How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in Sydney?

A kitchen renovation is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your home. It adds daily comfort, improves functionality, and can significantly increase property value. But one of the most common questions homeowners ask before starting their project is: How much does a kitchen renovation actually cost in Sydney? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Kitchen renovation costs in Sydney can vary widely depending on factors like size, layout changes, material choices, customisation, and labour. This guide will walk you through the major cost considerations and give you a clear understanding of what to expect when planning your kitchen upgrade.

Understanding the Price Range for Kitchen Renovations

The average kitchen renovation in Sydney typically falls within the range of $15,000 to $45,000+, depending on the scale of the project. For budget-conscious renovations or investment properties, it’s possible to achieve results under $20,000 by opting for flat-pack cabinetry, laminate benchtops, and minimal structural changes. On the other hand, luxury kitchens with stone benchtops, custom joinery, premium appliances, and layout adjustments can cost upwards of $40,000.

Renovation costs can be grouped into three categories: basic, mid-range, and high-end. Basic renovations usually involve cosmetic changes such as cabinet refacing, new benchtops, and splashbacks. Mid-range renovations tend to include custom cabinetry, improved lighting, and new appliances. High-end kitchen renovations often involve a complete redesign, wall removal, plumbing and electrical reconfiguration, and top-tier finishes.

Factors That Influence Kitchen Renovation Costs

Several key elements will influence how much your kitchen renovation will cost in Sydney. The size of the kitchen plays a major role — larger kitchens require more materials, cabinetry, and labour. Next, consider whether you’ll keep the existing layout or opt for changes that affect plumbing, electrical work, and walls. Altering layouts can significantly increase overall costs.

Material choice also plays a big part. Opting for stone or marble benchtops, polyurethane or timber cabinetry, and designer fixtures will naturally cost more than laminate or melamine finishes. Similarly, custom joinery is more expensive than flat-pack or off-the-shelf options but offers better quality, fit, and design flexibility.

Appliances and fittings contribute to the budget too. High-end ovens, range hoods, dishwashers, and integrated fridges can elevate both the look and cost of your kitchen. Don’t forget to factor in costs for sinks, taps, handles, splashbacks, and lighting. Labour is another major contributor to your budget. Sydney trades — including carpenters, plumbers, electricians, and tilers — all charge based on the scale and complexity of the work. Hiring a professional renovation team like ICAD Joinery helps streamline the process, ensures quality results, and reduces costly mistakes, but it also adds to the overall cost — and value — of the renovation.

The Hidden and Ongoing Costs You Should Consider

Beyond materials and labour, there are some additional costs that homeowners often overlook. These include demolition and waste removal, which can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand depending on how much needs to be removed and how it's disposed of. You’ll also need to factor in council approvals or certifications if the renovation involves structural changes. While most kitchen updates don’t require approval, large-scale renovations in apartments or heritage-listed homes might. Temporary costs should also be considered. For example, you may need to dine out more often or set up a temporary kitchen space during the build. And once your kitchen is complete, you may want to add finishing touches like furniture, accessories, or new flooring to complement the space.

How to Keep Your Kitchen Renovation on Budget

One of the best ways to control renovation costs is by working with a trusted and transparent joinery company. At ICAD Joinery, we provide clear quotes with no hidden fees, and we help you make smart design decisions that balance budget with quality. Choosing materials carefully, limiting layout changes, and selecting mid-range finishes can help you achieve a beautiful kitchen without overspending.

It’s also helpful to set aside a contingency budget of around 10–15% to cover unexpected costs — like hidden plumbing issues or additional cabinetry requirements — that may arise during the renovation process. Working with a single team from start to finish — including design, fabrication, and installation — helps streamline communication, avoid delays, and minimise budget blowouts. Our all-in-one service means you know exactly what to expect at every stage.

Every kitchen is different, and the best way to get an accurate cost estimate is through a personalised consultation. At ICAD Joinery, we offer in-home design consultations across Sydney where we assess your space, understand your vision, and provide tailored solutions that meet your needs and budget. Whether you're upgrading your family kitchen, renovating for resale, or building your forever home, we deliver expert craftsmanship and value at every level.