How much does it cost to install closet organizers?

Built-in closet organizers not only help with your home’s overall tidiness and style, they also add value to the home and are a desired selling feature. A closet organizational system also stretches your space and makes it possible to keep things organized and fit more items into a smaller closet.

For this example, we’ll look at the cost of installing an organizational system in a standard 8’x10’ walk-in closet, which averages $2000-$3000.

Types

One of the most important parts of the closet organization process is planning. Because organizers have such tight measurements that often can’t be changed, the entire closet needs to be planned before installation can begin on one part; otherwise, you might end up with more organizers than you have room for in the closet.

One of the biggest decisions for closet organizers is if you will install prefabricated pieces, which are pre-made and then put in your closet as-is, or custom closet organizers, which are made specifically for your space, style, and size.

Prefab systems are less expensive in general, but the price can add up with a larger system and more components. Another big factor in the cost of a project is the material of the organizers. In general, metal or wire systems tend to be prefabricated and the least expensive option. Metal or wire isn’t as sturdy or durable, but it will get the job done for a fraction of the price. On the other side, hardwood is the most expensive option and also the most durable. Vinyl ¹ or laminate structures tend to be in the middle, with a balance of price and durability.

The aspects of a closet organizational system are also important in determining price. Common aspects of a closet organizational system include:

Labor

In general, labor is factored into a professional estimate instead of being charged per hour. The amount of labor in the estimate depends on the size of the closet and what organizational elements are being installed. A standard 8’x10’ walk-in closet with shelves, one set of drawers and a rod would take one to two days to install professionally, for a cost of $500-$800.

Enhancement and improvement costs

• Plan to add $100-$250 for professional painters to repaint the closet interior before installation. It would cost $20-$40 to paint it yourself.
• Closet bins come in a variety of sizes and materials. A medium sized bin ranges from $15 (for basic plastic) to $40-$50 for premium wood or wicker. Closet hooks average around $3-$5 each.
• Professional organizers typically charge $50-$150 per hour to help sort through and get rid of items you no longer need, which can make it easier to move items back into your new closet.
• Adding lighting or updating the existing lighting system averages an additional $200.
• Changing the floor in the closet varies based on the material, but the average cost for an 8’x10’ closet is $300-$500.
• Changing the closet door can add an additional $50-$130 to your costs; more expensive doors or track systems can reach beyond the $200 range.
• A shoe rack can either sit on the floor or be attached to the wall. Stand-alone shoe racks start as low as $15 and can be up to $200 for more quality construction and materials.
• Repairing any part of the closet, such as reattaching a rod that has fallen down or patching a hole in or damage to the wall, can cost $50-$150.
• Matching closet storage baskets come in a variety of colors and styles. They average $25-$45 each.
• Pull-out or adjustable rods typically stick out of the wall and can expand out to hold hangers or other objects.These rods range from $35-$85 each.

Additional considerations and costs

• Closet organizers can be installed on your own, especially if you choose prefabricated pieces. Doing the work yourself can save hundreds and thousands of dollars, but it does require lots of heavy lifting and precise measurements.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others