How much does an outdoor kitchen cost?

The short answer:

You're looking at $8,000 to $50,000, maybe more if you want a fancy pizza oven.

Basic grill islands with counter space are a straightforward addition to just about any patio or existing outdoor area, and the sky's the limit from there! Updates like a refrigerator, sink, underlights, bar area, or even a TV (getting excited here!) will take your space to the next level, and could very well add another zero to the price as well. ​

Long answer:

That's quite a range right? Yep! If you're ready to cook, entertain, and enjoy living outside, here are 9 things you should consider: ​

1. What's grilling?

Some outdoor kitchens don't even have a grill, but if you're looking to incorporate one into your cooking area, there is an extremely wide range of grills available. Knowing how much you'll use the grill is important. 

​You could choose a 32" Napoleon Prestige built-in grill with enough options to satisfy most weekend grillers starting at $1,300.  If you're someone who needs more cooking area, underhood lights, or other options, the Blaze Pro Series will get you there! With up to 44" of space and a rear infrared burner, it'll set you back roughly $4,300.

2. Hey, do you smoke?

​Adding a ceramic smoker/grill to the mix doesn't change much from a design standpoint. However, smokers do take up space, so planning for a slightly longer kitchen may be something you'll need to consider. The Big Green Egg or comparable Kamado Joe smoker start around $1,100 and can go way up from there.

​3. How entertaining are you?

Planning to have a lot of friends over? Maybe you want the kitchen to double as a bar area. A great way to accommodate guests in this way is to add a bar-height counter along the length of the kitchen, perfect for bar stools. You can also take the whole space lower for regular chairs. 

Areas like this are fantastic for parties or events, and create easy spaces to set out platters of meat, food, and all the fixings. If you think you'll use this extra space, plan on setting aside another $3,000-$10,000.

4. Do you trip over yourself?

​If you're like me, you're often grilling in the evenings when it's dark outside. I used to fumble around for my spatula and struggle to see the food with my flashlight. Then, I added some low-voltage lighting, and it fixed the issue. Lighting that illuminates under the counters and down toward the feet creates an inviting look and is very functional. You can even take it a step further by adding a few up lights to the area to complete the ambiance of the space. Simple lighting starts at around $1,200. Are you wanting to add more lights, with options such as customizable colors, separate zones, or even WiFi control? Get the checkbook ready!

5. Maybe jumbo size it?

Basic outdoor kitchens are usually about 8-10 feet long. This is typically enough space to spread out and set down a few trays and a bucket of beers. If you are thinking about doing anything beyond this, definitely think bigger. The good news: doubling the size of a kitchen doesn't always mean doubling the price. Adding appliances and features will add to the cost quickly, but if you simply need more bar and counter space, think somewhere between $250-$700 a linear foot depending on your material choices.

​6. How would you like your counters?

Over-easy? Scrambled? There are many, many options. If you've ever tried to pick out countertops for the inside of the home, you probably know this all too well. I would say granite is a very popular choice, and not a bad one. Using natural blue stone can give the space a very rustic and traditional feel. Techo-Bloc also has some very unique wall caps which can double as great countertops, creating a one-of-a-kind look.

7. Do you want cold beer?

A simple fridge won't add much to the cost. The basic 20" refrigerators start at $350. Just make sure to get a front venting refrigerator, or you'll have to create a vented pocket for the fridge to slide into. What if you want ice, or maybe a wine cooler? Add a couple more pockets and another $2,000 to $4,000. Need a fridge larger than 20"? You may have just gone from an additional $350 to $1,800. Hint: they get expensive very quickly. While you're at it, why not spring for a kegerator? Single taps start around $2,000. 

8. How connected are you?

Tired of changing out propane tanks? Hopefully your space will be close to the house, and save you a little bit of money on running natural gas to your outdoor kitchen. Usually, budgeting between $1,500 and $3,500 for this is safe. A licensed plumber will need to pull a permit, install a new line, and pressure test it before you are ready to grill.

If you decided to add a refrigerator, low-voltage lighting, ice maker, or outdoor TV, you'll need to budget for an electrician to install a GFCI outlet. If you already have outdoor outlets, expect $500 to $1,000. If it's necessary to pull a new circuit out of the panel, plan on $1,000 to $3,000.

9. Got mess?

Adding a sink is a great option. It keeps the mess outside- away from the indoor kitchen, and of course, the wrath of Mom. To create a sink basin with cold water, I would budget for $750 to $1,500 (plus the cost of a plumber to connect the lines). If you live in an area that freezes, make sure you plan on winterizing the plumbing. Also, consider if you want hot water. With luck, you'll be able to pull from the home hot water heater. If not, plan on $3,000+ for a plumber to install a dedicated one and plumb it in.

Read More: Designing the Perfect Outdoor Space

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