What is the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets in 2024?

Kitchen cabinets can range from $3,750 to $10,200 on average, with most homeowners spending $7,200 per project.

On average, it costs between $3,750 and $10,200 to install new kitchen cabinets, with most homeowners spending around $7,200.

Kitchen cabinets are a major investment when it comes to remodeling or building a kitchen. The cost of kitchen cabinets can be one of the most expensive parts of a kitchen renovation, and it’s important to understand all your options before deciding on what type and style of cabinets you choose.

While the average cost per linear foot ranges from $120 to $650, it varies based on the type of cabinets you choose, the size of your kitchen, and any special features or customizations required.

In this article:

Average Costs of Kitchen Cabinets in 2024

National Average Cost$7,200
Typical Price Range$3,750 – $10,200
Extreme Low-End Cost$2,200
Extreme High-End Cost$18,000

Whether you’re looking for an affordable solution or something truly custom, the cost of kitchen cabinets varies depending on what you choose. On average, kitchen cabinets range from $3,750 to $10,200, with most homeowners spending around $7,200.

From stock cabinets to semi-custom and full-custom cabinetry, there is a wide range of options available that can fit any budget. While custom cabinets cost between $530 to $1,200 per unit, stock cabinets are considerably cheaper, typically ranging from $90 to $350 per unit.

The material you choose also plays a major role in the cost of kitchen cabinets. Cabinets made from solid wood, such as cherry, will cost, on average, between $170 to $340 per linear foot, while cabinets made from particle board will cost between $40 to $110 per linear foot.

Cabinet Cost Estimator by Kitchen Size

Kitchen SizeAverage Cost of Cabinets
10 x 10 Kitchen$2,400 – $13,000
12 x 12 Kitchen$3,000 – $16,250

While a 10 x 10 kitchen needs around 20 linear feet of cabinets, a 12 x 12 kitchen would typically require up to 25 linear feet of cabinets. The cost of installing kitchen cabinets depends on the size of your space, the quality of materials used, and the type of finish you choose. Prices can range anywhere from $2,400 to over $13,000 for a 10 x 10 kitchen and from $3,000 to over $16,250 for a 12 x 12 kitchen.

This cost includes base cabinets, wall cabinets, drawers, and hardware but does not include the cost of countertops, backsplashes, or accessories. While these options are often included in the cabinetry budget, they can add significantly to the overall cost.

Other Factors That Affect Cost

From the type of material used to the hardware and finish, various factors can affect the cost of kitchen cabinets. Let’s take a look at some of the most common factors that can affect the cost.

Kitchen Cabinet Type

When it comes to kitchen cabinets, there are three main categories to choose from based on budget and customization level: stock, semi-custom, and fully custom. Each type of cabinet comes with a different price tag, so it’s important to consider the cost before making a decision. 

While stock cabinets are the most affordable option, they are also the least customizable. On average, stock cabinets cost $90 to $350 per linear foot.

If you are looking for more customization and options, then fully custom kitchen cabinets are the way to go. These cabinets are the most expensive, with an average cost of $500 to $1,250 per linear foot. However, you will be able to get exactly the look and style you want, so it may be worth the extra cost.

Kitchen Cabinet Material

Every material used for kitchen cabinetry provides a different look, feel, and price point. From particle board to solid wood, the material of your cabinets plays a role in determining the cost. The type of material you choose can also affect the installation time, color, and texture.

Here are the common materials used in kitchen cabinets and their average costs:

Type of MaterialAverage Cost Per Linear Foot (Material Only)
Acrylic$160 – $500
MDF$60 – $210
Particle Board$40 – $110
Plywood$60 – $250
Solid Wood$60 – $340
Wood Veneer$65 – $210

Whether you’re looking for something affordable and easy to install or you’re willing to spend more for a custom look, it’s important to understand the average cost of the materials used in kitchen cabinets. From particle board to acrylic and solid wood, the type of material you choose can affect the cost of your cabinets by a wide margin.

While the cheapest cabinets are typically made from particle board and MDF, solid wood cabinets are usually the most expensive option. On average, the cost of cabinetry per square linear foot ranges from $40 to $340, depending on the type of material used.

Solid Wood Cabinet Prices

Solid wood cabinets tend to cost more than particle board and MDF cabinets, but the higher price point of solid wood is often offset by quality and durability. From cherry to oak and maple, the type of wood used to make your cabinets can also affect the overall cost.

Here is a breakdown of the average costs per linear foot for different types of wood cabinets:

Type of WoodAverage Cost Per Linear Foot (Material Only)
Ash$50 – $110
Bamboo$200 – $340
Beech$60 – $90
Birch$110 – $200
Cherry$170 – $340
Mahogany$190 – $360
Maple$110 – $180
Oak$130 – $190
Pine$60 – $130
Walnut$120 – $180

Wood cabinets are popular for their classic look and durability, but they can be a bit more expensive than other materials due to the cost of the wood. While the most affordable wood cabinets are usually made from pine and ash, the priciest options tend to be mahogany and cherry. 

Metal Cabinet Prices

If you’re looking for a metal finish, here is a breakdown of the average prices for stainless steel and aluminum cabinets:

Type of MetalAverage Cost Per Linear Foot (Material Only)
Aluminum$340 – $870
Stainless Steel$520 –  $1,150

Metal cabinets are a great way to create an industrial look and feel in your kitchen. However, they come with a much higher price tag than other types of materials. On average, aluminum and stainless steel cabinets range from $340 to $1,150 per linear foot.

If you’re looking to upgrade the cabinets in your outdoor kitchen, stainless steel is the ideal material for outdoor cabinets due to its ability to stand up to the elements.

Kitchen Cabinet Door Design

What about the cost of your cabinet doors? While most people think of kitchen cabinets in terms of material, door styles and finishes can also affect the overall cost. 

Here is a breakdown of the average cost per linear foot for different types of door designs:

Type of Door DesignAverage Cost Per Door (Material Only)
Flat Panel$30 – $65
Mitered$40 – $80
Mullioned Glass Inset Panel$105 – $190
Plain Glass Inset Panel$70 – $135
Slab$15 – $65

From sleek, modern flat panels to intricate mullioned glass inset panels, the door design you choose for your kitchen cabinets will affect both its overall look and its cost.

Using a simple slab door for your kitchen cabinets can give the space a modern and minimalistic look while still keeping costs low. Mitered cabinet doors tend to be more ornate and have a more traditional look. For a more detailed look, mullioned glass inset panels are a perfect choice.

Cost to Reface Cabinets

Having your kitchen cabinets refaced is a great way to give your kitchen an updated look without the expense of a full renovation. Cabinet refacing involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts and covering the face frames and side panels with matching materials.

The average cost for cabinet refacing can range from $5,200 to $10,650, depending on the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and the cost of labor. Most homeowners spend, on average, $8,080 for kitchen cabinet refacing.

Labor Cost

Whether you choose to hire a cabinet installer or a handyman, the cost of labor can range from $50 to $200 per hour on average. Here is the average cost of labor for installing kitchen cabinets:

Cabinet InstallerHandyman
$65 – $200 per hour$50 – $100 per hour
$105 – $420 per box$100 – $200 per box
$100 – $380 per linear foot$90 – $340 per linear foot

As you can see, the cost of labor to install kitchen cabinets can vary greatly depending on who you hire and how much work needs to be done. While a handyman might be a cheaper option, they may not have the experience and skill of a cabinet installer. Make sure to do your research before hiring someone. 

Old Cabinet Removal and Disposal

If you are replacing your kitchen cabinets, you will also need to factor in the cost of removing and disposing of your old cabinets. The cost of this service can range from $330 to $630 on average.

The cost of cabinet removal and disposal is often included as part of a full kitchen renovation package, so be sure to ask your contractor if it is included in the cost of your project.

Kitchen Cabinets Extras

Are you looking to add a few extra touches to your kitchen cabinet installation? Additional extras like knobs, painting, or hardware can add up quickly.

The cost of extra features varies depending on the type and quality of materials you choose. Here are some average costs for extras:

Extra Average Cost
Crown Molding$120 – $370
Drawers$15 – $65
Handles$2 – $90
Knobs$2 – $60
Lazy Susan$130 – $530
Painting$3 – $10
Pull Out Cabinet Organizers$70 – $360
Soft-Closing Cabinets and Drawers System$20 – $50
Spice Pull-Out Rack$95 – $620
Under Cabinet Lighting$220 – $340
Wine Rack$75 – $350

Whether you choose to add under cabinet lighting, a lazy Susan, or a wine rack, be sure to factor in the cost of these extras when calculating your total kitchen cabinet installation costs. While these extras may not be necessary, they can add a special touch to your kitchen and make it feel more inviting. 

While you’re upgrading your kitchen cabinets, consider these other options to give your kitchen a complete makeover. 

Kitchen Countertops

What’s a kitchen renovation without beautiful countertops? Updating your kitchen countertops is another great way to give your space an updated look.

The cost of materials and labor for installing kitchen countertops can range from $1,400 to $3,500 on average. From laminate to quartz, there are many options available, and costs can vary greatly depending on the material you choose.

Kitchen Flooring

Investing in new kitchen flooring can give your kitchen a brand-new look and feel.

The costs of labor and materials for installing new kitchen flooring vary depending on the type you choose. On average, kitchen flooring costs between $1,435 and $5,520, including installation.

Kitchen Backsplash

A kitchen backsplash can be a great way to add an extra layer of style to your kitchen. Whether you choose classic subway tile or glass mosaics, transforming your kitchen with a new backsplash is sure to be the perfect finishing touch. 

The price for installing backsplash tiles in your kitchen can range from $700 to $1,700 on average, with most projects costing around $1,150.

Whether you are looking for a subtle or bold design, there is sure to be a backsplash style to complement your kitchen’s unique style.

Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost

Installing cabinets in your kitchen can be quite a project. Before you decide whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional, consider the costs associated with each option.

The cost of hiring a professional cabinet installer or a handyman ranges from $90 to $380 per linear foot.

Tackling the project yourself can save you money, but there are also costs associated with this option. Here is a breakdown of the approximate costs of the tools you need to install your own cabinets: 

Tools for DIY InstallationAverage Cost
Belt sander$75
Block plane$50
Circular saw$60
Clamps$20
Countersink drill bit$20
Drill and drill bits$50
Dust mask$12
Jigsaw$60
Level$35
Safety glasses$14
Screwdriver$15
Shims$15
Stud finder$30
Tape measure$18
Total Cost for DIY Tools:$474

No matter which route you decide to take, updating your kitchen with new cabinets can be a great way to give the space an updated look and feel. With the right tools, skills, and a little bit of hard work, you can create the kitchen of your dreams.

Kitchen Cabinetry Cost by Location

The cost of kitchen cabinetry can vary widely depending on location. Factors such as the cost of living, local labor rates, and the availability of materials can significantly impact the price. 

Generally, kitchen cabinetry costs more in areas with higher housing costs. For example, Los Angeles or New York City kitchen cabinets may be significantly more expensive than those in rural areas. 

The labor and installation costs can also vary depending on the location. They may be higher in more urban areas due to the increased demand for skilled workers and the cost of transporting materials. 

FAQ

What is the average life of kitchen cabinets?

The average life expectancy of kitchen cabinets is about 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of your cabinets will depend on the quality of materials used, as well as the level of care and maintenance you provide.

What is the proper care and maintenance for kitchen cabinets?

Proper care and maintenance of your cabinets involve cleaning them regularly, using protective coatings or sealants as needed, and making minor repairs when necessary. Additionally, if you notice any issues with the doors or drawers, such as sticking or misalignment, make sure to address them quickly before they become bigger problems.

What is the best way to choose kitchen cabinetry?

Consider the style, functionality, and cost of the cabinets you select. Additionally, make sure to read reviews and do your research on the different cabinet brands available. This will help you ensure you’re getting a quality product at a reasonable price.

What is the best way to install kitchen cabinets?

Installing kitchen cabinets requires precision and accuracy. When done correctly, the cabinets should fit flush with the walls and look seamless. For a successful installation, it’s important to measure twice and cut once.

It’s also a good idea to use the right tools for the job and to refer to manufacturer instructions for specific installation tips. Hiring a professional can ensure a quality installation if you’re not comfortable doing the job yourself.

How long does it take to install kitchen cabinets?

The installation of kitchen cabinets can typically take 2-3 days, depending on the size and complexity of the project. 

Keep in mind that hiring a professional cabinet installer can speed up the process significantly, as they will be able to work much faster and more efficiently than the average homeowner. 

Final Thoughts

Kitchen cabinets can really make or break a kitchen design, but they can also be a major expense. On average, they range from $3,750 to $10,200, depending on the materials and any additional features you may choose to include. 

However, with careful consideration and research, you can find the perfect cabinets for your needs and budget. The right kitchen cabinets can add the perfect finishing touch to your kitchen design and truly make it the heart of your home.

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Main Image Credit: Pexels

Adrian Nita

Adrian Nita

Adrian is a former marine navigation officer turned writer with more than 3 years of experience in the field. He loves writing about anything and everything but specializes in covering smart technology and gardening. When he's not writing, Adrian enjoys spending time with his family and friends or hiking in the great outdoors.