If you’re thinking about updating your home, one of the first questions is: how much will it cost to remodel each room? The answer depends on the room type, project scope, and quality of finishes you choose. By looking at averages, you can set realistic expectations and build a solid budget before reaching out to contractors.
Kitchen Remodel Costs
The kitchen is usually the most expensive room to remodel because it combines plumbing, electrical, cabinetry, and appliances.
- Typical Range: $15,000 – $40,000
- Per Sq Ft: $100 – $250
- Factors that add cost: custom cabinetry, stone countertops, high-end appliances, or layout changes.
A budget kitchen refresh with stock cabinets and laminate counters may stay closer to the low end, while a full luxury remodel can exceed $60,000.
Bathroom Remodel Costs
Bathrooms also fall on the higher side due to plumbing, tiling, and fixtures.
- Typical Range: $6,500 – $25,000
- Per Sq Ft: $120 – $275
- Cost drivers: new showers or tubs, double vanities, tile quality, and moving plumbing lines.
Even a small bathroom update can deliver great value if done smartly.
Living Room and Bedroom Remodel Costs
Dry rooms like living rooms and bedrooms are generally cheaper because they don’t involve plumbing.
- Living Room: $2,500 – $10,000
- Bedroom: $1,500 – $5,500
These projects usually include flooring, painting, lighting, trim, and sometimes built-ins. Adding custom closets or soundproofing can increase costs.
Basement Remodel Costs
Finishing or remodeling a basement creates livable square footage, but costs vary widely.
- Typical Range: $12,000 – $35,000
- Adding a bathroom or kitchenette can push totals above $50,000.
- Costs include framing, insulation, flooring, egress windows, and HVAC adjustments.
Attic Renovation Costs
Attics can be transformed into bedrooms, offices, or bonus spaces.
- Range: $7,500 – $30,000
- Expenses include insulation, flooring, ventilation, and adding dormers or windows to meet building codes.
Garage Remodel Costs
A garage remodel depends heavily on its purpose—basic upgrades or full conversion.
- Basic update: $1,500 – $10,000 (flooring, storage, lighting).
- Full conversion into living space: $20,000 – $50,000+, especially if plumbing and HVAC are added.
Whole-House Remodeling Averages
If you’re remodeling multiple rooms or doing a full overhaul:
- Cosmetic updates: $20,000 – $100,000
- Major renovation: $100,000 – $200,000+
- Per Sq Ft: $15 – $60 for light updates, $60 – $150 for a full gut remodel.
Key Factors That Affect Room Remodeling Costs
- Scope of work – simple cosmetic updates vs structural changes.
- Materials and finishes – stock vs custom cabinetry, laminate vs quartz.
- Labor rates – vary by region and contractor demand.
- Permits and inspections – often required for kitchens, bathrooms, and conversions.
- Unexpected issues – water damage, outdated wiring, or structural repairs.
Always add a 10–20% contingency buffer to your remodel budget to cover surprises.
For a more accurate calculation tailored to your space and location, try our House Cost Estimator. It’s a simple way to see real numbers before you start planning your remodel.
Example Cost Breakdown
Here’s a simplified look at remodeling averages by room:
| Room | Typical Cost Range | Per Sq Ft Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | $15,000 – $40,000 | $100 – $250 |
| Bathroom | $6,500 – $25,000 | $120 – $275 |
| Living Room | $2,500 – $10,000 | $50 – $150 |
| Bedroom | $1,500 – $5,500 | $50 – $150 |
| Basement | $12,000 – $35,000 | $50 – $150+ |
| Attic | $7,500 – $30,000 | $60 – $200 |
| Garage | $1,500 – $50,000 | varies |
FAQs on Remodeling Costs
What is the most expensive room to remodel?
The kitchen, followed by bathrooms, due to plumbing, electrical, and appliance costs.
Which remodels add the most value?
Kitchens and bathrooms typically offer the highest ROI when selling.
Can I remodel a room for under $5,000?
Yes—bedrooms and living rooms often fall under that if work is mostly cosmetic.
Is it cheaper to remodel multiple rooms at once?
Yes, because contractors can save on mobilization and labor scheduling.
How can I estimate my remodel more accurately?
Measure the room size, apply average cost per square foot, and adjust for finishes and regional labor rates.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the average cost of remodeling a house room by room helps you budget wisely and set expectations before hiring contractors. Every home is different, but starting with averages gives you a strong foundation for planning.