The cost of new kitchen cabinets can range widely, typically falling between \$2,500 and \$25,000 or more for an average kitchen remodel. This wide range exists because prices depend heavily on the cabinet type (stock, semi-custom, or custom), materials, brand, and the complexity of the installation.
Deciphering Kitchen Cabinet Pricing Factors
Figuring out the true average kitchen cabinet expense takes looking closely at several moving parts. Cabinets are often the biggest single expense in a kitchen redo. Knowing what drives the price up or down helps you set a realistic budget for kitchen cabinets.
Cabinet Quality Tiers: Stock vs. Custom
The main factor affecting kitchen cabinet pricing is the level of customization you choose. There are three main tiers available.
Stock Kitchen Cabinet Cost
Stock cabinets are pre-made. They come in standard sizes, colors, and styles. You buy them off the shelf, much like furniture in a big box store.
- Pros: They are the cheapest option. They install fast because they are ready to go.
- Cons: Limited choices for size and style. They might not fit your space perfectly, leading to wasted gaps.
- Price Point: Generally the lowest. You might spend \$100 to \$350 per linear foot.
Semi-Custom Cabinet Pricing
Semi-custom cabinets offer a middle ground. Manufacturers build these only after you order them. They let you choose from many more options for size, depth, finishes, and features.
- Pros: Better look and fit than stock. More choice in colors and door styles.
- Cons: Takes longer to arrive (often 4 to 8 weeks). More expensive than stock.
- Price Point: Mid-range. Expect prices between \$250 and \$650 per linear foot. This is where many homeowners find the best balance of cost and quality.
Custom Kitchen Cabinet Prices
These cabinets are built just for your kitchen. A craftsman makes them to your exact size, material, and design specifications.
- Pros: Perfect fit, unique designs, and the highest quality materials. You get exactly what you dream up.
- Cons: The most expensive option by far. Production time is long, sometimes several months.
- Price Point: High end. Prices start around \$500 per linear foot and can easily exceed \$1,200 per linear foot.
Material Matters
What the cabinets are made of hugely affects the final price.
| Material | Description | Cost Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Thermofoil/Laminate | Plastic fused onto particleboard. Very budget friendly. | Low |
| Plywood Boxes | Stronger box construction. Common in semi-custom and custom. | Medium |
| Solid Wood (Maple, Cherry) | Highest quality, durable, beautiful grain. | High |
| MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) | Stable material, great for painted finishes. Cheaper than solid wood. | Medium-Low |
Hardware and Features
Do not forget the small parts! Knobs, pulls, hinges, and drawer slides add up. Soft-close hinges and full-extension drawer glides add convenience but increase the kitchen cabinet pricing. Fancy organizers inside the cabinets also raise the total bill.
Installation: Calculating the Cabinet Installation Cost
The price tag on the cabinets themselves is only half the story. You also need to pay for putting them in. The cabinet installation cost depends on the complexity of the job and your location.
Factors Affecting Installation Labor
- Cabinet Type: Installing stock cabinets is faster and cheaper. Custom cabinets require more time to align perfectly, boosting labor costs.
- Kitchen Layout: Simple, straight walls are easier to install. Odd angles, slopes, or non-standard ceiling heights increase the work required.
- Demo Work: If you need old cabinets removed, that is an added cost. This falls under the cabinet replacement cost.
On average, expect the cabinet installation cost to run between \$100 and \$275 per cabinet box installed, or about 20% to 35% of the total cabinet material cost.
Getting Your Kitchen Cabinet Quotes
Always get multiple kitchen cabinet quotes. A good quote should break down the cost clearly:
- Cabinet box materials.
- Door and drawer style/finish upcharges.
- Hardware costs.
- Delivery fees.
- Installation labor.
Never choose the cheapest quote without checking references. Poor installation can ruin even the most expensive cabinets.
Cabinet Replacement Cost vs. Full Remodel
When budgeting, you must decide if you are replacing cabinets only or renovating the entire kitchen.
Cabinet Replacement Cost Only
If you only replace the cabinets and keep the existing layout, the cost is lower. You save money on plumbing and electrical rerouting. This focuses mainly on the cost of new kitchen cabinets and the labor to swap them out.
Full Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Expense
A full remodel includes new flooring, countertops, backsplash, plumbing fixtures, and perhaps moving walls. In this case, the cabinet expense becomes one piece of a much larger puzzle. When planning a full remodel, remember that cabinets often take up 30% to 40% of the total budget.
Breaking Down the Average Kitchen Cabinet Expense by Room Size
The size of your kitchen drastically changes the kitchen cabinet pricing. Here is a simplified look at what different kitchen sizes might cost for mid-grade, semi-custom cabinets, including basic installation.
| Kitchen Size | Estimated Linear Feet of Cabinets | Material Cost Estimate | Total Estimated Cost (Materials + Install) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Galley/Apartment) | 10–14 ft | \$3,000 – \$5,000 | \$4,000 – \$7,000 |
| Medium (U-Shape or L-Shape) | 18–25 ft | \$6,000 – \$10,000 | \$8,000 – \$14,000 |
| Large/Open Concept | 30+ ft | \$10,000 – \$17,000+ | \$14,000 – \$25,000+ |
Note: These figures assume semi-custom quality cabinets and standard installation. They do not include countertops or appliances.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
A major decision affecting your final expense is whether you install the cabinets yourself (DIY) or hire professionals.
DIY Installation Savings
If you are handy, installing stock kitchen cabinet cost units yourself can save you significantly on labor—potentially thousands of dollars. However, DIY installation comes with risks:
- You need specialized tools (levels, shims, clamps).
- Mistakes in leveling can cause doors to hang unevenly forever.
- If you damage cabinets during installation, your warranty might be voided.
Professional Installation Benefits
Hiring pros ensures a perfect, level, and secure fit. This is especially critical when dealing with expensive semi-custom or custom kitchen cabinet prices. Professionals work fast and guarantee their work. While it adds to the cabinet installation cost, it buys peace of mind and a better final product.
Making Smart Choices to Control Your Budget for Kitchen Cabinets
If your initial kitchen cabinet quotes are too high, several strategies can bring the price down without sacrificing too much quality.
Focusing on Stock, Upgrading Details
Instead of going fully semi-custom, use stock cabinets for the main run. Then, use one or two higher-end semi-custom pieces (like a pantry unit or island base) for that custom look. You save money on the bulk of the cabinetry.
Considering Refacing Over Replacement
If your current cabinet boxes are sturdy (often true with older, solid wood construction), refacing can be a great alternative to a full cabinet replacement cost.
Refacing involves:
1. Removing all old doors and drawer fronts.
2. Applying new wood veneer or laminate over the existing cabinet boxes.
3. Installing brand new doors and hardware.
Refacing can cost 40% to 60% less than buying all new cost of new kitchen cabinets.
Choosing Simpler Door Styles
Door style has a massive impact on kitchen cabinet pricing.
- Slab Doors (Flat): Simplest, cheapest.
- Shaker Doors: Very popular, moderately priced.
- Raised Panel Doors: More detail, more costly due to extra routing and construction time.
The more cuts and detail a door requires, the higher the labor involved, pushing up the overall cost.
Paint vs. Stain
Generally, stained cabinets made of high-quality wood are more expensive than painted ones, especially if they use MDF panels (which accept paint beautifully). However, if you choose a simple white painted finish on lower-grade wood, it might look cheaper than a beautiful cherry stain. Always verify the material used for painted finishes.
The Role of Retailers in Kitchen Cabinet Pricing
Where you buy your cabinets affects the final price, too.
Big Box Stores
These stores primarily stock standard sizes. Their prices are competitive for basic remodels. Their in-house design services are usually free, but the selection is limited.
Cabinet Showrooms and Designers
These shops work mostly with semi-custom cabinet pricing and higher-end brands. They offer expert design help, ensuring every inch is utilized. You pay more for the expert guidance and premium products.
Direct-to-Consumer (Online Sellers)
Buying online often cuts out the middleman, potentially lowering kitchen cabinet pricing. However, this route requires you to manage the design and ensure accurate measurements yourself, which is a big risk if you are not experienced.
Comprehending the Total Kitchen Project Budget
When budgeting for cabinets, remember these other required costs that surround them:
- Countertops: Material (laminate, granite, quartz) and fabrication/installation. This cost is separate from the cabinet quote.
- Backsplash: Tile, glass, or stone.
- Appliances: New refrigerators, stoves, etc.
- Flooring and Lighting: Often changed when cabinets are replaced.
- Contingency Fund: Always set aside 10% to 15% of your total project cost for unexpected issues discovered after demolition begins.
If your budget for kitchen cabinets is tight, look for sales events at showrooms or buy stock units during off-peak renovation seasons.
Final Thoughts on Securing Good Kitchen Cabinet Quotes
To get the most accurate kitchen cabinet quotes, you need detailed plans. Bring precise measurements to the suppliers. Know exactly which features you must have (e.g., pull-out trash bins) and which you can live without.
Be firm about your budget when you discuss options. A good salesperson will prioritize your funds toward the most important elements—usually the cabinet boxes and installation quality—while suggesting cost-saving alternatives for finishes. Getting several detailed kitchen cabinet quotes is the best way to ensure you get value for your investment, whether you opt for high-end custom kitchen cabinet prices or efficient stock kitchen cabinet cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much should I allocate in my budget for kitchen cabinets?
Generally, allocate about 30% to 40% of your total kitchen renovation budget for cabinets, assuming you are buying mid-range quality. If you are only handling a cabinet replacement cost, this percentage might be slightly lower or higher depending on installation complexity.
Does the cost of cabinets include installation?
No. Kitchen cabinet pricing usually only covers the materials and freight. You must specifically ask for a separate line item for the cabinet installation cost when getting your kitchen cabinet quotes.
What is the difference between a cabinet box and a cabinet?
The cabinet box is the basic structure (the sides, bottom, and back). The cabinet includes the box plus the doors, drawer fronts, and internal hardware. Custom work on the doors and features significantly drives up the cost of new kitchen cabinets.
Can I save money by buying cabinets online versus a local store?
You often can lower the material cost by purchasing online, as you avoid local dealer markups. However, online purchases shift the responsibility for accurate measurements and installation logistics entirely onto you. Ensure you factor in potential shipping damages or delays when comparing kitchen cabinet pricing.
What does “overlay” mean in semi-custom cabinet pricing?
Overlay describes how much the cabinet door overlaps the cabinet frame. Full overlay doors cover almost the entire frame for a modern look and hide hardware, often costing slightly more than partial overlay doors. This detail affects the final semi-custom cabinet pricing.