How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in Melbourne?

A kitchen renovation is one of the biggest investments homeowners can make in their property.

For many Melbourne homeowners, the kitchen is not just where meals are prepared. It is where families gather, conversations happen, and daily routines often begin and end.

Because of that, renovating a kitchen is rarely just about making it look newer. It is about improving how the space works, how it feels, how much storage it provides, and how well it supports everyday living.

One of the first questions homeowners usually ask is how much a kitchen renovation will cost. The answer depends on the size of the kitchen, the scope of work, the quality of materials, and whether the renovation involves layout changes or structural work.

Average Kitchen Renovation Costs in Melbourne

As a general guide, full kitchen renovations in Melbourne often fall within the following ranges:

• Basic Full Kitchen Renovation: $30,000 to $45,000

• Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation: $50,000 to $65,000

• Premium Kitchen Renovation: $70,000 to $100,000+

The final cost will depend on several factors, including:

• Kitchen Size

• Layout Changes

• Cabinetry

• Benchtops

• Appliances

• Plumbing

• Electrical Work

• Flooring

• Splashback

• Labour & Installation Requirements

A more straightforward renovation that keeps the existing layout may sit closer to the lower end of the range. A larger kitchen with custom cabinetry, premium appliances, engineered stone, feature lighting, and structural changes will naturally sit higher.

It is also worth remembering that kitchen renovations involve many moving parts. Cabinetry, trades, finishes, appliances, and installation all need to work together properly for the final result to feel polished and functional.

What Has the Biggest Impact on Kitchen Renovation Cost?

Kitchen Size

The size of the kitchen plays a major role in the final cost.

A larger kitchen usually requires more cabinetry, more benchtop material, more flooring, more trades, and a longer installation process.

Smaller kitchens may cost less overall, but they still require careful planning. In compact spaces, every cabinet, appliance, and walkway needs to be considered properly so the kitchen does not feel cramped or difficult to use.

The goal is not simply to fill the space. It is to make the kitchen work better every day.

Kitchen Layout Changes

Layout changes can significantly affect the cost of a kitchen renovation.

If the existing plumbing, gas, and electrical points remain in similar positions, the renovation is usually more straightforward.

However, costs can increase when homeowners want to:

• Move the Sink

• Relocate Appliances

• Add an Island Bench

• Remove Walls

• Change Plumbing Locations

• Upgrade Electrical Points

• Rework the Kitchen Footprint

In many older Melbourne homes, changing the kitchen layout can create a much better connection between cooking, dining, and living areas. However, it may also involve additional trades, planning, and structural considerations.

This is why layout decisions should be made carefully before construction begins.

Cabinetry and Storage

Cabinetry is often one of the largest costs in a full kitchen renovation.

This is because cabinetry affects both the look and the functionality of the kitchen.

Kitchen cabinetry may include:

• Base Cabinets

• Overhead Cabinets

• Drawer Systems

• Pantry Storage

• Island Storage

• Appliance Cupboards

• Integrated Bins

• Custom Joinery

Flat-pack cabinetry may cost less, but it is limited in design flexibility and may not make the best use of the available space.

Custom cabinetry usually costs more, but it can be designed around the homeowner’s layout, storage needs, appliance choices, and preferred finish.

For many homeowners, good storage is one of the main reasons to renovate the kitchen in the first place.

Benchtops and Splashbacks

Benchtops and splashbacks can also have a major impact on the overall budget.

Common benchtop options may include:

• Laminate

• Engineered Stone

• Porcelain

• Natural Stone

• Solid Surface Materials

Laminate is generally more budget-friendly, while engineered stone, porcelain, and natural stone usually sit in the higher price range.

The same applies to splashbacks. Tile splashbacks, stone splashbacks, and feature finishes can vary significantly in cost depending on the material and installation requirements.

Benchtops and splashbacks are highly visible, so they play a big role in how premium the kitchen feels once completed.

Appliances and Fixtures

Appliances and fixtures can quickly change the final cost of a kitchen renovation.

This may include:

• Ovens

• Cooktops

• Rangehoods

• Dishwashers

• Integrated Fridges

• Sinks

• Tapware

• Waste Systems

• Water Filters

Standard appliances may suit some homes, while premium European appliances or fully integrated appliances will increase the overall cost.

The right choice depends on how the kitchen will be used. A family that cooks every day may prioritise durable appliances, strong ventilation, and practical placement. A homeowner who entertains regularly may place more value on a larger oven, integrated refrigeration, or a well-designed island.

Plumbing and Electrical Work

Plumbing and electrical work can have a large impact on cost, especially when the layout is changing.

This may include:

• Moving Sink Locations

• Installing New Tapware

• Adding Power Points

• Installing Pendant Lighting

• Upgrading Switchboards

• Adding Under-Cabinet Lighting

• Improving Ventilation

• Connecting Appliances

Older homes may also require updates to existing plumbing or electrical systems before the new kitchen can be installed safely and properly.

These behind-the-scenes details are not always visible in the finished kitchen, but they are essential to how well the kitchen performs over time.

Flooring and Finishing Work

Flooring can also affect the budget, particularly when the kitchen forms part of an open-plan living area.

Some homeowners choose to replace flooring only within the kitchen. Others may choose to extend new flooring through the dining or living areas for a more consistent finish.

Costs can vary depending on the flooring material, subfloor condition, and installation requirements.

Finishing work such as plastering, painting, trims, sealing, and final detailing also contributes to the overall result. These details help the kitchen feel complete rather than simply installed.

Why Cheap Kitchen Renovations Can Become Expensive Later

It is understandable for homeowners to compare quotes closely, especially when renovating a kitchen involves a significant investment.

However, choosing the cheapest option can sometimes lead to problems later.

Common issues can include:

• Poor Cabinet Installation

• Low-Quality Materials

• Inadequate Storage Planning

• Poor Lighting Placement

• Plumbing or Electrical Shortcuts

• Uneven Finishes

• Limited Project Management

A kitchen is used heavily every day, so durability matters.

Poor workmanship may not be obvious immediately, but it can become frustrating over time through misaligned doors, worn finishes, awkward storage, poor appliance placement, or surfaces that do not hold up well.

A well-built kitchen should feel practical, reliable, and considered for years to come.

Is a Kitchen Renovation Worth the Investment?

For many Melbourne homeowners, yes.

A well-planned kitchen renovation can:

• Improve Everyday Functionality

• Increase Storage

• Modernise the Home

• Improve Flow Between Living Spaces

• Support Family Routines

• Improve Buyer Appeal

• Add Long-Term Value

The kitchen is often one of the most used spaces in the home. When it is designed well, it can make daily life feel easier and more enjoyable.

The value of a kitchen renovation is not only in the finished appearance. It is also in how the space works day after day.

Planning Your Kitchen Renovation Budget

Before starting a kitchen renovation, it helps to establish a realistic budget early.

Homeowners should consider:

• The Full Scope of Work

• Must-Have Features

• Nice-to-Have Features

• Material Preferences

• Appliance Requirements

• Storage Needs

• Layout Changes

• Contingency for Unexpected Costs

A contingency is especially important in older Melbourne homes where hidden issues may not be visible until demolition begins.

Planning the budget properly helps reduce stress and makes it easier to prioritise where money should be invested.

Planning a Kitchen Renovation in Melbourne?

A kitchen renovation is a major project, but the process becomes much easier when the scope, budget, layout, and selections are properly considered from the beginning.

For Melbourne homeowners, the best kitchen renovations are usually the ones that balance practical design, quality workmanship, durable materials, and everyday usability.

At Savvy Renovations, we specialise in full kitchen renovations designed around functionality, quality, and long-term value.

If you are starting to think about your kitchen renovation, our team can help you understand what may be possible for your home.