Kitchen Remodeling Cost in Meridian
Review the major pricing factors for Kitchen Remodeling in Meridian, from cabinetry and counters to layout changes and finishes.
Typical range: $25,000 – $100,000+
Most Meridian projects: $40,000–$65,000
The cost of kitchen remodeling in Meridian depends on the scope of work, materials selected, complexity of the layout, condition of existing systems, and the finish level you choose. Every project is different, but understanding the major cost drivers helps you plan a realistic budget and make informed decisions about where to invest and where to save. The ranges above reflect the full spectrum of projects we complete in Meridian — from straightforward updates to comprehensive renovations with premium materials and significant structural changes.
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on your kitchen remodel budget in Meridian. Understanding each one helps you make better decisions during the planning phase.
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Cabinet Selection and Quality
high impactCabinets typically represent 30-40% of a kitchen remodel budget. The gap between stock cabinets ($150/LF) and custom cabinets ($1,000+/LF) is substantial. Door style, wood species, and finish also affect pricing.
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Layout Changes and Wall Removal
high impactMoving plumbing, relocating electrical, or removing walls for an open-concept design adds structural engineering, framing, patching, and trade labor costs.
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Countertop Material and Edge Profile
high impactLaminate countertops start at $15/sf. Standard quartz runs $55-80/sf. Premium granite or quartzite can exceed $150/sf. Edge profiles, cutouts, and seam locations also affect fabrication cost.
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Appliance Package
high impactA standard appliance package (range, refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave) runs $3,000-6,000. A premium package with a professional range, built-in refrigerator, and panel-ready dishwasher can exceed $15,000-25,000.
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Backsplash Tile and Design Complexity
medium impactA simple subway tile backsplash costs $800-1,500. A custom tile design with mosaics, natural stone, or large-format tile with tight joints can cost $2,500-5,000+.
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Electrical and Lighting Upgrades
medium impactModern kitchens need more circuits than older homes provide. Adding under-cabinet lighting, pendant fixtures, recessed cans, and dedicated appliance circuits is common.
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Flooring Selection
medium impactLVP ($5-12/sf) is the budget-friendly standard. Hardwood ($8-15/sf) adds warmth. Tile ($10-25/sf) offers design flexibility. The kitchen floor area is typically 100-200+ square feet.
Materials are one of the most controllable parts of your budget. Here is how popular options compare for kitchen remodel in Meridian:
| Material | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Quartz Countertops | $55–$130 per sq ft fabricated and installed | Most kitchen applications — especially busy households |
| Granite Countertops | $45–$150 per sq ft fabricated and installed | Homeowners who want natural stone with unique veining |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | $300–$650 per linear foot installed | Most kitchen remodels — best balance of customization and value |
| Custom Cabinets | $600–$1,200+ per linear foot installed | High-end kitchens, unusual layouts, and specific design visions |
| Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring | $5–$12 per sq ft installed | Kitchen floors — especially homes with pets and children |
Quartz Countertops
$55–$130 per sq ft fabricated and installed
Granite Countertops
$45–$150 per sq ft fabricated and installed
Semi-Custom Cabinets
$300–$650 per linear foot installed
Custom Cabinets
$600–$1,200+ per linear foot installed
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring
$5–$12 per sq ft installedMeridian's real estate market has grown dramatically, with median home values rising alongside Boise's. The city's family-friendly reputation and strong school district make it one of the most desirable markets in Idaho. Homeowners who remodel in Meridian see strong returns — updated kitchens and bathrooms are the top features buyers look for in this market.
Labor costs in Ada County reflect the local construction market, trade availability, and seasonal demand. Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for remodeling in the Treasure Valley, which can affect scheduling and occasionally pricing. Planning your project during the fall or winter months may provide more scheduling flexibility.
The most reliable way to understand what your specific kitchen remodel will cost in Meridian is to schedule an in-home consultation. During this visit, we measure the space, discuss your goals and material preferences, evaluate existing conditions, and prepare a detailed scope and estimate based on your specific project.
What to have ready for your estimate consultation:
- ✓ A general idea of your budget range
- ✓ Examples of styles and finishes you like (photos, Pinterest boards, etc.)
- ✓ Any known issues with the current space (leaks, mold, outdated systems)
- ✓ A list of must-haves vs nice-to-haves for the finished project
- ✓ Your preferred timeline for starting and completing the work
●Average kitchen remodel cost by project type
●Cabinet cost comparison: stock vs semi-custom vs custom
●Countertop material pricing
●Appliance package cost ranges
●Labor and trade costs
●Permit fees and inspection costs
●How to budget for a kitchen remodel
The specific type of kitchen remodel project affects the budget significantly. Here are the most common project types in Meridian:
Full Kitchen Renovation
Complete kitchen gut and rebuild including new cabinets, countertops, flooring, backsplash, lighting, plumbing, electrical, and appliances. May include layout changes and wall removal.
Cabinet and Countertop Replacement
Replace existing cabinets and countertops while keeping the current layout. New hardware, hinges, and drawer systems are included. A high-impact upgrade without the cost of a full gut.
Open-Concept Kitchen Conversion
Remove or modify walls between the kitchen and adjacent living or dining spaces to create an open floor plan. Includes structural header installation, patching, and finish work.
Kitchen Island Addition
Design and install a kitchen island with seating, storage, and optional sink or cooktop. Requires electrical for outlets and potentially plumbing if adding a sink.
Kitchen Refresh
Update the kitchen without a full renovation: new countertops, painted or refaced cabinets, updated hardware, new backsplash, and modern lighting fixtures.
Meridian is Idaho's fastest-growing city and the second-largest in the state. The majority of Meridian's housing stock was built after 1990, with massive subdivision development through the 2000s, 2010s, and continuing today. This means most Meridian homeowners are dealing with builder-grade finishes — stock cabinets, laminate countertops, basic carpet, and standard fixtures — rather than the structural or system issues common in older Boise homes. Meridian remodeling projects tend to focus on upgrading finishes to match the homeowner's taste and needs: replacing builder kitchens with custom layouts, converting tub/shower combos to walk-in showers, opening up floor plans, and adding outdoor living spaces. The city's permit process is straightforward and well-documented through the Meridian Building Department.
Meridian's housing stock is predominantly post-1990 construction. The majority of homes feature PEX plumbing, 200-amp electrical panels, and energy-efficient windows — but with builder-grade interior finishes that homeowners upgrade as the homes age.
1990s (North Meridian)
Early subdivision homes with standard 90s finishes: oak cabinets, laminate countertops, carpet throughout, and basic tile in bathrooms. These homes are 25-35 years old and are the most common full-remodel candidates.
2000s–2010s (South Meridian, Paramount)
Larger homes with better floor plans but still builder-grade finishes. Many have slab granite installed during the granite boom but are now dated. Cabinets, fixtures, and flooring are the primary upgrade targets.
2015–present (South Meridian expansion)
Newer construction with open floor plans and modern systems. Homeowners typically upgrade finishes 3-7 years after purchase — replacing builder-grade countertops, cabinet hardware, lighting, and flooring.
Meridian shares Boise's semi-arid climate with hot summers, cold winters, and low humidity. The same material and construction considerations apply — UV resistance for exterior materials, freeze-thaw durability, and proper insulation.
Hot Summers (90-105°F)
Exterior materials and finishes must resist UV degradation. West-facing windows and walls get the most sun exposure. Proper insulation and HVAC sizing are critical for comfort.
Cold Winters (15-30°F)
Frost depth requirements affect foundation work for additions and ADUs. Plumbing in exterior walls and crawl spaces needs freeze protection.
Wind and Dust
Meridian's open terrain means more wind and dust exposure than central Boise. Exterior finish quality and window sealing matter for long-term durability.
Low Precipitation
Less rain means less exterior moisture exposure, which is favorable for siding and paint longevity. However, irrigation and ground moisture around foundations still require attention.
Permit authority: City of Meridian Building Department
- ✓Permits required for plumbing, electrical, structural, and mechanical work
- ✓HOA approval may be required before city permits for exterior changes
- ✓Online permit portal available for application and tracking
- ✓Standard residential permit processing is typically 1-2 weeks
- ✓ADU construction follows specific zoning criteria with additional review
- ✓Impact fees apply to additions and ADUs that increase square footage
What adds the most cost to a kitchen remodel?
Cabinet selection is typically the single largest cost driver, followed by countertop material, appliance package, and layout changes. Moving plumbing or removing walls adds structural and trade labor costs. The finish level you choose — stock vs semi-custom vs custom cabinets, laminate vs quartz vs granite counters — has the biggest impact on total budget.
Can I live at home during a kitchen remodel?
Yes, most homeowners stay in the home during a kitchen remodel. We help you set up a temporary kitchen station in another room with a microwave, toaster oven, and access to water. Dust barriers contain construction debris. Expect 6-12 weeks without a fully functional kitchen depending on project scope.
How long does a kitchen remodel take from start to finish?
A typical kitchen remodel takes 8 to 14 weeks from demolition to completion. The total project timeline, including design, ordering, and permitting before construction starts, is typically 14-22 weeks. Cabinet and countertop lead times are usually the schedule-defining factors.
Do kitchen remodels require permits?
Yes. Most kitchen remodels that involve electrical, plumbing, or structural changes require permits in Ada County and Canyon County. Cosmetic-only updates (painting cabinets, new hardware, replacing a faucet) typically do not. We handle all permit applications and inspections.
Is a kitchen remodel worth it for resale value?
Kitchen remodels consistently deliver the highest ROI of any home renovation. A mid-range kitchen remodel typically recoups 60-80% of its cost at resale, and an updated kitchen is the number one feature buyers look for in the Treasure Valley market.
What is the best countertop material for kitchens?
Quartz is the most popular choice because it is non-porous, stain-resistant, durable, and available in hundreds of colors and patterns. Granite remains popular for homeowners who prefer natural stone. Butcher block adds warmth for island tops. The best choice depends on your budget, maintenance tolerance, and design preferences.
Should I choose stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets?
Semi-custom cabinets are the best value for most kitchen remodels — they offer more size options, door styles, and finishes than stock, with shorter lead times and lower cost than custom. Custom cabinets make sense for unusual layouts, very specific design visions, or high-end projects where every detail is bespoke.
Can you open up my kitchen to the living room?
Yes. If the wall between the kitchen and living room is load-bearing, we install a structural header (beam) to carry the load. This is a common modification in Treasure Valley homes and creates a dramatic improvement in light, flow, and entertaining function.
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