What’s a Realistic Budget for a Kitchen Remodel in Bend, OR?

If you’ve been thinking about remodeling your kitchen, you’ve probably asked yourself: How much is this really going to cost me? The answer? Of course it depends on several factors, but that's why we’ve created an entire blog to break it down.

Bend is a growing, in-demand area, which means a few things are working for and against you when it comes to remodel costs. Oregon is already much more expensive than a lot of states for home projects, and Bend’s remodeling scene is busy. Local contractors book out months in advance, and material prices fluctuate depending on availability and shipping costs. 

But before we talk about what you should expect to spend, we'll reveal what actually impacts the cost of a kitchen remodel in Central Oregon.

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What’s Driving the Cost of a Remodel in Bend?

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A lot of factors influence what you’ll pay, but here’s what makes the biggest difference in Central Oregon specifically:

• The Busy Remodeling Market – Skilled contractors are in high demand here. The best companies book out, and labor costs aren’t cheap. If someone says they can start next week, that might be a red flag.
• Oregon’s cost of living is higher than most US states  – If you’re new to the area, expect things to cost more than they did elsewhere. Materials, labor, and even permitting fees are steeper here than in other states.
• Material Availability & Shipping Costs – Quartz, granite, and custom cabinets cost more to ship to Bend compared to larger metro areas like Portland or Seattle. If you want specialty materials, be prepared for longer lead times.
• Scope of Work – Are you just swapping out countertops and painting cabinets, or are you gutting the space and moving walls? Big changes will drive your costs higher.
• Hidden Problems in Older Homes – Are you remodeling a 1980s or 90s kitchen? Plumbing, electrical, or structural issues could add surprise costs. Homes built before 1978? Lead paint and asbestos testing may be required.

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Real Budget Ranges for a Kitchen Remodel in Bend

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To get straight to it, here’s real numbers based around what homeowners in Bend are actually paying in 2025:‍

$20K - $40K for a Basic Refresh

• New countertops, updated cabinet doors, flooring, and lighting.
• No major layout changes—just aesthetic upgrades.
• Ideal for homeowners who like their existing layout but want a fresh look.

$50K - $80K for a Mid-Range Remodel

• Custom cabinetry, durable quartz countertops, upgraded flooring, and new appliances.
• Some layout adjustments and new fixtures.
• The most common budget range for homeowners remodeling a forever home.

$100K+ for a High-End Remodel

• Full kitchen redesign, premium finishes (marble, designer cabinetry, custom lighting).
• Structural changes like moving walls or relocating plumbing.
• Ideal for large, luxury kitchens where every detail is customized.

‍Don’t forget: Kitchen remodels aren’t just about upfront costs—time matters too. Even a basic refresh can take 4-6 weeks depending on your contractor's calendar, while a full remodel can stretch to 3-6 months, depending on availability of materials and labor.

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Where Should You Spend vs. Save?

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Some parts of a remodel pay off in the long run, while others might not be worth the splurge, especially when remodeling more than just the kitchen. Here’s our recommendation for the key areas to focus on:

✅ Where it’s Smart to Invest:

• Custom Cabinetry & Storage – It’s often one of the most expensive parts of a remodel, but it makes the biggest difference in function, visual appeal and resale value. Well-designed cabinets maximize storage efficiency, making everyday use smoother while eliminating clutter.
• Quality Countertops – Natural stone countertops like Quartz and granite, or even butcher block will last you decades. Skip laminate if you can. After all, a well invested remodel should include updating your current laminate surfaces to something with higher value and quality. A durable countertop not only enhances your kitchen’s look but also stands up to heavy daily use, resisting stains, scratches, and heat damage over time.
• Professional Installation – A bad install will cost you way more to fix later. Poor craftsmanship from some of the cheaper options in town can lead to misaligned cabinets, uneven countertops, or faulty plumbing—issues that can turn into costly headaches down the road and calling in another contractor to fix their work.

❌ Where to Save on Cost:

• Refacing Cabinets Instead of Replacing – If the cabinet boxes are solid, new doors and paint can be a game changer. This upgrade when done correctly gives your kitchen a whole new look without the expense of full replacement, saving thousands while still looking high-end.
• Mid-Range Appliances – You don’t need a $15K range unless you’re a serious chef. Many mid-range brands offer professional-quality features without the luxury price tag, providing all the functionality most homeowners will ever need.
• DIY Demolition – If you’re comfortable using a sledgehammer, this can save you some cash. Just be mindful of plumbing and electrical work—taking down drywall is easy, but breaking a pipe or hitting wiring could lead to unexpected repair costs. If you’re in need of experts to put your project on a fast track to get finished, Swift Demolition’s crew is the best in Bend for fast and professional demolition work.

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How Much Value Does a Kitchen Remodel Add?

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In Bend’s highly competitive real estate market, an updated kitchen is one of the best investments you can make in your home. On average, a mid-range kitchen remodel has a return on investment (ROI) of 50-70%, depending on material choices and market conditions. Homes with updated kitchens also sell faster and significantly raise its value no matter which neighborhood it’s located in. Most buyers are drawn to move-in-ready spaces without the need for sourcing immediate upgrades from local remodeling experts in a city they just relocated to.

Keeping it simple, here’s what we see as the biggest ROI upgrades:

1. Quartz countertops - Highly popular, low-maintenance & long-lasting
2. Soft-close cabinets & modern storage solutions
3. A well-thought-out layout that improves workflow

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Creating a Realistic Remodel Budget

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Your kitchen remodel doesn’t have to break the bank, but planning ahead and doing your due diligence makes all the difference. In Bend, you’re not just paying for materials—you’re paying for craftsmanship, expertise, and long-term value in a city that’s rapidly growing. Consider asking yourself these questions after reading this blog to prepare yourself for the big decisions:

• What’s my must-have list vs. nice-to-have list?
• How long do I plan to live in this home?
• Am I prepared for potential delays?
• Am I working with the right people for my remodel?

At Surface Kitchen & Bath, we help homeowners balance budget and design to get a kitchen they love without unexpected surprises. If you’re thinking about remodeling, let’s chat. Book a consultation today in our showroom, and we’ll walk through your options—no sales pitch, just real talk about what’s possible in your space.