LA Kitchen Remodel Cost Guide 2026: Ranges, Title 24, and Permit Steps

In Los Angeles, Orange County, and the San Fernando Valley, kitchen remodels vary widely in cost. Most fall between $55,000 and $175,000 depending on layout changes, finish level, and energy compliance. Title 24 lighting requirements influence fixtures and controls costs.

Why this matters in January

Homeowners in Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, Pasadena, and Irvine secure budgets and permits now before spring scheduling crunches. Material lead times, especially for custom cabinetry, are tightening.

What Determines Kitchen Remodel Cost in LA Region

Costs reflect:

• Kitchen size and footprint

• Custom versus stock cabinetry

• Countertop material (quartz/stone vs laminate)

• Appliance tier

• Plumbing and electrical changes

• Structural work

• Permits and inspections

• Title 24 energy compliance

Hillside lots or WUI zones (near canyon edges) may add engineering or mitigation costs.

Typical Cost Ranges and Assumptions

Simple Refresh (cabinet refinish, new counters)

• $55,000–$80,000Assumptions: No layout change, minimal electrical tweaks, stock cabinets.

Mid‑Range Remodel (layout shifts)

• $80,000–$130,000Assumptions: Move plumbing, add circuits, mid‑tier cabinetry and appliances.

High‑End Custom (open plan, structural changes)

• $130,000–$175,000+Assumptions: Beam install, custom cabinetry, high‑end appliances.

Costs assume typical single‑family homes with slab or crawlspace. Slab plumbing reroutes may add $3,000–$7,000.

Title 24 Lighting and Energy Rules

California Title 24 affects kitchens by requiring:

• High‑efficacy lighting fixtures

• Lighting controls (dimmers, occupancy sensors)

• Efficient ventilation

Non‑compliant lighting fails inspection and must be replaced at additional cost. Plan early with your designer.

Permit Requirements and Steps

Building

A building permit is mandatory if you alter walls, move plumbing, or change appliances.

Electrical

Any circuit changes, panel extensions, or new appliance feeds require an electrical permit.

Mechanical and Plumbing

Hood vents and plumbing relocations require separate permits.

City departments like LADBS or OC permit centers check for compliance with local codes.

Inspection Milestones

Typical inspections include:

• Rough framing and systems

• Electrical rough

• Mechanical and plumbing

• Final inspection

Each must pass before moving to the next phase.

Neighborhood Considerations

• Santa Monica: Coastal wind and noise rules may affect venting.

• Pasadena: Historic homes may require architectural review.

• Irvine: HOA architectural committee approvals may precede permits.

• Newport Beach: WUI considerations for vents and materials.

How to Control Kitchen Remodel Costs

• Finalize layout before ordering

• Choose energy‑compliant lighting early

• Coordinate electrician and plumber prior to demo

• Bundle permit applications to save time

Images

Hero (3:2)

Prompt: Southern California kitchen remodel in progress with contractor and homeowners reviewing budget at islandAlt: LA kitchen remodel consultation with cost reviewSuggested filename: la-kitchen-cost-hero.jpg

Process / Permits (4:5)

Prompt: LADBS permit paperwork and Title 24 forms on table with kitchen framing visible and palm trees outsideAlt: LA kitchen remodel permit and inspection paperworkSuggested filename: la-kitchen-cost-permits.jpg

Materials (4:5)

Prompt: Organized kitchen materials with Title 24 lighting note and WUI compliant components for Southern CaliforniaAlt: Kitchen remodeling material samples and Title 24 notesSuggested filename: la-kitchen-cost-materials.jpg

FAQ

Does Title 24 increase remodel cost?

Yes. Efficient lighting and controls add to fixture and design costs.

Are permits always needed?

Yes if you alter walls, plumbing, or electrical.

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