Compare the highest-rated kitchen remodeling professionals in Essex, Massachusetts. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier, full-service design-build firm specializing in comprehensive kitchen remodels. They are known for their professional project management, in-house design team, and high-quality craftsmanship, handling everything from initial concept to final installation.
A highly-rated local contractor known for personalized service and attention to detail. They excel in managing kitchen renovations of various scales, from cabinet refacing and updates to full-gut remodels, with a strong focus on customer communication and satisfaction.
A well-established, family-owned construction company with a strong reputation for custom kitchen renovations. They are praised for their craftsmanship, reliability, and ability to execute complex projects that include structural, electrical, and plumbing updates.
The kitchen remodeling market in Essex and the surrounding North Shore area is characterized by high-quality, custom work, reflecting the region's historic charm and affluent communities. Many homes in Essex are older, Colonial, or Cape-style properties, which often presents unique challenges and opportunities for remodelers, such as integrating modern amenities while preserving historical character. The competition level is high, but it is a market dominated by established, reputable contractors rather than large, high-volume chains. Consumers are discerning and typically seek out firms with proven track records. As a result, pricing is at a premium. Homeowners should expect a significant investment, with full kitchen remodels commonly ranging from $50,000 to well over $150,000, depending on the scope, materials (e.g., custom cabinetry, natural stone countertops), and the complexity of the layout and mechanical updates required.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Essex regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about kitchen remodeling services in Essex, Massachusetts.
For a full remodel in Essex, including cabinetry, countertops, appliances, flooring, and labor, homeowners should budget between $35,000 and $75,000+, with high-end projects exceeding $100,000. Regional labor and material costs in Massachusetts are above the national average. It's crucial to get detailed, written estimates from local contractors that account for potential surprises common in older Essex homes, like outdated wiring or plumbing.
Yes, Essex has local building codes and you will likely need permits for electrical, plumbing, and structural work. If your home is in the Essex Historic District or is a designated historic property, the Essex Historical Commission must review and approve exterior changes and possibly significant interior alterations. Always verify requirements with the Essex Building Department before starting any work.
The coastal Essex climate means high humidity in summer and cold, wet conditions in winter, which can affect material delivery (e.g., warping of wood) and outdoor work like dumpster placement or window installations. The ideal time to start a remodel is late spring or early fall to avoid peak humidity and the deepest winter freeze, but a professional contractor will plan for indoor work during the less favorable seasons.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed, insured, and have extensive local experience, especially with Essex's older home stock. Check for membership in local organizations like the North Shore Home Builders & Remodelers Association. Ask for references from recent Essex or North Shore projects and physically visit a completed project if possible to assess craftsmanship firsthand.
It's very common to discover knob-and-tube wiring, old plumbing (galvanized or lead pipes), insufficient insulation, and uneven or damaged structural framing in Essex's historic homes. A reputable local contractor will build a contingency of 10-20% into the budget for these unforeseen issues and will know how to properly remediate them in compliance with Massachusetts building codes.