If you're planning a new kitchen, the first question is almost always the same: how much is this going to cost? It's a fair question, and you deserve a straight answer rather than "it depends" followed by silence.
So here's our honest guide to kitchen renovation costs in Sydney for 2026, based on the kitchens we design and build across the city. We'll cover typical price ranges, where the money actually goes and how to get more kitchen for your budget.
Typical kitchen renovation costs in Sydney
Every kitchen is different, but most full kitchen renovations in Sydney fall into one of three brackets.
| Kitchen type | Typical cost in Sydney | What you usually get |
|---|---|---|
| Budget or compact | $20,000 to $35,000 | Same layout, quality cabinetry, laminate or compact benchtops, standard appliances |
| Mid range | $35,000 to $60,000 | Custom cabinetry, stone or porcelain benchtops, new appliances, minor layout changes |
| Premium | $60,000 to $100,000+ | Bigger layouts, island benches, butler's pantry, natural stone, integrated appliances |
These figures include design, demolition, cabinetry, benchtops, trades and installation. They're indicative only, because the real number depends on your room, your layout and the finishes you choose. That's why we always give a fixed price quote after measuring up.
Where the money goes
It helps to understand how a kitchen budget usually breaks down. These percentages are typical for a mid range kitchen renovation in Sydney.
| Item | Typical share of budget |
|---|---|
| Cabinetry and hardware | 30 to 40 percent |
| Benchtops | 10 to 15 percent |
| Appliances | 10 to 20 percent |
| Plumbing, gas and electrical | 10 to 15 percent |
| Splashback and tiling | 5 to 8 percent |
| Demolition and waste removal | 3 to 5 percent |
| Painting, plastering and finishing | 3 to 5 percent |
| Contingency | 5 to 10 percent |
Cabinetry
Cabinetry is the backbone of your kitchen and usually the biggest cost. Price depends on the number of cabinets, the board quality, the door finish and the hardware. Two pack painted doors and timber veneers cost more than laminate. Soft close drawers, pull out pantries and corner mechanisms add cost but make a real difference to daily use.
Benchtops
Benchtop prices vary hugely. Laminate is the most affordable, porcelain and natural stone sit higher, and thick edges, waterfall ends and large islands add to the cost. Note that engineered stone can no longer be installed in Australia, which has changed the options. Our benchtop materials guide compares every option.
Appliances
Appliances can be modest or a major line item. A standard oven, cooktop, rangehood and dishwasher might cost a few thousand dollars, while integrated fridges, steam ovens and premium brands can run well into five figures. Decide early, because appliance sizes affect cabinetry design.
Trades
Plumbing, gas fitting and electrical work must be done by licensed trades. Costs rise if you're moving the sink, cooktop or dishwasher, adding power points or installing new lighting circuits.
What makes a kitchen renovation cost more
A few things reliably push the budget up:
- Moving plumbing, gas or drainage. Relocating the sink or cooktop to an island is popular, but it adds work.
- Removing walls. Opening the kitchen to the living area may involve structural work, engineering and approvals.
- Premium finishes. Natural stone, two pack painted cabinetry and designer hardware all add up.
- Bigger layouts. More cabinets, more benchtop and more appliances.
- Access. Apartments with lift bookings, steep blocks and tight parking can add time and cost.
- Unexpected issues. Old wiring, rotten subfloors or hidden water damage in older homes.
How to save on a kitchen renovation without cutting corners
You don't need to compromise on quality to manage your budget. Here's what we suggest to clients:
- Keep the layout. Leaving the sink, cooktop and dishwasher roughly where they are saves a lot on trades.
- Spend on what you touch. Put money into drawers, hinges and benchtops. Save on things like the inside of cabinets.
- Mix materials. Stone on the island and a cheaper surface on the back bench, or a feature finish only on the island.
- Choose standard appliance sizes. They're easier to replace later and keep cabinetry simple.
- Lock in your selections early. Changes once work has started are the most expensive kind.
- Get a fixed price quote. It protects you from cost blowouts. Ask exactly what's included.
How to compare kitchen quotes
When you get quotes for a kitchen renovation in Sydney, make sure they're comparing the same thing. A good quote should list:
- Design and drawings
- Cabinetry specification, including board and door finish
- Benchtop material, thickness and edge profile
- Splashback
- Demolition and rubbish removal
- Plumbing, gas and electrical work
- Appliance supply and installation (or what's excluded)
- Painting, plastering and making good
- Project management and the timeline
- Warranty details
In NSW, residential building work over $5,000 needs a written contract and a licensed contractor, and work over $20,000 also needs Home Building Compensation Fund insurance. You can check a contractor's licence through NSW Fair Trading. Our guide on choosing a renovator in Sydney has more questions worth asking.
How long will it take?
Most kitchens take 3 to 6 weeks on site after a few weeks of design and manufacturing. Our kitchen renovation timeline walks through each stage week by week.
Get a fixed price quote for your kitchen
The most accurate way to know what your kitchen will cost is a proper measure and design. We offer a free in-home consultation anywhere in Sydney, then a detailed, fixed price quote with no obligation. Learn more about our kitchen renovations in Sydney, browse the project gallery or get in touch to book a time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost of a kitchen renovation in Sydney?
A typical full kitchen renovation in Sydney costs around $35,000 to $50,000 for a mid range family kitchen. Smaller apartment kitchens can come in from around $20,000, while premium kitchens often exceed $80,000.
Can I renovate a kitchen in Sydney for $20,000?
It's possible for a small kitchen that keeps the same layout and uses cost effective materials such as laminate benchtops and standard appliances. Once you add stone benchtops, layout changes or premium appliances, the budget rises quickly.
Is a kitchen renovation worth it?
For most Sydney homes, yes. The kitchen is one of the first rooms buyers look at, and a well designed kitchen improves everyday life as well as appeal when you sell.
