When you’re looking for a new kitchen, it’s important to consider all the costs, not just the shiny price you see in ads.

The final price is determined by room size and the choices you make, but this guide helps you understand everything you might need to pay for, with a few tips on where to save money.

Costs are ballpark/averages for an indication only.

1. Design Services

Most kitchen suppliers will design you a kitchen for free. However, there are some high-end retailers that may charge for this service and deduct the cost from the kitchen if you buy from them.
Design cost: Usually free, but up to ~ £300

2. Kitchen Cabinets

The price you see in ads usually covers just the basic units, not the extras like handles, plinths (boards at the bottom), end panels, cornices (top trim) and pelmets (bottom trim).For these extras expect to pay:
Handles: £2-£20+ per handle
Plinths: £130 for 8 units
End Panels: £300 for 8 units
Cornice: £110 for 8 units
Pelmet: £75 for 8 units
Unit cost in an average-size, mid-quality kitchen: ~£4000

3. Worktops

Product choice makes a big difference to the cost. Typical worktop prices:
Laminate – £40 to £150 pm
Wood – £60 to £200 pm
Quartz – £200 to £600 pm
Granite – £250 to £600 pm
Budget for 5m of worktop £200 – £4000

4. Appliances

Built-in appliances cost more to install and brand names also make a huge difference in price
Basic oven, hob & extractor: £500
4-5 High end appliances: Over £5000
Typical spend on appliances: £1000-£2000

5. Sinks & Taps

A standard sink with taps will cost about £500

6. Installation Fee

Hiring a local independent fitter will often be the best option. Most of them sub-contract for the big chains, so you are effectively getting the same person without the middle-man fee.
Pre-made cabinets will reduce your installation fee, whilst flat pack or customisations will add to the bill.
Installation cost for an average family kitchen, expect to pay £2500-£3500

7. Preparation Costs

Before installation can begin, the room needs to be prepared. Keeping appliances and sinks in the same spot will reduce costs, but you may need any of the following.

Gas Engineer for disconnection & reconnection
Electrician to chase out cabling for appliances, new lighting fixtures etc
Plumber to disconnect the old sink and reconfigure any new pipework
Labour to rip out the old kitchen and remove tiles/old flooring etc.
Plasterer to make good the walls after removing old tiles, chasing out electric cables etc.
Expect to pay £250-£300 per day for each of the professionals you need.

8. Wall Decoration

Tiles or splashbacks can cover more than just the typical “splash” areas behind sinks and hobs. Wall tiles are usually the cheaper option, with larger tiles reducing labour to install.
Tiling cost: ~£110 per sq. metre for tiles and labour.

9. Flooring

Flooring costs vary a lot depending on the material.
From High-end granite at £200 per sq. metre to budget end sanded floorboards at £10 per sq. metre.
Opting for wall-to-wall coverage will also cost more than up-to-unit flooring but check out the pro’s and cons before deciding.
For tiling expect to pay around £110 per sq. metre for tiles and labour

10. Lighting

With many choices available (spotlights, ceiling pendants, under cabinet, wall lighting etc), a rough guide is to allow the same amount in your budget as for your flooring.

11. Waste Disposal

Some kitchen suppliers include the disposal of your old kitchen, otherwise a skip will set you back £250-£300

12. Temporary Kitchen

Your kitchen will be out of use for at least 2 weeks. You might incur expenses of eating out, take-aways, buying gadgets such as an air-fryer.

13. Project Management

Organising all the tradespeople and scheduling tasks is a fine art. Some companies may charge a fee for project management, so check if it’s included.

14. Contingency

Always have a little extra money in reserve for the unforeseen. This could be asbestos checks in ceilings, wall repairs after tiles removal.

In Conclusion

A new kitchen is a significant investment, but it adds value to your home and brings joy for years. Knowing all the costs helps you plan realistically and make smart choices to fit your budget.