Kitchen Renovation Cost Melbourne 2026: Price Guide
If you're thinking about renovating your kitchen in Melbourne, the first question on your mind is probably: how much is this going to cost me? The honest answer is that it depends — but this guide will walk you through realistic price ranges, what drives costs up or down, and how to get the best value from your renovation budget.
We'll also break down what homeowners in Melbourne's northern suburbs are typically spending in 2026, based on real kitchen renovation projects across Brunswick, Coburg, Preston, Reservoir, Essendon and surrounding areas.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Summary (Melbourne 2026)
| Renovation Type | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic refresh (no layout changes) | 5,000 – 5,000 |
| Mid-range full renovation | 5,000 – $55,000 |
| High-end / luxury kitchen | $60,000 – 20,000 |
| Custom architectural kitchen | 20,000+ |
Basic Kitchen Refresh: 5,000 – 5,000
A basic kitchen refresh typically involves:
- Replacing cabinet doors and handles (keeping existing carcasses)
- Installing a new benchtop (laminate or entry-level stone)
- Upgrading appliances
- New splashback (tiles or glass)
- Fresh paint
The existing layout stays intact, which keeps plumbing and electrical costs low. This is the most cost-effective approach and can deliver a dramatically improved kitchen without a full structural overhaul.
Best for: Homeowners in Glenroy, Fawkner, Broadmeadows and Thomastown who want to modernise an older kitchen without overcapitalising on the property. Also ideal for investment properties where budget and return on investment are the priority.
What you won't get: A reconfigured layout, stone benchtops, custom cabinetry, or structural changes.
Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation:
A mid-range renovation is the most popular choice among Melbourne homeowners and delivers a complete transformation. This typically includes:
- Full new cabinetry (flatpack or semi-custom)
- Stone or engineered stone benchtops
- Quality appliances (oven, cooktop, rangehood, dishwasher)
- New flooring or floor tiles
- Updated lighting including downlights and pendants
- New splashback
- Minor layout reconfiguration
At this budget you can genuinely transform the heart of your home. Homeowners in Pascoe Vale, Coburg, Reservoir and Preston frequently invest at this level.
What affects cost in this range: The choice between flatpack cabinetry (e.g. IKEA, Kaboodle) versus semi-custom cabinetry can shift your budget by $8,000–
High-End and Luxury Kitchen: $60,000 – 20,000A high-end kitchen renovation involves:
- Full custom cabinetry made by a local joiner
- Premium stone benchtops (Caesarstone, Dekton, quartzite or marble)
- Premium appliance brands (Miele, Gaggenau, Fisher & Paykel)
- Structural changes including wall removal or kitchen extension
- Designer lighting
- Integrated appliances and handle-less cabinetry
- Custom butler's pantry
Homeowners in Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Northcote and Brunswick frequently invest at this level — particularly in period homes where the kitchen is a centrepiece of the property and the overall home value justifies a premium investment.
Custom Architectural Kitchen: 20,000+At
20,000 and above you're looking at full architectural involvement, bespoke joinery, structural alterations, imported materials and a complete reinvention of the kitchen space. This tier is typically reserved for high-value homes in Northcote, Fitzroy North and Moonee Ponds, or for homeowners undertaking a whole-home renovation where the kitchen is the showpiece.What Drives Kitchen Renovation Costs in Melbourne?
1. Layout changes
Keeping your existing layout is the single biggest cost-saving decision you can make. The moment you move the sink, relocate the cooktop or remove a wall, you're paying for a plumber, electrician, and potentially a structural engineer. Budget an additional $5,000–
5,000 for any significant layout changes.2. Cabinetry choice
Cabinetry is typically the largest single cost in a kitchen renovation. Flatpack from IKEA or Bunnings starts around $3,000–$8,000 for materials. Semi-custom from a local supplier runs
0,000–0,000. Full custom joinery from a Melbourne craftsman starts at 0,000 and goes up significantly.3. Benchtop material
- Laminate: ,500–$3,500
- Reconstituted stone (Essastone, Caesarstone): $3,000–$8,000
- Natural stone (marble, granite, quartzite): $6,000–
0,000+
4. Appliances
A functional appliance package (oven, cooktop, rangehood, dishwasher) runs $3,000–$6,000 for mid-range brands. Premium brands like Miele and Gaggenau can add
5,000–$40,000 to your budget.5. Age and condition of your home
Older homes in Melbourne's northern suburbs can reveal unexpected issues once walls are opened — outdated wiring, deteriorating plumbing, asbestos in walls or flooring. Always keep a 10–15% contingency buffer in your budget for surprises.
6. Council permits
Structural changes, wall removals and some plumbing alterations require a building permit in Victoria. Your builder is legally required to obtain this — budget
,500–$3,000 for permit costs on top of your renovation quote.Kitchen Renovation Costs by Suburb (Melbourne's North)
Costs don't vary dramatically by suburb, but the type of renovation homeowners pursue does. Here's what we typically see:
- Brunswick, Northcote, Fitzroy North: Higher proportion of period home renovations, heritage considerations, premium finishes. Average spend $45,000–$80,000.
- Coburg, Pascoe Vale, Preston: Mix of full renovations and mid-range refreshes. Average spend
5,000–$55,000.Reservoir, Thornbury, Heidelberg: Strong demand for mid-range renovations in brick veneer and weatherboard homes. Average spend 0,000–$45,000.Glenroy, Fawkner, Broadmeadows, Thomastown: Higher proportion of investment property renovations and budget refreshes. Average spend 5,000–$30,000.Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Strathmore: Larger homes with higher overall values. Premium and luxury renovations more common. Average spend $55,000–00,000+.How to Get the Best Value from Your Kitchen Renovation
Get at least three quotes from licensed, VBA-registered builders before committing. Prices for the same scope of work can vary by 20–30% between tradies.
Lock in your selections before work starts. Every change you make once the job has begun costs you money. Choose your tiles, benchtop, handles, appliances and tapware before the first tradie arrives.
Don't move plumbing unless you have to. Keeping the sink and dishwasher in their current location saves
,000–$5,000 in plumbing costs.Use flatpack cabinetry with a quality benchtop. IKEA carcasses with a Caesarstone benchtop looks premium at half the cost of full custom joinery.
Separate your appliance budget. Buy appliances during sales events (Boxing Day, EOFY) and supply them directly to your builder to avoid the markup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a kitchen renovation take in Melbourne?
A basic refresh with no layout changes takes 1–2 weeks. A full mid-range renovation typically takes 3–5 weeks once trades are booked. Custom kitchens with structural changes can run 6–10 weeks from start to completion.
Do I need a building permit for a kitchen renovation in Melbourne?
Not always. Cosmetic renovations (new benchtops, cabinets, appliances) generally don't require a permit. However, if you're removing a wall, moving plumbing, or making structural changes, a building permit is required under Victorian law. Your builder must obtain it — if they suggest skipping it, walk away.
How do I find a reliable kitchen renovation tradie in Melbourne's northern suburbs?
Check that they hold a current VBA Domestic Builder licence (verifiable at vba.vic.gov.au), carry public liability insurance, and can provide references from recent local jobs. Melb Renovations pre-vets every builder in our network so you don't have to do this yourself.
Is it worth renovating a kitchen before selling?
Generally yes — kitchens and bathrooms deliver the strongest return on investment of any renovation. A well-executed mid-range kitchen renovation in Melbourne's northern suburbs typically adds
.50–.00 of value for every .00 spent, though this varies by suburb and property type.What's the cheapest way to update a kitchen in Melbourne?
Replacing cabinet doors and handles, painting walls, and installing a new benchtop is the most cost-effective approach — often achievable for $8,000–
5,000 using a combination of a cabinet maker and a handyman.Ready to Get Quotes for Your Kitchen Renovation?
Melb Renovations connects homeowners across Melbourne's northern suburbs with vetted, VBA-licensed builders who specialise in kitchen renovations. Whether you're in Essendon, Preston, Brunswick or Diamond Creek, we match you with up to three local tradies who quote you directly — completely free, no obligation, no cold calls.
100% Free for HomeownersRequest Your Free Quote
Tell us about your project and we'll match you with vetted local builders — completely free, no obligation, no cold calls.
No spam. No cold calls. Your details are only shared with builders matched to your job.
A high-end kitchen renovation involves:
- Full custom cabinetry made by a local joiner
- Premium stone benchtops (Caesarstone, Dekton, quartzite or marble)
- Premium appliance brands (Miele, Gaggenau, Fisher & Paykel)
- Structural changes including wall removal or kitchen extension
- Designer lighting
- Integrated appliances and handle-less cabinetry
- Custom butler's pantry
Homeowners in Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Northcote and Brunswick frequently invest at this level — particularly in period homes where the kitchen is a centrepiece of the property and the overall home value justifies a premium investment.
Custom Architectural Kitchen: 20,000+At
20,000 and above you're looking at full architectural involvement, bespoke joinery, structural alterations, imported materials and a complete reinvention of the kitchen space. This tier is typically reserved for high-value homes in Northcote, Fitzroy North and Moonee Ponds, or for homeowners undertaking a whole-home renovation where the kitchen is the showpiece.What Drives Kitchen Renovation Costs in Melbourne?
1. Layout changes
Keeping your existing layout is the single biggest cost-saving decision you can make. The moment you move the sink, relocate the cooktop or remove a wall, you're paying for a plumber, electrician, and potentially a structural engineer. Budget an additional $5,000–
5,000 for any significant layout changes.2. Cabinetry choice
Cabinetry is typically the largest single cost in a kitchen renovation. Flatpack from IKEA or Bunnings starts around $3,000–$8,000 for materials. Semi-custom from a local supplier runs
0,000–0,000. Full custom joinery from a Melbourne craftsman starts at 0,000 and goes up significantly.3. Benchtop material
- Laminate: ,500–$3,500
- Reconstituted stone (Essastone, Caesarstone): $3,000–$8,000
- Natural stone (marble, granite, quartzite): $6,000–
0,000+
4. Appliances
A functional appliance package (oven, cooktop, rangehood, dishwasher) runs $3,000–$6,000 for mid-range brands. Premium brands like Miele and Gaggenau can add
5,000–$40,000 to your budget.5. Age and condition of your home
Older homes in Melbourne's northern suburbs can reveal unexpected issues once walls are opened — outdated wiring, deteriorating plumbing, asbestos in walls or flooring. Always keep a 10–15% contingency buffer in your budget for surprises.
6. Council permits
Structural changes, wall removals and some plumbing alterations require a building permit in Victoria. Your builder is legally required to obtain this — budget
,500–$3,000 for permit costs on top of your renovation quote.Kitchen Renovation Costs by Suburb (Melbourne's North)
Costs don't vary dramatically by suburb, but the type of renovation homeowners pursue does. Here's what we typically see:
- Brunswick, Northcote, Fitzroy North: Higher proportion of period home renovations, heritage considerations, premium finishes. Average spend $45,000–$80,000.
- Coburg, Pascoe Vale, Preston: Mix of full renovations and mid-range refreshes. Average spend
5,000–$55,000.Reservoir, Thornbury, Heidelberg: Strong demand for mid-range renovations in brick veneer and weatherboard homes. Average spend 0,000–$45,000.Glenroy, Fawkner, Broadmeadows, Thomastown: Higher proportion of investment property renovations and budget refreshes. Average spend 5,000–$30,000.Essendon, Moonee Ponds, Strathmore: Larger homes with higher overall values. Premium and luxury renovations more common. Average spend $55,000–00,000+.How to Get the Best Value from Your Kitchen Renovation
Get at least three quotes from licensed, VBA-registered builders before committing. Prices for the same scope of work can vary by 20–30% between tradies.
Lock in your selections before work starts. Every change you make once the job has begun costs you money. Choose your tiles, benchtop, handles, appliances and tapware before the first tradie arrives.
Don't move plumbing unless you have to. Keeping the sink and dishwasher in their current location saves
,000–$5,000 in plumbing costs.Use flatpack cabinetry with a quality benchtop. IKEA carcasses with a Caesarstone benchtop looks premium at half the cost of full custom joinery.
Separate your appliance budget. Buy appliances during sales events (Boxing Day, EOFY) and supply them directly to your builder to avoid the markup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a kitchen renovation take in Melbourne?
A basic refresh with no layout changes takes 1–2 weeks. A full mid-range renovation typically takes 3–5 weeks once trades are booked. Custom kitchens with structural changes can run 6–10 weeks from start to completion.
Do I need a building permit for a kitchen renovation in Melbourne?
Not always. Cosmetic renovations (new benchtops, cabinets, appliances) generally don't require a permit. However, if you're removing a wall, moving plumbing, or making structural changes, a building permit is required under Victorian law. Your builder must obtain it — if they suggest skipping it, walk away.
How do I find a reliable kitchen renovation tradie in Melbourne's northern suburbs?
Check that they hold a current VBA Domestic Builder licence (verifiable at vba.vic.gov.au), carry public liability insurance, and can provide references from recent local jobs. Melb Renovations pre-vets every builder in our network so you don't have to do this yourself.
Is it worth renovating a kitchen before selling?
Generally yes — kitchens and bathrooms deliver the strongest return on investment of any renovation. A well-executed mid-range kitchen renovation in Melbourne's northern suburbs typically adds
.50–.00 of value for every .00 spent, though this varies by suburb and property type.What's the cheapest way to update a kitchen in Melbourne?
Replacing cabinet doors and handles, painting walls, and installing a new benchtop is the most cost-effective approach — often achievable for $8,000–
5,000 using a combination of a cabinet maker and a handyman.Ready to Get Quotes for Your Kitchen Renovation?
Melb Renovations connects homeowners across Melbourne's northern suburbs with vetted, VBA-licensed builders who specialise in kitchen renovations. Whether you're in Essendon, Preston, Brunswick or Diamond Creek, we match you with up to three local tradies who quote you directly — completely free, no obligation, no cold calls.
100% Free for HomeownersRequest Your Free Quote
Tell us about your project and we'll match you with vetted local builders — completely free, no obligation, no cold calls.
No spam. No cold calls. Your details are only shared with builders matched to your job.
At
What Drives Kitchen Renovation Costs in Melbourne?
1. Layout changes
Keeping your existing layout is the single biggest cost-saving decision you can make. The moment you move the sink, relocate the cooktop or remove a wall, you're paying for a plumber, electrician, and potentially a structural engineer. Budget an additional $5,000–
2. Cabinetry choice
Cabinetry is typically the largest single cost in a kitchen renovation. Flatpack from IKEA or Bunnings starts around $3,000–$8,000 for materials. Semi-custom from a local supplier runs
3. Benchtop material
- Laminate: ,500–$3,5000,000+
- Reconstituted stone (Essastone, Caesarstone): $3,000–$8,000
- Natural stone (marble, granite, quartzite): $6,000–
4. Appliances
A functional appliance package (oven, cooktop, rangehood, dishwasher) runs $3,000–$6,000 for mid-range brands. Premium brands like Miele and Gaggenau can add
5. Age and condition of your home
Older homes in Melbourne's northern suburbs can reveal unexpected issues once walls are opened — outdated wiring, deteriorating plumbing, asbestos in walls or flooring. Always keep a 10–15% contingency buffer in your budget for surprises.
6. Council permits
Structural changes, wall removals and some plumbing alterations require a building permit in Victoria. Your builder is legally required to obtain this — budget
Kitchen Renovation Costs by Suburb (Melbourne's North)
Costs don't vary dramatically by suburb, but the type of renovation homeowners pursue does. Here's what we typically see:
- Brunswick, Northcote, Fitzroy North: Higher proportion of period home renovations, heritage considerations, premium finishes. Average spend $45,000–$80,000.
- Coburg, Pascoe Vale, Preston: Mix of full renovations and mid-range refreshes. Average spend
How to Get the Best Value from Your Kitchen Renovation
Get at least three quotes from licensed, VBA-registered builders before committing. Prices for the same scope of work can vary by 20–30% between tradies.
Lock in your selections before work starts. Every change you make once the job has begun costs you money. Choose your tiles, benchtop, handles, appliances and tapware before the first tradie arrives.
Don't move plumbing unless you have to. Keeping the sink and dishwasher in their current location saves
Use flatpack cabinetry with a quality benchtop. IKEA carcasses with a Caesarstone benchtop looks premium at half the cost of full custom joinery.
Separate your appliance budget. Buy appliances during sales events (Boxing Day, EOFY) and supply them directly to your builder to avoid the markup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a kitchen renovation take in Melbourne?
A basic refresh with no layout changes takes 1–2 weeks. A full mid-range renovation typically takes 3–5 weeks once trades are booked. Custom kitchens with structural changes can run 6–10 weeks from start to completion.
Do I need a building permit for a kitchen renovation in Melbourne?
Not always. Cosmetic renovations (new benchtops, cabinets, appliances) generally don't require a permit. However, if you're removing a wall, moving plumbing, or making structural changes, a building permit is required under Victorian law. Your builder must obtain it — if they suggest skipping it, walk away.
How do I find a reliable kitchen renovation tradie in Melbourne's northern suburbs?
Check that they hold a current VBA Domestic Builder licence (verifiable at vba.vic.gov.au), carry public liability insurance, and can provide references from recent local jobs. Melb Renovations pre-vets every builder in our network so you don't have to do this yourself.
Is it worth renovating a kitchen before selling?
Generally yes — kitchens and bathrooms deliver the strongest return on investment of any renovation. A well-executed mid-range kitchen renovation in Melbourne's northern suburbs typically adds
What's the cheapest way to update a kitchen in Melbourne?
Replacing cabinet doors and handles, painting walls, and installing a new benchtop is the most cost-effective approach — often achievable for $8,000–
Ready to Get Quotes for Your Kitchen Renovation?
Melb Renovations connects homeowners across Melbourne's northern suburbs with vetted, VBA-licensed builders who specialise in kitchen renovations. Whether you're in Essendon, Preston, Brunswick or Diamond Creek, we match you with up to three local tradies who quote you directly — completely free, no obligation, no cold calls.
Request Your Free Quote
Tell us about your project and we'll match you with vetted local builders — completely free, no obligation, no cold calls.
No spam. No cold calls. Your details are only shared with builders matched to your job.