Kitchen remodels are the highest-return renovation most Detroit homeowners make, and also the one with the widest price range. Here is what real projects cost in Metro Detroit in 2026, and where the money actually goes.
The three tiers
Budget refresh: $10,000 to $25,000
Paint, new hardware, a tile backsplash, updated lighting and faucet, and refinishing or refacing existing cabinets. The layout stays put. This is the smart move when the bones are good and you just want it to feel new.
Full remodel: $30,000 to $65,000
New cabinets, quartz or granite countertops, new appliances, flooring, and lighting, often with a modest layout change. This is the most common full kitchen remodel and where most Detroit homeowners land.
Full gut / luxury renovation: $65,000 to $165,000+
Walls moved or removed, plumbing and electrical relocated, custom cabinetry, stone counters, and high-end finishes. Opening a kitchen to the living space lives in this tier.
What drives the price
Cabinetry is usually the biggest line item, followed by countertops and labor. Moving plumbing or electrical, taking down a load-bearing wall, and high-end appliances push costs up fast. Permits and the age of your home matter too: a 1920s Detroit home often hides surprises behind the plaster.
How to get an accurate number
Online calculators are a starting point, not a quote. The only way to know your real cost is a walk-through and a written, line-item estimate. We provide that for free across Metro Detroit, with no pressure to sign.