Kitchen Renovation Costs in Vancouver: What You’ll Pay in 2025 (And How to Stretch It)
Let’s be real - kitchen renovations in Vancouver are basically a competitive sport.
Between the skyrocketing labour costs, boutique tile addiction, and the eternal question "Do I need a pot filler?", it's easy to go from a Pinterest dream to a $100K panic attack.
Whether you’re remodelling a tiny galley kitchen in Gastown, updating a fixer-upper in Courtenay, or planning a sleek upgrade in your North Van new build, this is the guide for you.
We’re breaking down real numbers, sneaky cost traps, and smart design tips that’ll make your reno feel less like a financial black hole and more like a flex.
What does a kitchen renovation cost in Vancouver right now?
Type of Reno & Cost Range (CAD)
Basic Cosmetic Refresh $25,000 – $40,000
Mid-Range Full Renovation $45,000 – $75,000
High-End Custom Kitchen $85,000 – $150,000+
Vancouver Island homeowners can often save 10–20%, depending on location (and if you’re not in a supply-chain-dead zone).
Photos Source: Pinterest.com
What factors affect my reno budget most?
Short answer: all of them. Long answer: these five are the real wallet crushers.
Cabinetry: Custom millwork = $$$. IKEA hacks = your new best friend.
Appliances: Panel-ready is pretty, but pricey.
Layout Changes: Moving plumbing or electrical? Welcome to permit-town.
Finishes: Imported tile and hand-troweled plaster? Gorgeous. Expensive.
Labour: Contractors in Vancouver are in high demand - book early or risk the reno purgatory waitlist.
How can I save money without sacrificing style?
We love a budget-savvy glow-up.
Here’s how to cut costs without cutting corners:
Go semi-custom. IKEA bases + custom doors = chef’s kiss combo.
Refinish instead of replace. Cabinet painting is 1/4 the cost of new.
Mix high and low. Splurge on counters, save on lighting and hardware.
Skip the overdesign. Waterfall islands are nice - but not if you can’t afford groceries to cook on them.
Pro tip for Vancouver Island renovators: Look for local trades or design-build shops in places like Nanaimo or Duncan for better rates and quicker turnarounds.
Photo Source: Pinterest.com
What design trends are big in Vancouver kitchens right now?
It’s giving natural, textural, unfussy West Coast cool.
Expect to see:
Matte finishes over glossy everything
Limewash or microcement backsplashes instead of subway tile
Open shelving with intention (not clutter)
Warm wood tones paired with stone and brushed metals
Integrated appliances and hidden pantries - because minimalism isn’t dead
Function meets flow - no more corner cabinets that trap your blender forever.
FAQ
Q: How long does a kitchen renovation take in Vancouver?
A: Around 8–12 weeks for a full reno, longer if you’re moving walls or dealing with permit delays. (Plan ahead—Vancouver waits are real.)
Q: Can I do any of the reno myself?
A: Demo and painting? Go for it. Plumbing and electrical? Please call a licensed pro unless you're aiming for fireworks.
Q: Are there eco-friendly options that won’t kill my budget?
A: Yes! Look for FSC-certified cabinetry, locally sourced countertops, and energy-efficient appliances - better for the planet and your utility bill.
Photo Source: Pinterest.com
Final Thought
A kitchen renovation in Vancouver or on Vancouver Island doesn’t have to send you spiralling into design regret.
With smart planning, realistic expectations, and a little local know-how, you can build a space that cooks - and looks damn good doing it.
Just don’t forget to leave room in the budget for takeout.
Not sure which direction to take your kitchen renovation? Check out our IKEA vs. Custom Kitchens: What’s Better for Your Vancouver Renovation?
