A whole house remodel in Los Angeles — renovating every room, updating all systems, and transforming the home’s interior completely — is the highest-investment residential construction project short of new construction. Costs range from $180 per square foot for basic cosmetic renovation to $800+ per square foot for high-end full-gut renovation. This guide breaks down what a whole house remodel actually includes, what it costs, and how to budget for a Los Angeles full home renovation in 2026.
A comprehensive whole house remodel typically includes:
Cost: $80–$140 per square foot
Paint, new flooring, kitchen and bathroom fixture updates (no layout changes), new light fixtures. For a 1,800 sq ft home: $144,000–$252,000. Best for homes in good structural condition with dated but functional systems.
Cost: $175–$280 per square foot
Full kitchen gut, all bathroom renovations, new flooring throughout, window replacement, electrical update, plumbing fixtures. For a 2,000 sq ft home: $350,000–$560,000. Most common whole house renovation scope in the San Fernando Valley and mid-market LA.
Cost: $275–$450 per square foot
Full gut including system replacement (HVAC, electrical panel, plumbing supply lines). High-quality finishes throughout (hardwood floors, custom cabinetry, natural stone in kitchen and baths, Milgard or Marvin windows). For a 2,500 sq ft home: $687,000–$1,125,000. Common in Culver City, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Manhattan Beach.
Cost: $450–$800+ per square foot
Custom cabinetry throughout, European stone in kitchen and baths, smart home integration, architectural lighting design, complete MEP replacement. For a 4,000 sq ft home: $1,800,000–$3,200,000+.
Light cosmetic renovation: $80–$140/sq ft ($144K–$252K for a 1,800 sq ft home). Mid-range full renovation: $175–$280/sq ft ($350K–$560K for a 2,000 sq ft home). High-end full renovation: $275–$450/sq ft. Luxury renovation: $450–$800+/sq ft. A full gut renovation of a 2,000–2,500 sq ft home in greater Los Angeles most commonly runs $350,000–$750,000.
Light renovation (cosmetic): 3–6 months. Mid-range full renovation: 6–12 months. High-end full renovation: 9–18 months. Timeline depends heavily on LADBS plan check (8–14 weeks for structural or major renovation), material lead times, and the sequence of trades. APLA coordinates the full trade sequence from demolition through final inspection.
Yes, for any structural work, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical changes. Cosmetic-only work (painting, flooring, cabinet replacement in same location) does not require a permit. Full renovation involving kitchen reconfiguration, bathroom plumbing relocation, window replacement, or HVAC installation requires LADBS permits. APLA manages all LA permits for whole house remodel projects.
Yes. APLA (CA Lic #1136359) handles comprehensive whole house remodels throughout Los Angeles. Call (818) 818-4419 for a free in-home consultation and full scope estimate.
Call: (818) 818-4419
Email: info@aplaconstruction.com
CA General Contractor License #1136359
Home Remodeling Los Angeles | Kitchen Remodel Los Angeles | Bathroom Remodel Los Angeles