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11 budget kitchen upgrades that look expensive

Breakwater Bay/Rifle Paper Co.

These kitchen upgrades only look pricey

If you’re dreaming about a kitchen refresh but having nightmares about the price tag, you’re hardly alone. Between pricey new appliances and custom cabinetry, many of us have champagne tastes on a soda budget — especially in the kitchen, where HGTV estimates the average cost tops $75,000. Oof. Luckily, it doesn't take a full remodel — just a few well-chosen updates, like new cabinet pulls or an accent wall, to transform your space.

And those updates don't need to come with sky-high costs. We've found plenty that are easy on your wallet, but still look expensive — and will help revive a tired nook or add an on-trend twist to your otherwise neutral kitchen aesthetic. You can even invest in a few of them, since they're all so affordable.

In this article: Amerock Blackrock Bar Pull, Rifle Paper Co. Peacock Garden Navy Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper and Sorbus Extra-Long Floating Rectangle Shelves

Check out the list below to see our budget-friendly finds for upgrading your kitchen with statement lighting, a new faucet and decor items that will leave you with plenty of budget leftover for other projects.

Give your kitchen a luxe makeover without breaking the bank

Amerock Blackrock Bar Pull

Sleek and versatile, these matte pulls add a modern, polished look to cabinets or drawers — and swapping them out is a quick DIY project that has a significant impact on overall aesthetics.

Rifle Paper Co. Peacock Garden Navy Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper

Vibrant florals and exotic birds transport you to an English garden with this renter-friendly peel-and-stick wallpaper that's perfect for a small accent wall or backsplash area.


Sorbus Extra-Long Floating Rectangle Shelves

These faux wood shelves add a contemporary, open-storage look to your space where you can display cookbooks, potted herbs or your vintage glassware collection.

Metahom Ceramic Cereal Bowls

Go beyond plain white with these vibrant, multicolored bowls — they're microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe and make your table (or new open shelving) look vibrant and fresh.

StorageWorks Wicker Baskets

These woven baskets hide clutter under a warm, rustic aesthetic with integrated handles that make them easy to carry and a medium size that's great for pantries, open shelving or countertops.

Breakwater Bay Abaigh 1 - Light Kitchen Island Pendant

This single pendant combines coastal charm with a dash of industrial style. The glass shade brightens prep areas or a cozy breakfast bar, and you can even hang a few in a row over your kitchen island.

Yamaziot Washable Runner Rug, 2x8 Nonslip Boho Vintage Hallway Rug

With a boho-meets-vintage pattern, this rubber-backed runner resists slipping and stains and holds up to everyday foot traffic. At 2-by-8 feet, it fits snugly in kitchen walkways or hallways.

Vtopmart Set of 10 Fridge Organizer Bins

Clear plastic bins with built-in handles save you from rummaging through chaotic shelves and keep produce, condiments and kids' snacks neatly organized in your fridge.

Vintage Corningware Blue Cornflower Mac n' Cheese Illustration Print, Mac and Cheese Kitchen Wall Art

A retro nod to the iconic blue cornflower casserole dish design, this print brings nostalgia and whimsy to your space. Hang it near your stove or dining area for a playful statement piece.

Dosmix Retro Bluetooth Speaker

This mini speaker pairs wirelessly with phones or tablets for music while you cook, but has a fun, retro look.

GPED Kitchen Faucet with Pull-Down Sprayer

A brushed-nickel finish and dual spray modes make this faucet both sleek and practical, and it installs in both one- and three-hole setups, so it works in just about any kitchen for luxury vibes at a down-to-earth price.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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