Kitchen Renovation Costs UK 2026
What a new kitchen really costs, from budget flat-pack to a full bespoke fit-out.
6 min read · Updated 2026
Key takeaways
- ›A budget kitchen refresh starts around £4,000–£8,000.
- ›A mid-range fitted kitchen typically costs £8,000–£15,000.
- ›High-end and bespoke kitchens run from £20,000 upwards.
What affects the price
The three big drivers are the cabinets and worktops you choose, the appliances, and the labour to rip out and fit. Moving plumbing or gas points, taking down walls, and re-plastering all add cost. A like-for-like replacement in the same layout is far cheaper than reconfiguring the room.
- •Cabinets: flat-pack budget to solid wood bespoke.
- •Worktops: laminate (£) to quartz or granite (£££).
- •Appliances: freestanding vs built-in, single oven vs range.
- •Plumbing and electrical repositioning.
- •Flooring, tiling, plastering and decoration.
Typical price ranges (UK 2026)
These ranges include materials and labour for a typical small-to-medium kitchen. Prices rise in London and the South East.
- •Budget refresh (replace units, keep layout): £4,000–£8,000.
- •Mid-range new fitted kitchen: £8,000–£15,000.
- •High-end / bespoke kitchen: £15,000–£30,000+.
- •Labour alone (fitting, rip-out, plumbing, electrics): £3,000–£7,000.
How to keep costs down
Keep the existing layout to avoid moving plumbing and electrics — that is the single biggest saving. Choose laminate over stone worktops, buy appliances in a package deal, and do the demolition and skip hire yourself if you are able. Always get three itemised quotes and confirm what is included.
Frequently asked
How long does a kitchen fit take?
A straightforward like-for-like fit takes 1–2 weeks. Reconfiguring the layout, plastering and new flooring can extend this to 3–4 weeks.
Does a new kitchen add value?
A well-chosen kitchen can add value and improve saleability, but you rarely recoup the full cost. Spend to match the value of the home, not above it.
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