UK Kitchen Prices – Your Quick Guide to Budgeting a Remodel
If you’ve started dreaming about a new kitchen, the first thing that pops into your head is usually the price tag. Let’s cut through the noise and give you a clear picture of what you’ll actually spend in the UK.
Kitchen costs are made up of three big buckets: materials, labour and extras. Materials cover cabinets, benchtops, appliances and flooring. Labour is everything from the carpenter fitting the cabinets to the electrician wiring up the hob. Extras include things like lighting, plumbing upgrades or a designer’s fee.
How Much Do the Main Elements Cost?
Cabinets: Stock cabinets start around £1,500 for a small kitchen, while bespoke units can push past £10,000. The material matters – MDF is cheap, solid wood costs more, and high‑gloss finishes sit somewhere in the middle.
Benchtops: Laminated tops are the cheapest, usually £30‑£60 per metre. Granite or quartz runs £150‑£250 per metre, and solid surface steel can exceed £300 per metre.
Appliances: A basic 4‑piece set (hob, oven, fridge, dishwasher) can be bought for £800‑£1,200 if you stick to budget brands. Premium ranges from top manufacturers can easily top £3,000.
Flooring: Vinyl or laminate runs £15‑£30 per square metre, engineered wood £30‑£70, and natural stone starts at £80 per square metre.
Labour and Installation – The Hidden Part of the Budget
Most homeowners think the biggest expense is the hardware, but labour often adds 30‑50% to the total bill. A typical kitchen install in the UK costs between £2,000 and £4,000, depending on complexity. If you need structural changes – such as moving walls or adding a new window – the price can climb quickly.
One of our popular posts, “Kitchen Installation Services: What’s Included and What to Expect”, breaks down the day‑by‑day process. It’s worth a read if you want to avoid surprise charges.
Also, watch out for extra services like a designer’s consultation. That can be £200‑£500 flat, but it often saves money by preventing costly mistakes later.
So, what’s a realistic budget? For a modest two‑person kitchen, aim for £8,000‑£12,000 all‑in. Mid‑range projects sit around £15,000‑£25,000. Luxury builds can easily exceed £30,000.
Here are three quick tips to keep costs down:
- Reuse existing plumbing wherever you can – moving water lines is expensive.
- Choose a ready‑made cabinet layout and modify it rather than designing from scratch.
- Shop sales for appliances and consider open‑box or refurbished models.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. A low‑cost cabinet that warps after a year will cost you more in the long run.
Ready to start planning? Browse our other articles like “Build or Buy a House in 2025? Full Price Breakdown & Money‑Saving Tips” for broader cost insights, or jump straight to “Kitchen Installation Services” for a step‑by‑step guide.
With a clear budget, a realistic timeline and the right professionals, your new kitchen can be a great investment without breaking the bank.
