If you are planning kitchen remodeling in Dallas, Texas, understanding what drives cost will help you set a realistic budget, prioritize upgrades, and avoid unpleasant surprises. Dallas homes range from historic bungalows in East Dallas to new builds in North Dallas and Plano-adjacent suburbs, and each home type, layout, and condition will affect the final price tag. Below is a clear breakdown of typical cost ranges, what influences them, and how to stretch every dollar while keeping quality high.

What most Dallas homeowners spend

• Basic refresh: $15,000 to $35,000. Focus on cosmetic updates like paint, stock cabinets, laminate or entry-level stone countertops, a new sink and faucet, and lighting swaps. Typically no structural changes.
• Mid-range kitchen remodeling: $35,000 to $75,000. Includes semi-custom cabinets, quartz or granite countertops, new appliances, updated flooring, improved lighting, tile backsplash, and some layout tweaks.
• High-end or full gut renovation: $75,000 to $150,000+ depending on size. Custom cabinetry, premium appliances, quartzite or high-end quartz, wide-plank hardwood or large-format tile, professional ventilation, layout reconfiguration, and luxury finishes.

Cost per square foot in Dallas often runs $200 to $400+ depending on scope and finish level. Labor availability and material selections are major variables in North Texas markets, where demand for skilled trades can be strong during peak seasons.

Key cost drivers

1. Scope of work and layout changes: Keeping your existing footprint and major utilities in place generally lowers costs. Moving a sink, adding a gas line for a range, or re-framing for a wider opening to the living area will add plumbing, electrical, structural, and drywall costs.
2. Cabinets: This is often the single largest line item in kitchen remodeling. Ranges you might see in Dallas:
   • Refacing existing boxes with new doors and veneers: $6,000 to $15,000.
   • Stock or ready-to-assemble: $4,000 to $12,000 installed for smaller kitchens.
   • Semi-custom: $10,000 to $25,000+.
   • Custom: $20,000 to $50,000+ depending on size, wood species, and interior accessories.
3. Countertops: Material and thickness matter. Typical installed ranges:
   • Laminate: $20 to $45 per sq. ft.
   • Butcher block: $40 to $100 per sq. ft.
   • Solid surface (like Corian): $50 to $90 per sq. ft.
   • Granite: $50 to $120 per sq. ft.
   • Quartz: $60 to $140 per sq. ft.
   • Quartzite or marble: $70 to $180 per sq. ft.
4. Appliances: Packages vary widely. A reliable mid-range set may run $4,000 to $9,000, while professional-style appliances can exceed $15,000 to $25,000.
5. Flooring: Luxury vinyl plank is popular in Dallas for durability and price ($3 to $8 per sq. ft. installed). Porcelain tile may range $8 to $20+ per sq. ft. Hardwood or engineered hardwood can vary from $8 to $18+ per sq. ft.
6. Electrical and lighting: Plan $2,000 to $8,000 for new circuits, dedicated outlets for code compliance, under-cabinet lighting, recessed cans, pendants, and dimmers.
7. Plumbing and fixtures: Expect $1,500 to $6,000 for a sink, faucet, garbage disposal, valves, and any relocated lines. Gas line work adds cost.
8. Ventilation: Proper venting is critical in Texas for comfort and indoor air quality. A quality hood and venting may cost $800 to $3,500+ installed.
9. Backsplash and tile work: $800 to $3,000+ depending on material and pattern complexity.
10. Permits, inspections, and design: Dallas permits for kitchen remodeling vary by scope, but budget $300 to $2,000+ when structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical work is involved. Design and drafting services may cost 5% to 12% of project value.

Hidden or often overlooked costs

• Demolition and disposal: $800 to $3,000 depending on size and materials being removed.
• Drywall, insulation, and paint: $1,000 to $4,000.
• Structural work: If you are opening walls, plan for engineering and framing costs.
• Sales tax and delivery: In the Dallas area, taxes and freight on materials can add up. Factor these into your budget.
• Contingency: Reserve 10% to 20% for surprises such as outdated wiring, undersized ducting, or subfloor issues.

How to control costs without compromising quality

• Prioritize function over fashion: Invest first in layout, storage, ventilation, and lighting. Trendy finishes can be changed later.
• Choose semi-custom cabinets strategically: Pair a standard box with upgrades like full-extension soft-close drawers, pull-outs, and tray dividers where it matters most.
• Mix materials: Use a premium material like quartz on the island and a more budget-friendly option on the perimeter.
• Simplify the backsplash: A classic subway tile often costs less and looks timeless in Dallas homes.
• Reuse where smart: If your existing appliances are recent, keep them and reallocate funds to cabinets or counters.
• Order early: Supply chain delays can cause costly downtime. Lock in lead times for cabinets, appliances, and specialty items.

Permits and codes in Dallas, Texas

For kitchen remodeling involving electrical, plumbing, mechanical, or structural changes, permits and inspections are typically required through Dallas Development Services. Simple cosmetic updates usually do not require permits. Licensed trades are required for certain scopes. Plan for permit review timelines and inspection scheduling in your overall duration and budget.

Energy efficiency and comfort in North Texas

Dallas summers are hot, so plan for proper insulation behind new walls, high-CFM range ventilation vented to the exterior, and efficient LED lighting. Consider Energy Star appliances and induction cooktops for lower heat output. Efficient choices can improve comfort and potentially lower utility bills.

Sample budget scenarios

• Small galley refresh in an older Dallas home: paint, LVP flooring, refaced cabinets, laminate counters, mid-range faucet, updated lighting, and a new dishwasher might land near $20,000 to $30,000.
• Typical suburban mid-range kitchen: semi-custom cabinets, quartz countertops, subway backsplash, new LVP or tile, mid-tier appliance package, updated lighting, and minor layout tweaks could run $45,000 to $70,000.
• High-end open-concept conversion: remove a non-load-bearing wall, custom cabinets to 9 feet, quartzite island, paneled fridge, professional range and hood, large-format tile, layered lighting, and statement fixtures might range from $95,000 to $160,000+ depending on selections.

Financing and payment schedules

Discuss payment milestones with your Dallas contractor, tied to deliverables like cabinet delivery or stone installation. Some owners use home equity lines, renovation loans, or builder financing. Always confirm interest rates, fees, and draw schedules before starting.

Choosing the right partner

Select a kitchen remodeling contractor with Dallas references, a clear scope, line-item estimates, and a transparent change-order policy. Verify insurance and licenses for trades. A well-managed project reduces delays and cost overruns.

Bottom line

Kitchen remodeling in Dallas, Texas spans a wide cost range based on scope, finish level, and the home itself. Build a detailed scope, price multiple options, plan a contingency, and partner with an experienced local team. With careful planning, you can create a beautiful, functional kitchen that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.

Kitchen Remodeling Resource