Kitchen Backsplash Installation in Cambridge, MA — Costs $964 to $8,033

What does kitchen backsplash installation cost in Cambridge? Average $2,892, ranging $964–$8,033. Labor runs $54.31/hr locally — 61% above the national average. Free breakdown with material + labor split.

Cambridge, MA Market

+61% vs national

Labor Rate

$54.31/hr

Material Index

144

Avg Permit Cost

$3,017

Median Home Price

$607,888

Cambridge is a mid-sized city in Massachusetts with a healthy pool of local contractors. Homeowners generally have several options to compare for a kitchen backsplash installation, which helps keep pricing competitive. At 61% above the national average, Cambridge is one of the more expensive markets for home improvement — driven primarily by above-average labor rates in the region. With a median home price of $607,888, this kitchen backsplash installation represents just 0.5% of typical home value — a relatively small investment that can significantly boost curb appeal or functionality.

Low Estimate

$964

National: $600

Mid-Range

$2,892

National: $1,800

High End

$8,033

National: $5,000

Per Sq Ft

$40

National: $25

Duration: 1-2 days
DIY: Easy
Permits: Not Required
ROI: 55%

Kitchen Backsplash Installation Cost Calculator for Cambridge

Adjusted for Cambridge's labor rate ($54.31/hr) and material costs (index 144).

50 sq ft1,000 sq ft

Mid-grade materials, good quality fixtures, standard options.

Estimated Total in Cambridge

$2,892

Based on 200 sq ft at mid quality, adjusted for Cambridge market rates.

Local Cost Breakdown

Labor (45%)$1,301

At Cambridge's average rate of $54.31/hr (81% above national avg)

Materials (55%)$1,591

Material cost index 144 (44% above national baseline of 100)

Kitchen Backsplash Installation vs. Home Value in Cambridge

MetricCambridgeNational Avg
Kitchen Backsplash Installation (Mid-Range)$2,892$1,800
Median Home Price$607,888$350,000
Project as % of Home Value0.5%0.5%
Estimated ROI55%55%
Median Household Income$98,948$75,000

What Affects the Price in Cambridge

  • 1Local labor rates ($54.31/hr in Cambridge)
  • 2Material cost index (144 vs national 100)
  • 3Tile material
  • 4Pattern complexity
  • 5Square footage
  • 6Grout type

Popular Upgrades

  • Subway tile
  • Mosaic glass
  • Peel-and-stick for DIY

Planning a Kitchen Backsplash Installation in Cambridge

A kitchen backsplash installation typically doesn't require a permit in Cambridge, which simplifies planning. However, always confirm with the local building department before starting, especially for structural changes. Expect the project to take 1-2 days to complete.

This is a beginner-friendly project that many Cambridge homeowners tackle themselves. DIY can save you roughly $1,301 in labor costs, though you'll still need to source materials at local prices (material index: 144).

With a median household income of $98,948, many Cambridge residents can budget for this project through savings. The mid-range cost of $2,892 represents 3% of the typical household's annual income.

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