Building an outdoor kitchen transforms your backyard into a functional and stylish entertaining space. As the outdoor living trend continues to thrive, you may be wondering what materials hold up best, and what might the best bang for your buck. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly BBQ Island or a luxurious, fully customized outdoor kitchen, understanding the associated costs can help you plan your project wisely.
In this guide, we break down the costs of outdoor kitchens, from a budget standpoint.
A prefabricated outdoor kitchen (also known as BBQ Islands) are an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly and quick installation option. These units are predesigned in standard configurations and include essential appliances like a grill, counter space, and storage.
Size & Layout: $3,300 – $13,000 (generally based on linear footage)
Framework & Cabinetry: $200 – $600 per linear foot (usually steel or aluminum with some exceptions)
Countertops: $15 – $300 per linear foot (depends on granite, concrete or tiled with porcelain or granite)
Basic Appliances:
Grill: $1,800 – $5,000
Refrigerator: $599 – $3,000
Sink: $200 – $1,000
Homeowners on a budget who still want an outdoor cooking space.
Those who don’t require extensive customization.
A semi-custom outdoor kitchen provides more design flexibility than a prefabricated unit. You can choose your own layout, materials, and select premium appliances while still relying on a modular system for easier installation.
Size & Layout: $6,600 – $30,000 (based on linear footage and materials)
Framework & Cabinetry: $400 – $800 per linear foot (stainless steel and aluminum or steel frame with stucco, stone veneer, steel or cladding). At the time of this writing, steel tariffs are in question, so these costs may rise over time.
Countertops: $70 – $185 per square foot (tile, granite or aluminum powder coat)
Mid-Range Appliances:
Basic to High-end grill: $2,000 – $8,000
Refrigerator: $500 – $3,000
Ice maker: $2,100 – $5,000
Side burners & warming drawers: $1,000 – $3,500
Plumbing & Utilities: $250 – $2,000
Installation & Labor (if using local contractors): $300 – $500 per day (2-4 weeks for full build)
Homeowners looking for a blend of affordability and customization.
Those who want high-quality materials without the cost of a fully custom design.
People who want to install the kitchen faster than a fully custom option.
A fully custom outdoor kitchen is designed from the ground up to match your vision, incorporating high-end materials, premium appliances, and tailored features. These kitchens often include integrated bars, pizza ovens, and luxury finishes to create the ultimate outdoor entertainment experience.
A often misunderstood idea is that custom outdoor kitchens have to be built by local contractors, which was once true, but not anymore. Customers can work with national retailers (like BetterPatio) to design, build and deliver custom outdoor kitchens, almost always less than what a local contractor would charge.
Size & Layout: $9,900 – $39,000 (more materials generally mean more costs)
High-End Framework & Cabinetry: $500 – $1,500 per linear foot (stainless steel, composite materials)
Luxury Countertops: $100 – $300 per linear foot (marble, quartzite, or stainless steel)
Luxury Appliances:
High-end grill with rotisserie: $3,000 – $10,000
Custom-built refrigerator and freezer: $4,000 – $7,500
Wood-fired pizza oven: $3,000 – $8,000
Vent hood: $2,000 – $6,000
Flooring & Outdoor Features:
Flagstone or travertine: $10 – $40 per square foot
Custom pergola or pavilion: $12,000 – $25,000
Plumbing & Utilities: $500 – $5,000 (depending on gas and water line extensions)
Installation & Labor (if using local contractors): $300 – $500 per day (2-4 weeks for full build)
Homeowners who want the best materials, appliances, and finishes and aren't willing to compromise on design.
Those looking to create a seamless outdoor extension of their home.
People who entertain frequently and need high-end cooking and hosting spaces.
The more appliances and features you include, the higher the cost. Luxury grills, smart appliances, and refrigeration units significantly add to the budget.
If your outdoor space requires excavation, foundation work, or extensive electrical and plumbing, expect additional costs.
Using premium materials such as natural stone, stainless steel, and quartz increases durability and aesthetics but also raises the price.
If using a contractor, any fully custom kitchen requires specialized, skilled labor, often driving costs higher. Prefabricated, semi-custom and custom kitchens from BetterPatio can be assembled on site in just a few hours, and are generally more affordable.
The cost of an outdoor kitchen varies significantly based on the level of customization and materials used. By choosing the right type—prefabricated, semi-custom, or fully custom—you can align your investment with your lifestyle and budget.
If you're ready to take the next step in designing your outdoor kitchen, BetterPatio offers a wide selection of outdoor kitchen kits, semi-custom solutions, and high-end designs. Explore our California Series, Designer Series, and Mountain Series to find the perfect match for your outdoor space!
As the outdoor living trend continues to thrive, you may be wonder...
How to transform your outdoor space in 5 steps to...
Purchased for a client and it is well made, sturdy and attractive. Recommend.
Amazing sofa!
This is our master piece! Please don’t hesitate if we’re interested!
Great island. Contact Drew to help you through the process!
Niel Edwards
June 19, 2025
I’m looking at getting a quote for outfitting my back patio with a outdoor kitchen design