How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen in Middle Tennessee? (2026)

A kitchen remodel in Middle Tennessee typically costs $15,000 to $30,000 for a cosmetic refresh, $35,000 to $75,000 for a mid-range remodel with new cabinets and countertops, and $80,000 to $160,000 or more for a high-end or layout-changing renovation.

About these numbers: the ranges below are typical estimates for Middle Tennessee based on common kitchen sizes, materials and published industry pricing. They are not quotes. Your real price depends on your home, the size of the room, the materials you pick and the contractor you hire — always get two or three written estimates.

Quick answer: kitchen remodel cost tiers

Where the money goes

A useful rule of thumb for planning a mid-range kitchen budget:

The contingency is not optional. Older Middle Tennessee homes often reveal problems once walls and floors are opened.

Countertop costs

A typical kitchen has 30 to 50 square feet of counter. Sink cutouts, edge profiles, full-height backsplashes and seams all add to the fabrication price.

Cabinets: stock, semi-custom or custom

• Stock cabinets come in fixed sizes and finishes. Lowest cost and fastest delivery.
• Semi-custom cabinets offer more sizes, finishes and storage options. The most common choice for mid-range remodels.
• Custom cabinets are built for your room. Highest cost and longest lead time, but they fit odd spaces and older homes best.
• Refacing or painting existing boxes can save a large share of the cabinet budget if the boxes are solid.

Hidden costs to plan for

• Electrical panel upgrade: about $2,000 – $4,500 if new appliances, an induction range or added circuits exceed what the panel can handle.
• Removing a load-bearing wall: about $3,000 – $9,000 or more, including a beam, engineering and permits.
• Moving plumbing or gas: moving the sink or range across the room adds labor, especially on a slab foundation.
• Subfloor repair and leveling: common in older homes and under old sinks and dishwashers.
• Ventilation: a properly ducted range hood costs more than a recirculating one, but works far better.
• Drywall, paint and trim after demolition — confirm they are in the scope.

Licensing in Tennessee: the $25,000 line

In Tennessee, a contractor taking on a project of $25,000 or more (including materials and labor) generally must hold a state contractor's license from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors — for kitchens, typically a building or residential classification. Many mid-range and high-end kitchens cross that line.

Before signing, ask for:

• The state license number, and check it at verify.tn.gov
• Proof of general liability insurance
• Proof of workers' compensation coverage for anyone working in your home
• Who pulls the building, electrical and plumbing permits

Splitting one kitchen into several smaller contracts to stay under the threshold is a red flag.

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

Most mid-range remodels take 6 to 12 weeks of construction once materials arrive. Order cabinets early — lead time is usually what sets the calendar.

Ways to save without cutting corners

• Keep the sink, range and refrigerator where they are
• Reface or paint solid cabinet boxes instead of replacing them
• Put premium materials where you touch them most (counters, hardware) and save elsewhere
• Get at least three written, itemized estimates for the same scope

Before you sign: estimate checklist

• Is the scope written line by line, including demolition, disposal and cleanup?
• Which allowances (cabinets, counters, tile, fixtures) are included, and at what dollar amount?
• Who pulls permits, and are permit fees included?
• What is the payment schedule? Avoid paying most of the price before work starts.
• What warranty covers workmanship, and for how long?
• How are change orders priced and approved?

Common questions

What is a realistic budget for a kitchen remodel in Nashville or Franklin?

For a mid-range remodel with new semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters and new appliances, many homeowners budget $40,000 to $75,000. Larger kitchens and high-cost areas can run higher.

Does a kitchen remodel need a permit in Tennessee?

Cosmetic work like painting or new counters often doesn't. Electrical, plumbing, gas and structural changes almost always do. Your contractor should pull them.

Do I need a licensed contractor for my kitchen?

If the project is $25,000 or more, Tennessee generally requires a state-licensed contractor. Licensed electricians and plumbers are needed for their trade work regardless.

Is a kitchen remodel worth it for resale?

Kitchens are one of the most-noticed rooms by buyers. Mid-range updates usually recover more of their cost than luxury renovations.

Can I live at home during a kitchen remodel?

Most people do. Set up a temporary kitchen with a microwave, small fridge and coffee maker, and expect several weeks without a working sink.

Find a kitchen remodeler near you

Browse kitchen remodelers in Middle Tennessee, or start with your town: Nashville, Franklin, Brentwood, Murfreesboro, or see all service areas. Planning a bathroom too? See our bathroom remodel cost guide.