How Much Does A Kitchen Island Cost In Ottawa?

The cost of kitchen islands in Ottawa ranges from as little as $500 to more than $12,000, depending on factors like size, material, layout, and whether you choose a prefabricated or custom-built model. 

Whether you're working within a tight budget or planning a high-end custom remodel, understanding your options can help you plan effectively.

If you’re looking to get an instant estimate on what your kitchen remodel might cost, use our kitchen estimator tool!

Cost By Type Of Kitchen Island

The design and shape of your kitchen island play a major role in determining overall cost. Some layouts are simple and budget-friendly, while others require more space, materials, and customization. Here’s what you can expect to pay in Ottawa based on the island style:

Rolling Cart Island

Cost: $500 – $1,500
Rolling cart islands are portable and compact—an ideal solution for condos or smaller kitchens. They’re great for adding counter space and storage without permanent installation. However, they typically don’t support integrated features like sinks or electrical outlets. They are also great for smaller kitchens that need to accommodate for accessibility friendly layouts. 

Rectangular Island

Cost: $1000 – $2,000
Rectangular islands are the most common choice for standard kitchen layouts. They offer flexibility for additional seating, cabinets, or even built-in appliances depending on the size. These islands strike a balance between function and affordability.

L-Shaped Island

Cost: $1,000 – $7,500
L-shaped islands provide extended counter space and enhanced workflow for meal prep or entertaining. Ideal for larger, open-concept kitchens, they offer room for storage and can include features like built-in cooktops or extra seating zones.

U-Shaped Island

Cost: $2,000 – $10,000+
U-shaped islands are best suited for expansive kitchens. They maximize work zones and typically support multiple features such as sinks, appliances, and extensive cabinetry. These islands are often custom-built, making them one of the more expensive options.

Additional Factors Affecting The Cost of A Kitchen Island

Adding utilities and high-end materials can significantly impact your total kitchen island cost. Below are some common upgrades:

Sink Installation

Installing a sink into your island costs between $121 and $245, depending on the type of sink, countertop material, and plumbing access.

Electrical and Plumbing Work

If you're adding electrical outlets, lighting, or plumbing (for sinks or dishwashers), expect to pay an additional $3,650 or more. This includes wiring, fixtures, and rough-in labour. This typically accounts for higher-end kitchens. Think about under-cabinet lighting, which has become a standard in most kitchens. When considering other lighting options, a high-end feature that doesn't necessarily cost more but is often neglected is accent lights. For example, including accent lights in the top cabinet with a glass door, which highlights colour-coordinated sculpture, pieces of furniture, or fancy tableware that fit the theme of your kitchen.  

Countertop Materials

The countertop is one of the most important (and expensive) elements of any kitchen island. Prices in Ottawa vary based on material:

Premium materials like quartz or marble can add $2,000 to $5,000 or more to a custom kitchen island, especially if paired with waterfall edges or custom cutouts.

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Labour Costs in Ottawa

Labour is a major component of any kitchen island project. In Ottawa, skilled contractors and installers typically charge between $50 and $100 per hour. Depending on the complexity of the design, labour can account for 30–50% of the total project cost.

For example, a basic island installation might require 10–15 hours of labour, while a custom island with electrical, plumbing, and advanced materials could demand 40+ hours of work.

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Prefabricated vs. Custom Kitchen Islands

Prefabricated islands are ideal if you want a simple upgrade without construction. They’re available at major retailers like IKEA, Home Depot, and Wayfair.

Custom islands, meanwhile, are built specifically for your space and lifestyle. This option is better for homeowners who want to match their island with existing cabinetry or incorporate advanced features like a prep sink, wine fridge, or cooktop.

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Key Considerations When Planning a Kitchen Island in Ottawa

Space Availability

Before installing a kitchen island, make sure your layout can accommodate it comfortably. A good rule of thumb is to leave 36 to 48 inches of clearance on all sides to allow for safe and easy movement around the island.

Purpose

Clarify the main function of your island early in the planning process. Whether it's for food prep, casual dining, entertaining guests, or housing appliances, knowing the intended use will help guide its design and features.

Design Consistency

Your island should blend seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen. Choose materials, finishes, and colours that either match or complement your existing cabinetry, countertops, and flooring for a cohesive look.

Storage Needs

If storage is a priority, consider incorporating lower cabinets, deep drawers, or open shelving into your island design. This is especially useful in kitchens where wall cabinet space is limited.

Plumbing and Electrical Access

Adding sinks, dishwashers, or outlets to your island requires plumbing and electrical connections, which can significantly increase project costs—especially if your kitchen isn’t already equipped to support these utilities in the island area. Anytime you are moving plumbing or electrical around in a renovation, costs start to increase rapidly. Avoiding plumbing and electrical relocations and simply just updating the cabinetry is the most cost effective strategy. 

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Final Thoughts

In Ottawa, kitchen islands typically range from $1,500 to over $10,000, depending on your design preferences and materials. Homeowners on a budget can find excellent options with prefabricated islands, while those aiming for a seamless, high-end look often choose custom-built designs. No matter your choice, a well-designed island can dramatically improve your kitchen’s layout, functionality, and overall appeal.

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in Ottawa, Ottawa General Contractors can help bring your vision to life. Our experienced team offers personalized advice, custom design solutions, and detailed estimates to ensure your new kitchen island perfectly fits your space and style. Contact Ottawa General Contractors today to start your project.

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