Cost of Home Renovations in New Jersey (2026 Guide) 

Hudson County, Essex County & Bergen County Homeowners 

If you’re a homeowner in Hudson County, Essex County, or Bergen County, understanding the true cost of home renovations in New Jersey in 2026 is critical before starting any project. Renovation costs across North Jersey continue to trend higher than national averages due to labor demand, aging housing stock, and strict permitting requirements. [vmpowercon…uction.com], [morgan-con…actors.com] 

This 2026 guide breaks down average renovation costs, explains why prices vary by county, and helps you budget realistically—whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom upgrade, basement finish, or full home renovation. 

 

Average Home Renovation Costs in New Jersey (2026) 

In 2026, New Jersey renovation costs remain 15–30% higher than the national average, with North Jersey counties on the higher end of the spectrum. [vmpowercon…uction.com], [renocanvas.com] 

Statewide Renovation Cost Ranges 

• Minor renovations: $20,000 – $40,000 

• Mid-range renovations: $50,000 – $150,000 

• Major or full-home renovations: $100,000 – $300,000+ 

• Per square foot: $150 – $300 (luxury projects can exceed $400+) [nhi-contra…ors-nj.com], [renocanvas.com] 

 

Renovation Costs by Project Type (NJ Averages) 

Kitchen Renovation Costs in New Jersey (2026) 

Kitchen remodels are among the most requested—and most expensive—projects. 

• Basic kitchen remodel: $25,000 – $40,000 

• Mid-range kitchen remodel: $40,000 – $70,000 

• High-end / custom kitchen: $75,000 – $120,000+ [vmpowercon…uction.com], [morgan-con…actors.com] 

Costs rise quickly if plumbing, electrical, or layout changes are involved—especially in older North Jersey homes. 

 

Bathroom Renovation Costs in NJ 

• Small bathroom: $18,000 – $30,000 

• Mid-range bathroom: $30,000 – $50,000 

• Luxury bathroom: $55,000 – $80,000+ [morgan-con…actors.com] 

Waterproofing, ventilation upgrades, and code-compliant plumbing significantly affect pricing. 

 

Basement Finishing Costs 

• Basement remodel: $20,000 – $50,000 

• With bathroom or egress: $40,000 – $90,000+ [vmpowercon…uction.com], [renocanvas.com] 

Basements are a high-ROI investment in North Jersey due to demand for home offices and in-law suites. 

 

Renovation Costs by County (North Jersey Focus) 

Hudson County Renovation Costs (Jersey City, Hoboken, Bayonne) 

Hudson County renovation costs are among the highest in New Jersey due to density, permitting complexity, and proximity to NYC. 

• Mid-range renovations: $60,000 – $120,000 

• Kitchen remodels: $45,000 – $85,000 

• Per square foot: $200 – $350+ [vmpowercon…uction.com], [nhi-contra…ors-nj.com] 

Expect higher labor costs and longer permit timelines, especially in condo or multi-family buildings. 

 

Essex County Renovation Costs (Newark, Montclair, Bloomfield) 

Essex County features many older homes, which often require electrical, plumbing, or structural upgrades. 

• Average renovation range: $50,000 – $150,000 

• Kitchen remodel: $40,000 – $75,000 

• Bathroom remodel: $25,000 – $50,000 

• Per square foot: $175 – $300 [bestbuildersnj.com], [manta.com] 

Hidden issues like knob-and-tube wiring or outdated plumbing are common cost drivers. 

 

Bergen County Renovation Costs 

Bergen County is one of the most expensive renovation markets in New Jersey, driven by larger homes and high-end finishes. 

• Mid-range renovations: $70,000 – $150,000 

• High-end renovations: $150,000 – $300,000+ 

• Kitchen remodels: $60,000 – $120,000+ 

• Per square foot: $225 – $400+ [nhi-contra…ors-nj.com], [morgan-con…actors.com] 

Luxury materials and strict zoning requirements push costs higher than most NJ counties. 

 

Why Renovation Costs Are Higher in North Jersey 

Several factors impact home renovation costs in Hudson, Essex, and Bergen Counties: 

• High demand for licensed skilled labor 

• Strict NJ building codes and inspections 

• Permit and zoning requirements 

• Older housing stock requiring updates 

• Rising material and transportation costs [vmpowercon…uction.com], [blockrenovation.com] 

Labor alone can account for 30–40% of total renovation costs in New Jersey. 

 

How to Budget Smart for a NJ Home Renovation in 2026 

Best practices for homeowners: 

• Get multiple local contractor estimates 

• Budget 10–20% contingency for surprises 

• Finalize designs before construction 

• Work with contractors familiar with local NJ permits and codes [nhi-contra…ors-nj.com] 

 

Is Renovating Worth It in New Jersey? 

In many cases—yes. Kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, and basement finishes typically recoup 60–80% of their cost in the New Jersey real estate market, especially in North Jersey commuter areas. [renocanvas.com]