How Much Does Kitchen Remodel Cost in Savannah, GA in 2026?

Last updated: 2026-09-12 · Savannah, GA · 1379 words · 7 min read

Average Cost of Kitchen Remodel in Savannah

A kitchen remodel is one of the most valuable home projects you can take on. In Savannah, GA, a mid‑range kitchen remodel typically costs between $13,950 and $46,500. Those figures come from applying Savannah’s local cost factor of 0.93 to the national range of $15,000‑$50,000. Minor refreshes that focus on new countertops, paint, and hardware start around $8,000 and can climb to $15,000. A full‑gut renovation that replaces cabinets, appliances, flooring, and fixtures usually falls between $40,000 and $80,000 in this coastal market.

Kitchen Remodel Cost by Material

Material choices drive a large portion of the budget. Below are the typical price ranges you’ll encounter in Savannah, adjusted for local labor rates.

• Laminate countertops – $25 to $50 per square foot. This budget‑friendly option is ideal for a quick refresh.
• Quartz countertops – $60 to $120 per square foot. Quartz is the most popular mid‑range material because it offers durability and a consistent look.
• Granite countertops – $50 to $120 per square foot. Natural stone adds a high‑end feel but can vary widely depending on slab selection.
• Stock cabinets – $100 to $300 per linear foot installed. Stock or semi‑custom cabinets are the go‑to for many mid‑range remodels.
• Custom cabinets – $400 to $1,000 per linear foot installed. Fully custom cabinets are the biggest single line item and are typically reserved for full‑gut projects.

Cost by Project Size in Savannah

Understanding how project scope translates to cost helps you set realistic expectations.

• Minor refresh (counters + paint + hardware) – $8,000 to $15,000. This cosmetic update replaces the visual focal points without touching the layout.
• Mid‑range remodel (stock cabinets, quartz) – $25,000 to $45,000. This is the most common scope, featuring new stock cabinets, quartz countertops, and updated appliances.
• Full gut remodel (custom cabinets, appliances) – $45,000 to $80,000. A complete rebuild that changes the floor plan, installs custom cabinets, and upgrades all major systems.

What Affects the Price in Savannah?

Several factors can push a project above the baseline numbers.

• Scope of work – Keeping the existing layout saves thousands. Moving the sink, stove, or refrigerator requires new plumbing, gas lines, and sometimes structural changes, which add significant labor costs.
• Cabinet grade – Stock or semi‑custom cabinets cost a fraction of custom units. The difference can be $5,000 to $20,000 depending on linear footage.
• Countertop material – Laminate is the cheapest option, while quartz and granite typically add $3,000 to $8,000 to the total budget.
• Appliance selection – A basic appliance package starts around $4,000, while high‑end brands and larger units can reach $12,000.
• Local climate considerations – Savannah’s humid coastal environment means extra attention to moisture‑resistant materials and proper HVAC ventilation, which can modestly raise material costs.

How to Save Money on Kitchen Remodel in Savannah

Smart choices can keep your project within budget without sacrificing quality.

• Maintain the same footprint and avoid moving plumbing or gas lines.
• Reface existing cabinet boxes instead of replacing them when the frames are still solid.
• Shop for appliances during seasonal sales and request package discounts from retailers.
• Consider acting as your own general contractor only if you have prior construction experience; in Savannah, permit inspections are strict, and mistakes often cost more than the savings.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Some tasks are well‑suited for a confident DIYer, while others require licensed trades.

• DIY‑friendly jobs – Painting, swapping cabinet hardware, and installing a backsplash tile are approachable for most homeowners.
• Professional‑only jobs – Cabinet installation, any work involving plumbing, gas, or electrical systems must be performed by licensed contractors in Savannah. The city enforces permit inspections that will catch shortcuts, and non‑compliant work can void insurance coverage.

What to Expect: The Kitchen Remodel Process

A typical remodel follows these sequential steps:

1. Design, measurements, and budget plan – Work with a designer or use design software to finalize layout and material selections.
2. Permit application – Submit electrical and plumbing permits to Savannah‑City Building Services; most structural changes require approval.
3. Demolition and dumpster delivery – Remove existing cabinets, countertops, and flooring safely.
4. Rough‑in electrical and plumbing – Install new wiring, outlets, and plumbing lines before walls are closed.
5. Cabinets, counters, and appliances installed – Precise installation of cabinets, countertop slabs, and appliances begins.
6. Flooring, backsplash, paint, and final inspection – Finish the look with flooring, tile, paint, and schedule the city’s final inspection.

How Long Does It Take in Savannah?

A mid‑range kitchen remodel in Savannah typically runs 6 to 12 weeks from demolition to final inspection. The longest lead times are often cabinet and appliance deliveries, so ordering early can prevent schedule slips. Minor refreshes can be completed in 2 to 4 weeks, while a full gut remodel that includes structural changes may extend toward the upper end of the 12‑week window.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Even a well‑planned budget can be surprised by unforeseen expenses.

• Permit fees and multiple inspection re‑visits.
• Unexpected wiring upgrades or outdated plumbing discovered after demolition.
• Repairing damaged walls or subfloors once the old kitchen is exposed.
• Temporary kitchen setup costs, such as renting a portable cooktop or purchasing groceries for a makeshift eating area.

Paying for Kitchen Remodel

Homeowners in Savannah commonly finance remodels with home equity loans, HELOCs, or contractor‑offered financing. Compare annual percentage rates (APRs) and repayment terms carefully. Some contractors advertise 0% promotional financing for a limited period; this can be attractive if you are confident you can pay off the balance before the promotional window ends.

Insurance Considerations

Standard homeowners insurance will cover sudden damage like burst pipes during a remodel, but it does not cover workmanship issues. Verify that any contractor you hire carries both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Ask your insurer whether you need a temporary endorsement for the remodel period, especially given Savannah’s hurricane season, which can bring additional risk of wind or water damage.

Does Kitchen Remodel Increase Home Value?

In Savannah, a mid‑range kitchen remodel typically recovers 55 % to 75 % of its cost at resale. Kitchens are a primary decision factor for most buyers, so a dated kitchen can depress the overall asking price more than the remodel expense itself. For homes where the kitchen is the main selling point, the return can be higher, especially when high‑quality cabinets and stone countertops are installed.

How to Choose a Contractor in Savannah

Selecting the right professional is critical to staying on budget and schedule.

1. Verify licensing with the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board.
2. Ask for references from recent Savannah kitchen projects and request to see before‑and‑after photos.
3. Confirm that the contractor carries liability insurance and workers’ compensation.
4. Obtain at least three written estimates and compare line‑item pricing, not just the total.
5. Review the contract for a clear scope of work, payment schedule, and warranty details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a kitchen remodel cost in Savannah?

Most kitchen remodels in Savannah run between $15,000 and $50,000. A minor refresh that includes new countertops, hardware, and paint starts around $8,000 to $15,000, while a full‑gut remodel with custom cabinets and new appliances typically costs $40,000 to $80,000.

Does a kitchen remodel increase home value?

A mid‑range kitchen remodel in Savannah usually recovers 55 %–75 % of its cost when the home is sold. Because kitchens are a top priority for buyers, an outdated kitchen can lower a home’s marketability more than the remodel expense would add.

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

A minor refresh can be completed in 2 to 4 weeks. A full remodel that includes new cabinets, countertops, and appliances generally takes 6 to 12 weeks in Savannah, accounting for permit inspections and final approvals.

What adds the most cost to a kitchen remodel?

Custom cabinets and stone countertops are the two biggest line items, often comprising half of the total budget. In Savannah, moving plumbing, gas lines, or walls adds the most unexpected cost because of the additional trades required and the need for city permits.

Should I remodel before selling my home?

If the kitchen is functional but dated, a $10,000‑$20,000 refresh usually offers a better return than a full remodel before a sale. Consult a local Savannah real‑estate agent to gauge buyer expectations for your price point.

Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in Savannah?

Most Savannah jurisdictions require permits for any electrical, plumbing, or structural changes. Purely cosmetic updates—such as painting or swapping hardware—generally do not need a permit. Always confirm with the Savannah‑City Building Services before beginning work.