Methodology & Data Policy

We aggregate kitchen remodel pricing from BLS, Remodeling Magazine, NKBA — real contractor quotes, completed project costs, and material pricing across U.S. metro areas. These are cross-referenced against the Remodeling Magazine Cost vs. Value Report (published annually by Zonda/HanleyWood) for recoup rate validation.

We adjust for regional labor costs using Bureau of Labor Statistics data for NAICS 2381 (building finishing contractors). Each metro carries an explicit labor multiplier derived from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics for the relevant trade codes.

The fair range (P25–P75) represents the 25th to 75th percentile of verified project costs in each metro. The lowest reasonable price is the 15th percentile: the price at which 15% of contractors already complete the work. It's your counter-offer starting point.

Resale return rates vary significantly by region. Coastal markets (Boston, Seattle, New York) show 80–87% back at sale because updated kitchens are a buyer expectation. Sun Belt markets (FL, TX, AZ) show 60–68% back because buyers have competing lifestyle options. Our calculator uses per-city resale data, not a national average.

The high-end tier applies a 1.45× multiplier to standard pricing — derived from the Remodeling Magazine Upscale vs. Midrange differential. This captures custom cabinetry, stone countertops, pro-grade appliances, and structural layout changes.

No contractor can pay to appear on this site or influence their city's data. We may connect homeowners with licensed contractors in their area. Pricing data and editorial content are independent of any contractor relationships.