How Much Does a Full Home Renovation Cost in Toronto? A Transparent Breakdown

Introduction

One of the first questions homeowners ask—often before they understand the scope of work—is: “How much will my renovation cost?” Renovation pricing in Toronto varies widely depending on the home’s age, complexity, desired finishes, and structural needs. While online estimates can be misleading, a transparent breakdown helps homeowners budget realistically and avoid costly surprises.

This guide outlines the true cost of a full home renovation in Toronto in 2025, based on real industry data and the construction realities of older homes.

What Influences Renovation Cost the Most?

1. Age of Home

Homes built before the 1950s almost always require electrical, plumbing, and structural upgrades. These upgrades drive cost more than finishes or aesthetics.

2. Scope of Work

A cosmetic refresh costs far less than moving walls, redesigning layouts, or installing new mechanical systems. Full-service design and construction also involve more detailed planning.

3. Structural Changes

Removing walls, adding beams, underpinning basements, or adding a second floor significantly increases budgets.

4. Level of Customization

Custom millwork, high-performance appliances, premium materials, and bespoke detailing affect cost but also improve function and longevity.

5. Permits & Professional Fees

Engineering, BCIN drawings, municipal permits, HVAC design, and interior design services all contribute to total investment.

2. Toronto Renovation Cost Breakdown (2025 Estimates)

Full Home Renovation (Interior Only)

• Average: $350,000 – $700,000+

• High-end projects: $800,000 – $1.5M+
  This includes kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, lighting, millwork, mechanical upgrades, and layout changes.

Kitchen Renovation

• Standard: $70,000 – $110,000

• High-end/custom: $110,000 – $200,000+
  Why kitchens cost more:

• Plumbing + electrical

• Ventilation

• Custom cabinetry

• Appliance integration

• Slab countertops

Bathroom Renovation

• Standard: $28,000 – $45,000

• High-end: $50,000 – $80,000+
  Costs increase due to waterproofing, plumbing fixtures, tiling, and tight space coordination.

Basement Renovation (Finished Space Only)

• $60,000 – $150,000+
  Underpinning adds $80,000 – $200,000+ depending on depth.

Structural Changes

• Removing a structural wall: $12,000 – $25,000+

• Adding beams or columns: $8,000 – $20,000+

• Reframing floors: $15,000 – $50,000+

Additions

• Main floor addition: $250,000 – $400,000

• Second floor addition: $300,000 – $500,000

• Garage-top extension: $100,000 – $200,000

Additions become expensive due to excavation, foundation work, engineering, roofing, and fully new mechanical systems.

3. Soft Costs That Homeowners Often Forget

Design Fees

Full-service interior design generally ranges from 8%–15% of construction value depending on complexity.

Engineering

• Structural engineering: $4,000 – $12,000+

• Mechanical/HVAC design: $1,500 – $4,000

Permits

• Building permit: $2,000 – $6,000

• Additional permits (plumbing, HVAC): $500 – $2,000

Contingency

Always reserve 10%–20% for older Toronto homes.
Hidden conditions such as wiring, plumbing failures, framing issues, or asbestos are common.

4. Why Detailed Drawings Save Money

A complete design package reduces:

• Change orders

• Rework

• Miscommunication between trades

• Incorrect material orders

• Delayed timelines

Contractors estimate more accurately when drawings clearly specify:

• Lighting

• Millwork

• Plumbing

• Tile layouts

• Appliances

• Material finishes

• Built-in storage details

The clearer the plan, the more accurate the pricing.

5. What Homeowners Can Expect for Their Budget

$300k–$450k

Selective renovations with limited structural work.
One major area (kitchen or bathrooms) + cosmetic upgrades.

$450k–$650k

Full home renovation including:

• New kitchen

• Updated bathrooms

• Flooring

• Lighting

• Improved flow

• Upgraded mechanical systems

$650k–$900k+

Large-scale overhaul, structural work, custom millwork, high-end finishes, improved mechanical systems, and a fully cohesive home transformation.

$1M+

Top-tier materials, custom everything, additions, new mechanical systems, high-performance envelopes, and luxury-level appliances.

Conclusion

Renovating a Toronto home is a significant investment, but with the right planning, transparent budgeting, and a strong design team guiding the process, the outcome is a long-term asset that improves daily living, comfort, and resale value.

A renovation is not just about replacing finishes—it’s about building a home that functions beautifully, supports your lifestyle, and stands the test of time.