True Cost Guide Outdoor Living Build an Outdoor Kitchen

How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost in 2024?

Typical Range:

$6,348 - $26,903

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 282 HomeAdvisor members. Embed this data

How We Get This Data

Homeowners use HomeAdvisor to find pros for home projects.

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When their projects are done, they fill out a short cost survey.

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We compile the data and report costs back to you.

Updated September 27, 2024

Written by HomeAdvisor.

Highlights

Building an outdoor kitchen averages $16,480, with most homeowners paying between $6,348 and $26,903.
General contractor and subcontractor fees represent 20% to 40% of total costs.
The quality of kitchen components and customization level significantly impact pricing.
Small outdoor kitchens may cost as little as $3,300 and feature a basic grill, prep area, and sink.
Large, luxurious, and customized kitchens cost up to $60,000 or more.

Building an outdoor kitchen costs between $6,348 and $26,903, with most homeowners paying about $16,480. Total costs depend on the kitchen’s size, components, customization, and labor fees. Outdoor kitchens offer a high return on investment, especially in mild climates.

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National Average	$16,480
Typical Range	$6,348 - $26,903
Low End - High End	$1,000 - $60,000

Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 282 HomeAdvisor members.

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Outdoor Kitchen Cost Factors

From sink fixtures to premium built-in grills, building an outdoor kitchen involves numerous complex variables that determine the project’s final cost.

Size

Most outdoor kitchens range from 100 to 400 square feet to accommodate areas for food preparation, cooking, and dining. Each outdoor kitchen component simplifies into about $33 to $140 per square foot or $3,300 to $56,000 in total. Larger kitchen sizes cost more because they house more components and building materials.

See average cost ranges broken down into kitchen sizes and their common features.

Size in Square Feet	Common Features	Average Cost Range
100 or less	Grill and counter, sometimes includes mini-fridge or sink	$3,300–$10,000
100–200	Range, small fridge, sink, counter space	$3,300–$30,000
200–400	Extra counter space, bar seating, additional appliances	$8,000–$50,000
400+	Various appliances, storage, extra cooking or bar space, dining area	$16,000–$56,000+

Quality

Framework and finishing materials for outdoor kitchens account for the majority of the costs. Likewise, the quality of these materials significantly influences final costs. It’s important to weigh the material expenses against the return on investment. For example, premium countertop and cabinetry materials may increase costs but offer superior durability and cost less in maintenance and repairs in the long term.

Labor

Labor typically accounts for 20% to 40% of the total project cost. For projects of this scale, local outdoor kitchen contractors usually charge a percentage of the overall project cost rather than an hourly rate for labor. For example, if your outdoor kitchen costs $10,000 before a 20% labor fee, expect the estimate to be around $12,000. The contractor’s experience level, local demand, and other factors influence the rate.

Most outdoor kitchen projects involve electrical wiring, plumbing, and gas line connections in addition to general construction. Many homeowners opt to hire a general contractor, ideally one who specializes in outdoor kitchen building and kitchen remodeling, rather than separately hiring carpenters, electricians, plumbers, kitchen designers, and other professionals. General contractors usually employ the necessary subcontractor and build these costs into the project estimate.

See this table for approximate subcontractor fees.

Contractor Type	Rate	Average Labor Fee
General Contractor	$300–$500 per day	$3,300–$6,400
Plumber	$45–$200 per hour	$300–$1,350
Gas Plumber	$45–$200 per hour	$300–$900
Electrician	$50–$150 per hour	$350–$2,000

Permits

Most areas require a permit before significantly modifying a home’s structures and system. Fees vary depending on the scale of your outdoor kitchen. Permits for building patios, installing pipes, adding wiring or outlets, and other projects range from $10 to $500 each. Altogether, expect to pay between $250 and $2,000 for permits. Contractors typically include fees in the project estimate.

Customization Level

Outdoor kitchens are available at several tiers of customization and corresponding pricing. Prefabricated and modular outdoor kitchen kits are available at low-end costs and usually include the necessary grill and countertop space.

Kits on the higher end of the cost range may include high-quality finishes, but you may need to purchase additional materials to fit the kitchen to your space. Customized builds are the most expensive and may include entirely customized frameworks and finishes or a mix of prefab and customization.

Outdoor Kitchen Cost by Component

Outdoor kitchens can be as simple as a basic grill, sink, and prep area, while others feature extensive customization and luxury amenities.

Component	Average Cost
Framework	$200–$800 per linear foot
Flooring	$3–$30 per sq. ft.
Built-In Grill	$100–$10,000
Appliances and Fixtures	$1,500–$7,000
Cabinetry	$3–$45 per sq. ft.
Countertops	$15–$200 per sq. ft.
Lighting	$260 per fixture
Enclosures	$2,100–$5,300
Furniture	$300–$5,000
Electric Heater	$100–$500
Fireplace	$1,500–$20,000
Fire Pit	$200–$3,000

Framework

The basic structure of the outdoor kitchen's framework ranges from $200 to $800 per linear foot. The framework is made of weather-resistant materials such as wood, steel, brick, and aluminum. Each option offers various price points depending on the level of quality and customization.

Flooring

Flooring costs vary depending on whether you’re building on an existing structure or building a new patio or deck. Existing structures may only need relatively minor adjustments to accommodate the weight and heat of the kitchen. A new patio or deck costs between $1 and $50 per square foot. Final flooring costs depend on the required construction, permits, and materials.

Flooring Material	Total Cost per Square Foot
Concrete	$3–$8
Decking	$30–$60
Gravel	$1–$4
Natural Stone	$3–$35
Brick Pavers	$8–$25
Permeable Pavers	$10–$30

Built-In Grill

Aside from basic framework and flooring, a grill is the basic requirement for an outdoor kitchen. Grills cost anywhere from $100 for basic standalone and charcoal models to $6,000 or more for high-end options. Customized built-in grills carry the highest costs, up to $10,000. The main factors influencing grill costs include:

Fuel type
Flat top vs. griddle
Size
Warming drawers
Integrated rotisseries
Built-in lights
Smoker
Warranties
Range hood

Appliances and Fixtures

Additional appliances and fixtures aren’t strictly necessary, but fridges, sinks, pizza ovens, and other features dramatically enhance the outdoor kitchen experience. These features similarly influence pricing. Most homeowners pay an average of $1,500 to $7,000, but these costs can increase drastically for high-end or numerous appliances.

For instance, homeowners may pay as little as $215 to install a basic sink, or they might opt for a mini- or full-size fridge, oven, garbage disposal, and other features for a more versatile and convenient kitchen configuration.

Appliance	Average Cost Range
Refrigerator	$400–$4,000
Dishwasher	$400–$2,000
Pizza Oven	$800–$2,000
Wine Cooler	$400–$2,000
Garbage Disposal	$100–$1,100
Ice maker	$300–$2,000
Sink	$215–$630

Cabinetry

Cabinetry costs vary largely by material, ranging from $3 to $45 per square foot. Outdoor kitchen cabinets have similar costs to indoor kitchens but are limited to certain materials for weather resistance and durability. Prefab and modular kitchens typically include cabinetry. For additional or customized cabinets, see these cost ranges.

Cabinet Material	Average Cost per Square Foot
Brick Veneer	$3–$6
Brick	$25–$35
Natural Stone	$25–$45
Manufactured Stone	$15–$25
Stucco	$3–$6

Countertops

Averaging between $15 and $200 per square foot, countertops are essential to your outdoor kitchen’s food prep area. Standard countertop materials generally hold up well outdoors, especially with protective overhead covering. Consider your kitchen’s outdoor design and the weather elements. For instance, wood countertops may be at risk of warping and rotting and need extra care and maintenance. In comparison, stainless steel and granite's low maintenance and durability make them popular countertop materials.

Countertop Material	Average Cost per Square Foot
Wood	$18–$38
Porcelain	$50–$120
Stainless Steel	$60–$200
Granite	$15–$140
Concrete	$70–$140
Corian	$20–$75
Soapstone	$60–$185
Teak	$100–$200

Lighting

Total lighting costs for an outdoor kitchen range from $500 to $3,000, averaging $260 per fixture. Outdoor ceiling fans cost between $70 and $4,000.

Outdoor lighting is essential for functionality and ambiance if you plan to use your outdoor kitchen after sunset. Task lighting illuminates prep and cooking areas, while ambient lighting creates welcoming dining and seating areas.

Amenities and Add-Ons

Additional features enhance the comfort and usability of your outdoor kitchen. Awnings, pergolas, or gazebos range from $2,100 to $5,300 and add weather protection. Furniture costs between $300 and $500 and may include bar seating, dining table and chairs, and accent furnishings. Electric heaters keep your space cozy and cost between $100 and $500. Other heating options include outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, ranging from $200 to $20,000.

Does an Outdoor Kitchen Increase Home Value?

Outdoor kitchens offer a high return on investment, especially if they feature high-quality materials and equipment and an appealing design consistent with the home. Return estimates vary from 55% to 200%, with the high end reflecting outdoor kitchens in warm climates, where residents find value in usable outdoor space. Besides added outdoor and entertaining space, outdoor kitchens may add a luxury factor to appraisal value.

Budgeting for an Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen offers a high return but carries significant upfront expenses. Streamline your budget and avoid unnecessary or surprise costs with these strategies:

Get multiple quotes from contractors to find the best value.
Install the kitchen close to your home to minimize utility connection work.
Build the kitchen on an existing patio or deck.
Choose framework, materials, and appliances that balance quality and cost.
Opt for off-season installation for better contractor rates.
Minimize unnecessary customization and premium features.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.

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FAQs

How long does it take to build an outdoor kitchen?

Outdoor kitchens take between four and six weeks to build. Each space is different—some may take less time if proper flooring or other structures are already in place, while others may require more extensive labor. This timeline also doesn’t account for design and administrative tasks, such as permit applications.

Should I winterize or weatherproof my outdoor kitchen?

Winterizing or weatherproofing your outdoor kitchen protects it from harsh environmental elements, such as wind, rain, snow, frost, and UV rays. Design your kitchen with weather-resistant materials, such as granite countertops and rust-resistant metals, according to your climate. Overhead enclosures also minimize exposure to precipitation and severe conditions.

Can an outdoor kitchen be next to the house?

An outdoor kitchen can be next to your home and helps reduce costs for running plumbing and gas lines. Regulations may require combustible materials to be 10 feet or more away from the home to minimize fire hazards. That includes grills, griddles, and pizza ovens.

Do outdoor kitchens need outlets?

Outlets are optional for outdoor kitchens depending on your chosen grill, cooking appliances, and other features. Electrical codes usually require outdoor kitchen outlets to be ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices because they’re exposed to weather elements. Even lighting and other hardwired fixtures may need to be connected to a GFCI circuit breaker.