Quick answer: Kitchen remodeling in Fort Collins typically runs $5,000 to $12,000 for a refresh, $15,000 to $35,000 for a mid-range remodel and $40,000 to $80,000 or more for a full custom kitchen. Cosmetic updates like new countertops usually don’t need a permit, but moving plumbing, electrical, gas lines or walls does. Older Fort Collins homes often hide outdated wiring and plumbing, so budget a cushion for what’s behind the walls.
Kitchen Remodel Cost in Fort Collins
- Refresh ($5,000 to $12,000): paint or reface cabinets, new hardware, backsplash, faucet and lighting.
- Mid-range remodel ($15,000 to $35,000): new cabinets and countertops, flooring, sink and appliances in the same layout.
- Full custom kitchen ($40,000 to $80,000+): layout changes, custom cabinetry, moved plumbing and gas, new electrical, islands and higher-end finishes.
The biggest cost jumps come from moving the sink, range or walls. Keeping your current layout is the single best way to stretch a budget.
When You Need a Permit
In Fort Collins, as in most Colorado cities, permits are tied to the trade work, not the cabinets. You will typically need one if you are:
- Adding or moving electrical circuits or outlets.
- Moving the sink, dishwasher or other plumbing.
- Moving or adding a gas line for a range.
- Removing or changing walls, especially load-bearing ones.
- Adding or enlarging a window.
New countertops, cabinet replacement in the same spots, paint and flooring usually don’t need one. Check with City of Fort Collins Building Services for your project. We pull the permits on our jobs and schedule the inspections.
Older Fort Collins Homes: Plan for Surprises
Many homes around Old Town and the older neighborhoods near campus were built long before modern codes. Once walls open up, we often find:
- Old wiring that has to be replaced to add new circuits.
- Galvanized or undersized drain lines.
- Walls that are out of plumb and floors that are out of level.
- Lead paint in homes built before 1978, which federal rules require lead-safe work practices to disturb.
Set aside 10 to 15 percent of your budget for these. If you don’t need it, it goes back in your pocket.
Layout and Ventilation
- Work triangle: keep the sink, range and refrigerator close enough to work between easily, without traffic cutting through.
- Islands: plan at least 42 inches of walkway around an island, more for two cooks.
- Range hood: vent it outside, not back into the kitchen. Large hoods (over 400 CFM under the IRC) can require makeup air, which affects the budget.
- Outlets and lighting: add under-cabinet lighting and enough outlets along the counters while the walls are open.
How Long a Kitchen Remodel Takes
- Design, selections and written estimate.
- Ordering cabinets (often the longest lead time) and pulling permits.
- Demolition and rough-in work, then rough inspections.
- Drywall, cabinets, then countertop templating.
- Countertop install, backsplash, plumbing and electrical trim.
- Final inspection and punch list.
Order cabinets and countertops before demolition starts so your kitchen isn’t torn apart while you wait on materials.
See our kitchen remodeling in Fort Collins page for our services and pricing, our Fort Collins bathroom remodeling page, or the Fort Collins general contractor page for everything else we do there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Fort Collins?
Typical ranges are $5,000 to $12,000 for a refresh, $15,000 to $35,000 for a mid-range remodel and $40,000 to $80,000 or more for a full custom kitchen.
Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen in Fort Collins?
You usually need one if you are moving or adding electrical, plumbing or gas, or changing walls or windows. Replacing countertops or cabinets in the same layout usually does not. Check with City of Fort Collins Building Services.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
It depends on the scope and material lead times. Cabinets are usually the longest wait, so order them before demolition starts.
What is the best way to save money on a kitchen remodel?
Keep the sink, range and refrigerator where they are. Moving plumbing, gas and walls is where costs jump the most.
Do older Fort Collins homes cost more to remodel?
Often, yes. Older homes can have outdated wiring and plumbing behind the walls, and homes built before 1978 may have lead paint. Budget 10 to 15 percent extra.
Planning a Kitchen Remodel in Fort Collins?
Every bid is written and itemized after an in-home visit. Josh Brooks Construction and Renovation Inc. is a licensed general contractor based in Longmont with 30 years in construction, serving 46+ Front Range cities. Call 720-828-7997 or text 720-453-5095.
Licensed. Local. Not a storm chaser.
Related Services
