What Are the Cost vs. Values for Remodeling?
The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report is Zonda's 38th annual edition of an authoritative industry study published in association with the Journal of Light Construction. It assesses the return on investment for 28 home remodeling projects by calculating the percentage of average job costs recouped through an estimated increased resale value according to realtors across 119 U.S. markets. Realizing the rate of return in the current market and trends of value, may influence how a homeowner would like to invest in their home.
Exterior remodeling projects that visually increasing curb appeal have the most return (ROI) in a competitive housing market. The top three are Installing an insulated garage door (268% ROI), a front steel entry door (216%) and the addition of manufactured stone veneer (208%). However, the majority of remodeling projects are to make current homes to better fit their needs and lifestyle so they can continue to enjoy their neighborhood and community. It may be helpful to realize how much a future buyer may pay for customizing your home now.
These are the average cost to build and percent of cost recouped by increase in resale value (ROI) for 2025 remodeling projects, listed in order of greatest return on investment.
Project Type | Average Job Cost | Estimated ROI |
|---|---|---|
Bathroom-midrange | $23,627 | 80% |
Window replacement-vinyl | $12,022 | 77% |
Bathroom-universal design | $37,503 | 68% |
Major kitchen-midrange | $81,247 | 51% |
Major kitchen-upscale | $158,252 | 36% |
Compared with 2022–23, estimated returns have risen 48% for midrange bathroom remodels featuring a fiberglass shower and cultured marble, and 24% for midrange kitchen remodels with laminate countertops. While these materials keep costs lower, buyers may prefer upscale features such as premium cabinets, sliding shelves, stone countertops, and tile backsplashes. Notably, universal-design bathrooms featuring curbless showers, built-in seating, and heated floors have also gained value, with estimated ROI increasing 48% since 2023. These features can make a home more comfortable, accessible, and suitable for aging in place to facilitate independence.
Buyers appreciate well-maintained, move-in-ready homes with updated designs, functional layouts, and energy-efficient features. Ultimately, remodeling is about loving your home even more and making it a place you can continue to enjoy to the fullest for years to come.
Happy Home Remodeling!
©2025 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. Complete data from the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.
