Compare the highest-rated kitchen remodeling professionals in Pasadena, California. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, design-build firm specializing in comprehensive kitchen remodels. They are known for their in-house design team, project management, and focus on streamlining the renovation process from concept to completion. They handle all trades, including custom cabinetry, countertops, and appliance integration.
A boutique design and remodeling firm with a strong focus on craftsmanship and personalized service. They excel at kitchen layout redesigns and creating custom, high-end finishes. Their process is highly collaborative, working closely with clients to achieve a functional and aesthetically unique kitchen.
A well-established, full-service general contractor serving the San Gabriel Valley, including Pasadena. They are recognized for handling a wide range of remodeling projects with a strong track record in kitchens. They manage all aspects, including necessary plumbing, electrical, and structural updates.
The kitchen remodeling market in Pasadena is highly competitive and quality-focused, reflecting the city's affluent demographics and its abundance of historic and architecturally significant homes. The average quality of contractors is high, with a significant number of design-build firms and specialized craftsmen. Due to the prevalence of older homes, projects often involve complex updates to plumbing, electrical, and structural systems, requiring contractors with significant expertise. Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through a wide range of choices and service levels, from boutique design firms to larger, full-service contractors. Typical pricing for a full kitchen remodel in Pasadena is premium, often ranging from $35,000 for a moderate update with stock materials to well over $100,000 for high-end, custom renovations involving layout changes, custom cabinetry, and luxury appliances. Homeowners are advised to vet contractors thoroughly for proper licensing, insurance, and a portfolio of completed local projects.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Pasadena regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about kitchen remodeling services in Pasadena, California.
For a full, professional remodel in Pasadena, homeowners should budget between $35,000 to $85,000+, with mid-range projects averaging $50,000-$70,000. Costs are influenced by Pasadena's higher labor rates, the age of homes (many requiring updates to plumbing/electrical to meet current California Title 24 energy codes), and material choices. Premium custom work in historic districts can exceed $100,000, so obtaining multiple detailed quotes is essential.
A full remodel typically takes 8 to 14 weeks from demolition to completion. Pasadena's dry, mild climate is generally favorable for construction, but the intense summer heat can affect workers' productivity and material handling. The most significant scheduling factor is navigating the City of Pasadena's permit process, which can add several weeks for plan review and inspections, especially for homes in historic districts or with significant structural changes.
Yes, Pasadena has its own building and safety department with strict requirements. All significant remodels require permits for electrical, plumbing, and structural work. Crucially, if your home is in a city-designated historic district (like Bungalow Heaven or Prospect Park), you will need additional design review approval from the Pasadena Heritage Commission, which governs exterior and sometimes interior changes. Compliance with California's strict water conservation (CALGreen) and energy efficiency (Title 24) codes is also mandatory.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed, insured, and have extensive local experience. Verify their "B" (General Building) or "C" (specialty) California license online with the CSLB. Ask for references from recent Pasadena projects and proof of familiarity with the city's permit office and historic district guidelines. A reputable local contractor will understand the common challenges of Pasadena's older housing stock, from dealing with lath-and-plaster walls to updating knob-and-tube wiring.
For Pasadena's classic bungalows and smaller footprints, popular strategies include removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open floor plan (after a proper structural assessment), installing space-saving appliances, and utilizing custom cabinetry that reaches the ceiling for maximum storage. Incorporating durable, low-VOC materials suited to our dry climate is key. Many homeowners also focus on improving the indoor-outdoor flow to a patio or yard, a highly desirable feature in Southern California living.