How Much Does It Cost To Install Cabinets?

How much does it cost to install kitchen cabinets?

Installing kitchen cabinets costs anywhere from $3,200 to $8,500. These numbers are based on an average size kitchen using mid-range materials. Using these numbers as a ballpark will let you budget for either more cost-effective options or higher-end or custom cabinet choices, like upgraded hardware or finishes.

Labor cost to install kitchen cabinets

A ready-made kitchen cabinet generally takes between one and two hours to install, with a cabinet installer typically charging between $35 and $65 per hour. The labor charges for installing custom cabinets are usually folded into the overall costs of design and construction, rather than being quoted separately.

Typical costs to install cabinet hardware

Cabinet hardware comes in a variety of styles, finishes, and price points. For example, knobs attach to a cabinet door with a single screw and are generally smaller than pulls, which have two screws and a longer design. Knobs are generally less expensive overall, but the item cost will depend on the material, quality, and brand. Expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $50 per cabinet box for hardware, which includes pulls or knobs and hinges.

Kitchen cabinets installation per linear foot

Both the materials and labor for cabinet installation projects are typically quoted per linear foot. Cost-conscious stock materials range from $100 to $280 per linear foot, while custom cabinet materials come in between $500 and $1,200 per linear foot.

Stock cabinets are faster and easier to install. This is reflected in the average installation labor cost, which can be as low as $50 per foot. Custom cabinets or unique materials, like steel, can be as much as $450 per foot. 

The table below shows the national average for installing cabinets per linear foot:

Kitchen cabinet installation by square footage

It’s possible that your cabinet installer will give you a quote based on the overall square footage of your kitchen. Below is a list of average costs to install mid-range or basic cabinets by the square foot. For custom designs, expect to pay up to 50% or more for installation.

• 70-square feet: If you have a galley kitchen, you can install new basic cabinets for as little as $1,700. High-end materials can be up to $11,000 or more.
• 120-square feet: A mid-sized kitchen should run you anywhere from $2,200 to $14,000.
• 200-square feet: Large kitchens with more cabinet space can cost between $4,000 and $26,000.

300-square feet: Very large kitchens typically have extensive cabinetry, which can cost between $6,000 and $39,000.

Cost to install cabinets by build 

When you choose your cabinets you'll pay the least for ready-made stock items, with the price rising according to the level of custom design and construction that's needed.

Stock material

Stock cabinets are generally made of particleboard with wood veneer. You’ll be limited to the finishes that the manufacturer offers, and cabinets will come disassembled. 

Stock cabinets range from $50 to $200 per linear foot or $100 to $650 for each unit.

Mid-level

Coming in between $180 and $280 per linear foot, mid-range cabinets offer better quality materials and more finishing options. Instead of particleboard, mid-range cabinets are typically made of veneered wood, meaning they’ll be more durable in the long run.

Semi-custom

A higher price point comes with more flexibility in terms of style and finish. Mid-range and semi-custom cabinets come pre-assembled, reducing the chance of mistakes during installation. Semi-custom cabinets vary in price from $75 to $400 per foot or $150 to $800 per cabinet box.

Custom work

Custom cabinets impart a high-end feel to any kitchen. You’re able to choose styles, materials, and finishes to suit your space. Kitchens with unique dimensions or angles often require custom cabinets, which can cost anywhere from $300 to $750 per linear foot. Individual cabinet boxes cost about $600 and up.

Cabinet installation by type

Cabinet installation has several primary elements. Depending on the design of your kitchen, your project may need multiple installation types.

Wall cabinets

Wall cabinets are typically used for storing things like dishes. These are the most common type of cabinet and cost around $100 to $300 each for installation.

Base cabinets

Base cabinets sit on your floor, providing storage space and a foundation for your countertop. Base cabinets cost $100 to $600 to install, depending on the size and material.

Corner cabinets

Corner cabinets are meant to maximize storage in otherwise unusable spaces. Prices can range from $180 all the way up to $1,000 if you choose pull-out storage racks or other space-saving features.

Specialty or utility cabinets

Utility cabinets are often used as pantries, containing a mix of drawers, shelves, and regular cabinet space behind a single door. They tend to be larger than regular cabinets with extra features. They cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000 and up.

The cost to install cabinets in different materials

Figure out the overall cost of your kitchen cabinet installation project by deciding on the material that fits your budget before you choose a particular style or finish. Here’s a list of the most common cabin-making materials:

Plywood or MDF

Plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) also called particleboard - are engineered wood products. They’re a cost-effective way to install new kitchen cabinets and cost between $100 and $300 per foot. With a thin veneer finish, these types of cabinets can’t be sanded to fix scuffs or scrapes, and they’re vulnerable to swelling and warping in humid conditions.

Hardwood

Hardwood cabinets cost $150 and $600 per linear foot and add an upscale element to any kitchen renovation project. Hardwood cabinets come in a variety of materials and can easily be sanded and restained if you decide to switch up the finish.

Steel

Steel cabinets are resilient and stand up well to scratches and water damage. However, this durability comes at a cost of $1,000 to $1,500 per linear foot. Steel cabinets are a great option if you’re targeting a modern kitchen design, but they’re more challenging to incorporate into traditional-style kitchens.

Acrylic

Acrylic cabinets are the number one choice due to their variety of colors and styles and their overall durability. The price point is high, coming in between $5,000 and $20,000 per cabinet.

Typical cost to replace cabinets

Replacing cabinets costs essentially the same as new cabinet installation, plus an additional cost between $300 and $500 for removing and disposing of the old cabinets. The total average project cost is between $2,000 and $20,000. 

Expect additional costs if you plan on making changes to the layout of your kitchen that requires electrical, painting, or carpentry work.

Average cost to remove cabinets

Cabinet installers will generally charge between $300 and $500 to remove and dispose of old cabinets. Most cabinet installers will include this in a remodel quote, but it’s a good practice to ensure it’s been included, so there aren’t any surprises on your final bill.

DIY cabinet installation vs hiring a professional contractor

The costs of mistakes while installing cabinets can be high, especially with more expensive types of cabinets. However, with experience and the right tools, a competent DIYer can fit a cabinet without too much trouble. If you’re not confident in your skills, ask a pro to do the installation for you.

Consider existing appliances: Refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, microwaves, and other appliances need to be incorporated into your new kitchen design. Built-in appliances look sleek but can also make swapping appliances trickier. 

Get advice from a carpenter: According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, kitchen cabinets have an expected lifespan of 50 years. Discuss all options with a professional installer or get advice from a carpenter before moving ahead with this project. 

Cabinets are likely to be a part of your home for a long time.