How Much Does It Cost To Install Kitchen Cabinets?

Kitchen cabinet installation cost

Several factors come into play when figuring out how much it costs to install cabinets in your kitchen, but you can expect to pay about $5,000. Some things you’ll have to decide on are: 

• The type of material you choose. Basic stock cabinets will be around $1,000, while custom cabinets or solid wood cabinets with unique finishes can run as high as $25,000 or even more.
•  How many cabinets you need. 
• The total size of your kitchen. 

New kitchen cabinets are a significant investment, and choosing a beautiful and functional style is important.

Cabinet installation cost per linear foot

Pricing cabinet installation costs depends on the linear foot and style of the cabinet. A stock cabinet is ready-made, so expect the style to be basic and to come in limited sizes. Stock cabinets are available at big-box stores, and home improvement stores and the labor is usually included with the cost of the cabinets. The labor cost to install stock cabinets in your kitchen is anywhere from $75 to $400 per linear foot. 

Semi-custom cabinets are a great option if you have a slightly bigger budget to work with. They tend to be sturdier materials and have more versatility with style selections and measurements in case you’re looking for something specific. Semi-custom kitchen cabinets range between $150 and $900 more per linear foot, including installation.

Your third option is custom cabinets. If you're remodeling or constructing a new home, these beautiful cabinets are hand-built by skilled carpenters who can custom fit your cabinets to your unique specifications. The cost of custom kitchen cabinets is much higher, starting at $500 and going up to $1,400 or more per linear foot installed.

Cabinet replacement cost

To replace your existing kitchen cabinets, the contractor must first remove your old ones. Removal costs anywhere from $371 to $861, and includes the demolition, disposal, and other preparations needed to install your new cabinets. Remember to include the removal fee in your overall calculations. 

You can save money on the kitchen cabinet installation labor cost if the inside of your existing cabinets is in good shape — it’s possible to reface or refinish them. This route is much less expensive than paying for a completely new set, and you’ll find you have lots of design options to choose from.

Labor cost to install kitchen cabinets

Aside from the type of cabinets you choose, you'll need to factor in labor costs to install your kitchen cabinets, which can range from around $50 to $250 per linear foot. It’s important to note that stock cabinets take less time to install than custom cabinets. With custom cabinets, expect to pay more for labor as custom builds require a higher skill level. 

When you get estimates from contractors, don't forget to factor hardware, like hinges and cabinet door pulls, into the total. Hardware ranges from around $2 to upwards of $50.

Cost of kitchen cabinets installed by materials

When you are calculating how much is your kitchen cabinet installation, remember that the type of material you choose for your new kitchen cabinets greatly impacts the cost. Prices can vary widely depending on your budget and the look you want. Here are the most common options for kitchen cabinets, along with the total average cost for the material and installation:

MDF cabinets

MDF cabinets are one of the least expensive options, and they feature a combination of particleboard and veneers that absorb water easily — which means they have the potential to warp. The cost for MDF kitchen cabinets ranges from about $1,000 to $2,500 installed.

Wood veneer cabinets

These cabinets have improved durability and often come unfinished so you can choose your favorite stain. They resist moisture well, but the interior particleboard can become warped if wet. They cost $4,000 to $9,000 installed.

Laminate cabinets

These sleek and modern cabinets look great and are easy to clean. Today's laminate comes in many colors and designs, so you can find the style you want. The cost ranges from about $5,000 to $8,000 installed.

Hardwood cabinets

Hardwood cabinets are heavy and more costly to install than other types of cabinets. Even with their high durability, warping is still possible. They cost $6,000 on the low end and up to $25,000 or more on the high end.

Thermofoil cabinets

Thermofoil cabinets are constructed of MDF and vinyl. They look similar to wood without the high price tag and are beautiful to look at, but they can also peel if exposed to high heat. They cost $7,000 and up, installed.

Kitchen cabinets installation cost by cabinet type

When it comes to updating your kitchen cabinets, your options are to install brand-new cabinets or reface and refinish your existing ones. Refacing and refinishing will save money while providing your kitchen with a sleek new look. 

Here’s what you need to know: 

• Refacing is almost 50% cheaper than replacing your cabinets. Refacing involves applying new veneers to the existing boxes or frames and installing new doors, hinges, and hardware. 
• It costs between $4000 and $6,900 to have your cabinets refaced, with an average cost of $2,800. The cost to replace your kitchen cabinets ranges from around $1,600 on the very low end to $18,000 or more on the high end.
• The refacing cost will depend on the type of finish you choose. 

When refinishing, the contractor removes any old paint or stain on the cabinets, then sands and repairs any nicks or scratches. New paint, stain, or varnish is applied to the wood, which will completely change the look and feel of your kitchen at a fraction of the cost.