Kitchen renovation cost remains one of the most searched concerns for homeowners in 2026, and for good reason. Based on the latest pricing data from ServiceSeeking.com.au, most kitchen renovation jobs are quoted either per square metre or per hour, with average rates sitting at $114.30 per square metre and $95.10 per hour. Lower-end quotes can start from $30.00 per square metre or $35.00 per hour, typically reflecting smaller or less complex work.
Across the board, costs can vary significantly depending on the size of the kitchen, the scope of the renovation, and the materials selected. While minor updates may stay within a modest budget, full kitchen overhauls involving layout changes, cabinetry, and appliances can quickly increase the overall spend. Understanding how tradies structure their pricing is key to making sense of quotes.
From all kitchen renovation quotes submitted on ServiceSeeking.com.au:
Per-square-metre pricing is the most common approach for kitchen renovations. This method is typically used for larger projects where the overall size of the space plays a significant role in determining labour and material requirements. It gives homeowners a clearer sense of how costs scale with the size of their kitchen.
Hourly rates, on the other hand, are often applied to smaller jobs, partial upgrades, or work where the full scope may not be clearly defined at the outset. This can include tasks like cabinet adjustments, benchtop replacements, or minor refurbishments where flexibility is needed.
Based on current data, here’s what homeowners can expect to pay:
Lower rates are usually associated with straightforward jobs, basic finishes, or smaller kitchens. Higher rates often reflect more complex renovations, premium materials, or projects requiring multiple trades.
Kitchen renovation cost is influenced by several key factors, and understanding these can help explain why quotes may differ.
The size of the kitchen is one of the biggest drivers. Larger spaces naturally require more materials, longer labour hours, and often more detailed planning. Even a small increase in floor area can have a noticeable impact when pricing is calculated per square metre.
The scope of work also plays a major role. A simple refresh—such as repainting cabinets or replacing benchtops—will sit at the lower end of the pricing scale. In contrast, a full renovation involving layout changes, plumbing relocation, or electrical rewiring will require multiple trades and significantly higher investment.
Material selection is another major factor. Standard finishes and off-the-shelf cabinetry tend to keep costs manageable, while custom joinery, stone benchtops, and high-end appliances can increase the total price considerably.
Access and site conditions can also influence quotes. Kitchens in apartments, older homes, or properties with limited access may require additional labour or specialised handling, which can be reflected in the final cost.
Not all kitchen renovations are the same, and costs can vary widely depending on the type of project.
Smaller renovations or partial upgrades are often quoted hourly or at the lower end of per-square-metre rates. These projects may include replacing fixtures, updating surfaces, or making minor layout adjustments without major structural changes.
Full kitchen renovations, however, are more comprehensive. These typically involve demolition, new cabinetry, plumbing and electrical work, flooring, and installation. As a result, they are more likely to be quoted per square metre and at higher average rates due to the number of trades involved and the complexity of the work.
Because kitchen renovation cost can vary so widely, the most reliable way to understand pricing is to request detailed quotes based on your specific project.
Clear communication about your goals, preferred materials, and budget can help tradies provide more accurate estimates. It also allows for better comparison between quotes, particularly when different pricing structures—such as hourly versus per square metre—are used.
Homeowners often find that detailed quotes not only outline costs but also highlight potential challenges or additional considerations that may not be immediately obvious at the planning stage.