Long Island City Home Remodeling: Bath, Kitchen & More

Long Island City has quickly become one of the most appealing places to own a home in New York. It offers a rare mix—Manhattan views, easy commutes, and a strong neighborhood feel. But when it comes to renovating here, there’s a lot to think through. Condos in high-rise buildings come with their own rules and shared systems to work around. Co-ops and single-family homes often mean tight layouts or older infrastructure. And across the board, homeowners are trying to make the most of limited space while balancing personal style with long-term value. In a fast-changing neighborhood like LIC, every design decision carries extra weight.

Choose Block for all-in-one renovation help

Renovating in Long Island City is simpler when you have a team who understands both your goals and the local landscape. Block Renovation connects you with fully vetted, licensed, and experienced contractors specializing in Queens projects—so you avoid the unknowns of hiring blind. 

Plus, our Renovation Consultants are there each step of the way, helping you plan, set expectations, and make confident decisions. Optional design services bring inspiration and clarity to your project, while Block Protections—like progress-based payments, expert scope reviews, and a one-year workmanship warranty—mean your investment and peace of mind are always protected.

How much renovations in Long Island City typically cost

New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the United States, and home renovations are no exception. While $100–$200 per square foot might cover a full-gut in many U.S. markets, Long Island City residents should expect to pay closer to $250–$400+ per square foot for most ambitious NYC kitchen, bath, or whole-apartment remodels.

In Long Island City, kitchen and bathroom upgrades are by far the most common—and most value-adding—remodel projects. Knowing the usual price ranges, and what drives costs up or down, will put you ahead on planning and avoid last-minute surprises.

Budgeting your kitchen renovation

Expect most kitchen updates in Long Island City to range from $30,000 to $80,000 or more depending on scope and materials. 

Kitchens here are often compact and highly used, so upgrades typically focus on making every inch count: opening up a galley for more natural light, choosing streamlined cabinetry that maximizes storage, and swapping in space-saving appliances. Many owners opt for custom islands, quartz or stone counters, and tile backsplashes to bring together modern function and a point of personal style. If your unit is in a condo or co-op, factor in building rules for plumbing, gas lines, and venting—these can influence what’s possible and may require additional permit steps.

Budgeting your bathroom renovation

Most bathroom remodels fall between $18,000 and $35,000, with larger or custom projects moving past $50,000. 

Projects often start with core upgrades—a new vanity, walk-in shower, storage improvements, and upgraded lighting. Homeowners frequently want durable, easy-to-clean tile throughout, better ventilation, and thoughtful updates like built-in medicine cabinets or shelving. For condos, it’s critical to work within existing plumbing and mechanical layouts, since relocating drains or vent stacks can add major cost and extend your timeline.

Factors that can drive up remodeling costs in Long Island City

• Condo and co-op building requirements: Renovating in a condo may require licensed/approved contractors, additional insurance, alteration agreements, and strict work hour compliance. Access logistics (like elevator reservations or debris removal protocols) add time and can increase project management costs.
• Landmark and zoning requirements: Some Long Island City properties are subject to New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) rules or local zoning regulations—especially in designated historic districts or rapidly developing areas under the OneLIC Plan. If your building is landmarked or in a historic district, any exterior change, not just additions or major repairs, requires LPC review and approval before you start work, even for projects like window or door replacement, repainting, or adding signage. The approval process might involve a “Certificate of No Effect” for minor work or a full “Certificate of Appropriateness” for major changes. 
• Permitting and inspections: Almost all major renovations in Long Island City require New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) permits. For work that changes use, occupancy, or layout (such as merging units or moving walls), you’ll need an Alteration Type 1 permit—an involved filing reviewed by plan examiners and, often, your building’s board—which can take several months for approval. Simpler jobs (like kitchen or bath upgrades staying within the existing footprint) use Alteration Type 2 or 3 permits but still require plans submitted by a licensed architect or engineer, followed by DOB review and inspections. Permit fees, plan reviews, and the need for multiple trade permits (plumbing, electrical, elevator, asbestos) all add cost and complexity, as does having to pause for required DOB sign-offs at key stages.

Find inspiration in these real New York remodels by Block

No two NYC homes—or homeowners—are exactly alike. That’s why it helps to see what’s worked in real spaces. From compact kitchens to full-apartment overhauls, Block projects across Queens offer practical ideas you can actually use.

A Queens kitchen made modern 

This Queens galley kitchen now strikes a balance—light floors and crisp cabinetry keep things universally appealing, while playful, multi-colored knobs add personality without clutter. The final look is both chic and relaxed for daily life.

See the full Jackson Heights kitchen

See the power of the right kitchen cabinets

The right cabinets set the tone for both style and organization. Clever layouts and upgraded door styles mean everything has its place, and storage solutions truly fit the way you live.

Tour this kitchen transformation

A narrow Queens kitchen improved

A narrow, one-wall kitchen in Sunnyside tackled its limits with smart storage and a streamlined workflow for daily needs. The result is a space that feels open and easy to use, no matter the width.

See the Sunnyside kitchen

A New York bathroom transformation

This previously basic condo bath is now open, bright, and distinguished by blue tile and a modern, custom vanity. Reimagining the layout made the bath feel intentional, airy, and inviting for day-to-day use.

Tour the NYC bathroom transformation

Simple touches go a long way with this New York bathroom remodel

Even small upgrades—like retexturing the walls and installing new tiles—created a refreshed look and brought warmth to the space. The result is a bathroom with comfort you can see and feel.

See more of this Block bathroom remodel

For more design ideas based on real NYC remodels, take a look at our kitchen remodel before-and-after gallery as well as our small bathroom remodels before-and-after guide.

Helpful resources for Long Island City homeowners

Long Island City neighborhood plan:
Explore current rezoning initiatives and city-led development plans to see how upcoming changes could affect your property’s value and the future of your block. Being aware of shifting zoning laws—before you file for permits—helps you stay ahead and avoid unexpected setbacks.

Ask a Contractor in NYC: Real Talk on Navigating Renovations: Watch this past webinar to hear questions-and-answers between real New York homeowners and contractors. Pick up juicy insider secrets to help plan your own Long Island City remodel. 

NYC flood hazard mapper: Leverage this interactive map to understand your home’s flood risk—especially relevant near LIC’s waterfront or in low-lying neighborhoods. Addressing your exposure early helps you prioritize waterproofing and choose the right insurance or mitigation strategies.

Apartment remodel costs in New York City: This Block guide details average costs for apartment kitchens, baths, and full remodels in the five boroughs—ideal for budgeting and setting expectations. Gain clarity before you start and make smarter choices for your project.

Renovate with confidence every step of the way

Step 1: Personalize Your Renovation Plan

Step 2: Receive Quotes from Trusted Contractors

Step 3: Let Us Handle the Project Details

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Partner with a skilled LIC contractor with help from Block 

Every renovation journey in Long Island City starts with a vision—and succeeds with the right support. Block Renovation gives you access to vetted Queens contractors, expert design guidance, and a transparent process built for city living. Our platform keeps every stage on track, from clarifying budget ranges to navigating permits and managing progress-based payments. Whether you’re updating a condo bath, opening up a rowhouse kitchen, or just want to move forward with confidence, Block’s local expertise and dedicated Renovation Consultants are here to help. Your next project should feel like a smart investment—and with Block, it will feel like home.

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Connect to vetted local contractors

We only work with top-tier, thoroughly vetted contractors

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