In Ohio, kitchen remodels typically recoup between 40% and 70% of their cost, depending on the level of investment. Standard remodels deliver the highest ROI—around 60% to 70%—due to their lower costs and broad market appeal. Deluxe remodels offer a moderate return of 50% to 60%, while high-end luxury kitchens see returns in the range of 40% to 50%, as these often exceed what the local market will support. Understanding the ROI potential at each tier helps homeowners plan smarter renovations that align with their goals and budgets.

Tier	Size	Cost Range	Estimated ROI (%)	ROI Range ($)
Standard	240 sq ft	$65K–$80K	60–70%	$39,000–$56,000
Deluxe	350 sq ft	$85K–$140K	50–60%	$42,500–$84,000
Luxury	500+ sq ft	$200K–$470K	40–50%	$80,000–$235,000

Standard Kitchen Remodel ROI: 60–70%

A standard kitchen remodel focuses on cost-effective upgrades that deliver a clean, modernized space without significant structural changes. With a budget between $65,000 and $80,000, homeowners can expect to recoup 60% to 70% of their investment upon resale.

Why the ROI Is High:

• Broad market appeal: Neutral finishes and practical upgrades are attractive to a wide range of buyers.
  
• Low risk: Preserving the original layout keeps costs down and avoids hidden structural issues.
  
• Immediate visual improvement: Even basic upgrades like new cabinets and countertops make a strong impression.
  

This level of remodel is especially popular among homeowners preparing to sell or rental property owners wanting a competitive edge without overspending.

Deluxe Kitchen Remodel ROI: 50–60%

A deluxe remodel involves layout reconfiguration, upgraded materials, and premium appliances. These kitchens typically cost between $85,000 and $140,000 and yield an ROI of 50% to 60%.

Why the ROI Slightly Drops:

• Higher upfront costs: More customization and design changes mean bigger investments.
  
• Taste specificity: Some finishes may appeal to specific buyer tastes, narrowing the resale audience.
  
• Market saturation: In mid-tier neighborhoods, buyers might not pay significantly more for upgrades beyond a certain threshold.
  

Still, this tier offers strong value for homeowners planning to stay in their home for several years. It enhances both daily usability and long-term marketability, especially in suburban Ohio neighborhoods where homebuyers expect upgraded kitchens but not necessarily high-end luxury.

Luxury Kitchen Remodel ROI: 40–50%

A luxury kitchen remodel is a full transformation—knocking down walls, building sculleries, installing smart appliances, and using designer materials. These projects start around $200,000 and can go well over $400,000 in Ohio. The estimated ROI? 40% to 50%.

Why the ROI Is Lowest:

• Overbuilding for the market: In most Ohio markets, even premium homes may not appraise high enough to justify ultra-luxury remodel costs.
  
• Niche appeal: Features like custom millwork, imported stone, or oversized layouts may not align with buyer expectations or budgets.
  
• Higher maintenance perception: Luxury kitchens can be seen as costly to maintain or replace down the line.
  

Luxury kitchen remodels are best viewed as lifestyle investments—ideal for homeowners who plan to stay in their home long-term and want a truly personalized, high-functioning space.

What Drives ROI in a Kitchen Remodel?

Several key factors influence how much of your kitchen remodel investment you can expect to recoup when it comes time to sell. Understanding these drivers helps you make strategic choices that enhance both functionality and resale value—especially in competitive markets like Ohio.

1. Cabinetry

Cabinetry is often the most expensive single component of a kitchen remodel, typically consuming up to 40% of the total project budget. Custom-built cabinets with premium finishes, soft-close hardware, and internal organization features can elevate the look and feel of the space—but in mid-market homes, this level of investment doesn’t always translate to higher resale value. Semi-custom or stock cabinets offer a more cost-effective solution while still delivering a modern, polished aesthetic. In neighborhoods where buyers prioritize function over luxury finishes, standard cabinetry can yield a better ROI simply because it keeps your total investment in check.

2. Countertops

Countertops are one of the most visually dominant features in any kitchen and play a significant role in resale appeal. Materials like quartz and granite remain top picks due to their durability, low maintenance, and upscale appearance. In Ohio, Cambria quartz has become especially popular thanks to its locally appealing patterns and excellent performance. While natural stone or exotic materials may be visually stunning, they come at a premium that might not align with the resale potential of most Ohio homes. Homeowners aiming to maximize ROI should choose countertop materials that balance beauty, longevity, and cost-effectiveness.

3. Appliances

Appliance selection is another critical component that can influence your kitchen’s perceived value. Built-in, panel-ready, and smart appliances are increasingly in demand, especially in high-end remodels, where seamless aesthetics and integrated technology are selling points. However, these options come with a higher price tag and should be evaluated carefully against your target buyer market. In most Ohio neighborhoods, standard stainless steel appliances offer the best ROI—they’re reliable, attractive, and widely accepted by buyers. Unless you’re remodeling a luxury home, it’s often wise to invest in quality mid-range appliances that provide performance without excessive cost.

4. Layout Changes

Reconfiguring the kitchen layout—such as removing walls, relocating sinks or appliances, or expanding the footprint—can dramatically improve the usability and flow of the space. Open-concept kitchens, in particular, continue to be highly desirable. However, these changes typically require structural work, plumbing and electrical updates, and more intensive labor, which significantly increase overall costs. For ROI-conscious homeowners, layout modifications should be carefully weighed. They make the most sense in homes where the existing kitchen is poorly configured or closed off in a way that feels outdated. In such cases, improving the layout can enhance livability and help command a higher resale price.

5. Design Simplicity and Longevity

While it may be tempting to follow current design trends—like colorful cabinetry, statement backsplashes, or ultra-modern fixtures—timeless design choices tend to yield better long-term value. Neutral color palettes, simple cabinetry profiles, quality hardware, and classic tile patterns have broad appeal and won’t date your kitchen as quickly. Buyers are often drawn to spaces they can easily envision personalizing, so sticking with clean lines, practical layouts, and flexible finishes improves your remodel’s marketability. Design simplicity also often costs less, giving you more room to invest in features with a clearer return, such as better lighting or additional storage.

How to Maximize ROI on Your Kitchen Remodel

• Stay aligned with your neighborhood. Don’t spend $300,000 on a kitchen remodel in a $350,000 neighborhood—buyers won’t pay for upgrades they don’t expect.
  
• Prioritize upgrades that impact usability. Soft-close drawers, extra storage, lighting improvements, and efficient appliance placement add real-world value.
  
• Work with professionals. A full-service design-build firm like Element Design Build Remodel helps you balance investment and return, ensuring your remodel looks great and functions well—without overspending.
  
• Think resale even if you’re staying. Trends change, but quality workmanship and smart layout choices will hold value longer than ultra-specific design flourishes.
  

Final Thoughts

A kitchen remodel in Ohio can be both a personal upgrade and a smart financial move. While standard remodels deliver the highest ROI, even deluxe and luxury projects offer long-term benefits—especially when tailored to your lifestyle and completed with care.

Whether you’re planning a light refresh or a full-scale transformation, understanding the potential return helps you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls. With the right plan and team in place, your new kitchen can offer years of beauty, function, and value. Contact Element KB today to get started on your next kitchen remodel.