Home Renovation Costs in Toronto & GTA: What Homeowners Need to Know

Planning a Renovation? Here's What to Expect in Toronto

Renovating your home in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) can transform your living space and significantly boost property value — but how much should you budget? On average, home renovation costs in Toronto range from $80 to $400 per square foot, depending on the size, materials, and scope of your project.

At Cedarwood Development Group Inc., we believe in transparent pricing and providing homeowners with the knowledge they need to plan their renovations with confidence. Below, we break down the key factors that influence renovation costs, plus tips to help you budget smartly for your project.

5 Key Factors That Impact Home Renovation Costs

1. Project Scope and Complexity

The scale and type of renovation is one of the biggest cost drivers. Are you refreshing cosmetic elements, or are you tackling major structural changes? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Basic Renovations – Cosmetic updates like painting, minor flooring changes, and replacing fixtures.

• Mid-Range Renovations – Kitchen and bathroom remodels, basement finishing, and layout adjustments.

• Major Renovations – Custom designs, luxury finishes, structural changes, and full-home overhauls.

The larger and more complex the project, the higher the investment — but the returns can be equally rewarding.

2. Materials and Finishes

Your choice of materials directly influences both your upfront costs and long-term value. Toronto homeowners have options ranging from:

• Budget-Friendly Materials – Standard fixtures, laminate countertops, and basic flooring.

• Mid-Range Finishes – Granite countertops, ceramic tile, and durable vinyl flooring that balance cost and quality.

• Luxury Materials – Custom cabinetry, marble counters, and high-end fixtures that elevate both style and value.

Average Costs:

• Custom cabinetry: Starts at around $500 per linear foot, climbing to $1,200+ for premium designs.

• Flooring: $5 to $10 per square foot for popular choices like luxury vinyl plank.

• Lighting & Fixtures: $200 to $2,000+ depending on style and brand.

3. Labor Costs in Toronto

Skilled trades are essential to achieving high-quality renovations. In Toronto, labour rates typically range from $60 to $100 per hour, depending on trade and expertise.

On average, labour accounts for 40-50% of your total renovation cost — particularly for complex projects requiring electricians, plumbers, or structural work. Labor rates fluctuate based on demand, project complexity, and experience level.

4. Building Permits and Approvals

Renovations often require permits and inspections to ensure compliance with Toronto building codes. Permit costs vary by project type:

• Building Permits: Range from $500 to $1,500 for renovations involving layout changes, structural work, or basement finishing.

• Electrical Permits: Typically cost $200 to $500 for rewiring or new installations.

• Plumbing Permits: Expect to budget $300 to $700 for any plumbing modifications.

For older homes, inspections may be more rigorous, potentially increasing permit-related costs — but proper permits protect your investment, ensure safety, and can boost resale value.

5. Home Age and Condition

Older homes often come with hidden challenges, from outdated wiring and plumbing to foundation issues or asbestos. These factors can require additional work and impact both the timeline and budget.

If your home is historic or has unique architectural elements, your contractor may also need specialized techniques and materials to preserve original character, which can increase costs.

Average Cost Ranges for Common Home Renovations

Here’s a ballpark guide to help you estimate the cost of popular renovation projects in Toronto and the GTA:

Renovation Type	Average Cost Range
Kitchen Renovation	$10,000 - $60,000+
Bathroom Renovation	$10,000 - $30,000+
Basement Finishing	$30,000 - $80,000+
Whole Home Renovation	$100,000 - $400,000+
Flooring Replacement	$5 - $10 per sq. ft.
Painting (Interior)	$5,000 - $15,000+
Exterior Upgrades (Interlocking, Landscaping)	$10,000 - $50,000+

Keep in mind: Every home is unique, and costs vary based on size, finishes, and desired features.

Maximize Your Investment with the Right Renovation Partner

A successful renovation starts with the right team — experts who understand your vision, budget, and the challenges unique to Toronto homes. At Cedarwood Development Group Inc., we specialize in luxury home renovations, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, basement finishing, and more, with over 500+ projects completed across the GTA.

We offer: ✅ Free consultations and detailed estimates ✅ Licensed and insured professionals ✅ Transparent pricing — no hidden fees ✅ Premium craftsmanship backed by warranties

Whether you’re upgrading your family home or preparing a property for resale, we bring your vision to life with quality and care.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation! 📧 Email: info@cedarwooddevelopment.ca 🌐 Visit: www.cedarwooddevelopment.ca📱 Call or WhatsApp: (437) 477-7366

Every home tells a story — let us help you write yours with elegance and precision.