If you own a home in McDonough or anywhere in Henry County, the first question about a kitchen remodel is almost always the same: what will it cost? The honest answer is that it depends on how much you change. Here are the price ranges we see on kitchen projects in the McDonough area, what drives the number up or down, and how to plan your budget before you call anyone.
Kitchen remodel cost in McDonough at a glance
| Project scope | Typical range | What it usually includes |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic refresh | $8,000 – $18,000 | Paint, new hardware, backsplash, lighting and fixtures. The layout stays the same. |
| Mid-range remodel | $18,000 – $35,000 | New cabinets, countertops, flooring, sink and an appliance package. |
| Premium or open-concept | $35,000 – $50,000+ | Wall removal, custom cabinetry, quartz surfaces and a full redesign. |
Most McDonough homeowners land in the mid-range: new cabinets and counters without moving walls or plumbing.
What drives the price
1. Cabinets
Cabinets are usually the single biggest line item. Stock cabinets cost the least, semi-custom gives you more sizes and finishes, and fully custom cabinetry costs the most. Refacing or painting existing boxes that are still solid can save thousands.
2. Countertops
Laminate is the budget option. Granite and quartz cost more but last for decades and are what most buyers in Henry County expect to see. An island adds square footage, so it adds countertop cost.
3. Layout changes
Keeping the sink, range and refrigerator where they are keeps costs down. Moving plumbing or gas lines, or removing a wall to open the kitchen to the living room, adds labor, materials and often a permit. Removing a load-bearing wall needs a properly sized beam and can add several thousand dollars on its own.
4. Flooring
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is popular in Georgia kitchens because it is waterproof and handles humidity well. Tile and hardwood cost more. Flooring that runs continuously into adjoining rooms adds square footage.
5. Electrical and lighting
Older homes often need added circuits for modern appliances. Recessed lights, under-cabinet lighting and pendants over an island are affordable upgrades that change how the room feels.
6. Surprises behind the walls
Older homes can hide water damage, outdated wiring or uneven subfloors. We look for these during the in-home estimate, but it is wise to keep 10–15% of your budget in reserve.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
A cosmetic refresh usually takes 1–2 weeks. A mid-range remodel with new cabinets and counters takes about 3–5 weeks, and a full open-concept project takes 4–6 weeks or more. Countertops are templated after the cabinets are installed, which adds a short wait in the middle of most projects.
Ways to save without cutting corners
- Keep the layout. Leaving plumbing and appliances in place is the biggest single saving.
- Mix finishes. Put quartz on the island and a less expensive surface on the perimeter.
- Paint solid cabinets. If the boxes are in good shape, new doors or paint can look like new cabinets.
- Use our senior and military discount. Homeowners 60+, active military and veterans get 20% off, and it can be combined with financing.
Paying for your kitchen remodel
You don’t need home equity to start. We offer financing with $0 down through our GreenSky® partner program, with options for many credit types. See the financing options on our Pricing page.
Get an exact number for your kitchen
These ranges are a starting point. The only way to know your number is to look at your kitchen. Smiley Home Improvement offers free in-home estimates across McDonough, Stockbridge, Locust Grove, Hampton, Jonesboro and Griffin, with a written, itemized quote within 24–48 hours.
Call (770) 896-1828 or request your free estimate online.