How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen in Madison, WI?

How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen in Madison, WI?

Does your Madison kitchen feel outdated or no longer work for your family? You're not alone. Many homeowners in our area are transforming their kitchens to match their lifestyle.

Kitchen remodels in Madison are more accessible than you might think. Most homeowners spend between $65,000 and $90,000  for a quality mid-range remodel. That's not just paint and new hardware. We're talking new cabinets, countertops, appliances, and all the updates that make your kitchen both beautiful and functional.

At Bella Domicile, we understand that remodeling your kitchen is a big decision. We get it that you want quality craftsmanship and a team that knows Madison homes inside and out.

Key Overview

Let us walk you through real kitchen renovation costs in Madison based on current 2026 pricing. No vague estimates or national averages that don't apply here.

Click below to jump to the section you want to read:

1. Average Kitchen Remodel Costs in Madison

2. Average Cost Per Square Foot in Madison

3. Kitchen Remodel Budget Allocation Breakdown

4. Madison-Specific Market Factors

5. Labor Costs in Madison

6. Cost Breakdown by Major Kitchen Components

7. Premium Kitchen Features & Upgrades Costs

8. Kitchen Remodeling Costs to Expect in Madison Neighborhoods

9. Smart Ways to Save Money on Your Madison Kitchen Remodel

10. Kitchen Remodel ROI in Madison Market

11.Planning and Financing Your Remodel Budget

Average Kitchen Remodel Costs in Madison

Before we dive into details, let's talk numbers. Madison homeowners face different costs than the national averages you'll find online. Our local economy, skilled labor market, and material availability all play into what you'll actually pay.

Most Madison kitchen remodels fall into clear categories based on scope and materials. And understanding these ranges helps you set realistic expectations from the start.

Minor Cosmetic Updates - $25,000 to $50,000

Minor kitchen updates cover painting cabinets, replacing hardware, updating lighting, installing new countertops, and adding a fresh backsplash. You keep your existing layout and major components while giving everything a fresh look.

Mid-Range Remodels - $65,000 to $110,000

The sweet spot for most Madison homeowners. With mid-range remodels, you get new semi-custom cabinets, quality quartz countertops, mid-grade appliances, updated flooring, and improved lighting. The optimal layout might change slightly, but you're not moving major plumbing or gas lines.

Major Upscale Remodels - $125,000 to $180,000

Major kitchen remodels include custom cabinetry, premium countertop materials, high-end appliances, structural changes like removing walls, completely new electrical and plumbing systems, and luxury finishes throughout.

Luxury Renovations - $225,000+

Luxury renovation projects feature fully custom designs, professional-grade appliances, exotic materials, significant structural work, smart home integration, and custom details that make your kitchen truly one-of-a-kind.

Average Cost Per Square Foot in Madison

In Madison, kitchen remodels typically cost $325 to $550 per square foot, depending on materials and scope. A 150-square-foot kitchen might run $48,750 to $82,500 for a mid-range remodel.

This per-square-foot number helps with initial budgeting, but your actual costs depend on cabinet quality, appliance choices, how much structural work you're doing, and whether you're keeping the existing layout.

Kitchen Remodel Budget Allocation Breakdown

Budget allocation matters because two projects with the same total price can feel very different depending on where the money goes. 

Industry guides use percentage ranges to help homeowners see what “normal” looks like and to spot when one category is eating too much of the budget

With that context, a commonly accepted budget allocation breakdown for a full kitchen remodel looks like this:

• Cabinetry and hardware: 30-40% of total budget
• Appliances and ventilation: 15-20%
• Countertops: 10-20%
• Labor and installation: 20-35%
• Flooring: 10-20%
• Lighting and electrical: 5-8%
• Plumbing and fixtures: 5-7%

Madison-Specific Market Factors

Madison isn't Milwaukee. It's definitely not Minneapolis or Chicago. Our city has unique factors that affect kitchen remodeling costs in ways you won't find in national estimates.

Madison Local Labor Rate

Madison's strong economy means skilled tradespeople stay busy. 

• Licensed electricians charge $85 to $120 per hour.
• Experienced plumbers run $90 to $130 per hour.
• Cabinet installers cost $75 to $110 per hour.

These rates reflect Madison's high cost of living and the demand for quality work. You might find cheaper labor, but experienced professionals who know Madison's older homes and current building codes are worth the investment.

Material Costs & Availability in Madison

Material suppliers in the Madison area stock quality products, but specialty items sometimes require ordering from Milwaukee or Chicago. This can add a week or two to timelines, but ensures you get exactly what you want.

Madison Housing Market

Madison's real estate market stays strong year after year. Home values continue climbing, which means homeowners invest more confidently in renovations. When homes sell quickly and for good prices, remodeling makes financial sense. These homeowners then often prioritize quality materials and modern design, which influences what contractors stock and what styles become popular.

Seasons & Weather in Madison

Wisconsin winters affect remodeling schedules more than you might think. Most contractors book up solid from April through October. If you want to remodel during prime season, start planning at least three to four months ahead.

Winter remodeling can work in your favor. Contractors have more availability from November through March, and some offer lower rates during slower months. Since kitchen remodels happen entirely indoors, cold weather doesn't affect the work quality.

Just know that material deliveries might take longer during winter storms, and if you're adding windows or exterior doors, those installations need careful planning around the weather.

Madison's Eco-Conscious Approach

Our city values sustainability, and that shows up in kitchen remodels. Many Madison homeowners choose energy-efficient appliances that qualify for Focus on Energy rebates, reclaimed or locally sourced wood for accents, low-VOC paints and finishes, water-saving fixtures, and LED lighting throughout.

These eco-friendly choices sometimes cost a bit more upfront, but they align with Madison's values and often save money long-term through lower utility bills and available rebates.

Madison Building Permits and Requirements

Dane County requires permits for electrical work, plumbing modifications, structural changes, and gas line work. Permit costs typically run $200 to $600, depending on project scope.

Your contractor should handle permit applications, but factor this into your budget. Proper permits protect you legally and ensure work meets current safety codes.

Labor Costs in Madison

Understanding labor costs helps you budget accurately and appreciate the expertise that goes into your remodel.

Contractor Rates: $7,500 to $25,000

General contractors typically charge 15 to 20 percent of the total project cost for managing your remodel. On a $50,000 kitchen, that's $7,500 to $10,000. This covers project management, coordinating trades, handling permits, solving problems, and ensuring everything finishes on time and on budget.

Total labor across all trades often equals or exceeds material costs. A $50,000 kitchen might split $25,000 materials and $25,000 labor.

Individual Trade Pricing: $85 to $200+ per hour

If you're acting as your own general contractor to save money, here's what individual trades charge:

• Licensed electricians: $85 to $120 per hour
• Licensed plumbers: $90 to $130 per hour
• Cabinet installers: $75 to $110 per hour
• Tile setters: $60 to $100 per hour
• Flooring installers: $50 to $85 per hour
• Painters: $45 to $75 per hour

Most trades also charge minimum service fees of $100 to $200 just to show up.

Why Experience Matters in Your Kitchen Remodel Project?

The cheapest labor often becomes the most expensive when work needs redoing. Licensed, insured professionals who know Madison's building codes and housing stock are worth their rates. 

With experienced installers, they work efficiently, solve problems creatively, and stand behind their work. They also carry proper insurance, so you're protected if something goes wrong.

Cost Breakdown by Major Kitchen Components

Understanding individual component costs helps you make smart decisions about where to invest and where to save. Let's break down each major element of your kitchen remodel.

Cabinetry Costs

Cabinets typically eat up 30 to 40 percent of your total budget, and for good reason. They define your kitchen's style, provide essential storage, and are used constantly.

Stock Cabinets: $3,000 to $8,000

Stock cabinets come in standard sizes from big-box stores. You get limited style options and basic construction, but costs stay low. Installation adds $1,500 to $3,000 to the total.

Stock cabinets work fine for rental properties or tight budgets. They're not as durable as custom options, and you can't adjust dimensions to fit your space perfectly.

Semi-Custom Cabinets: $8,000 to $20,000

This is where most Madison homeowners land. Semi-custom cabinets offer better construction quality, more style and finish options, some size customization, soft-close hardware, and better warranty coverage.

Installation runs $2,500 to $5,000. The total investment of $10,500 to $25,000 gets you cabinets that look custom without the full custom price tag.

Custom Cabinets: $20,000 to $40,000+

Madison has talented local cabinet makers who create stunning custom work. You get exact dimensions for your space, any style or finish you can imagine, premium construction, specialized storage solutions, and one-of-a-kind details.

Installation costs $3,000 to $6,000, bringing total cabinet investment to $23,000 to $46,000 or more. This makes sense for high-end renovations or unusual spaces that need custom solutions.

Cabinet Refacing: $4,000 to $9,000

If your cabinet boxes are solid but doors and drawer fronts look dated, refacing saves money. New doors and drawer fronts, updated hardware, and a fresh finish on existing boxes cost $4,000 to $9,000 installed.

Refacing works well when you're keeping the existing cabinet layout and want to update the look without full replacement costs.

Countertops Costs

Countertops make a huge visual impact while handling daily wear from cooking, spills, and hot pans. Madison homeowners have clear favorites.

Laminate Countertops: $1,500 to $3,500

Modern laminate looks much better than the old stuff from the 1990s. New patterns mimic stone convincingly, and costs stay budget-friendly at $25 to $50 per square foot installed. Laminate works for rental properties or homeowners planning to sell soon, but it doesn't add much value and can't handle hot pans or heavy impacts.

Quartz Countertops: $4,000 to $8,000

Quartz dominates Madison kitchens right now. It offers consistent patterns, zero maintenance, good stain resistance, and modern aesthetics. Expect to pay $60 to $120 per square foot installed. Most mid-range Madison remodels include quartz countertops because they balance cost, durability, and style perfectly.

Granite Countertops: $3,500 to $7,000

Natural granite brings unique patterns and proven durability. Costs run $50 to $100 per square foot installed. Each slab looks different, which some homeowners love, and others find challenging when trying to match their vision. Granite also needs periodic sealing, but handles heat and wear beautifully.

Butcher Block Countertops: $2,500 to $5,000

Wood countertops add warmth to Madison kitchens. They cost $40 to $75 per square foot installed and work beautifully for islands or smaller sections. They need more maintenance than stone but develop character over time. Many Madison homeowners mix materials, using butcher block on an island with quartz on perimeter counters.

Countertops Specialty Materials: $5,000 to $12,000+

Concrete, soapstone, and exotic stones start at $75 per square foot and climb quickly. These materials make statements in high-end kitchens but require specialized fabricators and installers.

Appliances vary wildly in price depending on features, finish, and performance level. Most homeowners buy packages to ensure consistent styling.

Budget Appliance Package: $3,900 to $5,200

A basic package includes a range, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave in white or black finishes. These appliances function well but lack advanced features. Budget packages work fine for rental properties or homeowners who don't cook much.

Mid-Range Appliance Package: $6,000 to $11,000

This sweet spot gets you stainless steel finishes, better energy efficiency ratings, useful features like convection ovens, quiet dishwashers, and reliable brand names. Most Madison remodels include mid-range appliances because they balance cost and quality effectively.

High-End Appliance Package: $20,000 to $50,000

Professional-grade appliances feature powerful burners, large capacity ovens, built-in coffee makers, smart connectivity, and stunning aesthetics. Luxury renovations justify these investments, especially for homeowners who love cooking.

Range Hood Ventilation: $500 to $2,500

Don't forget the range hood. Good ventilation costs $500 to $2,500, depending on whether you're ducting outside or using recirculating models. Proper ventilation protects your cabinets and air quality.

Energy Program Rebates

Wisconsin's Focus on Energy program offers rebates on qualifying appliances. Check current rebates before purchasing, because $50 to $200 per appliance adds up quickly across a full package.

Hardwood: $4,000 to $9,000

Hardwood flooring connects kitchens visually to adjacent living spaces in many Madison homes. Engineered hardwood handles moisture better than solid wood and costs $8 to $15 per square foot installed. Many homeowners match existing hardwood in other rooms, creating a seamless flow throughout the main level.

Luxury Vinyl Plank: $2,500 to $5,000

LVP technology has improved dramatically. Modern options look convincingly like wood, handle spills perfectly, and cost $4 to $8 per square foot installed. This budget-friendly option makes sense for families with kids or pets.

Tile: $3,000 to $7,000+

Ceramic or porcelain tile brings durability and style at $6 to $12 per square foot installed. Madison homeowners often choose neutral tiles that won't look dated in ten years. 

Radiant Floor Heating: $2,000 to $6,000+

Radiant heating under tile floors adds $8 to $15 per square foot but makes Wisconsin winters more comfortable.

Modern kitchens need more electrical capacity and better lighting than older homes provide. Many Madison homes built before 1990 need panel upgrades to handle current appliance loads.

Electrical Panel Upgrades: $1,500 to $3,000

If your panel dates back decades, upgrading to modern capacity costs $1,500 to $3,000. This isn't glamorous, but it's essential for safety and function. Older Madison neighborhoods near the Isthmus frequently need this upgrade.

Recessed Lighting: $150 to $300 per fixture

Recessed lights provide even, modern lighting. Most kitchens need six to ten fixtures at $150 to $300 each installed. LED bulbs last for years and use minimal electricity.

Pendant Lights: $200 to $800 each

Statement pendants over islands cost $200 to $800 per fixture plus installation. These add personality and focused task lighting where you prep food.

Under-Cabinet Lighting: $600 to $1,800

LED strips under cabinets illuminate countertops beautifully and cost $300 to $800 for a typical kitchen. This relatively small investment makes a big functional difference.

Smart Lighting: $500 to $1,500

Smart switches and dimmers let you control lighting from your phone and create different moods. The investment of $500 to $1,500 appeals to tech-forward Madison homeowners.

This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.

Plumbing costs vary dramatically based on whether you're keeping the existing layout or moving things around.

Keeping the Layout: $1,500 to $3,000

If sinks and dishwashers stay put, plumbing costs stay reasonable at $1,500 to $3,000 for new fixtures and connections.

Moving Plumbing Lines: $3,000 to $8,000+

Relocating sinks or adding island plumbing gets expensive quickly. Costs jump to $3,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on how far things move and what obstacles exist in walls and floors.

Sink Options: $200 to $4,500

Stainless steel undermount sinks cost $200 to $500. Farmhouse sinks run $400 to $1,000. Luxury composite sinks reach $800 to $1,500. Installation adds $200 to $400.

Faucets: $150 to $800

Quality faucets with pull-down sprayers cost $150 to $400 for mid-range options. High-end touchless models reach $500 to $800.

Water Filtration System: $800 to $8,000

Many Madison homeowners add under-sink filtration systems for $800 to $5,500 or whole-house systems for $2,500 to $8,000.

Backsplash Costs

Backsplashes protect walls from splashes while adding visual interest. They're one place where personal style really shows.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile: $800 to $2,500

Standard subway tile costs $15 to $30 per square foot installed. Classic white subway tile never goes out of style in Madison kitchens.

Natural Stone Backsplash: $1,200 to $3,500

Marble, travertine, or slate runs $25 to $50 per square foot installed and brings luxury aesthetics.

Glass Tile: $1,000 to $3,000

Glass creates shimmering effects at $20 to $40 per square foot installed. It works beautifully as an accent.

Paint and Finishing Touches Costs

Don't overlook these finishing elements that pull everything together.

Interior Painting: $800 to $2,000

Interior painting costs $2 to $6 per square foot in Madison. A typical kitchen runs $800 to $2,000 for walls and ceiling.

New Trims and Molding: $500 to $1,500

New trim and molding add $500 to $1,500. Crown molding creates a finished, custom look that elevates the entire space.

Window Treatments: $200 to $1,000

Window treatments range from $200 to $1,000, depending on style and window count.

Premium Kitchen Features & Upgrades Costs

Once you're remodeling anyway, certain upgrades add significant value or functionality. Not every upgrade makes sense for every kitchen, but these deserve consideration.

Structural Changes: $5,000 to $20,000+

Removing walls to create open floor plans costs $5,000 to $15,000, depending on whether they're load-bearing. Adding windows brings natural light for $800 to $2,500 per window installed.

Expanding your kitchen into an adjacent space gets expensive at $15,000 to $50,000+, but it might make sense if your kitchen feels cramped. Many older Madison homes near the Isthmus have closed-off kitchens that benefit from opening to dining or living areas.

Luxury Materials: Variable Costs

Exotic countertop materials, handmade tile, custom metalwork, and specialty finishes add costs but create truly custom spaces. These investments make sense in high-end renovations where every detail matters.

Smart Home Features: $1,000 to $5,000

Smart appliances, automated lighting, voice-controlled faucets, and integrated speakers appeal to tech-savvy Madison homeowners. Costs could range from $1,000 for basic smart features to $5,000+ for fully integrated systems.

Accessibility Features: $2,000 to $10,000

If you're planning to age in place, consider lower counters for wheelchair access, pull-out shelves in base cabinets, lever-style faucet handles, and toe-kick drawers for extra storage. These features cost $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the extent, but add significant long-term value.

Kitchen Remodeling Costs to Expect in Madison Neighborhoods

Your home's age and location affect remodeling complexity and costs. Understanding neighborhood patterns helps you plan appropriately.

Older Homes Near the Isthmus and West Side

Homes built before 1950 bring charm but also challenges. You'll likely encounter plaster walls instead of drywall, old wiring that needs updating, small kitchens by modern standards, and unknown issues hidden behind walls.

Budget an extra 10 to 20 percent for contingencies in older homes. That $50,000 remodel might need a $60,000 budget to handle surprises. Historical preservation considerations may apply in certain neighborhoods. You should also check with the Madison Landmarks Commission before making exterior changes to designated historic properties.

Newer Subdivisions on the Far West and East Sides

Homes built after 1990 typically have modern systems, larger kitchens, and fewer surprises. Remodels focus more on updating style than fixing problems. You might spend less on electrical and plumbing upgrades, allowing more budget for finishes and features you'll enjoy.

Condos and Townhomes

Condo and townhome remodels face unique challenges that affect costs and timelines. HOA requirements often dictate when work can happen, what changes you can make, noise restrictions, and approval processes. Review your HOA documents before planning major work.

Structural limitations mean you might not be able to remove walls or add windows without approval. Shared walls require extra care with noise and dust. Remodels in multi-unit buildings often cost 10 to 15 percent more than single-family homes because of restrictions and access challenges.

Smart Ways to Save Money on Your Madison Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen remodels don't have to break the bank. Strategic choices help you get the kitchen you want while protecting your budget.

Keep Your Existing Layout

This is paragraph text. Click it or hit the Manage Text button to change the font, color, size, format, and more. To set up site-wide paragraph and title styles, go to Site Theme.

Have Strategic Splurges and Saves

Invest more in elements you interact with daily, like countertops, faucets, and cabinet hardware. Save on hidden components that don't affect your daily experience. For example, splurge on beautiful quartz counters but choose mid-grade appliances. Or invest in custom uppers where people see them, but use stock base cabinets.

Mix Stock and Custom Elements

Combining stock cabinets with a few custom pieces gives you a custom look at semi-custom prices. Use stock cabinets for basic runs and save custom work for focal points like the island or display areas.

Phase Your Project Over Time

If your budget is tight, remodel in phases. Start with cabinets and countertops this year, then add new appliances next year. Phasing requires more planning to ensure everything coordinates, but it spreads costs over time.

Kitchen Remodel ROI in Madison Market

Kitchen remodels add real value to Madison homes. Understanding ROI helps you make smart investment decisions.

Average ROI for Kitchen Remodels in Madison

Nationally, kitchen remodels return 50 to 70 percent of their cost at resale. Madison's strong real estate market often performs better, especially in desirable neighborhoods. 

A $50,000 mid-range remodel might add $30,000 to $40,000 to your home's value. But the real value comes from enjoying your kitchen daily and selling faster when the time comes.

The most expensive kitchen in your neighborhood doesn't necessarily sell for top dollar. If surrounding homes sell for $350,000 to $400,000, investing $100,000 in your kitchen might not make financial sense.

Match your remodel to neighborhood standards. Save luxury upgrades for higher-end areas where buyers expect and pay for premium finishes.

Madison buyers prioritize updated appliances in stainless steel, quartz or granite countertops, quality cabinets in good condition, functional layouts, and good lighting. They care less about ultra-high-end finishes in middle-market neighborhoods. Match your investment to your neighborhood's price range.

Homes with updated kitchens sell faster and for higher prices than comparable homes with outdated kitchens. Even if you don't recover full remodel costs, you'll likely sell quicker and negotiate from a stronger position.

In Madison's competitive market, an updated kitchen can mean multiple offers and sale prices above asking.

Planning and Financing Your Home Improvement Budget

Creating a realistic budget prevents stress and helps your project succeed. Follow these guidelines to plan effectively.

Build in Contingency Funds

Always have a bigger budget, add 10 to 20 percent extra for unexpected issues. On a $50,000 remodel, keep $5,000 to $10,000 available for surprises. Older Madison homes need the full 20 percent buffer, and newer homes might get by with 10 percent. Unexpected costs could also include hidden water damage, outdated wiring, structural issues, or discontinued materials that need alternatives.

Prioritize Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

List everything you want, then separate needs from wants. Maybe you need more cabinet storage, but want a farmhouse sink. If the budget gets tight, the storage takes priority. This exercise helps you make decisions when facing trade-offs during the project.

Ask Your Madison Contractors Important Questions

Before hiring anyone, verify their credentials and experience with these questions:

Watch Out for Red Flags

Avoid contractors who pressure you to decide immediately, won't provide written estimates, can't provide insurance documentation, want full payment upfront, or have no local references. Trust your instincts. If something feels off, keep looking.

Know Typical Project Timelines

Cosmetic updates take two to four weeks. Mid-range remodels need six to ten weeks. Major renovations require eight to fourteen weeks or more. Design and planning add another four to eight weeks before construction starts.

Try to Live Through a Remodel

Most families create temporary kitchens during remodels. Set up a microwave, mini fridge, and coffee maker in another room. Use paper plates to minimize cleanup. Plan easy meals or an overall budget for eating out more than usual. The inconvenience is temporary, but planning ahead reduces stress.

Let Bella Domicile Make Your Kitchen Vision Real

Your dream kitchen is closer than you think. And if you're planning a modest update or a complete transformation, understanding costs and options puts you in control of the process.

With proper planning, realistic budgeting, and the right team, you'll have a cooking space that works for you and your family. At Bella Domicile, we're here to make your kitchen remodel smooth and successful.

We provide transparent pricing, honest guidance about what works in Madison homes, and industry experts who deliver quality results. Let's talk about your vision, your budget, and how we can make it happen.

Schedule your showroom appointment with Bella Domicile today!