How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost in Washington DC? (2026 Guide)

A kitchen remodel in Washington DC costs between $40,000 and $200,000 or more in 2026, depending on the scope of work, material selections, and whether your project involves structural changes. Minor cosmetic refreshes in DC typically run $40,000 to $60,000, mid-range gut renovations land between $75,000 and $120,000, and high-end custom kitchens in neighborhoods like Georgetown, Kalorama, and Capitol Hill can exceed $200,000. These figures reflect the DC metro premium — expect to pay 15 to 20 percent more than national averages due to higher labor costs, strict permitting requirements, and the unique challenges of working in DC's historic rowhouse stock.

At BBCDC Construction, we have completed kitchen renovations across every quadrant of Washington DC — from Columbia Heights rowhouses to Capitol Hill townhomes to new construction in Petworth. This guide draws on real project data and current subcontractor pricing to give you an honest picture of what your kitchen remodel will actually cost.

Kitchen Remodel Cost by Project Scope

Every kitchen project is different, but most fall into one of three general categories. Here is what DC homeowners can expect to spend in 2026.

Minor Kitchen Remodel: $40,000 to $60,000

A minor kitchen remodel keeps the existing layout intact. You are not moving plumbing or electrical — you are refreshing the space. This typically includes new cabinet fronts or refacing, updated countertops, new backsplash tile, replacement appliances, fresh paint, and updated lighting fixtures. In DC, a minor remodel in a standard 100 to 150 square foot kitchen runs about $250 to $400 per square foot. This scope is popular with homeowners in Brightwood, Brookland, and Takoma DC who want a modern kitchen without the disruption of a full gut renovation.

Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel: $75,000 to $120,000

A mid-range remodel is where most DC homeowners land. This scope involves removing existing cabinets, countertops, flooring, and fixtures down to the studs — then rebuilding with all-new finishes. Common upgrades include custom or semi-custom cabinetry, quartz or granite countertops, hardwood or luxury vinyl plank flooring, new plumbing fixtures and supply lines, updated electrical panel and circuits, recessed lighting and under-cabinet LEDs, and new appliance package including a vented range hood. For rowhouses in neighborhoods like Columbia Heights, Petworth, and Bloomingdale, mid-range kitchen renovations often include opening up walls between the kitchen and dining area — which can add $8,000 to $15,000 for structural beam work and related engineering.

High-End Kitchen Remodel: $150,000 to $250,000+

High-end kitchen projects in DC involve premium materials, custom millwork, and often significant structural modifications. Think custom inset cabinetry with soft-close hardware, natural stone countertops like marble or quartzite, professional-grade appliance suites from brands like Wolf, Sub-Zero, or Thermador, custom tile work with intricate patterns, integrated smart home systems, and structural changes such as removing load-bearing walls or adding windows. In historic neighborhoods like Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Capitol Hill, high-end kitchen remodels frequently require coordination with the Historic Preservation Office, which adds both time and cost to the project. Expect to invest $500 to $800 or more per square foot at this level.

Where Your Kitchen Remodel Budget Goes: Line Item Breakdown

Understanding where your money goes helps you make informed trade-offs. Here is how a typical DC kitchen remodel budget breaks down.

Cabinetry and Hardware: 30 to 35 percent of budget. Cabinets are consistently the largest single expense. Stock cabinets from big-box stores start around $8,000 to $12,000 for a standard kitchen. Semi-custom options run $15,000 to $30,000. Fully custom cabinetry from a local millwork shop can exceed $50,000.

Countertops: 10 to 15 percent of budget. Quartz remains the most popular countertop material in DC kitchens, typically costing $60 to $120 per square foot installed. Granite runs $50 to $100 per square foot. Natural marble and quartzite range from $100 to $200 or more per square foot.

Appliances: 10 to 15 percent of budget. A mid-range appliance package including refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave, and range hood typically costs $5,000 to $12,000. Professional-grade packages run $20,000 to $40,000 or higher.

Flooring: 5 to 10 percent of budget. Hardwood flooring refinishing costs $4 to $8 per square foot in DC. New hardwood installation runs $10 to $18 per square foot. Luxury vinyl plank is a popular alternative at $6 to $12 per square foot installed.

Plumbing: 5 to 10 percent of budget. Replacing supply lines and drain pipes in a DC rowhouse kitchen typically costs $3,000 to $8,000. Moving a sink or adding a second prep sink adds $1,500 to $4,000.

Electrical: 5 to 8 percent of budget. Most DC kitchen remodels require electrical upgrades to meet current code. Adding dedicated circuits for appliances, installing GFCI outlets, and upgrading to LED recessed lighting typically costs $3,000 to $7,000.

Labor: 25 to 35 percent of total project cost. Skilled labor is the backbone of any renovation, and DC rates reflect the high demand for experienced tradespeople. General contractor fees, demolition, framing, drywall, painting, and project management typically account for a quarter to a third of your total investment.

DC-Specific Costs You Need to Know

Remodeling a kitchen in Washington DC is not the same as remodeling in the suburbs. Several factors drive costs higher in the District.

Permits and Inspections

The DC Department of Buildings requires permits for most kitchen renovations that involve electrical, plumbing, or structural work. A standard residential alteration permit costs approximately $1,200 to $1,800. Plan review typically takes 10 to 30 business days, though expedited review is available for an additional fee. You will also need to schedule inspections for rough-in plumbing, rough-in electrical, and final sign-off — each coordinated through the DC permitting portal. Your general contractor should handle all permit applications and inspection scheduling as part of their scope.

Rowhouse and Historic Considerations

Many DC kitchens sit inside rowhouses built between 1890 and 1940. These homes present unique challenges that affect cost. Old plumbing stacks may need to be replaced entirely. Knob-and-tube or cloth wiring often requires a full electrical rewire. Plaster walls may contain lead paint, requiring EPA-certified lead-safe work practices. Floor joists may need sistering or reinforcement before supporting heavy stone countertops. If your rowhouse is in a historic district — and large portions of Capitol Hill, Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, and U Street are designated historic — exterior changes visible from public space require Historic Preservation Review Board approval. Interior renovations are typically exempt from historic review, but always confirm with your contractor before starting work.

The DC Labor Premium

Washington DC has some of the highest construction labor costs in the country. Skilled carpenters, electricians, and plumbers in the DC metro area command rates 15 to 25 percent above the national average. This is driven by high demand, licensing requirements specific to the District, and the cost of operating a business in the metro area. When comparing quotes, be wary of bids that seem dramatically lower than others — they may reflect unlicensed labor, lack of proper insurance, or cut corners on materials.

How Long Does a Kitchen Remodel Take in DC?

Timeline varies by scope, but here are realistic expectations for DC kitchen projects. A minor cosmetic refresh typically takes 3 to 5 weeks. A mid-range gut renovation runs 8 to 14 weeks. A high-end custom kitchen with structural work takes 16 to 24 weeks or more. Add 2 to 6 weeks on the front end for design, material selections, and permit approval. Rowhouse projects sometimes take longer due to unexpected conditions behind walls — old framing, outdated wiring, or plumbing that does not meet current code. A good contractor builds contingency time into the schedule and communicates proactively when timelines shift.

Return on Investment: Is a Kitchen Remodel Worth It in DC?

Kitchen remodels consistently rank among the highest-ROI home improvement projects, and the DC market amplifies that return. According to Remodeling Magazine's annual Cost vs. Value report, a minor midrange kitchen remodel in the South Atlantic region recoups approximately 85 to 96 percent of its cost at resale. A major midrange kitchen remodel returns roughly 50 to 60 percent. However, in DC's competitive real estate market — where median home prices exceed $600,000 — an updated kitchen can be the deciding factor for buyers choosing between similar rowhouses. Beyond resale value, a renovated kitchen improves your daily quality of life, reduces energy costs with modern appliances, and eliminates maintenance headaches from aging systems.

How to Budget for Your DC Kitchen Remodel

Start with a realistic number. A common guideline is to budget 5 to 15 percent of your home's current value for a kitchen remodel. For a DC home valued at $700,000, that puts the kitchen budget at $35,000 to $105,000. Always include a contingency reserve of 10 to 20 percent of your total budget. In DC rowhouses, surprises behind walls — corroded plumbing, aluminum wiring, insufficient structural support — are common in older homes. Your contingency fund absorbs these costs without derailing the project. Get at least three detailed written estimates from licensed DC general contractors. Compare them line by line, not just bottom-line numbers. The cheapest bid is rarely the best value — look for transparency, clear scope definitions, realistic timelines, and verifiable references from past clients in your neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a basic kitchen remodel cost in Washington DC?

A basic or minor kitchen remodel in Washington DC costs $40,000 to $60,000 in 2026. This includes cosmetic updates like new cabinet fronts, countertops, backsplash, appliances, and paint while keeping the existing kitchen layout and plumbing in place.

How much does a gut kitchen renovation cost in DC?

A complete gut kitchen renovation in DC costs $75,000 to $120,000 for a mid-range project and $150,000 to $250,000 or more for a high-end project. Gut renovations strip the kitchen to the studs and rebuild with all-new plumbing, electrical, finishes, and often a reconfigured layout.

Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen in DC?

Yes. The DC Department of Buildings requires permits for kitchen renovations that involve electrical work, plumbing changes, or structural modifications. A standard residential alteration permit costs approximately $1,200 to $1,800. Your general contractor should handle the permit application and all required inspections.

How long does a kitchen remodel take in Washington DC?

A minor kitchen remodel takes 3 to 5 weeks. A mid-range gut renovation takes 8 to 14 weeks. A high-end custom kitchen takes 16 to 24 weeks or more. Add 2 to 6 weeks for design, selections, and permit approval before construction starts.

Why are kitchen remodels more expensive in DC than the national average?

Kitchen remodels in Washington DC cost 15 to 20 percent more than the national average due to higher skilled labor rates, strict DC permitting and inspection requirements, the challenges of working in older rowhouse construction, and higher material delivery costs in an urban environment.

What is the best ROI kitchen upgrade in DC?

A minor midrange kitchen remodel delivers the best return on investment in DC, recouping 85 to 96 percent of its cost at resale. Focus on high-impact visual upgrades like new cabinet fronts, quartz countertops, modern backsplash tile, and updated appliances for maximum return.

Ready to Start Your DC Kitchen Remodel?

BBCDC Construction is a full-service general contractor based in Washington DC. We specialize in building-science-backed kitchen renovations, rowhouse gut remodels, and new construction across the District and surrounding Maryland communities. Our team is EPA Lead RRP certified, holds DBE, CBE, SBE, and LBE certifications, and maintains a 5-star rating across 47 Google reviews.

Whether you are planning a cosmetic refresh in Brightwood or a full gut renovation in Capitol Hill, we would love to talk about your project. Contact us at (202) 350-0344 or email projectsupport@bbcbuildsdc.com to schedule a consultation.