone slabs costing $150-$300 per square foot. Structural work, like expanding an island or removing a key wall, can easily add another $20,000-$40,000 to the budget.

This level of investment also covers the specialized installations and advanced technology that are now expected in a truly modern luxury kitchen.

In a high-end project, the goal is to erase any compromise between form and function. It's about creating a kitchen that not only looks stunning but also performs flawlessly for your exact needs, whether that’s hosting large gatherings or perfecting a complex recipe.

Specialized Labour and Advanced Integrations

The scope of a luxury renovation naturally demands a higher level of expertise and coordination. You'll need more than just the standard trades; projects like this call for specialized craftspeople for tasks like fabricating intricate stone details or installing complex smart home systems.

Here are some common additions that influence the budget:

• Smart Home Integration: Seamlessly integrating refrigerators, ovens, lighting, and sound systems—all controlled from a smart device—has become a standard expectation.
• Seismic Upgrades: For older homes, particularly heritage properties in Vancouver or New Westminster, a major renovation is the perfect time to implement necessary seismic upgrades to ensure the home's structural integrity.
• Complex Structural Work: Removing load-bearing walls to create a beautiful open-concept living space is one of the most common requests, and it requires careful engineering, permitting, and execution to do it right.

This is where Domicile Construction's experience really comes into play. Navigating the unique challenges of heritage homes, blending modern functionality with historical character, and managing complex structural work are what we do best. A luxury renovation isn't just about spending more money; it’s about investing in a level of detail, quality, and expertise that results in a truly exceptional space.

Key Factors That Drive Your Renovation Cost

Beyond the budget ranges we've looked at, a few key decisions can really make your project’s final price tag swing up or down. Understanding these cost drivers is crucial for aligning that dream kitchen in your head with the reality of your budget. Think of them as levers you can pull—some add serious function and value, while others are purely for looks. Knowing which is which makes all the difference.

This is your practical guide to those variables. We’ll break down how major choices, from moving walls to navigating the quirks of older Vancouver homes, will impact your bottom line.

Layout Changes: The Existing Footprint vs. A Full Reconfiguration

One of the biggest forks in the road is deciding whether to keep your kitchen’s current layout or tear it all out and start fresh. The cost difference is massive, and it’s about a lot more than just where the cabinets go.

• Keeping the Footprint: This is your most budget-friendly option, hands down. By leaving your sink, dishwasher, and stove in their current locations, you sidestep the expensive work of rerouting plumbing, gas lines, and major electrical. It's a smart move that can still deliver a stunning transformation without the sky-high cost of moving utilities.

• A New Footprint: Sometimes, a new layout is the only way to get the workflow you need or to fit in that island you’ve always wanted. It can be a total game-changer for how you use the space. But be prepared for the costs. Moving a sink requires a plumber, shifting an oven needs an electrician, and adding a gas range means calling in a certified gas fitter. In Metro Vancouver's market, these trades charge premium rates, and their work can easily tack on an extra $5,000 to $15,000 or more to your project.

Altering your kitchen’s layout is an investment in pure function. Before you commit, really ask yourself if the current setup is truly broken. An experienced contractor can often find clever design tricks to improve usability within the existing footprint, saving you a fortune.

Structural Work and Its Impact

The open-concept kitchen is a dream for many homeowners. That bright, airy connection to the rest of the home is incredibly appealing, but the structural work needed to get there is a major budget item that often catches people by surprise.

Taking out a wall isn't a simple weekend job with a sledgehammer. The first step is figuring out if that wall is load-bearing—meaning it’s holding up the floor or roof above. If it is, its removal demands a proper engineering plan, which usually means installing a massive, heavy beam to take over that structural load.

This process involves several expensive steps:

1. Engineering and Design: A structural engineer has to assess the load, design the new support system, and produce drawings for your permit application.
2. Permitting: The city—be it Vancouver, Burnaby, or Coquitlam—needs to approve these plans before a single hammer is swung.
3. Labour and Materials: The cost of the beam itself, plus the specialized labour to temporarily support the structure, remove the wall, and correctly install the new beam, can add $10,000 to $30,000 or more to your renovation budget.

Heritage Homes and Accessibility Features

Renovating in older areas like New Westminster or parts of North Vancouver often means you're working with a heritage home. These properties have incredible character, but they also come with a unique set of challenges that can inflate costs. You might uncover outdated wiring, deal with protected exterior features, or need specialized craftspeople to blend the new with the old seamlessly.

At the same time, many homeowners are wisely thinking ahead and incorporating accessibility features to help them age in place. Smart additions like adjusted counter heights, wider pathways for mobility, and pull-out shelving add to the upfront cost but provide immense long-term safety and value. While these choices affect the budget, they ensure the kitchen works better for everyone, for many years to come. When looking at higher-end projects, a granular understanding of the custom kitchen cabinets cost, including specific materials and labour, is essential for budgeting these features accurately.

Calculating Your Project Timeline and ROI

When we talk about a successful renovation, the final invoice is only part of the story. Just as critical as the typical kitchen renovation cost is understanding how long the project will take and what value it brings to your home. Think of time and return on investment (ROI) as the two pillars of a well-planned project—they’re what turn a potentially stressful disruption into a predictable and worthwhile investment.

Getting a handle on your timeline is all about setting realistic expectations right from the beginning. A full kitchen renovation isn't a weekend job; it's a complex dance with a lot of moving parts. At the same time, understanding the financial return helps you see the project not as a pure expense, but as a smart investment in your most valuable asset, especially here in the competitive Vancouver real-estate market.

Mapping Out a Realistic Project Timeline

One of the first questions we always get from homeowners across the Lower Mainland is, "How long will my kitchen be out of commission?" The honest answer is: it really depends on the scope of your project. A straightforward cosmetic refresh is a world away from a full-scale structural overhaul.

Here’s a general guide to what you can expect in municipalities like Vancouver, Burnaby, or Coquitlam:

• Mid-Range Renovation (8-12 Weeks): This is the sweet spot for most full gut-and-replace projects. This timeframe gives us enough room for demolition, tweaking the plumbing and electrical, putting up new drywall, painting, and then installing cabinets, countertops, flooring, and all the finishing touches.
• Luxury Renovation (12-20+ Weeks): If your dream kitchen involves moving walls, completely changing the layout, or bringing in highly custom elements, the timeline will naturally stretch. Those extra weeks are needed for things like engineering reports, more complex inspections, and the longer lead times that come with bespoke materials and pro-grade appliances.

It's crucial to remember that these timelines kick in after the design is locked in and all the permits are secured. The permitting process itself can easily add several weeks to your schedule before a single hammer is swung.

Navigating the Metro Vancouver Permitting Process

Whether you’re in West Vancouver or Port Coquitlam, getting the right permits isn't just a good idea—it's the law. Any renovation that touches your home’s structure, plumbing, electrical, or gas lines requires approval from your local municipality. This isn't just red tape; it's your guarantee that all the work is done safely and meets the strict standards of the BC Building Code.

Trying to skip the permit process can backfire spectacularly, leading to stop-work orders, steep fines, and massive headaches when you try to get home insurance or sell your property down the road. A professional contractor takes this entire burden off your shoulders, from submitting the plans to scheduling inspections, ensuring your project is compliant and stress-free.

Understanding Your Return on Investment

Finally, let’s get to the million-dollar question—or in this case, the $80,000 question: is it worth it? In Vancouver's hot housing market, the answer is an emphatic yes. A professionally managed, well-designed kitchen renovation is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home.

On average, homeowners in the Greater Vancouver area can expect to get back 60% to 75% of their kitchen renovation cost when they sell. Let's put that in perspective: a beautiful, mid-range renovation costing $80,000 could add anywhere from $48,000 to $60,000 to your home’s market value. This impressive ROI transforms your new kitchen from a simple upgrade into a solid financial move that pays you back, both in the joy you get from it every day and in long-term equity.

Ready to Start Your Vancouver Kitchen Renovation?

We've walked through the real numbers and factors that shape a kitchen renovation budget here in Vancouver. Hopefully, you now have a much clearer picture of what to expect and can move forward with confidence. But all the planning in the world leads to one crucial first step: taking action.

Embarking on a major renovation can feel like a huge undertaking, and it is. But the difference between a stressful, budget-busting project and a smooth, successful one often comes down to a single decision.

That decision is choosing the right partner. A truly experienced and trustworthy contractor does so much more than swing a hammer. They're your guide through the maze of material choices, your expert helping you get the most out of your budget, and your advocate ensuring every detail is handled correctly from start to finish. They turn a complex process into a clear, manageable journey.

Your Renovation Partner in the Lower Mainland

Here at Domicile Construction, we work with homeowners across the communities we call home. If you're in Metro Vancouver, we're here to help. Our team serves:

• Vancouver
• Burnaby
• Richmond
• North Vancouver (City)
• North Vancouver (District)
• West Vancouver
• New Westminster
• Coquitlam
• Port Coquitlam
• Port Moody

Our goal is simple: to help you turn your vision into a beautiful, functional kitchen built with care. We want to create a space that not only works with your budget but genuinely makes your home better for years to come.

A great renovation is always a collaboration. It starts with your goals and a realistic budget, and it's brought to life with open communication and expert craftsmanship. The end result should be a kitchen that brings you joy, not headaches.

Choosing the right team makes all the difference. We believe in clear communication and sticking to the schedule, so you feel informed and confident every step of the way.

Ready to take that next step? Contact Domicile Construction today for a consultation. Let's start the conversation and build the kitchen you've always wanted, together.

Got Questions? We've Got Answers

Thinking about a kitchen renovation can bring a lot of questions to the surface. It’s a big project! Here are some straightforward answers to the questions we hear most often from homeowners around Vancouver, giving you the clarity you need to start planning.

How Long Does a Typical Kitchen Renovation Take in Vancouver?

Honestly, it all comes down to the scope of your project. A straightforward cosmetic refresh—think new paint, backsplash, and hardware—could be wrapped up in as little as 4-6 weeks.

For a more standard, mid-range renovation in a place like Burnaby or Richmond, where you're replacing cabinets, countertops, and maybe moving a few plumbing lines, you should plan for about 8-12 weeks from the day we start demolition to the final walkthrough.

If you're planning a major, high-end overhaul in North Vancouver or West Vancouver with structural changes or a lot of custom millwork, the timeline can stretch to 12-20 weeks, sometimes longer. That's because this timeframe accounts for everything: in-depth design work, lead times for special-order materials, and the municipal permitting process, which can add weeks before a single hammer is swung.

Do I Really Need a Permit for My Kitchen Renovation?

In almost every scenario, yes, absolutely. Whether you’re in Coquitlam or New Westminster, any Metro Vancouver municipality will require a building permit if you're touching your home’s plumbing, electrical, gas lines, or moving walls.

Think of a permit as your peace of mind. It’s official confirmation that all the work meets the rigorous safety standards of the BC Building Code. This isn't just about red tape; it's critical for your family's safety, your home insurance policy, and your property's value down the line. Any reputable contractor will insist on handling the entire permitting process for you. It's just part of doing the job right.

What’s the Biggest Hidden Cost I Should Watch Out For?

The most common (and most frustrating) surprises are the ones hiding behind your walls. Vancouver has a wonderful stock of older homes, but with age can come unforeseen issues that only reveal themselves once demolition begins.

We've seen it all:

• Outdated and unsafe knob-and-tube wiring that needs a complete overhaul.
• Hidden leaks from old pipes that have caused slow water damage over years.
• Asbestos in old vinyl flooring or drywall compound, which requires certified professionals for safe removal.
• Rotten subfloors under an old dishwasher that leaked long ago.

This is exactly why a contingency fund is non-negotiable in any realistic budget. We always advise clients to set aside an extra 10-15% of the total project cost. This isn't padding; it's a crucial safety net that ensures these kinds of discoveries don't blow up your budget or derail the project.

Can I Save Money By Acting as My Own General Contractor?

It’s tempting to think you can save a bundle by managing the project yourself, but this approach often ends up costing more in both money and stress. Juggling the schedules of different tradespeople—the plumber, electrician, cabinet maker, and tiler—is a full-time job that relies heavily on experience and established relationships.

A seasoned general contractor not only has a roster of trusted, reliable trades but can also get better pricing and, crucially, secure their time in a busy market. One misstep in scheduling or one task done out of order can lead to expensive do-overs and long delays. Working with an experienced firm means your renovation runs smoothly, stays on budget, and is finished to a standard you’ll be proud of.

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Ready to stop wondering and start planning? The team at Domicile Construction Inc. has the local expertise to guide you through every step, from the first sketch to the final polish. Contact us today for a consultation and let's start building the kitchen you've been dreaming of.