10 Rental-Friendly Kitchen Upgrades That Cost Less than $500

I’ve lived in rentals where the kitchen felt outdated and uninspiring, but I didn’t want to invest in a space I didn’t own. 

Over time, I found easy and affordable ways to make my kitchen feel more stylish and functional—without losing my security deposit.

If you’re renting, you don’t have to settle for a dull kitchen. 

With a few smart, budget-friendly changes, you can refresh the space without making permanent modifications. Here’s how to upgrade your rental kitchen for under $500.

1. Peel-and-Stick Backsplash

A backsplash instantly upgrades any kitchen, but in a rental, installing tile isn’t an option. 

That’s where peel-and-stick backsplashes come in. They mimic real tile, come in tons of designs, and are easy to remove when you move out. 

I added a white subway tile version in my last rental, and it completely transformed the space.

2. Change the Cabinet Hardware

Old, worn-out handles and knobs can make a kitchen feel outdated. 

Swapping them out for sleek, modern hardware is a simple fix that takes minutes. I replaced my rental’s dull brass handles with matte black ones, and the difference was huge. 

Just save the originals so you can switch them back before moving out.

3. Upgrade the Lighting

Most rental kitchens have basic (and sometimes ugly) overhead lighting. If your landlord allows it, swap out a boring fixture for something stylish. 

Even if you can’t replace the fixture, adding battery-powered puck lights under cabinets brightens up the space and makes it feel high-end.

4. Add a Rug or Runner

Kitchen floors in rentals are often plain and worn down. 

A colorful runner or rug instantly adds warmth and personality while covering up imperfections. I love machine-washable options in case of spills.

5. Use Contact Paper for Countertops

If you’re stuck with outdated laminate countertops, contact paper is a game-changer. It’s affordable, easy to apply, and comes in styles that mimic marble, granite, or wood. 

I used a white marble contact paper in my old rental, and no one could tell it wasn’t real stone.

6. Install Open Shelving (Without Drilling)

If your rental has limited storage, temporary open shelves can make a big difference. 

I used adhesive-mounted shelves in one apartment to display pretty dishware and keep everyday items within reach—no holes required.

7. Cover Ugly Appliances with Magnetic Skins

If your rental has an outdated fridge or dishwasher, magnetic appliance covers let you change the look without damaging anything. 

Stainless steel, colorful patterns, or even chalkboard skins can give appliances a fresh feel.

8. Replace the Faucet

A basic rental kitchen faucet isn’t always stylish or functional. 

If you’re handy, swapping it for a modern pull-down faucet makes washing dishes easier and upgrades the whole look. Just keep the original to reinstall when you leave.

9. Hang a Temporary Pot Rack

If you’re short on cabinet space, a ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted pot rack adds storage without needing major installation. 

I used a removable adhesive hook version, and it kept my most-used pots and pans within easy reach.

10. Decorate with Removable Wallpaper or Decals

Removable wallpaper and decals add instant personality to a rental kitchen. 

I used a botanical peel-and-stick wallpaper on one accent wall, and it made the space feel so much more inviting. Best of all, it peeled off cleanly when I moved out.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to settle for a boring rental kitchen. 

With these budget-friendly upgrades, you can make the space feel like home without breaking the bank—or your lease agreement. I’ve tried many of these ideas myself, and they work wonders. 

Try a few, and your rental kitchen will feel like a whole new space!