What home renovations actually cost in 2026
RenoCost publishes plain-English cost ranges for the eight renovation projects homeowners ask about most — and explains why the same job can quote 40% higher in one state than another.
National average ranges, 2026
| Project | Typical range | Main cost driver |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen remodel | $26,000 – $77,000 | Cabinets and layout changes |
| Bathroom remodel | $13,000 – $35,000 | Tile, fixtures, relocation of plumbing |
| Roof replacement | $5,500 – $12,000 | Pitch, stories, material (asphalt vs metal) |
| Deck or patio build | $4,000 – $14,000 | Composite vs wood, height, footings |
| Interior painting | $2,000 – $6,000 | Wall area and prep work |
| Hardwood flooring | $3,000 – $8,000 | Species, subfloor levelling |
| Siding replacement | $9,000 – $20,000 | Material, removal of old siding |
| Window replacement | $4,000 – $10,000 | Frame material, number of openings |
Ranges reflect typical mid-grade work on a single-family home. They are planning figures, not quotes. Local labour rates, permits and material availability move the number materially — always get two or three written quotes for your address.
What moves the price
Labour share
On most projects labour is 40–60% of the bill. Two states with the same material prices can differ by a third on labour alone.
Permits and code
Structural, electrical and plumbing work usually needs a permit. Older housing stock tends to surface code upgrades once walls are open.
Hidden conditions
Water damage, asbestos, knob-and-tube wiring, or a slab that is out of level. Budget a 10–15% contingency on any room gut.
Season and lead time
Roofing and exterior work booked in spring often prices higher than the same job scheduled in late autumn.
For contractors
RenoCost Pro gives remodeling contractors a place to publish their service area, receive homeowner enquiries matched to their trade, and track which projects convert. $59 per month, billed monthly in USD, cancel anytime.
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About this guide
RenoCost compiles published project cost data and contractor pricing surveys, then normalises it to 2026 dollars. We do not sell leads to more than two contractors in the same trade and ZIP code, and we say so on every enquiry. Corrections are welcome at hello@renocost.com.
RenoCost provides planning estimates for general information. It is not a quote, a contract, or professional cost advice. Actual prices depend on your property, your location and the contractor you hire.