12 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas on a Budget

12 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas on a Budget

by — Kari Apted
Published on September 20, 2021
Updated on March 24, 2025

“The kitchen is where you put all the ingredients together. No matter what you do in life, you have to have a plan and put it together.” – Yo Gotti

A kitchen backsplash may feel like an afterthought, but it’s an essential ingredient in creating a well-designed kitchen. Bare walls can be stain magnets in a busy kitchen, but most backsplash materials are easy to clean. They also are a simple way to add a splash of color and style to your kitchen.

Whether you choose concrete, tiles, paint, or wood, it’s possible to create a beautiful kitchen backsplash without breaking the bank. Scroll through our best budget-friendly kitchen backsplash ideas and see how much pizazz an affordable backsplash can add to your home.

1. Create a Functional Chalkboard Backsplash

Chalkboard paint is a fun idea for a casual kitchen backsplash idea. Whether you go with classic black paint, old-school green, or another favorite color, a chalkboard kitchen backsplash is a functional use of wall space.

Use it for making grocery lists, updating the weekly dinner menu, or sharing daily inspirational quotes.

Chalkboard kitchen backsplash with hand-drawn citrus art and "Each Day is a Fresh Start" quote, framed by shelves and mugs — Source: @dishondesign via Instagram

Modern white kitchen with a festive chalkboard backsplash featuring Christmas quotes, doodles, and a holiday to-do list — Source: @youdidblog via Instagram

Once your chalkboard paint fully dries, prep the surface by rubbing a piece of chalk lengthwise against the entire wall. Then wipe the chalk dust off with a rag or paper towel.

Use a damp cloth for a clean surface or use a dry paper towel for more of a weathered, vintage look. This simple seasoning process prevents writing from burning into the newly painted surface.

Chalkboard paint has a matte finish that makes a dramatic backsplash idea even if you don’t want to write on it. However, because oil splatters can be difficult to remove, it’s probably best to limit a chalkboard backsplash to prep areas or accent walls away from the stove.

2. Incorporate Industrial Chic with Concrete

Concrete used to be an unlikely kitchen backsplash idea, but it’s become quite trendy in recent years. Its stony texture fits well into a rustic or industrial kitchen makeover, but it can also meld nicely with modern kitchen style.

Modern black kitchen with a sleek concrete backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and minimalist bar stools for a stylish touch — Source: @creativewrapsolutions via Instagram

Spacious kitchen with a tall concrete backsplash, white cabinets, and natural light pouring through large modern windows — Source: @kuronenconstruction via Instagram

Moody kitchen with dark wood cabinets, veined concrete backsplash, and a marble-look countertop under a window with greenery — Source: @mrs.raymond2.2.19 via Instagram

Concrete is significantly less expensive than quartz or marble, and can be finished in a nearly unlimited number of textures and stains. It can even be embossed to mimic a subway tile backsplash or a herringbone tile surface. Because it’s prone to staining, a concrete backsplash must be sealed or covered with clear glass or acrylic panels.

3. Save Money with DIY Tile Installation

Backsplash tile installation is usually the biggest cost associated with a tile backsplash renovation. Therefore, if you teach yourself how to lay backsplash tile, you will save hundreds—if not thousands—over hiring someone else to do it. As this video shows, it may be a lot easier than you think:

Cozy camper kitchen with a bold DIY wood backsplash in a chevron pattern, earthy tones, and compact storage solutions — Source: @beautheboler via Instagram

Kitchen with patterned tile backsplash, wooden countertops, a tray with flowers and wine glasses, and decor-laden shelves on the wall — Source: @carolynjayneinteriors via Instagram

Charming kitchenette with geometric black-and-white tile backsplash, open wood shelves, and retro mint green appliances — Source: @chemical_babe via Instagram

Bright corner kitchen with white embossed faux tile backsplash, wooden countertops, and open shelving decorated with plants and jars — Source: @dogonicwlasnemarzenia via Instagram

White kitchen with subway tile backsplash, a decorative patterned tile accent behind the stove, and granite countertops for a clean look — Source: @heathenshouse via Instagram

Minimalist kitchen with bold black-and-white geometric tile backsplash and a rustic live-edge wood countertop — Source: @mamamyers11 via Instagram

A cozy kitchen with white cabinets, wooden countertop, plants, a tiled backsplash, chalkboard, clock, and decor near a double sink — Source: @nathasiamilka via Instagram

Stylish kitchen with Halloween touches, black-and-white patterned backsplash, gray cabinets, and floating wood shelves — Source: @onkateelane via Instagram

Cozy countertop scene with labeled wire baskets for bananas and apples, wood cutting boards, and a white brick backsplash — Source: @rockycanyonrustic via Instagram

Modern kitchen with a striking black and white hexagonal backsplash, black appliances, farmhouse sink, and three sleek pendant lights — Source: @sustainablecontracting.llc via Instagram

Glass tile, penny tile and mosaic tile look complicated to install, but they’re actually relatively easy DIY backsplash materials. Commonly sold in field tile sheets that easily attach to the wall, you only have to let them dry and apply the grout. They’re also a surprisingly affordable choice when you need a kitchen backsplash on a budget, retailing for a few dollars per square foot.

4. Revitalize Your Space with Painted Tiles

Did you know that you can save money by painting your existing kitchen backsplash tile? Use paint specially designed for tile or an epoxy paint. You must carefully mask your kitchen cabinets, countertops, and trim before painting the backsplash.

Eclectic kitchen with hand-painted geometric tile backsplash, hanging plants, and a vibrant stained-glass window art piece — Source: @59.bungalows via Instagram

Bold kitchen with turquoise open shelving, yellow hand-painted geometric backsplash, and colorful retro-style decor — Source: @deconome via Instagram

Kitchen featuring a classic black and white tile backsplash, wooden shelves with glasses, and a chalkboard wall declaring "Celebrate Life — Source: @dwell.here via Instagram

Traditional kitchen with rich wood cabinetry, cream countertops, and a hand-painted diamond pattern backsplash for a soft decorative touch — Source: @jenniferabd444 via Instagram

Minimalist kitchen with white cabinets, granite countertops, and a sleek black painted backsplash for bold contrast and modern flair — Source: @joandjoeonthego via Instagram

Festive kitchen with a cozy black painted backsplash, white cabinets, and charming holiday decor around the stove and countertop — Source: @retailtherapy_farmhousestyle via Instagram

Stylish kitchen corner with black-and-white peel-and-stick tile backsplash, wood shelves, and cozy decor featuring candles and a SMEG toaster — Source: @bobejaan100 via Instagram

Go with a solid-color paint treatment, or use stencils or painter’s tape to create a pattern. You can also mimic the look of a mosaic backsplash by painting individual tiles different colors.

Painted brick veneer is another great painted backsplash option. Add a layer of plywood beneath to make sure the heavy panels are securely installed.

5. Quick and Easy Update with Peel and Stick Tiles

Peel and stick tiles are a great kitchen backsplash idea if you’re on a budget, in a hurry, or lack strong DIY skills. They are also a great backsplash idea if you’re renting your home and aren’t allowed to change any permanent structures.

These affordable tiles come in a huge range of sizes, colors, and styles to fit any style of home decor.

Bright kitchen counter with gray peel-and-stick mosaic tile backsplash, glass jars of dry goods, and a mini potted plant for a fresh look — Source: @casa_de_elisabel via Instagram

Bright kitchen with white subway tile backsplash, wood countertops, open shelves with kitchenware, and holiday greenery accents above a sink — Source: @homemaker_mama via Instagram

Cozy kitchen with sage green cabinets, white hexagon peel-and-stick tile backsplash, and simple holiday decor for a warm, inviting feel — Source: @ourprescotthome via Instagram

White kitchen featuring a striking black and white star-patterned backsplash, stainless steel sink, stove, with a wooden bowl and towel on the counter — Source: @rainbootsandrenovations via Instagram

Look for peel and stick kitchen backsplash tile that has a realistic, dimensional appearance. If you can afford it, get stick-on tiles made from natural stone, metal, or glass. These may require you to apply grout, but most people find that task relatively easy.

6. Add Rustic Charm with Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood, such as barn wood, pallet wood, or old flooring, adds a ton of interesting texture and earthy color to a backsplash. A rustic kitchen renovation practically begs for the inclusion of some type of reclaimed wood surface.

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, wood backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a curved island with sink and stylish bar stools — Source: @aj_hamilton16 via Instagram

Modern kitchen features a wooden backsplash, sleek stovetop, coffee machine, fish poster, and potted plant on a chic concrete countertop — Source: @birrieshome via Instagram

Rustic kitchen with rich wood cabinets and a warm reclaimed wood backsplash wrapping around the walls and window for a cozy, earthy feel — Source: @brd_designs via Instagram

Cozy kitchen nook with a patchwork-style reclaimed wood backsplash in mixed tones, adding warmth and rustic character under spotlighting — Source: @claireghm via Instagram

Charming kitchen with a rustic reclaimed wood backsplash, white cabinetry, and a green wreath centerpiece above the stovetop — Source: @hardwarehomewaredesigns via Instagram

Eclectic kitchen with distressed white reclaimed wood backsplash, bold teal cabinets, and vintage utensils for a cozy, lived-in charm — Source: @harrislaneco via Instagram

Warm and inviting kitchen setup with narrow reclaimed wood backsplash, navy lower cabinets, and a cozy lantern adding soft ambient light — Source: @homegrown_design via Instagram

Farmhouse-style kitchen with white cabinets, wood countertops, and a corrugated metal backsplash that adds rustic industrial charm — Source: @jewel830 via Instagram

Rustic kitchen with weathered white backsplash, SMEG toaster, hanging cups, and vintage kettle; framed photo adds charm to the decor — Source: @my_seaside_home via Instagram

A kitchen sink set against a wooden hexagonal backsplash in varied shades, complemented by a black faucet and wooden counter and shelves — Source: @robbinscustombuilders via Instagram

Open kitchen with a light reclaimed wood backsplash, granite countertops, and a large woven vase centerpiece filled with delicate white flowers — Source: @hardwarehomewaredesigns via Instagram

Leave the wood as-is, or paint it with a distressed, chippy finish. Like other porous backsplash surfaces, reclaimed wood needs to be sealed. You can also install a clear glass panel over the stove and sink to protect the wood from staining and water damage.

7. Achieve a Classic Look with Shiplap or Beadboard

Whether you go with the vertical lines of beadboard or wide, horizontal shiplap planks, these kitchen backsplash ideas are easy to DIY. Use reclaimed wood if possible, and eliminate the need for a nail gun by using liquid nails instead.

Cozy kitchen corner with vertical shiplap backsplash, vintage scale, terra cotta potted herb, and rustic wooden utensils in a crock — Source: @houseinthecorn via Instagram

Charming farmhouse coffee nook with horizontal shiplap backsplash, white cabinetry, floating wood shelves, and cozy seasonal decor — Source: @miss_izzfarmhouse via Instagram

Bright modern farmhouse kitchen with white shiplap walls, black accent range hood, open wood shelving, and oversized black pendant lights — Source: @projectcreatehomebase via Instagram

Elegant kitchen with vertical beadboard backsplash, muted sage cabinetry, and a peg rail for hanging natural wood and woven kitchen accessories — Source: @sandraguerreroalvhem via Instagram

Traditionally, these materials are painted white, but any pale or muted color can work equally well. Shiplap and beadboard backsplash are great paired with other farmhouse or cottage touches. Think of embossed tin ceiling tiles and a kitchen island with an old-fashioned butcher block countertop.

8. Customize Designs with Stencil Techniques

If you need to update your kitchen design on a budget, stenciling your existing backsplash tiles is an easy, if somewhat time-consuming task. Consider a stenciled backsplash if you’re having a tough time finding the right color and pattern combination on ready-made tiles.

Charming kitchen with a gray and white stenciled backsplash, white cabinetry, floral wreath on the window, and cozy vintage-inspired decor — Source: @gable_services_llc via Instagram

Bright kitchen with soft gray stenciled backsplash, white cabinets, a simple wreath above the stove, and subtle farmhouse touches — Source: @michaela.dodd via Instagram

Clean and modern kitchen with crisp white counters, black hardware, and a bold black-and-white stenciled backsplash in a sunburst pattern — Source: @newspindesigns via Instagram

Neutral kitchen with black-and-white stenciled backsplash, floating wood shelves styled with pottery and greenery, and clean white countertops — Source: @sarahbbeckler via Instagram

Home improvement centers sell tile backsplash stencils that mimic the designs found on expensive imported painted tiles. Stenciling can be a huge cost-saving option over importing a style you love.

9. Timeless Elegance with Subway Tiles

Classic subway tile is functional, fashionable, and surprisingly affordable. At around $2 per square foot for basic white ceramic tile, it’s a great budget touch in a predominantly white kitchen.

However, you can now find subway tiles in virtually any color and finish, from marble to colored glass. Look for subway tiles with beveled edges for an additional touch of texture.

Clean white kitchen with classic subway tile backsplash, a black stand mixer, wood cutting boards, and a bowl of fresh lemons for a pop of color — Source: @angelablock.homedesign via Instagram

Neutral kitchen with a matte subway tile backsplash, white counters, and wooden utensils displayed in a modern ceramic crock — Source: @chelsey_christensen via Instagram

Modern kitchen with gray countertops, white cabinets, and a herringbone backsplash that complements the island cooktop and exhaust hood — Source: @coopers_new_build via Instagram

A cozy kitchen with wood countertops, black cabinets, white subway tiles backsplash, and open shelves with jars and plants by a large window — Source: @homeforwillow via Instagram

Sleek modern kitchen with taupe cabinetry, glossy gray subway tile backsplash, and marble-look countertops for a clean, contemporary vibe — Source: @inside_number_7 via Instagram

Modern kitchen with blue cabinets, wood countertops, spice rack, and mixer; white herringbone backsplash complements the wall shelf — Source: @lamaisondebourg.farmhousestyle via Instagram

Modern kitchen with a white subway tile backsplash, wooden shelves, copper mugs, cutting boards, a stainless steel dishwasher, and sleek sink — Source: @lamaisondebourg.farmhousestyle via Instagram

Classic kitchen with white herringbone subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and raised-panel cabinetry for a polished traditional look — Source: @ourcoastalhaven via Instagram

Contemporary kitchen with a glossy vertical subway tile backsplash, wood-look countertops, and under-cabinet lighting for a sleek contrast — Source: @ourcoastalhaven via Instagram

Compact and vibrant kitchen with black subway tile backsplash, butcher block counters, open shelving, and plants adding a fresh pop of green — Source: @thenewsmallhouse via Instagram

Subway tile is usually laid in staggered horizontal rows or in a diagonal herringbone pattern. However, vertical tile placement is a rising trend, especially in modern kitchens. Further accentuate your chosen tile pattern by using dark grout instead of the usual white.

10. Affordable Style with Vinyl Film

Vinyl film backsplash material is sold on rolls or peel-and-stick panels. It’s perhaps the most affordable backsplash option and easy for most people to install themselves.

You can find vinyl film in thousands of colors and styles, many that mimic real subway or mosaic tiles. Because it’s so inexpensive and easy to remove, you can update your kitchen as often as you wish.

Modern small kitchen with a marble-look vinyl film backsplash, wood countertops, and black-and-white decor for a bold, stylish contrast — Source: @bb.von.black via Instagram

Sleek modern kitchen with a wood-look vinyl backsplash matching the lower cabinets, paired with black upper cabinets and countertops — Source: @keukensplakken.nl via Instagram

Minimalist kitchen with a sleek wood-look vinyl backsplash, clean white cabinetry, and warm under-cabinet lighting for a modern touch — Source: @nelcos_vinyl_films via Instagram

Classic kitchen with a white marble-look vinyl backsplash and matching countertop, accented by soft under-cabinet lighting and sage green cabinetry — Source: @ourcheshirehousebuild via Instagram

Individual vinyl film designs can be applied to specific tiles to add a splash of color or contrast. Repeat the pattern for a traditional look, or randomly place them for an eclectic bohemian vibe. Also consider vinyl film if you love the look of a wood backsplash but need an easier way to achieve it.

11. Unique Textures with Wallpaper Options

Wallpaper may not be your first thought when considering kitchen backsplash ideas, but it’s an affordable alternative to tile. Look for natural stone or terrazzo motifs that mimic the texture of a real brick or stone backsplash.

Elegant white kitchen with gold-accented geometric wallpaper backsplash, brass hardware, and floral decor for a chic, polished finish — Source: @ourcheshirehousebuild via Instagram

Playful kitchen with a bold orange-and-blue citrus wallpaper backsplash, vibrant blue lower cabinets, and white upper cabinetry for a fun, fresh vibe — Source: @garlictoast8 via Instagram

Bold kitchen with geometric black tile backsplash and artistic wallpaper featuring classical busts, blending modern and vintage styles — Source: @loczidesign via Instagram

Make sure you choose a waterproof wallpaper for easy clean-up. If you fall in love with a textured or non-waterproof wallpaper print, delegate it to non-prep areas of the kitchen. If your walls aren’t smooth enough for wallpaper, hang sheets of plywood first and apply the wallpaper on top.

12. Warm Up Your Kitchen with Wood Accents

A wood backsplash graces your kitchen with a rustic, cottage, or farmhouse charm. Plain wood planks add a warm, organic element to a kitchen with white cabinets. Composite or plywood tongue-and-groove paneling is more affordable than solid wood panels.

A kitchen with light green cabinets and wood countertops features a white sink and silver faucet against a wooden backsplash — Source: @beckybosman via Instagram

Modern kitchen with white cabinets, wooden backsplash, built-in oven, and stovetop; enjoy light wood flooring and an open doorway — Source: @europrozord.o.o2010 via Instagram

Modern farmhouse kitchen with a full wood plank backsplash, white shaker cabinets, black hardware, and floating shelves styled with homey decor — Source: @lago.contracting via Instagram

Cozy farmhouse kitchen with a light wood backsplash, white open shelves, stainless steel appliances, and rustic decor for a homey feel — Source: @momma2pax via Instagram

Charming farmhouse kitchen with a rustic wood plank backsplash, white cabinets, open shelving, and mint accents for a cozy, lived-in look — Source: @ourblessednestof4 via Instagram

Pegboard is another good wood choice for a kitchen backsplash, whether paired with beadboard or installed alone. A pegboard backsplash turns a plain kitchen wall into extra storage space. Use it to display mugs, kitchen utensils, scissors, and other frequently-used items.

What is the least expensive kitchen backsplash?

Vinyl peel and stick tile is perhaps the most affordable way to easily update a kitchen backsplash. These inexpensive tiles are also one of the easiest DIY backsplash ideas. If you have an existing tile backsplash, look for adhesive tile decals that can add color and texture with little effort. Vinyl film is also available on easy-to-apply rolls.

Does a peel and stick backsplash last?

If you install them on a clean surface, most people find peel and stick tiles durable. However, you do get what you pay for and the thinner, cheaper versions won’t last as long—or look as realistic—as thicker vinyl tiles. Stick on tiles made from real glass, stone, or metal resist fading and can be hard to distinguish from a professionally installed backsplash.