How Much Does an Outdoor Kitchen Cost?

Outdoor Kitchen Costs

The price for a typical outdoor kitchen ranges between $5,469 and $22,323. In rare cases with luxury add-ons, you can pay up to $100,000. The right space can become the centerpiece of warm weather entertaining.

The sky's the limit in terms of design, but you need to consider your budget. From materials and appliances to installation, here are a few things to consider that will affect the price to install an outdoor kitchen.

Outdoor Kitchen Costs Per Linear Foot

The costof your backyard kitchen structure will likely range between $300 and $750 per linear foot. That includes the framework, finish, countertops and patio surface.

Material costs range based on quality and durability. As with any kitchen, the components you choose to add will affect the price. For example, countertops meant for the indoors may be more affordable but won't be able to stand up to harsh weather without degrading over time.

Prices of Outdoor Framework

Expect to pay between $200 and $600 per linear foot for the framework. These are the bones of your kitchen, the structure that holds up both your cabinet doors and the countertop. Prefabricated wood units will be as little as $200. Custom and more durable hardwood options like Teak, which stand up longer in harsh temperatures, can range up to $600.

Stone or Brick Finishing Costs by Material

Estimated Costs of Outdoor Kitchen Countertops

Backyard kitchen countertops cost between $25 and $70 per square foot. Concrete or stainless steel may be more expensive, but they will stand the test of time in an outdoor kitchen better than less sturdy materials. Keep in mind even if the area is covered, the surface will get more exposure to heat, sun, moisture and cold.

Patio Prices Per Square Foot

The price for your kitchen patio will be between $5 and $30 per square foot. Concrete, flagstone and brick pavers are the most common surface materials for this type of project.

Breakdown of Costs for an Outdoor Kitchen

Built-In BBQ Grill Cost

Your budget for a natural gas BBQ grill should be between $150 and $450 for installation, plus $250 to $3,500 for the appliance. Your grill is the centerpiece of this outdoor space. Once you've chosen the perfect option, all other components can group around its design and placement.

A high-end gas grill is the most expensive choice, but also offers the most flexibility for using the kitchen. You might prefer a traditional coal grill for its smoky flavor and lower cost, around $150 to $1,000.

Average Cost of Outdoor Kitchen Fireplace

The price of a firepit for your space ranges between $300 and $1,400. You can add it to your grill or use it as an alternative. The ambiance of the open flame adds a unique touch. Look for wood fire cooking tips and recipes if you opt for a fire pit.

Outdoor Kitchen Sink Estimates

Your budget for sink installation should be between $225 and $600, including the sink itself. That includes laying the plumbing, but it could go higher for a satellite area far away from your water lines.

You may or may not want a sink as part of the overall space. It complicates the installation but can be convenient especially if you are working with raw meat before it goes on the grill.

Permit to Build an Outdoor Kitchen

A building permit costs between $400 and $2,250, and your outdoor kitchen will fall on the lower end of that. In many locations, you will just need permission for gas and water lines. In others, the entire space may require approval. Work with your contractor, your HOA or your local building department to get certainty.

Pergola and Other Enclosure Types

Expect to pay $2,000 to $25,000 if you want to add a ceiling and provide some protection from the elements. Your choices range from the wooden slabs of a pergola to a complete patio cover.

Adding a ceiling fan costs between $150 and $350. It can add a cooling breeze for any type of enclosure.

Secondary Appliances

If your grill isn't enough, the average cost to install an electric or gas oven is $2,000. A stone oven costs between $1,000 and $3,000. The cost to place other appliances, like a refrigerator, ranges between $125 and $300.

If you want a refrigerator in your outdoor kitchen, a small under-the-counter version works best. Since this space is as much about ambiance as it is about function, a larger appliance could be an eyesore. A small stainless-steel fridge for drinks or food waiting to be grilled tends to work well and adds a style element to a modern-looking kitchen.

Other Components That Impact Outdoor Kitchen Prices

Do you need extra storage in your yard? If so, you may want to install cabinets or other shelving. Once again, keep in mind the outdoor elements and choose durable materials like stainless steel or woods that hold up against moisture.

If you want to add some cool effects to the space and use the kitchen after sundown, budget for a lighting fixture between $150 and $800. You'll need to account for the additional electricity, which adds to that cost if the area is far away from your main box.

Cost to Install a Backyard Kitchen Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro

You can save about 20% to 40% of the project costs by taking on a small backyard kitchen project yourself. That might include adding some shelving and counter space to your grill. More complex projects need extensive expertise and experience.

Adding plumbing, electricity or gas lines requires professionals who know how to follow local building codes and keep the space safe and dry. The right experts can also recommend good materials and help in the permitting process.

If you have some contracting experience, you can save some of the project budget by building the kitchen framework, then letting a pro handle the rest. Find quality outdoor kitchen builders near you for anything from planning to applying the finishing touches.

FAQs

Can I build an outdoor kitchen with metal studs?

You can build a backyard kitchen with metal studs or a wooden framework. Metal is extremely durable and will last 50-100 years, but it also costs about $400 to $600 per linear foot. Hire a pro if you are looking for durability but don't know how to work the material.

How can I build an outdoor kitchen on a budget?

Building an outdoor kitchen on a budget requires strategy. Planning the perfect outdoor kitchen includes a number of factors that can influence the pricing:

• Location: The closer to your home, the less expensive the renovation will be.

• Flooring: Building the space on an existing patio saves $5 to $30 per square foot in flooring costs.

• Installation: If you don't need to worry about electricity, gas lines or plumbing, you can save thousands.

• Appliances: Limit yourself to your basic needs to save on installation costs.

How do I level my outdoor kitchen?

When leveling your backyard space, make sure both the patio and countertop are level. Ideally, you should level the yard before installation begins. Most metal or wooden framework studs also include leveling arms to minimize problems.

What are the best footing options for an outdoor kitchen?

Many prefab kitchen frameworks include footing options that work on your existing patio. For custom frameworks, poured concrete tends to be your builders' preferred choice.

Do outdoor kitchens need to be covered in the winter?

If you live in a climate with four distinct seasons, you should plan to winterize your space every fall.

• Shut off and drain all water lines.

• Turn off the fridge.

• Clean the sink and potentially remove the faucet.

• Cover the grill and any other open appliances.

• Seal your cabinets.

Can I build an outdoor kitchen out of wood?

Wood can work well and look beautiful in this backyard space. Pressure-treated pine works well for the framework, and teak makes sense for both cabinets and countertops.

Do outdoor kitchens add value to your home?

Adding a backyard kitchen to your property can increase your home's monetary value by around 60% of its price--if the design matches your home and flows well with the rest of the house and property. In warmer climates where the space is usable around the year, that can rise to 100% or more of the budget you put into it. The functional value of adding another room to your home makes this a project with a high return on your investment.