Updated · 3 min read
Written by the Z Construction team, from the projects we price and build in Lee County.
Short answer
In Auburn and Opelika in 2026, a kitchen refresh (painted cabinets, new counters, backsplash, lighting) typically costs $8,000–$18,000. A full remodel that keeps the layout runs $25,000–$45,000, and one that moves walls or plumbing runs $45,000–$80,000, labor and materials included, at mid-range finishes.
2026 kitchen remodel costs in Lee County
These are installed prices, labor and materials, based on kitchens we price in Auburn, Opelika and Lee County. Appliances are extra unless noted in your estimate.
| Scope | Standard | Mid-range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refresh — Paint or reface cabinets, new counters, backsplash, lighting | $6,800–$15,500 | $8,000–$18,000 | $10,500–$23,500 |
| Full remodel, same layout — New cabinets, counters, tile, fixtures, appliances in place | $21,500–$38,500 | $25,000–$45,000 | $32,500–$58,500 |
| Full remodel, new layout — Move walls, plumbing or add an island | $38,500–$68,000 | $45,000–$80,000 | $58,500–$104,000 |
What drives the price
- Layout: keeping the sink, range and walls where they are is the single biggest saving. Moving them adds plumbing, electrical, framing and drywall.
- Cabinet line: stock, semi-custom and custom cabinetry can differ by two to three times for the same kitchen. Painting solid existing boxes costs less still.
- Counters: quartz and granite are similarly priced here; edge profile, seams, the number of cutouts and backsplash height move the number.
- Condition: older homes can hide water damage, undersized wiring or out-of-level floors. A good contractor checks before pricing and flags surprises before fixing them.
- Finish level: lighting, hardware, tile and faucet choices add up quickly. Choose your allowances before the estimate, not after.
How local prices compare to national numbers
The 2025 Cost vs. Value report (Zonda / JLC) puts a national mid-range minor kitchen remodel at about $28,458 and a mid-range major kitchen remodel at about $82,793. Lee County projects often come in under those national figures because Alabama labor and overhead run lower than many metro markets.
Does a kitchen remodel pay off when you sell?
Nationally, the same 2025 report found a mid-range minor kitchen remodel recouped about 113% of its cost at resale, while a major kitchen remodel recouped about 51%. In other words: a well-chosen refresh tends to pay for itself; a full gut is mostly for you. If you plan to sell within a few years, favor paint, counters, lighting and hardware over a new layout.
Ways to save without regret
- Keep the footprint and plumbing locations.
- Paint or reface solid cabinet boxes instead of replacing them.
- Spend on the things you touch daily (drawers, faucet, counters) and save on the rest.
- Order materials early so the crew isn't waiting, and lock your selections before demolition.
- Bundle flooring and paint with the kitchen so you pay for one mobilization, not three.
How long it takes
Plan on 1–4 weeks for design, selections and ordering, then 2–6 weeks on site. Custom cabinets or stone lead times can add weeks, so order before demolition starts.
Get a written price for kitchen remodeling
A free walkthrough, a line-by-line estimate in writing, and the owner on the job from start to finish.
Typical 2026 range in Lee County: $8,000–$80,000
Or just leave your number
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FAQ
What is the average cost of a kitchen remodel in Auburn, AL?
Most full kitchen remodels we price in Auburn with the same layout fall in the $25,000–$45,000 range at mid-range finishes. Refreshes cost less and layout changes cost more.
Can I remodel a kitchen for $15,000?
Often yes, if the cabinet boxes are sound: paint or reface the cabinets, replace counters and backsplash, and update lighting and hardware.
Do I need a permit?
For plumbing, electrical or wall changes, yes. See our permit guide for Auburn, Opelika and Lee County.