USA home remodeling cost guides

Whole-home projects bundle several trades into one timeline, so the budget is driven by how many systems you open up rather than any single finish. The guides and calculators below help you size a cosmetic refresh, a mid-range update, or a full gut before you call a contractor.

Kitchen cost is dominated by cabinets and countertops, which together can be more than half the budget. Layout changes that move plumbing or gas lines push a remodel from mid-range into premium territory quickly.

Bathrooms pack plumbing, tile, waterproofing, and fixtures into a small footprint, so cost-per-square-foot runs high. Moving the toilet, tub, or shower drain is the fastest way to add cost.

Finishing a basement is mostly framing, drywall, flooring, and the electrical/HVAC needed to make the space livable. Moisture control and egress requirements set the real cost floor.

Additions are new construction tied into an existing home, so they carry foundation, framing, roofing, and full system costs. Permits and structural tie-ins make them the priciest projects per square foot after gut jobs.

Flooring cost is material-led: the same room can swing 4x depending on whether you choose vinyl plank or solid hardwood. Subfloor prep and removal of old flooring are the usual hidden costs.

Painting is labor-driven, so prep work, ceiling height, and the number of colors matter more than the paint itself. Cabinet and trim painting cost far more per square foot than walls.

Drywall cost tracks the square footage of board hung plus the finish level you specify. Repairs and high or vaulted ceilings raise the labor rate.

Roof cost is set by material, roof size in squares, and pitch. Tear-off of old layers and any decking repair are the variables that surprise homeowners.

HVAC cost depends on system type, capacity, and whether ductwork already exists. Switching fuel sources or adding ducts is what separates a swap from a full install.

Plumbing remodel cost scales with the number of fixtures and how far supply and drain lines have to move. Whole-house repipes are priced by accessibility, not just pipe length.

Electrical cost is driven by circuit count, panel capacity, and how open the walls are. Rewiring an occupied, finished home costs far more than rough-in during a remodel.

Window and door cost is per-opening, driven by size, frame material, and glass package. Structural changes for larger openings add framing and header cost.

Cabinet cost is set by linear footage and construction tier, from stock to fully custom. Refacing is a fraction of replacement when the boxes are sound.

Countertop cost is square-footage times material, with quartz, granite, and marble occupying very different price bands. Edge profiles, cutouts, and seams add to fabrication.

Outdoor living cost depends on material, size, and site conditions like grade and access. Decks, patios, and fences each price differently, but footings and permits are common cost drivers.

Landscaping cost ranges from simple sod to full hardscape, irrigation, and lighting. Earthwork, drainage, and plant maturity are the biggest variables.

Smart-home and energy upgrades range from insulation and thermostats to solar and battery storage. Payback period, not just sticker price, should guide the budget.

Contractor cost reflects management, coordination, and markup over the trades on your project. Understanding how markup and fee structures work helps you read bids accurately.

Permit cost varies by jurisdiction and project value, and is usually a small but mandatory slice of the budget. Skipping permits risks fines, failed inspections, and resale problems.