The kitchen cabinet replacement cost can range widely, often falling between \$4,000 and \$25,000 or more for a full replacement project. This price changes based on cabinet quality (stock, semi-custom, or custom), the size of your kitchen, and installation fees.
Replacing your kitchen cabinets is a big step. It totally changes how your kitchen looks and works. Knowing the total kitchen cabinet replacement cost is key for planning your budget for kitchen cabinet remodel. This guide breaks down all the costs you might face. We will look at what drives the price up or down. This will help you make smart choices for your home.
Deciphering Kitchen Cabinet Costs: What Affects the Price?
The price you pay for new cabinets is not just one number. It depends on several factors working together. Think of it like buying a car; a basic model costs less than a fully loaded one.
Cabinet Type Selection
The biggest cost factor is the type of cabinet you select. There are three main types available today. Each offers a different mix of quality, looks, and price.
Stock Kitchen Cabinet Pricing
Stock kitchen cabinet pricing is the lowest option. These cabinets are made in standard sizes. They are ready to buy off the shelf from big box stores.
- Pros: Lowest upfront cost, fast availability.
- Cons: Limited styles and finishes, sizes might not fit your space perfectly, leading to filler pieces.
- Typical Range: These usually start around \$100 to \$400 per linear foot.
Semi-Custom Kitchen Cabinet Cost
The middle ground is semi-custom kitchen cabinet cost. These cabinets use standard box sizes but allow more choices. You can pick door styles, finishes, and some features.
- Pros: Better quality than stock, more customization options, good balance of price and features.
- Cons: Takes longer to arrive than stock cabinets, more costly than basic stock units.
- Typical Range: Expect prices from \$250 to \$750 per linear foot.
Custom Kitchen Cabinet Pricing
Custom kitchen cabinet pricing offers the highest price and the most freedom. These cabinets are built just for your kitchen. They fit every nook and cranny perfectly.
- Pros: Perfect fit, total control over materials, size, and design. Highest quality.
- Cons: Most expensive option, long lead times (often 8 weeks or more).
- Typical Range: Prices often start at \$500 per linear foot and can easily go over \$1,200 per linear foot.
Material Matters
The material used to build the cabinet box and doors impacts the price significantly.
| Material | Description | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Thermofoil/Laminate | Plastic layers fused onto composite wood. Very durable and easy to clean. | Lower to Mid-Range |
| Plywood | Stronger wood product for cabinet boxes. Better moisture resistance. | Mid-Range to High-Range |
| Solid Wood (Maple, Cherry, Oak) | Traditional, high-quality look and feel. | Higher Range |
| MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) | Common core material for painted doors. Good stability. | Low to Mid-Range |
Hardware and Accessories
Don’t forget the small parts! Hinges, drawer slides, and handles add up quickly. Soft-close hinges and heavy-duty drawer glides cost more than basic hardware. Pull-out shelves, spice racks, and custom dividers also increase the kitchen cabinet replacement cost.
Calculating the Cost to Install New Kitchen Cabinets
The price of the cabinets themselves is only part of the story. You must also budget for the labor involved. The kitchen cabinet installation labor cost varies by location and the complexity of the job.
Factors in Installation Labor Costs
Installation is not a one-size-fits-all service. Several things affect how much a contractor will charge you to put in the new units.
Removal and Disposal
Before new cabinets go in, the old ones must come out. This includes disconnecting sinks and potentially moving appliances. Disposal fees for the old materials must also be covered. This adds a few hundred dollars to the total project expense.
Complexity of Layout
A simple galley kitchen is much faster and cheaper to install than an L-shaped kitchen with an island. Odd angles, vaulted ceilings, or unique appliance placements require more time and skill from the installers. This raises the labor cost.
Installation Timeframe
Professional installers charge hourly or by the job. For an average-sized kitchen, installation can take anywhere from one to three days. Always get a detailed quote that breaks down the labor hours.
Geographic Location
Labor rates are higher in major metropolitan areas (like New York or San Francisco) than in smaller towns. Your local cost of living directly impacts what a contractor charges for installation.
We can look at a typical breakdown to see where the money goes.
| Cost Component | Typical Percentage of Total Project |
|---|---|
| Cabinets (Materials) | 40% – 50% |
| Installation Labor | 15% – 30% |
| Countertops & Backsplash | 10% – 20% |
| Appliances & Sink | 5% – 15% |
| Contingency (Unexpected Costs) | 5% – 10% |
Cost Comparison Kitchen Cabinets: Replacement vs. Refacing
Before you commit to buying all new units, you should know about cabinet refacing versus replacement cost. Refacing is often seen as a budget alternative.
Cabinet Refacing Versus Replacement Cost
Cabinet refacing means you keep your existing cabinet boxes. Installers remove the old doors and drawer fronts. They then install new ones over the existing frames. They also apply a new veneer or laminate to the visible parts of the old cabinet boxes.
- Refacing Cost: Typically costs 40% to 60% of the price of a full replacement. For an average kitchen, refacing might cost \$3,000 to \$7,000.
- Replacement Cost: Involves tearing out everything. This is a much bigger investment but offers a completely new layout potential.
When is refacing a good idea?
Refacing works best if your current cabinet boxes are structurally sound and made of high-quality materials (like solid wood). It is a great way to refresh the look without the high price tag or disruption of a full tear-out.
When must you replace?
If your boxes are warped, water-damaged, or made of cheap particleboard, refacing won’t last. In these cases, a full replacement is the only long-term solution.
Average Price for New Kitchen Cabinets by Kitchen Size
The size of your kitchen is critical to determining the average price for new kitchen cabinets. Below are rough estimates for different kitchen sizes, assuming mid-range, semi-custom cabinetry. These estimates cover materials only, not installation or countertops.
Small Kitchen (Under 100 sq. ft.)
Small kitchens require fewer linear feet of cabinetry. This keeps the material cost lower.
- Estimated Material Cost Range: \$3,000 – \$7,000
- Added Installation Labor (Estimate): \$1,500 – \$3,000
Medium Kitchen (100 – 250 sq. ft.)
This is the most common kitchen size. It often includes an island or an L-shape layout, increasing material needs.
- Estimated Material Cost Range: \$7,000 – \$15,000
- Added Installation Labor (Estimate): \$3,000 – \$6,000
Large Kitchen (Over 250 sq. ft.)
Large kitchens often feature extensive storage, large islands, and specialty cabinets (like built-in pantries or glass-front units).
- Estimated Material Cost Range: \$15,000 – \$25,000+
- Added Installation Labor (Estimate): \$6,000 – \$10,000+
Note: These are general estimates. Your final bill can be higher if you choose custom designs or high-end finishes.
Budgeting for Different Cabinet Tiers
To help you refine your budget for kitchen cabinet remodel, here is a more detailed look at the material cost difference between the three main tiers for a standard medium-sized kitchen (about 20 linear feet).
| Cabinet Tier | Typical Cost Per Linear Foot (Materials Only) | Total Material Estimate (20 LF) | Key Features Affecting Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock | \$100 – \$400 | \$2,000 – \$8,000 | Limited styles, basic construction |
| Semi-Custom | \$250 – \$750 | \$5,000 – \$15,000 | More options for depth and finish |
| Custom | \$500 – \$1,200+ | \$10,000 – \$24,000+ | Full flexibility, premium materials |
If you opt for custom kitchen cabinet pricing, the sky is the limit. Exotic woods, complex curves, and specialized storage solutions dramatically increase the material cost compared to standard semi-custom options.
Installation Deep Dive: What to Expect from Labor
Let’s focus more closely on the kitchen cabinet installation labor cost. This is where getting multiple quotes is crucial.
Getting Quotes for Installation
When soliciting bids from contractors, ensure they itemize the following:
- Demolition and Removal: The cost to take out the old cabinets and dispose of them.
- Preparation: Costs for leveling floors or walls if necessary before installation begins.
- Cabinet Assembly and Hanging: The actual time spent securing the boxes to the walls and to each other. Stock cabinets may require more on-site assembly than ready-to-install custom units.
- Installation of Accessories: Fitting drawer glides, hinges, and interior organizers.
- Final Touches: Installing toe-kicks, trim pieces, and ensuring all doors and drawers line up perfectly.
A reliable contractor will usually guarantee their work for a period. Always ask about this warranty.
DIY Installation Savings
Can you save money by installing the cabinets yourself? Yes, you can eliminate the kitchen cabinet installation labor cost. However, this is highly recommended only for experienced DIYers.
- Installing cabinets requires precision leveling and securing units to wall studs properly.
- Mistakes in installation can lead to doors that don’t close right or even structural failure if cabinets are not secure enough to hold heavy countertops.
- If you install stock cabinets, you might need extra time for modifications to make them fit your specific space.
Saving \$3,000 to \$6,000 on labor might not be worth the frustration or potential repair costs later.
Hidden Costs That Can Inflate Your Total Bill
When planning your budget, be aware of the costs that often get overlooked when focusing only on the kitchen cabinet replacement cost.
Countertop Templating and Installation
New cabinets mean new countertops will likely follow. Countertop companies need accurate cabinet measurements.
- They will come out for templating after the new cabinets are set in place.
- The time between cabinet installation and countertop installation can cause delays in your project timeline.
- The cost of the countertop material itself (granite, quartz, butcher block) is a major separate expense.
Plumbing and Electrical Adjustments
If you are changing the layout—moving the sink or adding an island with electrical outlets—you need licensed professionals.
- Plumbers need to move drain lines.
- Electricians need to run new wiring for under-cabinet lighting or outlets in an island.
These services add days and significant expense to the overall project.
Permits and Inspections
Depending on your local rules, moving plumbing or electrical lines might require building permits. Permit fees are small but mandatory costs that should be included in your overall budget for kitchen cabinet remodel.
Tips for Keeping Your Kitchen Cabinet Replacement Cost Down
If the initial estimates are higher than your comfort level, don’t panic. There are smart ways to achieve a great look while managing costs.
1. Choose Stock Cabinets Wisely
If you have a very standard kitchen layout, stock kitchen cabinet pricing can save you thousands. Look for “in-stock” options that are ready for pickup. Stick to basic, popular door styles (like Shaker) which are produced in higher volume and cost less.
2. Focus on High-Impact Upgrades
If you must go with semi-custom, splurge only where it matters most for daily use.
- Invest in high-quality drawer slides for your pots and pans drawers.
- Choose a durable, easy-to-clean finish for the high-traffic areas.
- Save money on less-used areas, like a display cabinet in the dining area, by choosing simpler finishes.
3. Consider Painting Existing Cabinets (If Boxes are Good)
If your boxes are strong, professional painting can mimic the look of new cabinets at a fraction of the cabinet refacing versus replacement cost. A high-quality paint job done professionally can cost less than refacing and give you a brand-new color palette.
4. Buy Cabinets Direct
Purchasing cabinets directly from a manufacturer or a specialized wholesale distributor, rather than through a general contractor who marks up the price, can sometimes reduce material costs. This requires you to handle the logistics of pickup and delivery.
5. Manage the Project Timeline
If you can live without your kitchen for a longer period, you might benefit from ordering custom kitchen cabinet pricing during the manufacturer’s slow season, which might result in discounts or faster service.
Final Thoughts on Your Investment
Replacing kitchen cabinets is one of the best investments you can make in your home’s value and your daily enjoyment. The final kitchen cabinet replacement cost is a puzzle solved by balancing quality, features, and labor charges.
By comparing the cost comparison kitchen cabinets between stock, semi-custom, and custom options, and being realistic about kitchen cabinet installation labor cost, you can budget effectively. Always remember to factor in the extra expenses like disposal, plumbing, and electrical work when finalizing your overall budget for kitchen cabinet remodel. A well-planned renovation ensures you get the kitchen you want without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the typical turnaround time for custom cabinets versus stock cabinets?
Stock cabinets are usually available within one to two weeks. Semi-custom cabinets typically take 4 to 8 weeks. Custom cabinets require the longest lead time, often 8 to 12 weeks, as they are built entirely from scratch based on your specifications.
Does the cost to install new kitchen cabinets include painting the cabinets?
No. The cost to install new kitchen cabinets covers the physical hanging and securing of the pre-finished units. If you are installing unfinished cabinets, the cost of painting or staining them will be a separate line item, often requiring specialized finishing contractors.
How much does it cost to replace just the cabinet doors?
If you are only replacing the doors and drawer fronts (which is more involved than simple refacing), the cost will depend heavily on the door style and material. This can range from \$1,500 to \$5,000+ for materials for an average kitchen, depending on whether you choose custom kitchen cabinet pricing for the doors or go with stock replacements.
Are there ways to save money on countertops if I am already paying high cabinet costs?
Yes. If you select high-end custom kitchen cabinet pricing, you can offset some costs by choosing more economical, yet attractive, countertop options like laminate or butcher block instead of premium quartz or granite. Alternatively, look for remnants of stone if your kitchen is small, which can lower the average price for new kitchen cabinets impact on your overall remodel budget.
Is kitchen cabinet installation labor cost negotiable?
Yes, labor costs are often negotiable, especially if you receive multiple bids. You can also negotiate by offering to handle minor tasks yourself, such as the final cleanup or moving heavy appliances, but be cautious about offering to do structural installation work you are not trained for.