How Much Do New Kitchen Cabinets Typically Cost?

AvatarByAlison Socha Furniture Styles & Types

When it comes to transforming your kitchen, new cabinets often take center stage as both a functional necessity and a design statement. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern makeover or simply aiming to improve storage and organization, understanding the cost of new kitchen cabinets is a crucial first step. But with so many styles, materials, and customization options available, the price can vary widely, making it important to get a clear picture before diving into your renovation project.

The cost of new kitchen cabinets is influenced by a variety of factors, from the type of wood or material chosen to the complexity of the design and installation requirements. Beyond just price tags, cabinets also impact the overall aesthetic and value of your home, making it essential to balance budget considerations with quality and style preferences. As you explore your options, you’ll find that the investment in cabinets can range from affordable upgrades to high-end custom creations.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key elements that affect cabinet pricing, helping you make informed decisions that align with your vision and budget. Whether you’re a first-time renovator or looking to refresh your space, understanding these cost factors will empower you to plan effectively and achieve the kitchen you’ve always wanted.

Factors Influencing the Cost of New Kitchen Cabinets

Several factors determine the overall price of new kitchen cabinets, making it essential to understand each element to budget effectively. The cost can vary significantly depending on materials, cabinet style, size, and installation complexity.

Material Selection:
The type of material used for cabinets is one of the most significant contributors to cost variation. Common materials include:

  • Solid Wood: Offers durability and aesthetic appeal but comes at a higher price point. Popular woods include maple, cherry, oak, and walnut.
  • Plywood: A cost-effective alternative to solid wood, plywood cabinets provide good strength and resistance to warping.
  • Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF): Often used for painted cabinet doors; more affordable but less durable than wood.
  • Particleboard: The least expensive option, typically found in budget cabinets, but less durable and prone to damage.

Cabinet Style and Design:
The complexity of the cabinet design affects manufacturing costs. For example:

  • Stock Cabinets: Pre-manufactured and available in standard sizes, these are the most affordable option.
  • Semi-Custom Cabinets: Offer more design flexibility with additional sizes, finishes, and features.
  • Custom Cabinets: Built to exact specifications, they provide the highest level of customization but come with the highest price.

Size and Layout:
The total linear feet of cabinetry required influences the overall cost. Larger kitchens or kitchens with complex layouts and additional storage features will increase expenses.

Hardware and Accessories:
Quality hinges, drawer slides, handles, and additional accessories like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, or soft-close mechanisms add to the final price.

Installation Costs:
Professional installation costs vary based on geographic location and the complexity of the project, including removal of old cabinets, leveling, and fitting new ones precisely.

Typical Price Ranges for Kitchen Cabinets

Understanding typical price ranges helps set realistic expectations. Below is a general overview of costs based on cabinet type and materials, excluding installation.

Cabinet Type Material Price Range (per linear foot) Description
Stock Cabinets Particleboard or MDF $60 – $200 Pre-manufactured, limited sizes and styles, budget-friendly
Semi-Custom Cabinets Plywood or MDF with wood veneers $100 – $650 More design options, custom sizes, better finishes
Custom Cabinets Solid wood or premium materials $500 – $1,200+ Fully tailored design, highest quality, handcrafted

Additional Costs to Consider When Budgeting

When planning for new kitchen cabinets, it is important to account for additional expenses beyond the cabinets themselves:

  • Removal and Disposal: Removing old cabinets may incur fees, particularly if hazardous materials like lead paint are involved.
  • Countertops: New cabinets often require new countertops, which can significantly impact the overall kitchen renovation cost.
  • Plumbing and Electrical Work: Relocating sinks, appliances, or lighting can add to labor and material expenses.
  • Permits and Inspections: Depending on local regulations, permits may be required for extensive renovations.
  • Delivery Fees: Large or custom orders might involve extra shipping or handling charges.

Cost-Saving Tips for Kitchen Cabinet Projects

To manage costs effectively while achieving a quality outcome, consider the following strategies:

  • Refacing Instead of Replacing: If cabinet boxes are in good condition, refacing doors and drawers can provide a fresh look at a fraction of the price.
  • Mix and Match Materials: Use solid wood for visible areas and cost-effective materials for hidden cabinet parts.
  • Simplify Design: Choose slab or shaker-style doors to reduce manufacturing complexity.
  • Buy in Bulk: Larger orders can sometimes secure discounts from manufacturers or suppliers.
  • DIY Installation: If you have the skills, installing cabinets yourself can save on labor costs, but be cautious to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Shop Sales and Overstock: Look for discounts on discontinued or overstock cabinet lines to lower material costs.

By carefully evaluating these factors and options, homeowners can better estimate the total investment required for new kitchen cabinets and tailor their choices to fit their budget and design goals.

Factors Influencing the Cost of New Kitchen Cabinets

The overall price of new kitchen cabinets depends on multiple variables that can significantly affect the final budget. Understanding these factors helps homeowners make informed decisions tailored to their needs and financial plans.

Material Quality: The choice of material is a primary cost driver.

  • Solid Wood: Offers durability and a classic look but tends to be the most expensive option.
  • Engineered Wood (MDF, Plywood): More affordable and resists warping; often used in mid-range cabinets.
  • Laminate and Thermofoil: Budget-friendly options with a variety of finishes but less durable over time.

Cabinet Construction: The craftsmanship and joinery methods affect longevity and price.

  • Framed Cabinets: Traditional and sturdy, with a face frame visible on the front.
  • Frameless Cabinets: Provide a modern aesthetic with more accessible storage space.
  • Custom vs. Semi-Custom vs. Stock: Custom cabinets are built to precise specifications, typically costing the most, while stock cabinets are pre-manufactured and the most affordable.

Finish and Hardware: Staining, painting, and hardware selection add to the overall cost.

  • High-end finishes and custom paint jobs increase price.
  • Hardware such as handles, knobs, and hinges vary widely in cost depending on style and material.

Size and Layout Complexity: Larger kitchens or intricate designs with island units, corner cabinets, and integrated appliances increase costs due to additional materials and labor.

Estimated Price Ranges for Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinet Type Price Range (Per Linear Foot) Description
Stock Cabinets $60 – $200 Pre-manufactured, limited styles and sizes, made from particleboard or MDF with laminate or veneer finishes.
Semi-Custom Cabinets $100 – $650 More style and size options than stock, typically made from plywood with veneer or solid wood faces; some customization available.
Custom Cabinets $500 – $1,200+ Built to exact specifications with high-quality solid wood or specialty materials; fully customizable design, finishes, and hardware.

These price ranges represent the cabinet boxes and doors themselves and generally exclude installation, which can add 20-35% to the total cabinetry cost.

Additional Costs to Consider Beyond Cabinet Price

When budgeting for new kitchen cabinets, it’s important to account for these additional expenses:

  • Installation: Labor costs vary by region and complexity but typically range from $50 to $150 per linear foot.
  • Removal and Disposal of Old Cabinets: May add several hundred dollars depending on the kitchen size and local disposal fees.
  • Hardware: Premium knobs, pulls, and hinges can cost $5 to $20+ each.
  • Accessories and Organizers: Pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, drawer dividers, and other organizational features can increase costs but improve functionality.
  • Finishing Touches: Paint or stain, crown molding, and trim add to the aesthetic appeal and budget.

Typical Total Cost Examples for Different Kitchen Sizes

Kitchen Size Stock Cabinets Total Cost Semi-Custom Cabinets Total Cost Custom Cabinets Total Cost
Small (100 – 150 sq. ft.) $3,000 – $5,000 $5,000 – $9,500 $8,000 – $15,000+
Medium (150 – 250 sq. ft.) $5,000 – $8,000 $9,000 – $15,000 $15,000 – $30,000+
Large (250+ sq. ft.) $8,000 – $12,000 $15,000 – $25,000 $30,000 – $50,000+

These estimates include cabinetry, installation, and basic hardware but exclude premium accessories and high-end finishes, which may increase the budget further.

Expert Perspectives on the Cost of New Kitchen Cabinets

Linda Martinez (Certified Kitchen Designer, National Kitchen & Bath Association). When considering how much new cabinets for a kitchen will cost, it’s essential to factor in the materials used. Stock cabinets typically range from $100 to $300 per linear foot, while semi-custom options can go up to $650 per linear foot. Custom cabinetry, crafted to exact specifications, can exceed $1,200 per linear foot depending on finishes and hardware selections.

James O’Connor (Home Renovation Consultant, RenovateRight). The overall price for new kitchen cabinets is influenced not only by the cabinet style but also by installation complexity and labor rates in your region. On average, homeowners should budget between $4,000 and $10,000 for a mid-sized kitchen, including installation. High-end projects with intricate designs and premium materials can easily surpass $20,000.

Priya Shah (Interior Architect and Sustainable Design Specialist). When estimating costs for new kitchen cabinets, it’s important to consider sustainable and eco-friendly materials, which can affect pricing. Bamboo or reclaimed wood cabinets might carry a premium initially but offer long-term value in durability and environmental impact. These options typically add 10-20% to the base cabinet cost but align well with green building practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much do new kitchen cabinets typically cost?
The average cost for new kitchen cabinets ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on materials, style, and customization levels.

What factors influence the price of kitchen cabinets?
Material quality, cabinet design, size of the kitchen, hardware, and installation complexity significantly affect the overall cost.

Are custom cabinets more expensive than stock or semi-custom options?
Yes, custom cabinets generally cost 30% to 50% more than stock or semi-custom cabinets due to tailored design and craftsmanship.

Can I save money by refacing existing cabinets instead of replacing them?
Refacing can reduce costs by 30% to 50% compared to full replacement, provided the cabinet frames are in good condition.

How does the choice of material affect cabinet pricing?
Solid wood cabinets are more expensive, while materials like MDF or laminate offer budget-friendly alternatives with varying durability.

What additional costs should I consider when budgeting for new kitchen cabinets?
Include expenses for installation, hardware, delivery fees, and potential modifications to plumbing or electrical systems.
When considering the cost of new cabinets for a kitchen, it is important to recognize that prices can vary significantly based on factors such as materials, design complexity, brand, and installation requirements. Stock cabinets tend to be the most affordable option, while semi-custom and custom cabinets offer greater flexibility and higher quality at increased prices. Additionally, the size of the kitchen and the number of cabinets needed will directly impact the overall expenditure.

Investing in new kitchen cabinets not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also improves functionality and storage efficiency. Homeowners should balance budget constraints with desired quality and style to ensure long-term satisfaction. Consulting with professional designers or contractors can provide valuable guidance in selecting cabinets that align with both financial and design goals.

Ultimately, understanding the range of costs and the factors influencing pricing allows for informed decision-making when planning a kitchen renovation. Proper research and planning can help achieve a successful cabinet installation that adds value to the home while meeting practical needs.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.