A kitchen renovation in London, Ontario in 2026 typically costs $25,000–$65,000 for a mid-range remodel. Budget refreshes start around $13,500, while high-end custom kitchens run $67,500 and up. On average, London homeowners spend about $31,500. Cabinets, countertops, and labour are the biggest cost drivers. In short, the more you change the layout, the more you spend.
Table of Contents
- Quick answer: 2026 kitchen costs
- Why kitchen prices matter in London right now
- Kitchen renovation cost by tier
- Cost by kitchen size
- Line-item cost breakdown
- What drives your kitchen renovation cost
- Do you need a permit? London rules
- Rebates, financing, and HST
- Kitchen renovation ROI in London
- Frequently asked questions
- Get a free kitchen renovation estimate
Quick answer: 2026 kitchen costs
Most London homeowners want one number first. However, kitchens vary a lot. So here is the short version. A basic refresh starts near $13,500. A mid-range remodel usually lands between $25,000 and $65,000. A high-end custom kitchen runs $67,500 or more. On average, expect around $31,500. Below, we break down every tier, size, and line item. As a result, you can build a realistic budget before you call a contractor.
Why kitchen prices matter in London right now
In mid-2026, the average London-area home costs around $662,000 (data from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”}). As a result, many homeowners are choosing to renovate instead of relocate. After all, moving costs are high in this market. Land transfer tax, agent fees, and moving expenses add up fast. So a kitchen renovation often makes more sense than a move. Moreover, the kitchen is the room buyers judge first. In our recent projects across London, it is also the upgrade homeowners enjoy most day to day.
Local pricing helps, too. In fact, London kitchen costs tend to run slightly below the national average. This is due to local labour rates and material supply. Still, prices have climbed in recent years. Therefore, an accurate 2026 budget matters more than ever.
Kitchen renovation cost by tier
First, decide which tier fits your goals. Each one changes the scope, the materials, and the final price.
| Tier | Typical cost (London, ON) | What’s usually included |
|---|---|---|
| Budget refresh | $13,500 – $25,000 | Repaint or reface cabinets, new countertops, updated hardware, new sink and faucet, minor lighting |
| Mid-range remodel | $25,000 – $65,000 | New cabinets, quartz countertops, new flooring, mid-grade appliances, updated lighting and plumbing fixtures |
| High-end custom | $67,500+ | Custom cabinetry, premium stone, high-end appliances, layout changes, custom island, designer finishes |
Most London homeowners choose a mid-range remodel. In short, it delivers the biggest visual change for the money. Meanwhile, a budget refresh suits landlords and quick pre-sale updates. A high-end build, on the other hand, suits forever homes and major layout changes.
Cost by kitchen size
Size is a major price factor. Simply put, more cabinets and more counter space cost more. The table below shows typical mid-range ranges by kitchen size.
| Kitchen size | Approx. area | Typical mid-range cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small (galley or one-wall) | Up to 70 sq ft | $18,000 – $35,000 |
| Medium (standard 10′ x 12′) | ~120 sq ft | $30,000 – $55,000 |
| Large (open-concept or eat-in) | 175+ sq ft | $55,000 – $90,000+ |
These are estimates from regional cost guides. Your final price will depend on materials and layout. For example, a small kitchen with custom cabinets can cost more than a large kitchen with stock ones.
Line-item cost breakdown
Next, here is where the money actually goes. The percentages below reflect a typical mid-range London kitchen. Use them as a planning guide, not an exact quote.
| Work item | Typical share of budget | Estimated cost range (mid-range) |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinetry | 25–35% | $8,000 – $22,000 |
| Countertops (quartz/granite) | 10–15% | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Labour & installation | 20–30% | $6,000 – $18,000 |
| Appliances | 10–15% | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Flooring | 7–10% | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Plumbing & electrical | 8–12% | $2,500 – $7,000 |
| Paint, lighting & hardware | 5–8% | $1,500 – $4,000 |
As you can see, cabinets and countertops together take up nearly half the budget. Therefore, they are the best place to control costs. In fact, choosing stock or semi-custom cabinets instead of custom can save thousands.
What drives your kitchen renovation cost
Several factors move the final number up or down. Above all, layout changes matter most. Moving plumbing, gas, or walls adds cost quickly. In addition, material quality plays a big role. For example, custom cabinets and premium stone cost far more than stock options.
Other drivers include the following: kitchen size, appliance grade, and the condition of the existing space. Older London homes often hide surprises behind the walls. The most common surprise we find behind older cabinets is outdated wiring or plumbing that needs an update. As a result, we always recommend a small contingency. Generally, 10–15% is a safe cushion.
Do you need a permit? London rules
Not every kitchen renovation needs a permit. However, many do. In general, you need a City of London building permit{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”} when you change the structure or move walls. Likewise, electrical work must meet Ontario code and often needs an Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) notification. Plumbing changes may also require a permit.
On the other hand, a like-for-like cosmetic refresh usually does not. For example, swapping cabinets in the same layout rarely needs a permit. Still, rules change and every home is different. So always confirm with the City before you start. At Power House Construction, we handle the permit process for you as part of the project.
Rebates, financing, and HST
Good news: some parts of a kitchen project may qualify for rebates. The Home Renovation Savings Program{:target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”} offers rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. These include windows, insulation, and smart thermostats. As of 2026, the program is funded through November 30, 2026. However, it can change at any time. So check the official site for current amounts and rules.
Keep in mind that rebates apply to energy upgrades, not cabinets or countertops. Also remember HST. In Ontario, the 13% tax applies to most renovation labour and materials. Therefore, build it into your budget from the start. Finally, many homeowners finance larger kitchens through a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a renovation loan.
Kitchen renovation ROI in London
A kitchen renovation is more than a nice-to-have. In fact, it is one of the strongest investments you can make in your home. Canadian appraisal guidance regularly ranks kitchens among the highest-return renovations. As a result, a well-planned mid-range kitchen often recovers a large share of its cost at resale.
| Kitchen project | Typical resale impact |
|---|---|
| Budget refresh | High return relative to cost; strong for quick sales |
| Mid-range remodel | Best overall balance of enjoyment and resale value |
| High-end custom | Great for livability; returns depend on neighbourhood ceiling |
That said, ROI depends on your home and area. For example, an ultra-luxury kitchen in a modest neighbourhood may not fully pay back. So match your budget to your home’s value. When in doubt, a mid-range remodel is the safest bet.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a kitchen renovation cost in London, Ontario in 2026?
Most kitchen renovations in London cost between $25,000 and $65,000 for a mid-range remodel. Budget refreshes start near $13,500. High-end custom kitchens run $67,500 or more. On average, homeowners spend about $31,500.
What is the biggest cost in a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets are usually the biggest single cost. Together with countertops, they often make up nearly half the budget. As a result, cabinet choice is the best place to control your total price. Stock and semi-custom options save the most.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
Most kitchen renovations take 4 to 8 weeks. However, the timeline depends on scope. For example, layout changes and custom cabinets add time. Material lead times also matter. A simple refresh can finish faster.
Do I need a permit to renovate my kitchen in London?
You need a permit for structural changes, moving walls, or altering plumbing and electrical layouts. In contrast, a cosmetic refresh in the same layout usually does not. Always confirm with the City of London before starting.
Is a kitchen renovation worth it for resale?
Often, yes. Kitchens are consistently ranked among the top renovations for resale value in Canada. A mid-range remodel usually offers the best balance. Still, avoid over-building for your neighbourhood.
How can I save money on a kitchen renovation?
First, keep the existing layout to avoid moving plumbing and electrical. Next, choose stock or semi-custom cabinets. Also, mix a few premium touches with budget-friendly materials. Finally, plan ahead to avoid costly mid-project changes.
Get a free kitchen renovation estimate
In short, a 2026 kitchen renovation in London, Ontario usually costs $25,000–$65,000, with cabinets and countertops driving most of the budget. So are you ready to make your dream kitchen a reality? Power House Construction specializes in kitchen, main floor, and full-home renovations across London and Southwestern Ontario. Contact us today for a free estimate.
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