By Angie Hicks
Ask Angi
If you’ve been eyeing your backyard and dreaming of a sizzling grill and cozy outdoor lounge, you’re not alone. Outdoor kitchens are among the most desirable upgrades for homeowners looking to enjoy more time outside, especially since the pandemic redefined what “home comfort” really means.
But before you fire up the grill, it’s worth understanding what goes into the build and what you'll get in return.
At its most basic, an outdoor kitchen includes a grill and prep space. But depending on your budget, you can go big with a built-in gas grill, cooktop, mini fridge, sink, storage, and seating. Some setups even rival their indoor counterparts with pizza ovens, smokers, or griddle stations. Throw in a bar, fire pit, or cushioned seating area, and your backyard turns into a year-round hangout spot—weather permitting.
Benefits of Outdoor Cooking
- Entertaining in One Place: With everything at your fingertips, you won’t need to run inside while guests mingle outside. You can prep, cook, and socialize all in one spot—plus, your friends might even lend a hand.
- A Cleaner Indoors: Cooking outside prevents food smells, grease, and mess from settling indoors, especially when the house is freshly cleaned for company.
- Lower Energy Bills: Using the grill instead of your stove or oven during summer keeps the kitchen cooler, so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work overtime.
- Outdoor Time Is Priceless: An outdoor kitchen is a great reason to get outside and enjoy the weather. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or hosting a dinner under the stars, it’s a solid upgrade to your lifestyle.
Drawbacks to Consider
- It’s an Investment: Outdoor kitchens typically cost between $5,000 and $23,000, depending on size, design, and amenities. While there are budget-friendly DIY options, especially if you already have a patio, the more features you add, the higher the price tag.
- Weather Limits Use: Unless you live in a warm climate, your outdoor kitchen might sit unused for part of the year. Think about how often you'll really use it before diving in.
- More Maintenance: Outdoor kitchens face weather, bugs, and grime, meaning your countertops, appliances, and furniture need regular cleaning. To protect plumbing and appliances, you'll also need to winterize your setup in colder regions.
What to Include
- Start With the Grill: A built-in gas grill is the heart of most outdoor kitchens. For a clean, polished look, opt for a grill island that doubles as a prep counter. Some islands even include storage, sinks, or small refrigerators.
- Add Versatile Cookware: Round out your cooking setup with extras like a side burner, smoker, or pizza oven. These can turn your backyard into a full culinary experience.
- Think About Utilities: Depending on your design and interests, you might want to run a combination of water, gas, or electricity in your outdoor kitchen.
- Go Beyond Cooking: Once the food’s ready, the space becomes a place to relax. Add a dining table, bar seating, or fire pit to keep the good times rolling. Outdoor couches and chairs complete the vibe.
DIY vs. Pro Help
You can save by doing it yourself, especially for simple setups. But for built-ins, custom features or complex layouts, hiring a pro is worth it. A good general contractor can help you maximize space, choose the right materials, and ensure proper ventilation, plumbing, and electrical work.An outdoor kitchen isn’t just a luxury—it’s an upgrade in how you live and entertain. With the right setup, you'll spend more time outdoors, enjoy easier hosting, and potentially boost your home’s value. Just make sure it fits your climate, lifestyle, and budget before breaking ground.
Tweet your home care questions with #AskingAngi and we’ll try to answer them in a future column. Copyright 2025 Ask Angi. Visit at angi.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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