
Renovating a home in 2025 means more than just updating your kitchen or bathroom it’s about improving comfort, safety, and value. Whether you’re fixing up an older house or modernizing your space, knowing how much does it cost to renovate a house is the first step in planning smartly. Homeowners are now more focused on practical updates that reflect their lifestyle and long-term needs.
Costs in 2025 are rising due to inflation, labor shortages, and higher material prices. From full gut renovations to simple upgrades, prices vary depending on the level of work you choose high-end, mid-range, or budget. At San Diego Home Remodeling, we help local homeowners find the right solution for their budget without cutting corners on quality.
Table of Contents
High-end renovation costs
High-end renovations involve top-tier materials, custom work, and the latest design trends. These projects are for homeowners looking to completely transform their space with lasting quality and detail. The cost to renovate an entire house at this level can start around $250,000 and go up depending on the size and scope of work.
In 2025, the average price of home renovations for luxury upgrades ranges from $200 to $400 per square foot. These updates often include imported tiles, high-end appliances, premium flooring, custom cabinetry, and smart home features. Homeowners in upscale areas like La Jolla or Del Mar can see strong returns when investing in luxury remodeling.
High-end bathroom renovation
- Average renovation cost: $78,000–$85,000
- Project overview: A complete remodel that reworks the layout and installs all-new fixtures and finishes.
- Highlights: Freestanding soaking tub, rain shower with body jets, heated floors, custom vanities, frameless glass enclosure, and upgraded lighting.
Addition of an upscale bedroom suite
- Average renovation cost: $325,000–$350,000
- Project overview: Adding a spacious suite with a full bathroom, sitting area, and walk-in closet.
- Highlights: Custom shelving, luxury flooring, gas fireplace, spa-style bath with soaking tub and dual sinks, smart lighting, and HVAC extension.
San Diego Home Remodeling brings honest renovations to life by helping clients choose smart upgrades that match their budget and lifestyle. If you’re planning a full house renovation cost breakdown or need clarity on your house renovation cost, our team is here to guide you with transparent pricing and expert insight.
Related: Bathroom Remodel Cost
Mid-range renovation costs
Mid-range home renovations offer a perfect balance between style and value. These projects are ideal for families looking to update key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or even add a new room without going overboard. If you’re asking, how much does it cost to renovate a house in 2025, mid-range options often fall between $75,000 and $150,000, or about $100 to $200 remodel cost per square foot.
This level of renovation includes semi-custom finishes, new flooring, updated layouts, and energy-efficient appliances. These updates not only improve comfort but also boost long-term value. For many San Diego homeowners, mid-range upgrades offer the best return on investment when planning long-term living or preparing a house for resale.
Mid-range kitchen remodel
- Average renovation cost: $35,000–$65,000
- Project overview: Remodel includes updated cabinets, modern countertops, and upgraded lighting.
- Highlights: New tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, under-cabinet lighting, and improved storage layout.
Mid-range bathroom update
- Average renovation cost: $20,000–$40,000
- Project overview: Fresh look with upgraded plumbing fixtures and finishes.
- Highlights: Walk-in shower, dual sinks, tile flooring, energy-efficient toilet, and better ventilation.
Adding a new room
- Average renovation cost: $60,000–$90,000
- Project overview: Add a bedroom, office, or small family room to an existing home.
- Highlights: New drywall, flooring, windows, electrical setup, and full integration with HVAC system.
When thinking about home renovation costs or the average cost to remodel a house, mid-range projects are a smart choice for families who want both function and style. At San Diego Home Remodeling, we guide homeowners through every detail of their renovation so they get the best results within a practical home remodel cost.
Lower-cost renovation costs
Budget-friendly renovations focus on simple upgrades that still make a big impact. These projects are perfect for first-time buyers or property owners looking to improve a space without spending too much. If you’re wondering how much does it cost to renovate a house on a tighter budget, expect to spend between $20,000 and $70,000, or under $100 per square foot.
This kind of work often includes painting, installing laminate flooring, cabinet refacing, and swapping out basic fixtures. These cost-effective updates are commonly used in rental homes or older properties that need freshening up. While the house renovation price stays low, the results can still bring noticeable improvement in both look and comfort.
Budget kitchen refresh
- Average renovation cost: $10,000–$25,000
- Project overview: Minor updates without major layout changes.
- Highlights: New paint, laminate counters, vinyl flooring, prefab cabinets, and updated lighting fixtures.
Simple bathroom makeover
- Average renovation cost: $8,000–$20,000
- Project overview: Quick facelift using affordable materials.
- Highlights: Low-flow toilet, basic vanity, waterproof flooring, and new paint or tiles for walls.
Interior cosmetic upgrades
- Average renovation cost: $15,000–$30,000
- Project overview: General updates across rooms without structural changes.
- Highlights: New flooring, baseboards, paint, light switches, and some door replacements.
If your goal is to stay within a tight house renovation cost, these affordable updates are a smart way to go. Whether you’re a landlord or a homeowner doing a whole house remodel, San Diego Home Remodeling helps keep the house renovation price clear, reasonable, and worth every penny.
Gut Renovation Costs
A gut renovation means tearing everything down to the studs and starting fresh, often needed when homes have old wiring, plumbing issues, or poor layouts. In 2025, home renovation costs for full gut jobs typically range from $150,000 to over $300,000, depending on the home’s size and age. For older San Diego homes, especially those built before 1970, expect added costs for permits, mold, or asbestos removal.
Overall home renovation spend

When homeowners ask how much does it cost to renovate a house in 2025, the answer depends on many factors. On average, a whole house remodel cost can fall between $50,000 and $250,000, but large luxury homes in areas like San Diego can go above $300,000. Key things that affect pricing include location, age of the home, and changes in material and labor costs. Whether you’re working on a small property or planning a full upgrade, knowing the cost to renovate an entire house helps set a real budget and avoid surprises.
Here’s a quick look at sample house renovation cost breakdowns based on home size and scope:
Project Type | Estimated Cost (2025) |
Small home (basic remodel) | $60,000–$90,000 |
Medium home (modern finishes) | $120,000–$180,000 |
Large home (luxury renovation) | $250,000–$300,000+ |
Remodel cost per square foot | $100–$300/sq ft |
With the right plan, your whole house remodel cost can fit your budget and goals. We help guide you with expert insights and realistic timelines so you get the most from your investment.
Cost Estimates Per Square Foot
Knowing the renovation cost per square foot helps homeowners plan smarter. In 2025, home renovation costs can range from $50–$100/sq ft for budget updates, $100–$200 for mid-range, and $200–$400 for high-end finishes. Measuring your home’s square footage accurately (wall to wall, excluding garages) gives a clear idea of the total price. It’s a simple way to estimate the average cost to remodel a house based on the level of upgrades you want.
Can I get financing for a home repair or improvement?
Yes, many homeowners choose financing to manage the house renovation cost without draining their savings. The good news is there are several loan options available in 2025, each designed to fit different needs and budgets.
Popular financing options:
- Home Equity Loan – Fixed interest rate; ideal if you have strong home equity.
- HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) – Works like a credit card; flexible and interest-only payments during the draw period.
- FHA 203(k) Loan – Government-backed; great for buyers looking to renovate a fixer-upper.
- Personal Loan – Quick funding; no home equity required, but usually higher rates.
Quick comparison table:
Loan Type | Interest Rate | Repayment Term | Best For |
Home Equity Loan | 6%–8% | 5–30 years | Major renovations with equity |
HELOC | 7%–10% (variable) | 10–20 years | Ongoing or flexible projects |
FHA 203(k) Loan | 5%–7% | 15–30 years | Buying & renovating a home |
Personal Loan | 8%–15% | 1–7 years | Smaller or urgent renovations |
Before applying, always compare rates from different lenders and review all terms. If you’re based in San Diego, check with local banks or credit unions for region-specific offers. No matter what your house renovation price is, understanding your options makes planning easier. We help guide you through both the process and the paperwork.
FAQs
Is $100,000 enough to renovate a house?
$100,000 can cover significant renovations like a full kitchen and bathroom upgrade, especially in San Diego. The total depends on your home’s size and the quality of finishes you choose.
What is a realistic budget for home renovation?
A good rule is to set aside 5–20% of your home’s value for renovations. For a $600,000 home, $60,000 to $120,000 usually covers moderate improvements.
Is 50K enough to renovate a house?
$50,000 works well for smaller updates such as painting, new flooring, or bathroom refreshes. However, it’s generally not enough for major remodeling or gut renovations.
Is it cheaper to renovate or build new?
Renovating is often less expensive unless your home needs major structural repairs. Building new offers more customization but involves higher costs and longer timelines.
What is the most expensive thing when renovating a house?
Kitchens and bathrooms tend to be the priciest due to plumbing, fixtures, and cabinetry. Structural changes like foundation or roof work can also significantly increase costs.