Setting Up an Outdoor Kitchen or Cooking Area for Summer

Why outdoor kitchens are worth the investment

Outdoor kitchens consistently rank among the top home improvements for both lifestyle enjoyment and resale value. A well-designed outdoor cooking area extends your living space, reduces indoor heat during summer (running your oven raises indoor temps 5–10°F and forces your AC to work harder), and creates a natural gathering spot for entertaining. Studies show homeowners recoup 60–200% of outdoor kitchen costs at resale, depending on the market and quality of construction. Even a basic grill station with counter space and storage can transform how you use your backyard from May through October.

Three tiers of outdoor cooking setups

• Basic grill station ($1,000–$5,000) — a quality built-in or freestanding grill on a prepared surface (concrete pad, paver patio, or reinforced deck section), with a small counter for prep and storage below. This level requires no plumbing or electrical work and can be assembled in a weekend. Best for casual grilling families on a budget
• Mid-range cooking area ($5,000–$15,000) — a built-in grill with granite or concrete countertops, an outdoor sink with running water (requires a plumber to run a water line and drain), 1–2 electrical outlets for blenders/lights (requires an electrician for a dedicated outdoor circuit with GFCI protection), and a small refrigerator. Often built as an L-shaped or island counter using steel studs and cement board with stone or tile veneer. Takes 1–3 weeks to build
• Full outdoor kitchen ($15,000–$50,000+) — complete cooking and entertaining space with built-in grill, side burners, pizza oven, sink, dishwasher, refrigerator, ice maker, bar seating, overhead structure (pergola or roof), ceiling fan, lighting, and sometimes a fireplace or TV. Requires a carpenter/contractor for the structure, a plumber for water supply and drainage, an electrician for dedicated circuits and lighting, and possibly a gas technician for running natural gas lines. Timeline: 3–8 weeks. A building permit is required in most jurisdictions

Key planning decisions

• Location — at least 10 feet from your house and any combustible structures. Consider wind direction (smoke blowing into the house or dining area), access from the indoor kitchen (carrying dishes and groceries), and proximity to utilities (shorter runs = lower cost)
• Surface — grills must sit on non-combustible surfaces. Concrete pavers, poured concrete, natural stone, or porcelain tile over a concrete base all work. Wood decks need a heat shield and clearance per the grill manufacturer's specs
• Gas vs. propane — natural gas lines (installed by a plumber) cost $500–$2,000 to run but provide unlimited fuel. Propane tanks are cheaper upfront but need regular refilling
• Drainage — outdoor sinks need a drain connection to your sewer or a dry well. Gray water codes vary by municipality. A plumber handles this
• Electrical — outdoor circuits must be GFCI-protected and rated for wet locations. Plan for enough outlets: grill ignition, lights, refrigerator, blender, phone charging
• Shade and shelter — a pergola, retractable awning, or covered structure extends usability in rain and intense sun. Budget an additional $2,000–$10,000 for a permanent overhead structure

Which professionals you'll need

The beauty of outdoor kitchen projects is that they're modular — you can start simple and add complexity over time. A basic grill station is a DIY project. Once you add water, gas, or electricity, you need licensed professionals:

• Carpenter or general contractor — builds the counter structure, pergola, and any framing. Handles permits and coordinates other trades
• Plumber — runs water supply and drain lines for sinks, dishwashers, and ice makers. Installs gas lines if applicable
• Electrician — installs dedicated outdoor circuits, GFCI outlets, lighting, and ceiling fans
• Landscaper — prepares the site, installs pavers or a concrete pad, handles drainage grading, and plants around the finished space

On HireLocal, you can request quotes from all these professionals simultaneously and coordinate the project timeline.

Summer timing tips

Start planning in early spring for a summer completion. Countertop fabrication takes 2–4 weeks. Appliance delivery can take 3–6 weeks for popular brands. Permit review takes 1–4 weeks depending on your municipality. If you want to be grilling by July 4th, start the process no later than early May. For a basic grill station, you can go from decision to grilling in a single weekend.