How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Kitchen in Hawaii?
A kitchen renovation is one of the most rewarding home upgrades you can make—but in Hawaii, the costs can feel very different compared to the mainland. Between shipping, labor availability, and material choices, homeowners often wonder: how much does it actually cost to renovate a kitchen in Hawaii?
The Average Price Range
In Hawaii, the average kitchen renovation ranges from $25,000 to $60,000, depending on the size of the kitchen, the finishes you choose, and whether you’re making small updates or going for a full gut remodel.
Here’s a general breakdown:
Face lift (new cabinets while keeping the same countertop, appliances and layout): $12,000 - $20,000
Small to mid-size renovations (new cabinets, countertops, and appliances, keeping the same layout): $25,000 – $40,000
Full renovations (custom cabinetry, new flooring, layout changes, upgraded lighting, and plumbing): $40,000 – $60,000+
Luxury or high-end kitchens (custom finishes, premium appliances, specialty stone or hardwood, major structural changes): $75,000 – $100,000+
Where the Money Goes
A big part of your budget will be split among these core categories:
Cabinets (30–40%) – Custom or semi-custom cabinets make the biggest visual impact and take the largest share of the budget.
Countertops (10–15%) – Options range from affordable laminate to quartz, granite, and exotic stone that can raise costs quickly.
Appliances (10–20%) – Standard packages are affordable, but professional-grade ranges and built-ins can significantly add to the budget.
Flooring (10–15%) – Tile, vinyl, or hardwood all vary in cost, and shipping heavy flooring materials to the islands can drive prices up.
Labor & Permits (20–30%) – Skilled labor is in high demand across Hawaii, so installation costs tend to run higher than the mainland.
Transport & Shipping (5–10%) – Unique to Hawaii, freight from the mainland or Oahu to the neighbor islands adds anywhere from $1,000–$5,000+ to the project, depending on size and materials.
Oahu: The Most Affordable Place to Renovate
Because Oahu is home to Honolulu Harbor, larger warehouses, and a broader labor pool, renovation costs here are generally the lowest in the state. Materials are more available, lead times are shorter, and there’s a wider selection of licensed contractors to choose from.
A standard kitchen remodel on Oahu typically costs around $30,000–$50,000, with many homeowners able to take advantage of in-stock cabinetry and flooring for faster turnaround times.
Neighbor Islands: Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii Island
Renovating on the neighbor islands comes with extra considerations:
Shipping Costs – Materials ordered from Oahu or the mainland add freight charges of $1,000–$5,000+, depending on size and weight.
Labor Rates – With fewer licensed contractors available, labor can cost 10–20% more compared to Oahu.
Scheduling Delays – Fewer crews often mean longer wait times to get work started and completed.
As a result, the same remodel that might cost $35,000 on Oahu could be closer to $45,000–$55,000 on Maui or Kauai, and even higher on the Big Island depending on location.
Ordering From the Mainland: Is It Worth It?
Some homeowners consider ordering cabinets and materials from the mainland to save money. While the price tags can look attractive, there are hidden costs:
Freight charges can add $2,000–$7,000+ to an order.
Longer lead times (8–12 weeks or more) can stall your project.
No local support if items arrive damaged, missing, or the wrong size.
For most homeowners, working with a local supplier on Oahu is faster, more reliable, and often more cost-effective in the long run.
Tips to Manage Kitchen Renovation Costs
Set priorities early – Decide what matters most (storage, layout, finishes) so you know where to splurge and where to save.
Choose semi-custom cabinets – They strike a balance between affordability and personalization.
Bundle your materials – Ordering cabinets, countertops, and flooring together can help reduce shipping and freight costs.
Work with licensed contractors – Quality labor prevents costly mistakes and rework.
Plan ahead – With island shipping and scheduling, starting early keeps your project on track.
Final Thoughts
Renovating a kitchen in Hawaii is a bigger investment than on the mainland, but it’s also one of the most impactful ways to increase your home’s value and enjoy your space. On Oahu, expect to spend $30,000–$50,000 for a quality renovation, while projects on the neighbor islands will generally run higher due to shipping and labor.
At Arcade Green, we make remodeling simple with in-stock semi-custom cabinets ready in just 3 business days on Oahu. For a more personalized look, our Custom Finish cabinets can be painted or stained in any color to match your vision. No matter which Hawaiian island you live in, knowing the real costs upfront will help you plan smarter and get the kitchen you’ve been dreaming of.
