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A kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to increase your home’s value, boost functionality, and fall in love with your space all over again. But if you’re a homeowner in San Diego County, you’re probably wondering: How much will it actually cost?
Whether you live in Encinitas, San Marcos, Escondido, or anywhere in between, here’s what you need to know about kitchen remodel costs in 2025.
In 2025, the average kitchen remodel in San Diego County costs between $25,000 and $85,000, depending on your project’s size, scope, and finishes.
Minor Remodels: Typically range from $20,000 to $35,000. These might include cabinet refacing, new countertops, updated lighting, and cosmetic upgrades.
Mid-Range Remodels: Expect to pay $35,000 to $55,000 for more substantial updates like new cabinets, upgraded appliances, new flooring, and layout tweaks.
High-End Remodels: Large-scale renovations with custom features can cost $60,000 to $100,000+, especially with luxury appliances, stone countertops, custom cabinetry, and major layout changes.
Larger kitchens typically require more materials, longer labor hours, and higher costs overall.
If you're moving plumbing, gas lines, or knocking down walls to open up space, expect to spend more due to the added complexity and permitting.
Countertops: Quartz, granite, or butcher block?
Cabinetry: Custom vs. semi-custom vs. stock
Flooring: Tile, hardwood, or luxury vinyl?
Higher-end finishes raise the total investment but can also boost your home's resale value.
Stainless steel or smart appliances can easily add $5,000–$15,000+ depending on brand and features.
Labor in San Diego is among the highest in California, often making up 30–40% of your total remodel cost. Permit costs vary by city but typically range from $500 to $3,000+.
Kitchen remodel costs can also vary by location due to labor availability, permitting fees, and market trends in your area. Here’s a breakdown of average mid-range remodel costs in a few cities:
Encinitas: $40,000 to $60,000
San Marcos: $35,000 to $55,000
Escondido: $30,000 to $50,000
Carlsbad: $45,000 to $70,000
Where you live in San Diego County can make a noticeable difference in what you’ll spend, especially when it comes to permits, finishes, and labor costs.
Stick with your current layout to avoid costly plumbing and electrical changes.
Consider semi-custom cabinets instead of fully custom builds.
Refinish or repaint existing cabinets if they’re in good condition.
Choose durable but budget-friendly materials like quartz or luxury vinyl.
Work with a local design-build firm like Cali Dream Construction for bundled services and streamlined costs.
At Cali Dream Construction, we’ve helped homeowners across San Diego County create stunning, functional kitchens tailored to their needs and budgets. Our team offers:
Transparent pricing
Custom design consultations
Permit assistance
Full project management from start to finish
Contact us today for a free estimate on your 2025 kitchen remodel. Whether you’re looking for a full transformation or a simple refresh, we’ll help bring your vision to life!