Home Renovation Cost Toronto | 2024 Breakdown

How Much Does A Home Renovation Cost In 2024?

Renovation costs in Toronto are on the rise, and there are several factors that influence this. The average cost of home remodeling projects in 2024 is between $100 and $300 per square foot, and varies greatly depending on the scale, from small cosmetic updates to a full home remodel. Typically, Toronto homeowners can expect to spend between $75,000 and $200,000 on their renovations.

Renovation Area	Basic (Per Square Foot)	Mid-Range (Per Square Foot)	High-End (Per Square Foot)
Kitchen	$250 – $350	$350 – $450	$450 – $600
Bathroom	$200 – $300	$300 – $400	$400 – $500
Living Room	$100 – $200	$200 – $300	$300 – $400
Basement	$100 – $150	$150 – $250	$250 – $350

Key factors driving renovation costs include:

• Labour costs: With skilled labour in high demand, prices have surged by 10-15% annually in recent years.

• Material costs: From premium hardwood floors to custom cabinetry, material costs can vary significantly.

• Permit fees and regulatory requirements: Toronto’s permit fees for renovations start at around $1,000 and vary based on project scope.

• Unforeseen structural changes: Older Toronto homes often need unexpected repairs, which can drive up costs by an additional 15-20%.

While a straightforward kitchen or bathroom remodel might remain within the lower end of this range, complete gut renovations in Toronto are often priced higher. For accurate budgeting, it’s advisable to obtain detailed cost estimates from local contractors to get a clear idea of potential costs.

Average Home Renovation Budget in Toronto

Toronto’s home renovation market continues to flourish, with an increasing number of homeowners seeking to transform their living spaces. From small home improvements to complete gut renovations, understanding the average home renovation cost in Toronto is crucial for those considering an upgrade. Whether you’re looking to boost resale value or create a more personalized home, it’s essential to consider all factors that impact costs.

The demand for renovations in Toronto remains high, with renovation costs reflecting not only the quality of materials and finishes but also labour costs and availability. As you embark on your project, having a thorough understanding of each renovation area—kitchen, bathroom, basement, and entire home—will help in building a practical and effective budget.

With the right knowledge, you can make informed decisions and understand how each element, from permits to unexpected costs, contributes to the final cost. Below, we break down everything from average home renovation costs to specific details for each renovation area, providing a comprehensive guide to renovation costs in Toronto for 2024.

What Affects Renovation Costs in 2024

Several factors directly influence renovation costs in Toronto, especially with recent shifts in material pricing, labour availability, and updated regulations. Here’s a look at some primary cost factors to consider:

Material Costs

Material costs are a major part of any renovation budget. For example, high-quality hardwood flooring ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot. If you’re opting for materials like quartz countertops, which start around $65 per square foot, your overall costs can rise quickly depending on your selections.

In Toronto, common choices for renovations include:

• Custom cabinetry: Starting at $500 per linear foot for basic designs, custom cabinetry can easily exceed $1,200 for high-end options.
• Lighting and fixtures: For a living room renovation, modern light fixtures from popular brands can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000 depending on complexity and style.
• Flooring options: Luxury vinyl flooring, a popular choice for durability, typically costs between $5 and $10 per square foot.

Labour Costs

Skilled labour is essential for quality renovations, but it’s also one of the priciest elements. Labour costs in Toronto are currently averaging $60 to $100 per hour for skilled trades. For a large renovation project, expect labour costs to make up around 40-50% of the total cost. Because labour costs are influenced by demand and project complexity, they can increase by 10% or more if multiple skilled trades are needed simultaneously.

Permits and Compliance

Obtaining building permits in Toronto is necessary for most structural changes, electrical or plumbing work, and sometimes even for minor renovations. Basic permit fees start around $1,000, but they can be higher for complex projects involving extensive electrical systems or major structural changes. Permits ensure compliance with safety codes, preventing future legal complications. Permit costs, however, can increase for older homes due to stricter safety assessments.

Impact of Unexpected Costs

Finally, it’s crucial to anticipate unexpected costs in any home renovation. Structural issues, such as foundational repairs or hidden electrical system updates, can add 10-15% to the total project cost. Creating a contingency budget is always a wise approach.

Kitchen Renovation Costs Vary by Scope

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and in Toronto, a well-renovated kitchen can significantly boost a property’s resale value. Kitchen renovations range widely in cost, from minor cosmetic upgrades to complete remodels. Understanding the scope of renovation—whether minor, mid-range, or luxury—helps in setting realistic expectations.

Minor Kitchen Renovations

A minor kitchen renovation focuses on cosmetic upgrades and refreshing the look of existing elements. For instance:

• Painting cabinets or replacing doors and handles can create a modern feel without a full remodel.
• Installing light fixtures or upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, such as those from Bosch or Whirlpool, provides functionality with minimal structural change.
• Adding granite countertops in place of outdated laminate adds durability and aesthetic appeal without altering the existing layout.

Average cost: $15,000 – $25,000. This cost typically applies to kitchens under 200 square feet.

Mid-Range Kitchen Renovations

A mid-range renovation often includes partial upgrades to cabinets, counters, flooring, and possibly new appliances. Custom cabinetry, particularly with options from brands like KraftMaid, is popular in this price range. Replacing floors with luxury vinyl or engineered hardwood adds both style and durability to the space.

For a 250-square-foot kitchen, a mid-range renovation can include:

• New cabinetry and layout adjustments for better space use.
• Quartz countertops for a sleek look and long-lasting surface.
• Upgrading to high-efficiency appliances, like a stainless steel range from GE or Samsung.
• Installing new lighting, like under-cabinet LED strips, to enhance ambiance and visibility.

Average cost: $25,000 – $50,000.

High-End Kitchen Renovations

High-end kitchen renovations include full layout changes, custom cabinetry, high-quality materials, and top-tier appliances. This scope often appeals to homeowners wanting a luxury kitchen designed to their specifications. From custom cabinetry to Wolf or Miele appliances, luxury upgrades maximize both function and aesthetic.

Components of a high-end kitchen renovation:

• Custom cabinetry with soft-close mechanisms and pull-out shelving for full access.
• Countertops in premium marble or quartz, starting at around $100 per square foot.
• Professional-grade appliances, such as a Sub-Zero refrigerator or Wolf cooktop.
• High-quality finishes, including brass fixtures and custom lighting.

Average cost: $50,000 – $100,000+.

Estimating Bathroom Renovation Costs in Toronto

Bathroom renovations can enhance both comfort and resale value, especially when tailored to current trends and personal style. Like kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations in Toronto vary in cost based on the scope of work, from simple updates to full-scale transformations.

Powder Room Renovations

The powder room, often smaller than a typical bathroom, has a distinct role in home design and guest experience. Renovations typically focus on updating fixtures and finishes, such as:

• Replacing sinks and vanities with sleek, modern designs.
• Upgrading lighting fixtures and mirrors for enhanced ambiance.
• Installing new flooring like porcelain tiles, which are both water-resistant and durable.

Average cost: $5,000 – $10,000.

Guest Bathroom Renovations

Guest bathrooms typically require a balance between functionality and style. Renovations may include:

• New cabinetry or open shelving to maximize storage.
• Tile flooring that can withstand higher moisture levels.
• Installing energy-efficient fixtures, including water-saving toilets and faucets.

Average cost: $10,000 – $20,000 for a 50-75 square foot space.

Master Bathroom Renovations

The master bathroom is often treated as a luxurious retreat. Renovations here might include:

• A freestanding bathtub and a custom shower with glass doors.
• Heated floors, starting at around $8 to $15 per square foot.
• Dual vanities and premium fixtures, like Grohe or Kohler taps, enhancing both utility and luxury.

Bathroom Type	Average Cost Range
Powder Room	$5,000 – $10,000
Guest Bathroom	$10,000 – $20,000
Master Bathroom	$20,000 – $50,000

 

Factors Influencing Bathroom Renovation Costs

The overall cost of a bathroom renovation in Toronto can also be impacted by plumbing upgrades, electrical work, and high-quality materials. Tile work, particularly in a master bathroom, can cost between $5,000 to $10,000 alone for a large, intricate design. Additionally, Toronto’s housing age means older bathrooms often require plumbing or electrical systems upgrades to meet safety standards.

 

Understanding Basement Renovation Costs

Basements offer valuable additional living space, whether for family use or as a potential rental suite. Costs for basement renovations in Toronto vary depending on usage, insulation, waterproofing needs, and finishes.

Basic Basement Renovations

A basic basement renovation typically involves finishing the space without high-end materials or structural changes. This includes:

• Framing and drywall to cover exposed concrete.
• Basic flooring options, such as carpet or vinyl, which are cost-effective and easy to maintain.
• Installing adequate lighting and basic fixtures for a simple living area or playroom.

Average cost: $30,000 – $45,000 for a 500-square-foot basement.

Mid-Range Basement Renovations

A mid-range renovation often includes more defined spaces for different uses, such as a family room, home office, or small kitchenette. These renovations typically involve:

• Insulating walls and installing mid-range flooring such as laminate or tile.
• Basic plumbing and electrical upgrades for a more functional space.
• Adding storage solutions, including built-in shelves and cabinets.

Average cost: $45,000 – $70,000.

High-End Basement Renovations

High-end basement renovations can transform the space into a self-sufficient living area or rental suite. This scope often includes:

• Adding a full bathroom with custom tiling, which can cost $10,000 to $20,000 alone.
• Building a kitchenette or wet bar with appliances and custom cabinetry.
• High-end finishes, such as hardwood flooring or high-quality carpeting.

Average cost: $70,000 – $100,000+.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Basement renovations also require attention to waterproofing. Toronto basements are vulnerable to moisture, especially in older homes. Waterproofing can add $5,000 to $10,000 to the project but is essential for long-term durability. Additionally, installing egress windows for safety and natural light is often required by local building codes and costs around $3,000 to $5,000 per window.

Full House Renovation Costs Explained

For Toronto homeowners looking to completely renovate their properties, a whole house renovation brings many challenges and opportunities. A complete renovation often involves updating the home’s structural components, electrical and plumbing systems, flooring, and layout adjustments to improve both function and style.

Average Cost of a Whole House Renovation

Whole-home renovation costs are influenced by the size of the home, scope of work, and choice of materials. The average cost per square foot for a whole house renovation in Toronto is typically $100 to $300. For a 2,000 square foot home, homeowners can expect the following ranges:

• Basic renovation: $200,000 to $300,000, often focused on cosmetic changes and minor structural adjustments.
• Mid-range renovation: $300,000 to $450,000, including updated kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and partial layout changes.
• High-end renovation: $450,000 to $600,000+, encompassing luxury finishes, custom cabinetry, premium appliances, and significant structural changes.

Key Cost Factors

Several elements drive the cost of a whole house renovation, including:

1. Floor Plan Modifications: Altering the floor plan for an open-concept design or larger rooms can increase both material and labour costs. Removing load-bearing walls, for instance, requires structural adjustments and can cost $5,000 to $10,000.
2. Electrical and Plumbing Work: Rewiring or re-plumbing a house adds roughly $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the home’s size and complexity.
3. Upgrading Finishes: Choosing high-end finishes, such as marble or imported tiles, can raise the total renovation cost by 20-30%.

Total Costs by Home Size

Home Size (sq ft)	Basic	Mid-Range	High-End
1,500	$150,000 – $225,000	$225,000 – $350,000	$350,000 – $450,000
2,000	$200,000 – $300,000	$300,000 – $450,000	$450,000 – $600,000
2,500	$250,000 – $375,000	$375,000 – $525,000	$525,000 – $750,000

Whole-house renovations offer flexibility to personalize the home and often yield the best resale value. By understanding these cost factors, homeowners can prioritize elements that enhance their lifestyle while balancing budget considerations.

Planning for Material and Labour Costs

In any home renovation, material and labour costs are the two biggest contributors to the total expense. As labour costs in Toronto have seen a steady rise, understanding what to expect is essential for budgeting accurately.

Material Costs

Material costs vary greatly depending on the quality and type of finishes. For instance:

• Basic materials (e.g., laminate countertops, standard fixtures) keep costs lower but may not have the same longevity.
• Mid-range materials, like granite countertops or ceramic tiles, balance affordability with quality.
• High-end finishes, such as marble countertops or custom cabinetry, are often chosen for luxury renovations.

Labour Costs in Toronto

Toronto’s labour market is competitive, with rates averaging $60 to $100 per hour for skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. Labour costs often make up 40-50% of a renovation budget. Hiring specialized contractors for specific tasks, like electrical systems, can add both cost and quality to a renovation. Labour costs can also fluctuate based on the project’s seasonality and complexity, with winter months often seeing lower rates than spring and summer.

Permits and Regulatory Fees You Should Expect

Navigating permits and regulatory fees in Toronto can be one of the more complicated aspects of the renovation process. The city requires permits for any work that alters a building’s structure, systems, or usage, ensuring that all changes meet safety and zoning regulations.

Common Permit Types and Costs

• Building permits: Required for structural changes, additions, or basement renovations. Costs typically range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the project’s scale.
• Electrical permits: Required for rewiring or new installations, with costs between $200 to $500.
• Plumbing permits: Required when modifying or adding plumbing fixtures, costing around $300 to $700.

Acquiring permits ensures compliance with city standards, minimizing potential legal issues and enhancing resale value by guaranteeing safety and durability.

Permit Application Timeline

In Toronto, permit approvals can take several weeks or even months, depending on project complexity and municipal demand. Factoring in these timelines early in the planning process can help avoid project delays and keep the renovation budget on track.

Unexpected Costs That Affect Project Budgets

When planning home renovations, it’s essential to anticipate unexpected costs that could impact your budget. Toronto’s older homes, in particular, often reveal hidden issues that can drive up costs unexpectedly. For example, a complete gut renovation might expose problems with plumbing, electrical systems, or structural issues that require immediate attention, and even a small finding can add 5-10% to the total house renovation cost.

Common Unexpected Costs

• Essential Repairs: Older Toronto homes frequently have outdated wiring or plumbing that needs upgrading during renovations. Essential repairs for electrical systems can cost $3,000 to $10,000 depending on the square footage and age of the home.
• Emergency Repairs: Issues like mold or water damage can arise unexpectedly and often add $5,000 to $15,000 to the budget. Emergency repairs not only delay the project but also increase labour costs as they require specialized trades.
• Permit Delays and Fees: Permits are often required for structural changes and sometimes for specific areas like kitchen and bathroom renovations. Delays or additional requirements can increase your home remodeling costs.

Cost Breakdown for Unexpected Issues

Unexpected Cost	Cost Range
Structural Repairs	$5,000 – $15,000
Plumbing/Electrical Upgrades	$3,000 – $10,000
Mold/Water Damage Treatment	$5,000 – $15,000
Permit Fees & Delays	$500 – $2,000+

By setting aside a 10-20% contingency for your renovation, you can manage these surprises and keep your project on track without compromising on quality.

Ways to Save on Home Renovation Costs

Saving money during renovations in Toronto is possible with strategic planning, material choices, and an efficient layout. Whether tackling small renovation projects or a full renovation, here are effective ways to save money on your project.

1. Focus on Existing Space: Instead of expanding, reimagining the existing space helps cut costs significantly. Working within the original footprint avoids costly structural changes.
2. Consider Cosmetic Updates: Cosmetic updates, such as painting, replacing light fixtures, or updating flooring, offer a high impact without high costs. These are also less likely to require major renovations or permits.
3. Use Cost-Effective Materials: Laminate countertops or engineered wood flooring offer the look of premium materials at a fraction of the price. Choosing materials wisely can help reduce the square foot cost without compromising style.
4. DIY Where Possible: Minor tasks, like painting or demo work, can reduce labour costs. However, leave complex work, like electrical or structural changes, to professionals.

From efficient material choices to leveraging existing space, adopting smart approaches can significantly lower home improvement costs while preserving quality.

Resale Value of Major vs. Minor Renovations

Evaluating the resale value of renovations is critical for homeowners looking to increase property value. Major renovations, like a full kitchen renovation, bathroom or complete gut renovation, generally have a high impact on resale. However, overly personalized renovations can sometimes deter potential buyers. In contrast, minor renovations like paint or exterior siding upgrades tend to deliver a consistent return on investment.

Impact on Resale Value by Renovation Type

• Major Renovations: Full renovations or gut renovations often increase resale value but come with high home improvement costs. For instance, a new living space or an upgraded kitchen can yield 75-85% ROI.
• Minor Upgrades: Simple upgrades, like adding energy-efficient cooling systems or refreshing existing space, cost less and appeal to a broad range of buyers, often providing 80-90% ROI.
• Essential Repairs: Neglecting essential repairs, such as structural fixes or roof replacements, could decrease home value, as buyers often view these as significant expenses.

Ultimately, balancing major upgrades with universal appeal can optimize resale value and make the property attractive to a wider range of buyers.

How We Can Help With Your Toronto Home Renovation

Estimating the total cost for a home renovation in Toronto involves numerous considerations, from house size and material quality to labour expenses and project scope. Kitchen&Bath specializes in providing Toronto homeowners with precise, personalized quotes for every renovation type, ensuring transparency and accuracy to fit your specific needs.

Curious about the potential cost? Kitchen&Bath offers a complimentary consultation to discuss your project details and provide a clear estimate—no obligation, just expert advice.

Reach out today at (647) 699-3778 and let’s start planning the transformation of your home!

FAQ:

How much does a full home renovation cost in Toronto?

Full home renovation costs in Toronto vary widely based on design specifics and house size. Generally, expenses range between $75,000 and $200,000 or more, depending on the scope and finishes chosen.

How to calculate the cost of renovation?

To calculate renovation costs, consider project type, scale, and material choices. Kitchen&Bath suggests starting with an estimate of $100 to $300 per square foot in Toronto, factoring in the specifics of your design. High-end finishes and specialized labour, such as electrical or plumbing work, can increase this range.

What is the most expensive part of renovation?

The priciest part of a renovation is typically the kitchen or bathroom overhaul, as these involve costly fixtures, custom cabinetry, and specialized labour. Structural changes and high-end materials, like stone countertops or hardwood flooring, also drive up expenses. Labour plays a significant role, especially for skilled trades like plumbing and electrical work.

How do you estimate renovation costs?
To estimate renovation costs, using a budget planner and working with Kitchen&Bath specialists can be invaluable. This approach keeps finances organized and helps avoid unnecessary expenses.

What is the home renovation cost per square foot in Toronto?
In Toronto and the GTA, standard renovations cost around $100-$300 per square foot. For high-end projects or structural updates, prices can reach $300-$400 per square foot or more, influenced by material choices and project complexity.