What Does a Kitchen Renovation Really Cost? Here’s What You Need to Know
White kitchen with wood grain island.

If you’ve been dreaming about giving your kitchen a fresh, modern upgrade, chances are one of your biggest questions is: How much is this going to cost me? It’s a smart question—and one we hear often at Sarnia Cabinets.

The truth is, a kitchen renovation is one of the best investments you can make in your home. It boosts your property value, makes your home more functional, and creates a space you’ll actually enjoy spending time in. But it doesn’t have to break the bank—and cabinetry isn’t nearly as expensive as most people assume.

Let’s take a closer look at what actually goes into the cost of a kitchen renovation and where your money is going.

A Look at the Big Picture: Typical Kitchen Reno Costs

Kitchen renovations vary widely in price based on size, scope, layout changes, material choices, and whether you’re updating everything or just giving it a refresh. A modest kitchen update might cost around $20,000, while a larger or more luxurious renovation can climb to $50,000 or more.

Here’s a general breakdown of where your renovation dollars usually go:

Cabinetry – 25% to 30%

Appliances – 15% to 20%

Countertops – 10% to 15%

Flooring – 7% to 10%

Lighting & Electrical – 5% to 10%

Plumbing – 5%

Installation/Labour – 15% to 25%

Unexpected Costs – 5% to 10%

As you can see, cabinetry—often seen as the centerpiece of the kitchen—accounts for just a quarter (or less) of the overall cost. And with smart design and material choices, you can get beautiful, custom cabinetry that fits your space and your budget.

Why Cabinetry Is Worth Every Penny

Cabinetry might not be the largest piece of the renovation budget, but it’s definitely one of the most impactful. The right cabinetry:

Defines the style and tone of your kitchen

Improves organization and storage capacity

Increases home value with custom touches and quality craftsmanship

Helps create a kitchen that truly works for you

At Sarnia Cabinets, we help homeowners across the region design and install cabinetry that balances form, function, and affordability. Whether you’re looking for sleek modern finishes, classic designs, or unique custom details, we’ve got solutions for every taste and budget.

Beautiful kitchen with wood and white cabinets in Sarnia, Ontario. Built by Sarnia Cabinets.

What Affects Cabinet Costs?

There are a few factors that influence the price of your cabinets, including:

Material choice – Solid wood, MDF, laminate, and other materials vary in cost.

Cabinet layout – A more complex layout with islands, pantries, or specialty storage may cost more.

Hardware and accessories – Soft-close drawers, pull-out shelves, and organizers can affect cost.

Customization – Fully custom cabinets will cost more than semi-custom or stock options—but often with significant long-term value.

The good news? Our team will walk you through all your options and find the perfect balance of style and budget.

Classic country kitchen in Sarnia Kitchen Showroom

Let’s Chat About Your Kitchen

At the end of the day, your Sarnia-Lambton kitchen renovation is about you. Your lifestyle, your taste, and your budget. And Sarnia Cabinets believes planning your cabinetry should be a collaborative, stress-free process that results in a space you’ll love for years to come.

Not sure where to start? Wondering if your dream kitchen is within reach?

👉 Contact Sarnia Cabinets today to chat with our experienced team. We’ll help you understand your options, share ideas, and provide a free, no-pressure consultation. You may be surprised at how affordable it can be to get custom cabinetry—and how big of a difference it can make in your renovation.

Your dream kitchen is closer (and more affordable) than you think. Let’s build it together.

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Sarnia Cabinets - Kitchens and Bathrooms

519-336-6502

Explore the Sarnia Cabinets showroom in-person: 

1321 Plank Road
Sarnia, Ontario  N7T 7H3