GTA Renovation Pricing Guide
Home renovation cost per square foot in Toronto.
Real 2026 pricing for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home renovations across the Greater Toronto Area. Plan your budget with confidence before you request a quote.
Planning your budget
Why per-square-foot pricing matters.
Renovation costs in Toronto depend on more than just size, but cost per square foot is still the fastest way to compare project types and set a realistic budget. The numbers below reflect what Saab Building sees across the GTA today — from Scarborough and Etobicoke to Mississauga, Brampton, and Oakville.
These are ranges, not fixed quotes. Every home is different, and the only way to get an accurate price is a site visit and detailed scope. Use this guide to set expectations, then request a free quote for your specific project.
2026 GTA ranges
Renovation cost per square foot.
Cosmetic refresh
$75 – $125 / sq ft
Painting, flooring, fixtures, cabinet refacing, light tiling
Mid-range renovation
$150 – $250 / sq ft
New kitchens, bathrooms, basement finishes, standard layouts
High-end custom
$250 – $450+ / sq ft
Custom millwork, structural changes, luxury finishes, additions
*Ranges are approximate and include labour, materials, and basic project management. Permits, design fees, and high-end fixtures are typically additional.
By project type
What Toronto renovations actually cost.
Kitchen renovation
100 – 200 sq ft$35,000 – $85,000+
Cabinets, counters, appliances, plumbing, and electrical are the biggest drivers. Premium stone and custom cabinetry push the upper end.
Bathroom renovation
40 – 100 sq ft$18,000 – $45,000+
Wet-area waterproofing, tile, fixtures, and ventilation add up quickly. A powder room refresh costs far less than a full ensuite.
Basement finishing
600 – 900 sq ft$45,000 – $150,000+
Open living space is at the lower end. A legal basement suite with separate entrance, kitchen, bath, and fire separation is at the upper end.
Whole-home renovation
1,500 – 3,000 sq ft$150,000 – $500,000+
Moving walls, updating systems, and finishing every room can approach the cost of a new build. Scope and finish level matter most.
What drives the price
Five factors that change your renovation cost.
Size and layout
Larger spaces cost more overall, but smaller projects often have a higher per-square-foot price because fixed costs don't spread as far.
Finish level
Builder-grade materials, mid-range finishes, and luxury custom products create wide price gaps. Appliances and fixtures alone can swing a kitchen budget by $20,000.
Age of the home
Older Toronto homes often need plumbing, electrical, insulation, or structural updates before finishes can go in. These hidden costs are easy to underestimate.
Permits and compliance
Legal basement suites, additions, and structural changes require permits and inspections. Compliance work protects your investment and resale value.
Access and conditions
Tight lots, parking limits, protected trees, or interior protection requirements can increase labour and logistics costs.
Budgeting tips
How to plan a renovation budget that holds up.
The most common budgeting mistake is underestimating the "hidden" work behind the walls. Here's how Toronto homeowners build a budget that survives the project.
Set a 10–20% contingency for surprises, especially in older homes.
Separate must-haves from nice-to-haves before you get quotes.
Ask contractors to break out permits, materials, labour, and disposal.
Get 2–3 detailed quotes so you can compare scope, not just price.
Don't shop for finishes until you know the construction budget.
Common questions
Renovation pricing FAQs.
How much does home renovation cost per square foot in Toronto?
Most GTA renovations fall between $150 and $350 per square foot. Cosmetic refreshes start near $75–$125 per square foot, while full custom or structural work can exceed $350 per square foot.
What is the average cost to renovate a kitchen in Toronto?
A typical kitchen renovation ranges from $35,000 to $85,000. Small refreshes can start around $25,000; custom kitchens with premium finishes can reach $100,000 or more.
How much does it cost to finish a basement in Toronto?
Basement finishing generally runs $75–$250 per square foot. A basic open basement may cost $40,000, while a legal secondary suite with separate entrance, kitchen, bath, and egress can run $75,000–$150,000+.
Do renovation costs include permits and design?
Not always. Permits, drawings, and design fees are typically separate, especially for structural work, additions, or legal basement suites. Budget $2,000–$10,000+ depending on the project and municipality.
Why do renovation quotes vary so much between Toronto contractors?
Material quality, labour rates, project management, insurance, warranty, and inclusions all affect price. A lower quote may exclude permits, disposal, or contingency. A higher quote often includes full management and better protection.
Get a real quote
Ready to move from estimate to actual quote?
Per-square-foot pricing is a great starting point, but your project deserves a quote based on your actual space, goals, and timeline. Saab Building serves homeowners across the GTA with licensed trades, full project management, and clear, itemized proposals.
Serving the Greater Toronto Area since 2022. Email us at info@saabbuilding.ca.