What Percentage of Remodeling Cost Is Labor?

Why Labor Costs Matter More Than Most Homeowners Expect

When homeowners plan a remodel, it’s easy to focus on visible items—cabinets, countertops, flooring, or fixtures. Labor, however, often makes up the largest portion of the total budget, even though it’s less obvious.

For homeowners in Burleson, TX, understanding how much of a remodeling budget typically goes toward labor helps set realistic expectations. It also explains why two projects with similar materials can have very different final costs.

This article breaks down what percentage of remodeling cost is labor, why that percentage varies, and how to interpret labor costs correctly when planning a remodel.

The Typical Labor Percentage in Remodeling Projects

In most residential remodeling projects, labor usually accounts for 40% to 60% of the total cost. In some cases—especially complex remodels—it can climb even higher.

Here’s how labor percentages generally break down:

• Light remodeling: 35%–45% labor
  Cosmetic work like paint, trim, and flooring installation

• Mid-range remodeling: 45%–55% labor
  Kitchens, bathrooms, cabinetry, electrical, and plumbing updates

• Major or structural remodeling: 55%–65%+ labor
  Layout changes, load-bearing work, system upgrades

For many Burleson homes, mid-range projects fall squarely in the 45%–55% labor range.

Why Labor Takes Up Such a Large Share of Remodeling Costs

Labor costs reflect more than just time spent on-site. They account for skill, coordination, and responsibility.

Skilled Trade Work

Remodeling requires licensed or highly skilled professionals—carpenters, electricians, plumbers, tile installers, and finish specialists. Each trade brings expertise that directly affects safety and long-term performance.

Homes in Burleson, especially older ones, often require careful workmanship to integrate new work with existing construction.

Project Coordination and Sequencing

Remodeling isn’t done by one person from start to finish. Labor includes planning, scheduling, inspections, and coordination between trades. Poor sequencing can delay projects and increase costs, which is why experienced labor matters.

Problem-Solving and Adjustments

Unlike new construction, remodeling often involves adapting to what’s already there. Hidden issues—such as outdated wiring or framing inconsistencies—require on-the-spot problem-solving that increases labor time.

How Labor Percentage Changes by Type of Remodel

Not all remodeling projects carry the same labor ratio.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

These spaces typically have higher labor percentages because they involve plumbing, electrical work, cabinetry, tile, and precise installation. Even small kitchens can be labor-intensive.

Whole-Home Remodeling

Whole-home remodels often average out to a balanced labor percentage. While some areas are simpler, others—like kitchens and bathrooms—pull the labor share upward.

For Burleson homeowners remodeling older houses, labor percentages can increase if system upgrades are needed throughout the home.

Structural Remodeling

Structural changes almost always push labor percentages higher. Removing load-bearing walls, installing beams, or reinforcing floors involves planning, engineering, and careful execution.

Why Lower Labor Costs Aren’t Always a Good Sign

Many homeowners assume lower labor costs mean savings, but that’s not always the case.

Lower labor percentages can indicate:

• Inexperienced or rushed workmanship

• Skipped preparation steps

• Limited scope that excludes necessary work
  

In remodeling, labor quality directly affects durability, safety, and long-term value. Cutting labor costs too aggressively often leads to higher repair expenses later.

How to Use Labor Percentage When Budgeting

Rather than trying to minimize labor costs, homeowners should use labor percentage as a planning tool.

A realistic remodeling budget often:

• Accepts that labor will be nearly half the cost

• Focuses savings on material choices instead

• Prioritizes skilled installation over cheaper finishes

For Burleson homeowners, this approach helps prevent surprises when estimates are reviewed.

Common Questions About Remodeling Labor Costs

What percentage of remodeling cost is labor?
Most remodeling projects allocate 40%–60% of the total cost to labor, depending on scope and complexity.

Why does labor cost more than materials sometimes?
Labor includes skilled work, coordination, safety responsibility, and problem-solving—not just time spent installing materials.

Do older homes require more labor?
Yes. Older homes often involve additional work to update systems or address hidden issues.

Is labor more expensive for structural remodels?
Yes. Structural changes typically have higher labor percentages due to planning, engineering, and precision requirements.

Can I reduce labor costs by doing some work myself?
In limited cases, yes—but professional labor is still critical for structural, electrical, and plumbing work.

Final Thoughts on Remodeling Labor Costs

Labor is the backbone of any successful remodel. While materials define how a space looks, labor determines how well it performs over time. For homeowners in Burleson, TX, understanding that nearly half—or more—of remodeling costs go toward labor makes budgeting more realistic and less stressful.

Rather than viewing labor as an expense to minimize, it’s better to see it as an investment in quality and safety. Many homeowners benefit from working with experienced local professionals like JNF Remodeling Services LLC, who understand how to balance labor, materials, and scope to deliver dependable remodeling results in the Burleson area.