2026 Pricing Guide
Kitchen Costs UK 2026
From budget refits to premium bespoke kitchens — see what UK homeowners are really paying, and get an instant estimate for your project.
A new kitchen is one of the most valuable home improvements you can make, typically returning 60–80% of its cost in added property value. In 2026, UK kitchen installation costs range from £4,500 for a small budget refresh up to £25,000+ for a premium bespoke fit-out. The final price depends on kitchen size, cabinet quality, worktop material, appliance package, and whether you're keeping the existing layout or moving plumbing and electrics.
Kitchen Prices
How Much Does Each Kitchen Option Cost?
Prices below are indicative 2026 UK market rates and include labour and materials. Use our calculator for a personalised estimate.
Small Budget Kitchen (up to 10 units)
£4,500 – £6,500
Off-the-shelf cabinets, laminate worktops, basic appliances. Keep existing layout.
Standard Medium Kitchen (11–20 units)
£7,500 – £11,000
Mid-range cabinets, composite or stone worktops, integrated appliances, new sink and tap.
Large Premium Kitchen (20+ units)
£13,000 – £20,000
Bespoke or hand-painted cabinets, quartz/granite worktops, premium appliances, island.
Full Refurbishment (strip-out & refit)
£10,000 – £28,000
Removal of old kitchen, plastering, flooring, new electrics and plumbing, then full refit.
Appliance Package (full)
£2,000 – £4,000
Oven, hob, extractor, fridge-freezer, dishwasher, microwave. Premium brands push higher.
Worktop Upgrades
£800 – £4,500
Laminate £800–£1,500; solid wood £1,500–£2,500; quartz or granite £2,500–£4,500.
* All prices are estimates. A site survey is required for an accurate quote. Use our calculator for a personalised estimate.
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The Kitchen Process Step by Step
Design & Layout
Work out your layout, cabinet run and appliance positions. A kitchen designer can help maximise storage and workflow.
Order Materials
Cabinets, worktops, appliances and fittings. Lead times range from 2–8 weeks depending on bespoke vs. off-the-shelf.
Strip-Out
Remove the old kitchen, dispose of waste, and expose walls/flooring for any remedial work.
First Fix
New electrics (sockets, lighting, cooker circuit), plumbing (sink, dishwasher, water supply) and any plastering/flooring.
Fit-Out & Finish
Install cabinets, worktops, sink, appliances, tiles and splashbacks. Final connections and snagging.
Common Mistakes
4 Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring the Existing Layout
Moving plumbing and electrics to relocate the sink or cooker can add £1,500–£3,000. Keeping the existing layout is the single biggest cost saver.
Skimping on Worktops
Worktops take daily abuse. Laminate is cheap but chips; quartz and granite cost more but last decades and look premium. Match the worktop to your kitchen's lifespan.
Not Allowing for Hidden Costs
Plastering, flooring, waste removal, new electrics and plumbing modifications are often missed in initial quotes. Budget an extra 15–20% for contingencies.
Choosing Style Over Function
Trendy handleless doors and dark cabinets date quickly and show every fingerprint. Neutral shaker or flat-panel doors in light tones sell better and stay timeless.
FAQs
Kitchen Cost FAQs
How much does a new kitchen cost in the UK in 2026?
A new kitchen in the UK costs between £4,500 and £25,000+ in 2026. A standard medium kitchen (11–20 units) typically costs £7,500–£11,000 including fitting. Premium bespoke kitchens with stone worktops and high-end appliances start from £13,000.
How long does a kitchen fitting take?
A straightforward kitchen replacement takes 1–2 weeks. A full strip-out and refit with new electrics, plumbing, plastering and flooring takes 3–5 weeks. Bespoke kitchens with made-to-measure cabinetry can take 6–8 weeks plus lead time for manufacturing.
Does a new kitchen add value to my home?
Yes. A well-fitted kitchen typically adds 5–10% to your property value and recoups 60–80% of its cost. Kitchens and bathrooms are the rooms buyers scrutinise most, so a modern, neutral kitchen is a strong selling point.
Do I need planning permission for a new kitchen?
No. Kitchen replacements don't require planning permission. If you're moving gas, electrics or plumbing you'll need a qualified, certified tradesperson. Any electrical work must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations.
What's the most expensive part of a new kitchen?
Cabinetry and worktops are the biggest costs, followed by appliances. Quartz and granite worktops can cost £2,500–£4,500 alone. Moving the layout (relocating sink, cooker or windows) significantly increases plumbing and electrical costs.
Should I buy a kitchen from a DIY shed or a specialist fitter?
DIY sheds offer competitive package prices but fitting quality varies. A specialist kitchen fitter charges more but delivers a neater, more durable result with better joinery, plinths and finishing. Always check reviews and ask for references.
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