How Much Does It Cost to Install Cabinets in a Kitchen?
Updated kitchen cabinets are both functional and they refresh a home’s appearance. You spend a lot of time in the kitchen and so does your family, so having a nice, easy-to-use room is essential. In addition, kitchen remodels recoup up to 70 percent of the cost if you decide to sell your home.
The cost of standard kitchen cabinets ranges from $180 - $380 per linear foot, depending on the type of cabinets you install. If you opt to install custom cabinets then you will be looking at $500 - $1,500 per linear foot. The average cost of installing kitchen cabinets is $4,000 - $9,000. The average homeowner spends $6,446 for a set of medium-priced, standard, mid-level installed cabinets/RTA cabinets.
Cost to Install Cabinets
| Kitchen Cabinet Installation Costs | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $6,446 |
| Average range | $4,000-$9,000 |
| Minimum cost | $2,844 |
| Maximum cost | $11,709 |
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In this guide
New Kitchen Cabinets Prices by Type
Kitchen Cabinets Cost by Material
Cabinet Wood Types and Costs
Kitchen Cabinets Prices by Design
Labor Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets
Cost Factors of Installing Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen Cabinet Sizes
How to Measure Kitchen Cabinets
Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
Extra Features for Kitchen Cabinets
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQ
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Kitchen Cabinets Installation Cost by Project Range
Cost of Kitchen Cabinets Per Linear Foot
You are probably wondering what are the pros and cons of each cabinet type. There are three main types of cabinets: budget, mid-level, and premium.
| Type of cabinet | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
Budget cabinets ($100-$200/l.f.) | Affordable Often have real wood doors with MDF shelving | Thinly veneered particle board construction Very few styles or trim options Usually do not come assembled |
Mid-level cabinets/RTA ($180-$280/l.f.) | Made-to-order Custom options are available Nice materials such as real wood Full MDF boxes Crown molding Already assembled Rim Accessories included | Boxes are thin veneered wood instead of real wood |
Premium cabinets/ Semi customizable ($300-$2,000/l.f.) | Numerous styles Lots of storage options Plywood boxes Premium hardware Width measured in ¼ inch increments | Often costs as much as custom cabinets |
Custom cabinets ($800-$3,000/l.f.) | Endless styles Can be built of any material Built to fit your kitchen's unique design | Expensive Installation takes longer because each cabinet is custom designed and manufactured |
New Kitchen Cabinets Prices by Type
When shopping for cabinets, you will find a variety of standard-sized units to fit in your kitchen.
| Type of cabinet | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Wall Cabinets | $100 - $300 |
| Base Cabinets | $100 - $500 |
| Corner Cabinets | $180 - $1,000 |
| Specialty/Utility Cabinets | $500 - $3,000 |
Cost to Install Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets hang on the walls, above the countertop. They offer the advantage of providing additional storage for the kitchen without taking up any floor space, while also being at a comfortable height for you to simply reach out and grab the items you need. These cabinets cost around $100 to $300 each, with the price depending on the size and materials used.
Cost to Install Base Cabinets
Base cabinets are placed beneath the countertop, helping to support it and providing a lower level of storage for the kitchen. They are often easier to install than wall cabinets because they do not need to be lifted up and securely attached to the wall. The average cost for base cabinets varies from $100 to $500.
Corner Cabinets Prices
As the name implies, corner cabinets fit into the corners of the room and have special shapes that allow them to slip into these kitchen sections. In some cases, they may contain a lazy Susan or pull-out garbage can but can be found in various sizes and designs. The average cost of corner cabinets ranges from $180 to $1,000.
Utility Cabinets Prices
Utility cabinets are often much larger than either base or wall cabinets. They often feature various doors, drawers, and storage spaces, offering a flexible array of uses. Due to their larger size, these cabinets tend to be the most expensive. The average cost for utility cabinets ranges from $500 up to $3,000.
Kitchen Cabinets Cost by Material
You can purchase kitchen cabinets made of numerous types of materials and designs to fit every taste and decor. Plywood, MDF, veneer, and particle board are the most affordable. Hardwood varies depending on the type of wood. Steel and acrylic are both high end materials.
The type of cabinet material you choose depends on your budget and taste. Although steel cabinets and acrylic are very high end, they may not fit into your home’s decor. Ideally, you should study all of the pros and cons to decide which one fits your needs:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
Plywood 4, MDF, wood veneer 3, and particle board 2 ($100-$300/l.f.) | Affordable Easy to clean Resistant to stains and water | Cannot cover or fix flaws The adhesive that holds it together can become weak over time causing the cabinet to disintegrate May swell in humidit |
Hardwood (Maple, oak, white oak 1, redwood 2, cherry, and birch) ($150-$600/l.f.) | Beautiful Durable Easy to fix scuffs or scratches with wood filler Easy to repair if they break | Water from the sink can rot or discolor the wood Can easily scratch May warp in humid regions |
Steel ($1,000-$1,500/l.f.) | Easy to clean Durable Resists rust, stains, and water | Expensive Absorbs heat Can become dented |
Acrylic ($5,000-$20,000/cabinet) | Resistant to moisture Scratch resistant Available in a variety of colors Easy to clean Withstands wear and tear | Very expensive Fingerprints can mar the surface May stain |
This graphic shows the comparison of the various materials that could be used to create kitchen cabinet doors. Because materials can be combined to create cabinets, such as plywood boxes with veneer doors, and doors are the area of the cabinet most commonly interacted with, this graphic shows you how door materials stack up against one another. They’re rated for cost, their durability, and how easy they are to keep clean. Each attribute is ranked from 1 - 5, with 1 being the worst score that something can get and 5 being the best. Each material is also given a total score, so you can see at a glance how they stack up against one another:
Plywood Kitchen Cabinets Price
Plywood is a highly affordable material made by sticking several thin layers of wood veneer together. It is a great choice for kitchen cabinets if you are working on a budget because you can buy plywood kitchen cabinets for just $100 - $300 per linear foot, on average. This material is also easy-to-clean and stain-resistant but can swell in humid environments.
Hardwood Cabinets Cost
Hardwoods include maple, oak, birch, and cherry. They are favored by many people for their aesthetic beauty, with a range of colors and beautiful grain patterns. They are also very durable, although they are prone to warping and staining when not cared for properly. Depending on the wood, the average cost of hardwood cabinets ranges from $150 to $600 per linear foot.
Stainless Steel Kitchen Cabinets Cost
Stainless steel is another material you might choose for your kitchen cabinets. It is very strong and sturdy, as well as being easy to keep clean and staying rust and stain-free for many years. It is, however, expensive, costing between $1,000 and $1,500 on average for each linear foot.
Acrylic Kitchen Cabinets Cost
Acrylic is one of the most desirable but also one of the most expensive materials for use in kitchen cabinets. Very resistant to moisture, stains, scratches, and other marks, acrylic is very strong and easy-to-clean, but you will pay anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 per linear foot.
Cabinet Wood Types and Costs
If you decide to buy wooden kitchen cabinets, you must choose the type of wood. There are many options to choose between, ranging from affordable pine to more exotic and expensive variants.
There are clear advantages when it comes to wood kitchen cabinets.
- They are durable and strong.
- They will not stain or mark easily.
- They can handle temperature changes and humidity levels without warping or swelling.
- They are attractive, bringing warmth and elegance into the home.
| Type of wood | Average Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Beech | $100 - $250 |
| Ash | $150 - $250 |
| Pine | $150 - $250 |
| Walnut | $200 - $350 |
| Oak | $250 - $400 |
| Maple | $250 - $400 |
| Cherry | $250 - $500 |
| Mahogany | $300 - $450 |
| Birch | $300 - $600 |
| Bamboo | $500 - $600 |
Kitchen Cabinets Prices by Design
You have several choices when it comes to cabinets–framed versus frameless or shaker versus raised. Each one gives your kitchen a different look. If your home boasts a contemporary style then you might want to go with a frameless cabinet, but if you love the appearance of a country kitchen then a framed cabinet might be ideal.
| Types | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
($4,740 for a 10x10 kitchen)
| Available in a multitude of materials Hangs well on even or uneven walls Many styles Affordable | Constructed of light materials Less accessible Takes more time to hang |
($5,570 for a 10x10 kitchen)
| Contemporary Easy to hang Accessible Made of durable materials | Expensive May warp Few colors or styles to choose between |
($4,706 for a 10x10 kitchen)
| Made of many materials and woods Easy to access Often in frameless construction Readily available Affordable | Often requires tall cabinets to reach the ceiling Requires more maintenance Not very many decorative choices |
($5,392 for a 10x10 kitchen)
| Widely available Many kinds of wood and design choices May have decorative molding or edging Easy maintenance | Expensive Difficult to obtain in frameless |
Labor Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinet installers will plan and prepare the area for setup. You can also opt to hire a handyman who has experience installing kitchen cabinets.
Top cabinets are installed first, followed by base cabinets. If the cabinets must be put together prior to installation, then most installers charge $40 - $80 per cabinet and then the cost of hanging the cabinet.
Cabinet installation takes about 1.25 hours for each cabinet. Cabinet installers average $35 - $65 per hour and handymen charge $60 - $90 per hour. The cost of labor is not included in the cost of the cabinet.
Some people choose to work with a kitchen designer to create the layout of their dreams. Designers charge $100 to $125 per hour.
Cost Factors of Installing Kitchen Cabinets
Ultimately, the size of your kitchen is going to determine the cost of the cabinets. A larger area with additional cabinets will cost significantly more. Also, is it a new installation or a replacement? A new installation is much easier and requires no removal of old cabinets or demo work. If you must have the old cabinets removed then a carpenter or handyman will charge an average of $60 - $90 per hour to tear out old cabinets and customize various installation aspects, such as affixing custom molding. It takes a handyman approximately 1.5 hours to install each cabinet. The shape of your kitchen might also affect the price. If there are numerous curves or windows then the cabinet might require customization to fit.
The type of wood cabinets you decide to install will also affect the price. Remember, the final cost varies greatly depending on the materials. For example, mid-range kitchen cabinets average $200 - $250 per cabinet, stock MDF cabinets average $100 - $280 per linear foot, semi-custom cabinets range from $200 - $550 per linear foot depending on the type of wood, and custom cabinets average $500 to $1,200 per linear foot, while steel cabinets average $1,000 to $1,500 per linear foot and acrylic cabinets are sold per cabinet and average $5,000 - $20,000. To arrive at an accurate price estimate you must determine how many cabinets you will require, the type of cabinets, and the size of the area measured in linear feet.
Kitchen Cabinet Sizes
Standard cabinets are always the same size. However, custom cabinets can differ dramatically. Base cabinets measure 36 inches high by 24 inches deep. Custom cabinets are often 27 inches deep. The cabinets sit atop a 4-inch recessed riser. Upper cabinets measure 12 inches deep but customs cabinets might measure 17 inches deep. The upper cabinet will always be positioned 18 inches above the countertop and measure from 30 to 42 inches tall. There is normally an 18-inch backsplash 3. Tall cabinets average 83.5 inches in height. They are often used as a broom closet or pantry.
Standard Kitchen Cabinet Sizes Chart
| Type of Cabinet | Standard Height | Standard Depth | Standard Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 34-36" | 24-26” | 12-48” |
| Wall | 12-42" | 12-24" | 9-48" |
| Utility | 84-96" | 12-24" | 12-36” |
How to Measure Kitchen Cabinets
Here are the steps required to measure for kitchen cabinets:
- Make a sketch of the kitchen. Make marks on the sketch to indicate any windows or appliances.
- Measure from floor to ceiling where you plan on placing your cabinets. Record the measurement on your sketch. Repeat this everywhere in the kitchen that you plan on installing a cabinet.
- Measure the width of the walls from corner to corner. Write the numbers on the blueprint 4.
- Record the measurements that go from floor to windowsill, if there is a window.
- Write down the measurements for objects such as sink, windows, and oven.
- Draw on the blueprint any power outlets, light switches, range outlets, or ventilation shafts.
- Measure the width and depth of each cabinet. Record them on your blueprint in the spaces where they will go. Remember, a standard base cabinet stands 36 inches tall and has a depth of 24 inches. Wall cabinets have a depth of 12 inches, but will have differing heights depending on the style and height of your ceiling.
- Once you have a good idea of size and measurements, then you can determine how many cabinets will fit into your kitchen blueprint.
How to Organize Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets are a great storage source for all your pots, pans, plates, and other cooking essentials, as well as foods, drinks, and other supplies. But to make the most of your cabinets, you need to keep them organized. This can save you a lot of time in the long run, and it is much easier to cook when you know where everything is.
A good way to begin is to empty all your cabinets and get rid of any unnecessary items. Then, give each cabinet a purpose and start placing the items back in. For example, one cabinet could be used for all your plates and dishes, while another for baking essentials like flour and sugar. For example, try to position things in places that make sense, putting the pots and pans by the stove.
When placing items into the cabinets, put the things you use the most at the front, for easy access, and items you rarely use toward the back. It is also wise to place heavier things at the bottom and lighter items on top. Finally, once you have a system in place, stick to it. Always put things back where they belong, and you will not have to keep reorganizing your kitchen all the time.
Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
If you already have kitchen cabinets and need them to be replaced, you must cover the cost of removing and disposing of the old cabinets. In addition, you will pay for the new cabinets and the labor to install them. The cost varies depending on the number of cabinets, but in general, expect to pay between $300 and $500 for the removal of your old cabinets.
Another option is to have your cabinets refaced or refinished rather than replaced. Refacing cabinets allows you to keep the current cabinets in place and give them a new look. It costs anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000+ for the entire kitchen. This helps you save up to 50% of the cost when compared to replacing all the cabinets.
The cheapest option is to have your cabinets refinished. This involves applying paint, stain, varnish, or lacquer to the cabinets to give them a fresh look. If you hire professionals to do this, the average costs for the entire kitchen will be around $1,000 to $3,000
Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
Some people love the appearance of wood and others like the rainbow of hues that paint offers. You can have either painted or smooth finish cabinets in your home. You simply must decide which type best fits your home and style.
Painted cabinets provide a smooth finish in any shade you desire to match your kitchen. Less expensive cabinets, such as MDF-constructed models, can be used which saves money. Painted cabinets are often less dusty.
If you prefer the appearance and grain of wood then go with a stained cabinet, which can highlight hardwoods wonderfully. They are easy to clean and maintain. You can easily touch up a stained cabinet, but it is harder to do likewise on a painted cabinet because it can be difficult to match the paint.
Extra Features for Kitchen Cabinets
There are several nice features that you can choose from, such as self-closing to prevent the cabinet doors from banging shut, roll-out islands 5 to place trash receptacles, pull out shelves so you can clearly see what is in each cabinet, double trash cabinets, ironing board pullouts, ergonomic drawers, vertical dividers for cooking sheets, corner storage, and cabinets with a lazy susan. Such features can be plain or fancy. Spice pullouts average $245 per linear foot and wine racks run $100 - $400. Pullout cabinets and slide out organizers average around $400 per cabinet. The prices vary dramatically depending on the type, manufacturer, and materials.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Cabinet Hardware
Cabinet knobs, hinges 6, and handles average $1 - $100 each.
Lazy Susan
A Lazy Susan is a rotating shelf that gives you easy access to all areas of the cabinet. A cabinet that contains a lazy Susan averages $300 - $850, depending on the size and materials.
Wine Rack
A wine rack cradles the bottles. It can be displayed beneath a cabinet or a built in feature. The price averages $100 - $400.
Crown Molding Trim
Crown molding 7 trim provides a finished appearance to your cabinets. It runs $10 - $80/linear foot.
Sink
Kitchen sinks are highly versatile. You can go with farm basin, stainless steel, ceramic, and many more. Prices vary according to style, ranging from $300 - $1,000.
Sink Base
The sink base is a cabinet that the sink sits in. It averages $300 per linear foot.
Faucet
The faucet can be a standard lever or knob design, or it could feacher touchless controls. Prices vary greatly according to design. They average $80 - $1,000.
Countertop
The countertop could be low-end formica 8, marble, quartz, concrete, or tile. Prices vary greatly from $50 - $250 per sq.ft. depending on the material.
Glass Doors
Some people love glass doors in their kitchen cabinets. The price is around $100 per panel. Leaded glass averages $225 per panel.
Undercabinet Lighting
Undercabinet lighting lights up your countertop space to make food preparation a breeze. The prices average $233 - $315.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Where you live affects the price of installing kitchen cabinets. This is because of supply and demand. Large cities have more competition so may offer lower prices, though higher cost of living in general may balance out any potential savings.
- You can have matching cabinets installed in your bathroom, laundry room, or supply room that match your kitchen cabinets. Installing matching cabinets creates a cohesive style throughout the house.
- You will have to remove the old cabinets yourself or pay to have them removed. The cost averages $55 - $85 per cabinet for removal and disposal.
- Prepare for the day of cabinet installation by removing all breakables, valuables, and other items from the old cabinets. Clear a path for the old cabinets to be removed and the new cabinets brought into the home.
- You must always take kitchen appliances into consideration when designing your kitchen and picking out cabinets.
- Many cabinet retailers work with dedicated cabinet installers. If you want to hire a handyman or solo kitchen cabinet installer then make sure that they are licensed and bonded.
- Maintenance will depend on the type of cabinets you have installed. Most are easily wiped clean with a mild cleanser. However, wood cabinets require a wood cleaner.
- Many cabinet manufacturers offer free shipping on their cabinets.
- Renovating your kitchen might seem expensive, but remember you will garner a 65 to 80 percent return on your investment if you decide to sell your home.
- If you are looking for saving tips, then perform as much of the project as you can alone before you call in the professionals. Many people can easily remove their own old kitchen cabinets and save on removal costs.
- If you are wondering how long your kitchen cabinets will last after you have them installed, take note that the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors states that most cabinets will last for around 50 years after installation.
FAQ
- How much is a cabinet installation?
Installers charge around $35 - $65 per hour and take approximately an hour and a half per cabinet to install. Handymen charge slightly more, $60 - $90 per hour. Cabinet installers tend to charge $40 - $80 per cabinet to install.
- What does Home Depot charge to install cabinets?
The average price is $69 - $119 per linear foot charged by Home Depot contractors.
- Can cabinets be installed on concrete?
Yes, cabinets can be installed on concrete.
- What screws to use to hang cabinets?
You will use No. 8 or No. 10 screws that are approximately 3½ inches long.
- What is the labor cost to install kitchen cabinets?
Cabinet installers charge $35 - $65 per hour. A handyman charges $60 - $90 per hour.
- What is the average cost to replace kitchen cabinets?
You must have your old kitchen cabinets removed. The average cost of labor is $100 to $125 per hour. The average cost of installing new kitchen cabinets runs $160 - $380 per linear foot
- What is the average cost of kitchen cabinets per linear foot?
The average cost is $160 - $380 per linear foot for standard mid-level cabinets.
- How much do cabinet installers make?
They charge $35 - $65 per hour.
Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet
Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.See full cheat sheet.
1 White oak: A higher-quality hardwood commonly found in eastern North America. It is used for construction, fencing, flooring, shipbuilding, making wine barrels, and in home interiors
3 Backsplash: The upright surface, often made of tile, behind a kitchen counter, sink, or stove, that protects the wall from damage from splatter due to kitchen activities
4 Blueprint: A technical drawing of an architectural design. Traditionally these were made using a printing process that produced a white line on a blue background. They can also be made with CAD software and a large-scale printer
5 Islands: A kitchen counter that is not attached to walls or other surfaces, and that can be accessed from all sides
6 Hinges: A type of joint that attaches two items together but allows one of them to swing back and forth, such as a door attached to a door frame
7 Crown molding: A decorative finish that adds interest to the area where the top of a window meets the wall, or lines the area where the wall meets the ceiling
8 Formica: A brand name laminate very commonly used for countertops, made of several layers of paper or fabric with melamine resin. Formica solid surfacing is a different type of material. It is a single layer, made of acrylic resin mixed with mineral fillers. It is non-porous and durable.
How much does it cost to install cabinets in a kitchen in my city?
Cost to install cabinets in a kitchen varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
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