Written by Lauren Sieben
Published May 11 | 7 minute read
Kitchen renovations are notoriously expensive—and cabinets are one of the priciest parts of the project. Before you fall in love with a certain look or material for your cabinets, read this guide. We'll share details about the price range for kitchen cabinets, explain which factors influence cost and help you budget for your own cabinet upgrade.
Kitchen cabinet prices per linear foot can range from $60 to $1,200, according to HGTV. Premade stock cabinets are the most affordable; prices increase for semi-custom and custom cabinetry. On average, a new cabinet installation project costs just over $6,000, although some projects can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Cabinetry choices fall into three categories: stock, semi-custom and custom.
Stock cabinets are premade, ready-to-install cabinets available at home improvement stores. These mass-produced cabinets tend to be less expensive than custom cabinetry. They are also ready to purchase and install quickly. You don't need to wait for a carpenter to build custom cabinets.
That said, if you have an unusual kitchen space or a unique vision for your cabinets, it may be challenging to find what you need in a big-box store's inventory of stock cabinets.
If stock cabinets don't meet your needs and custom cabinets don't fit your budget, consider semi-custom cabinets. This option offers more flexibility in cabinet sizing, colors and finishes at a slightly higher price point than stock cabinets.
Because of the customization involved, semi-custom cabinets are made to order and may come with a long wait time.
Custom-built cabinets are the priciest type of cabinetry, offering fully personalized dimensions, materials and design. These built-to-fit cabinets can elevate your space and conform to your specific needs and vision. They also require a longer wait time, since artisans will build your unique cabinets from scratch.
Even within each cabinetry category, the total cost of your project varies based on several factors.
The materials you choose will affect the look and durability of your cabinets, as well as their total price. The most affordable materials include medium-density fiberboard (MDF), plywood and particle board cabinets.
You can also opt for wood veneer cabinets, which are slightly more expensive, or splurge for solid wood or stainless steel. Higher-end materials may be more durable over time and may stand up to multiple sandings and paint jobs if you choose to refinish them in the future.
As you shop for cabinets, you'll encounter both framed and frameless (or European-style) cabinets.
Other premium features—such as soft-close drawers, pull-outs, lazy Susans and custom organizers—can also drive up costs.
Cabinets come in nearly every possible color, grain and style, but some finishes are more expensive than others. For example, painting your cabinets a custom color will cost more than a standard white or gray. Choosing a rare wood veneer might be more expensive than opting for more common options, such as walnut or maple.
Hardware costs, including cabinet pulls and knobs, can also add up, depending on the style and materials you choose.
The more linear feet of cabinetry you need, the more expensive your project. Quirks of your space may also drive up your project cost. Complex layouts may require a pricier semi-custom or custom solution. Cabinets on a kitchen island, for example, or a floor-to-ceiling wall unit would increase the price.
Cabinet installers charge from $50 to $250 per hour, according to HomeLight. The rate depends on the size of the job and your geographic location. Custom cabinets tend to be pricier to install than stock cabinets.
While some homeowners may consider DIY-ing their cabinet installation, it's important to be aware that this is an advanced job. For most, professional installation is worth the peace of mind to avoid damaging their pricey new cabinets.
As you create your cabinet budget, remember to factor in these extra expenses.
If you're replacing old cabinets, you will need to pay for a demolition crew to remove the existing ones (or take the time to handle the demo yourself). You may also have to pay haul-away or landfill fees to dispose of old cabinets.
Work with your cabinet installer to understand the prep work required before installing new cabinets. This may include wall repairs, plumbing or electrical adjustments, or hiring a contractor to level uneven floors.
If you're moving electrical or plumbing hookups or tearing down a wall to install your cabinets, you may need to pull permits. Check with your local municipality to ensure you understand the rules on permits and inspections as they apply to your project. Remember to budget in any related fees through your local government and the cost of contractors to handle the job.
With so many variables that impact cost, there are plenty of ways to creatively save money on new cabinets.
You don't always have to choose between stock and custom cabinetry—in some kitchens, it makes sense to use both. For example, using mostly stock cabinets with a few custom or upgraded features can give your space a fully custom feel without the custom price tag.
Simple touches, like decorative cabinet hardware, can elevate your cabinetry's appearance without breaking the bank. Dress up stock cabinets with unique pulls and knobs, or incorporate cabinets in an accent color for a kitchen island.
Watch big-box stores and local cabinet dealers for seasonal sales and promotions on stock cabinets. If you're working with a contractor, they may have insight into where to find the best deals.
Cabinet installation is a big job. Request more than one quote to make sure you're hiring a team that's up to the task and that you can afford. Different installers may charge more or less depending on their experience and the scope of your project.
The cost of new kitchen cabinets varies widely depending on the type of cabinetry, the material you choose and the layout of your kitchen. When you're ready to take the plunge on new cabinets, the Synchrony HOME Credit Card can help you manage the cost of the project. Use the Synchrony HOME locator to find Synchrony HOME retail partners in your area that may have special offers for cardholders.
*Subject to credit approval. Minimum monthly payments required. Promotional financing offers available at the time of purchase may vary by location. See store for details.
Lauren Sieben is a journalist and freelance writer based in Milwaukee. She has written about personal finance, real estate, insurance and home renovation for brands and publications including Realtor.com, Northwestern Mutual and Western & Southern Financial Group.