What's the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?

Cabinets are nearly always the single largest line item — typically 30–35% of total kitchen-remodel cost. Labor runs another 25–30%, countertops 10–15%, appliances 8–15%, and electrical/plumbing 5–10%. On a $40,000 mid-range kitchen, that's roughly $12K–$14K cabinets, $10K–$12K labor, $4K–$6K counters, $3K–$6K appliances. Cabinet refacing (keeping boxes, replacing doors + drawer fronts) cuts the cabinetry line ~40–60% — the single biggest savings lever on any kitchen remodel. Custom cabinets blow this out completely; expect 50%+ of total spend if you go custom.