How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost?

If you think you’re ready for a built-in grill, building an outdoor kitchen can add value to your home and really elevate your outdoor space and the events you host there.

You can create a comfortable and functional space for entertaining and cooking outdoors, wherever you live. Let’s break down the costs associated with creating an outdoor kitchen that suits your style and budget.

Average Outdoor Kitchen Costs

Outdoor kitchens can cost from $6,000 to $50,000 or more, with most homeowners paying between $12,000 and $14,000. However, costs skyrocket if you opt for luxurious add-ons or complex installations.

The components you choose, the size of the kitchen and how much of the work you do yourself all impact how much you’ll spend.

Essential components and their costs

1. Built-in grill: The heart of your outdoor kitchen, grills can range from $150 to $6,000 depending on the type and model. For a budget-friendly choice, consider a traditional charcoal grill or a standalone option.
2. Fireplace and fire pit: These can cost $1,500 to $20,000. Fire pits are more affordable, ranging from $300 to $1,400. With the right skills, you could DIY a modern outdoor fireplace. Both provide alternative cooking options and, fin cooler climates, let you comfortably use the space more months of the year.
3. Patio: If you’ve already got a nice, level patio or floored area in good condition, you’ll save money here. But if you need to lay a patio and you don’t want to DIY, expect to pay between $5 and $50 per square foot.
4. Sink: Installing an outdoor sink can cost $225 to $1,700. While not essential, a sink can make food prep more convenient.
5. Secondary appliances: Adding an oven or refrigerator can cost from $125 to $15,000. A small, under-counter, stainless-steel fridge provides convenience without taking up too much space or busting your budget. An oven is more of a luxury if you’ve already got a grill, but it gives you more culinary versatility.
6. Cabinetry: Materials available for your cabinets and frames vary widely, from $3 to $45 per square foot. Stainless steel is a popular option for cabinets and countertops because it’s hygienic, weather-resistant and easy to clean. it’s also moderately priced. Budget-friendly options include PVC and resin, while higher-end materials include natural stone or stucco veneer over metal frames.
7. Countertops: These range from $25 to $100 per square foot. Granite and stainless steel are durable options for outdoor use.
8. Enclosure and framework: Expect to pay from $200 to $600 per linear foot. While you don’t need an enclosure, it adds value, ambiance and practicality. According to the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), 52% of homeowners installed a fixed overhead structure or enclosure, 30% went with a pergola, and 13% chose a retractable awning. Only 12% of respondents had no overhead structure, with 12% of those saying they wished they’d spent money on one.
9. Labor: General contractor fees for a large outdoor kitchen project can range from $3,000 to $12,000. Additional professionals, like plumbers, gas engineers, electricians and landscapers may also be required.

Big Box vs. Pre-Fab vs. Custom

If you’re working on a tight budget and plan to do most of the work yourself, you can go to a big box store like Costco and get an outdoor kitchen kit or components for $1,500 to $5,000. But these will be pretty basic, often just a grill set in an island-style countertop. So you’ll need to spend extra for a complete kitchen setup.

Prefabricated and modular options run $4,000 to $10,000. These tend to be a little fancier with some extras, but are still mostly just grill or barbecue islands and countertops. So, while a higher quality product, you’d still spend more once you add a structure, extra appliances, seating and so on.

Custom builds are the most expensive. All-in, expect to pay $1,200 to $2,000 per linear foot. You may spend less if you DIY some of this, depending on the appliances and materials you choose. But as a rule, budget at least $1,000 per linear foot.

Location

Where you live affects the materials you can use and therefore the total project cost.

In colder climates, choose materials and appliances that can withstand freezing temperatures and wet weather. Plus, you’ll need to consider winterization. You may need an easily removable faucet and protective, insulated covers for the grill and other appliances.

If you want to use your kitchen through the winter in cold areas, you’ll need to install an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, which will increase value, practicality and cost.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you have the appropriate time and skills, you can save up to 40% on total project costs if you DIY tasks like laying the patio, building the frame and installing the enclosure or overhead structure, cabinets and countertops. And you’ll save by doing the finishing tasks, like sealing countertops and adding furniture and furnishings.

While building an outdoor kitchen yourself can save you money, complex installations require the expertise of professionals. Plumbing, electricity and gas lines should be handled by qualified individuals to ensure safety and adherence to local building codes.

If you have contracting experience, you can save on your budget by building the kitchen framework and letting a pro handle the rest.

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