If you're planning a kitchen renovation in Sydney, you've probably asked yourself: "How much is this actually going to cost?" The truth is, it depends - but not in the vague way most builders tell you.
The Real Numbers: What Sydney Homeowners Pay
Based on our experience with over 200 kitchen renovations across Sydney, here's what you can expect:
- Budget Kitchen Refresh: $25,000 - $40,000 (new cabinetry, benchtops, appliances - keeping the same layout)
- Mid-Range Full Renovation: $50,000 - $80,000 (quality finishes, layout changes, stone benchtops, soft-close cabinetry)
- Premium Custom Kitchen: $90,000 - $150,000+ (high-end appliances, custom joinery, structural changes, premium materials)
Why the wide range?
The size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and whether you're changing the layout all make a huge difference. But the biggest factor? Hidden costs that most quotes don't include upfront.
The Hidden Costs No One Tells You About
Here's where most kitchen renovations blow out:
- 1. Structural Issues: Once walls come down, you might discover outdated wiring, plumbing that doesn't meet code, or hidden water damage. Budget at least $5,000 for contingencies.
- 2. Appliance Installation: Your $3,000 oven needs electrical upgrades ($800), gas fitting ($600), and cabinet modifications ($400). Suddenly it's $4,800.
- 3. Council Approvals & Compliance: If you're changing the layout, you need permits. Factor in $2,000-$5,000 for approvals and compliance certificates.
- 4. Temporary Kitchen Setup: You'll need somewhere to cook for 8-12 weeks. Whether it's takeaway or a temporary setup, this adds up.
Where to Spend (and Where to Save)
Worth Splurging On:
- ✓ Quality cabinetry with soft-close hinges
- ✓ Stone benchtops (they last 20+ years)
- ✓ A good rangehood (proper ventilation matters)
- ✓ Waterproofing and electrical work
Where You Can Save:
- ✓ Cabinet handles and fixtures (easy to upgrade later)
- ✓ Splashback tiles (plenty of affordable options look great)
- ✓ Keeping your existing layout (moving plumbing is expensive)
The Bottom Line
A realistic kitchen renovation in Sydney costs between $50,000 and $80,000 for most homeowners. You can do it for less if you're smart about choices, but anything below $40,000 usually means you're cutting corners that will cost you later.
At Moretti, we don't play games with pricing. We give you a fixed-price contract that includes everything - no surprises, no hidden costs, no "variations" that appear halfway through the job.
Want a real kitchen renovation quote?
We'll give you a transparent, detailed quotation that includes everything - no vague allowances, no surprises.
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