Thinking about remodeling your kitchen? The first question everyone asks is: what’s it going to cost? Here’s an honest breakdown based on real projects we’ve done across Morris County.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Most kitchen remodels in Morris County fall between $35,000 and $85,000. Smaller updates (cabinets refaced, new counters, backsplash) land on the lower end. Full gut renovations with layout changes, custom cabinets, and high-end finishes push toward the top — and beyond.
WHAT DRIVES THE COST
Cabinets — Usually the biggest line item, 25-35% of the total. Stock cabinets save money. Semi-custom hits the sweet spot for most families. Full custom is beautiful but pricey.
Countertops — Quartz and granite run $75-$150 per square foot installed. Butcher block and laminate cost far less if budget matters more than prestige.
Layout changes — Moving plumbing or knocking down walls adds $5,000-$15,000 fast. Keeping the same footprint saves serious money.
Appliances — A standard package runs $5,000-$8,000. Pro-style ranges and built-in refrigeration can double that alone.
Labor — In Northern NJ, expect labor to run 20-35% of the total project cost. This is not the place to cut corners — bad installs cost more to fix than good installs cost upfront.
WHAT ABOUT THE REST OF NORTHERN NJ?
Prices are similar across Morris, Essex, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren counties. Labor rates in Essex tend to run slightly higher. Material costs are the same — it’s the labor market that shifts.
HOW TO KEEP COSTS UNDER CONTROL
- Keep the layout. Moving the sink or stove means moving plumbing. That’s expensive.
- Choose mid-range finishes. The jump from mid-range to luxury is steep, but the visual difference is smaller than you’d think.
- Don’t buy the cheapest cabinets. You’ll replace them in 10 years. Buy once.
- Get multiple quotes, but don’t pick the cheapest. Pick the contractor who explains why things cost what they do.
THE BOTTOM LINE
A kitchen remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home — both for your daily life and resale value. But go in with realistic numbers, not TV-show numbers.
Want an exact price for your kitchen? Get a free estimate — we’ll come out, measure, listen to what you want, and give you a real number. No pressure, no obligation.