How much does kitchen remodel cost in Des Moines, IA?

Most Des Moines homeowners spend between $16,700 – $88,400 on kitchen remodel, with an average around $26,000. Local labor prices 7% below the national average, so Des Moines quotes tend to land at the lower end of national ranges.

Why is kitchen remodel more or less expensive in Des Moines than elsewhere?

Licensed trade labor in Des Moines runs about 93% of the national average, and the best crews book out fastest in spring and early summer. Iowa weather drives material choices here, so ask contractors what they install most often in Des Moines and why.

Do I need a permit for kitchen remodel in Des Moines, Iowa?

Most Des Moines, IA projects that change structure, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems need a permit from the local building department; cosmetic work usually does not. Always confirm current requirements with the local building department before signing a contract, and make sure the permit is pulled by your licensed contractor.

How many quotes should I get in Des Moines?

Get at least three written quotes from licensed, insured Iowa contractors. Comparing line items — not just the bottom line — is the fastest way to spot an inflated bid in the Des Moines metro market.

How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

$18,000 to $95,000, averaging about $28,000. That equals $75 to $250 per square foot of kitchen.

What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?

Cabinets, at roughly 30% of the budget, followed by labor at about 22%.

How long does a kitchen remodel take?

Six to twelve weeks for a typical midrange remodel, longer if you move plumbing or wait on custom cabinets.

Does a kitchen remodel pay for itself?

A minor midrange remodel returns roughly 70–85% of its cost at resale; an upscale gut renovation returns closer to 50%.

Yes if you move plumbing, add circuits or change walls. Cosmetic swaps usually do not require one.

Home/Cost guides/Kitchen Remodel/Des Moines, IA

Des Moines metro · Iowa

Kitchen Remodel cost in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines homeowners typically pay $16,700 – $88,400 for kitchen remodel. Local labor and materials price 7% below the national average.

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Des Moines average

$26,000

Typical low

$16,700

Typical high

$88,400

Per square foot of kitchen

$70 – $235

Sample ZIP

What drives Des Moines pricing

Local labor

Licensed trade labor in Des Moines runs about 93% of the national average, and the best crews book out fastest in spring and early summer.

Permits & code

Most Des Moines, IA projects that change structure, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems need a permit from the local building department; cosmetic work usually does not.

Climate & conditions

Iowa weather drives material choices here, so ask contractors what they install most often in Des Moines and why.

Instant cost calculator

Adjust the inputs to see live pricing

Kitchen size175 square feet

Remodel level

Layout change

Structural work

Countertop

Home age

Estimated project cost

$11,270 – $16,100

Most homeowners pay around $13,685

Compare remodel level

Cost by material in Des Moines

Installed Des Moines pricing per square foot of kitchen.

Option	Installed cost	Pros	Cons
Stock cabinets	$93 – $280	In stock and fast to install.	Fixed sizes leave filler gaps.
Semi-custom cabinets	$140 – $605	Sized to your kitchen with real finish options.	6–10 week lead time.
Custom cabinets	$465 – $1,400	Any size, any material.	Highest cost and longest lead time.
Laminate countertop	$19 – $47	Cheapest surface available.	Damaged by heat, cannot be repaired.
Granite countertop	$37 – $93	Heat-proof and durable.	Needs periodic sealing.
Quartz countertop	$47 – $140	Non-porous and maintenance-free.	Can scorch under hot pans.

Where the money goes in Des Moines

A typical $26,000 Des Moines project, broken down by line item.

Cabinets & hardware30% · $7,800
Labor & installation22% · $5,720
Appliances14% · $3,640
Countertops11% · $2,860
Flooring7% · $1,820
Plumbing & electrical9% · $2,340
Lighting, paint & finishes7% · $1,820

Common add-ons

Extras that show up on Des Moines quotes but rarely in the headline price.

Kitchen island (new)

$2,800 – $11,200

Relocate plumbing

$930 – $3,700

New electrical circuits & panel work

$1,100 – $4,650

Range hood venting to exterior

$560 – $2,350

Tile backsplash

$745 – $2,350

Hardwood flooring

Per square foot installed

$6 – $17

Permits

$280 – $1,400

Ways to save in Des Moines

Keep the plumbing and range where they are — moving them is the single biggest hidden cost.
Reface or paint solid cabinet boxes instead of replacing: saves 60–70% of the cabinet line.
Buy appliances during Black Friday or Memorial Day sales and store them until install week.
Choose quartz remnants for small counters and islands.
Order everything before demo day — delays are what turn a 6-week job into a 4-month job.

Des Moines FAQs

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More Des Moines research

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Other project costs in Des Moines

Fence Installation in Des Moines

$1,395 – $3,720

Roof Replacement in Des Moines

$7,905 – $31,620

HVAC Replacement in Des Moines

$5,115 – $16,740

Deck Building in Des Moines

$4,092 – $11,160

Window Replacement in Des Moines

$419 – $1,395

Bathroom Remodel in Des Moines

$6,045 – $35,340

See every Des Moines cost guide