Thinking about renovating your NYC apartment, brownstone, or condo? You’re probably asking the big question: “How much is this actually going to cost me?” The answer? It depends — but we’re breaking it down clearly so you can budget smarter and avoid expensive surprises.
Real NYC Renovation Costs (No Sugarcoating)
Most renovations in New York City land somewhere between $300 to $600 per square foot. Cosmetic upgrades might be closer to $200/SF, but the moment you start moving walls, changing layouts, or dealing with DOB filings, expect that number to climb fast — sometimes even beyond $700/SF in high-end areas.
What You’re Actually Paying For
Here’s where your renovation dollars typically go:
- Demolition – Tearing things out, hauling debris, renting dumpsters
- Plumbing & Electrical – Rough-ins, fixture hookups, panel upgrades
- Floors & Paint – Whether it’s herringbone oak or vinyl, plus smooth walls and coats of paint
- Cabinetry & Countertops – Stock vs. custom millwork, plus stone, quartz, or butcher block
- Fixtures & Appliances – Think lighting, vanities, faucets, and everything that makes the space usable
- Labor & Contractor Fees – Usually 30–40% of the total
- Contingency – A must. Set aside 10–15% for those “uh oh” moments
Why It’s More Expensive in NYC
Renovating here isn’t like renovating in the suburbs — not even close.
- Permits and DOB filings are almost always required
- Co-op and condo boards add layers of approval (and sometimes fees)
- Logistics are insane — tiny elevators, narrow staircases, limited delivery hours
- Labor costs are higher (but for good reason: these crews know NYC work)
- Delays happen — between long-lead materials and building schedules, it’s part of the process
How to Budget Without Losing Your Mind
Here’s how to keep your renovation from turning into a financial horror story:
- Get a line-item proposal — not just a lump sum
- Ask what’s included vs. excluded (and get it in writing)
- Always add at least 10–15% buffer for changes or surprises
- Order long-lead items early
- Work with a contractor who understands NYC buildings and red tape
If you want a custom ballpark number for your project, use our free NYC Renovation Calculator — it’s made for New Yorkers, not the suburbs.
Want a Step-by-Step Planner to Go With Your Budget?
Grab our free NYC Renovation Checklist — it walks you through every phase of your project, from budgeting and timelines to contractor interviews and punch list walkthroughs.
🛠️ What’s inside:
– A printable renovation timeline
- Budget planning worksheet
- Questions to ask your GC
- Finish selection tracker
- Final demo-day prep checklist
We built this guide to make the process less overwhelming — and way more organized. Download it here.
Final Thoughts
Yes, renovating in NYC costs more. But with the right plan, the right team, and a realistic budget, you can get the space you want without the chaos. Don’t guess your numbers — own them. That’s how you stay in control.
And if you’re not sure where to start, we’re always here to help.
