Another factor determining the overall cost of your kitchen cabinet installation is the total number of linear feet installed. Expect to pay $100 to $400 per linear foot for materials, with the cost depending on the unit type, add-ons, and material. Cabinets with basic wood can be as low as $50 per linear foot. If they are made with higher-end wood, such as cherry and custom moldings, they can run as high as $500 per linear foot. When factoring in installation, expect to pay $200 to $1,000 per linear foot. However, the costs can be higher or lower based on the project’s scope.
Kitchen Cabinets Cost by Level of Customization
One factor that affects the price of the kitchen cabinet overall installation is whether you choose custom, semi-custom, prefab, or ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets. Custom options are the most expensive because they require individualized construction. Ready-to-assemble will cost homeowners the least because the prep work needs to be done by the homeowner. While we will be talking about prefabricated units for this cost guide, the table below shows how each type of cabinet compares when it comes to installed costs.
| Type | Costs per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Ready-to-Assemble | $50 - $80 |
| Prefab | $80 - $150 |
| Semi-Custom | $200 - $400 |
| Custom | $550 - $800 |
Ready-to-Assemble Cabinet Cost
Ready-to-assemble units cost $50 to $80 per linear foot for materials. They are similar to prefabricated ones in how they are stock designs and styles. The primary difference is that RTA options come in pieces that must be screwed, glued, or fixed before installing. Unless you do the assembly yourself, it can dramatically increase the labor costs for installation when using this cabinet type. This can be a cost-saving measure for some homeowners if you are willing to do the assembly and only have them installed professionally.
Prefab Kitchen Cabinets Cost
Prefabricated units are less costly than customized ones, with average prices ranging between $80 and $150 a linear foot for materials. These are good for homeowners who need guidance with their kitchen’s design. They can choose from predesigned options instead of starting from scratch. You save on labor with this option because they are designed to be easily hung and installed. If you have a unique kitchen or want a specific finish or style, you may not be able to meet your needs with prefab or stock cabinetry.
Semi-Custom Cabinet Cost
Semi-custom units cost $200 to $400 per linear foot for materials. For homeowners looking for a middle ground between prefabricated and custom options, semi-custom units provide the perfect mix. They can have a prefabricated base and custom-designed faces or trim. Or, you may use a mixture of stock cabinets with a few custom-made pieces to fit odd corners or tight spaces. This can be a more cost-effective option for homeowners who want something unique in the kitchen but are not keen on paying for fully custom cabinets.
Custom Kitchen Cabinets Cost
Custom kitchen cabinets are the most costly. These run from $550 to $800 per linear foot for materials, depending on the design, size, chosen material, and embellishments. With full custom units, everything is customized, from the design to the size and depth. Homeowners who want a truly unique kitchen look or have needs that are not met with standard sizes may find their best option being custom-made cabinets.
Kitchen Cabinets Cost by Material
You can purchase kitchen cabinets made of various materials and designs to fit every taste and decor. Plywood, MDF, veneer, and particle board are the most affordable. Hardwood varies depending on the wood type. Steel and acrylic are high-end materials.
When calculating the price of a kitchen cabinet, it is important to note that linear feet - or the length of the cabinets - is not an accurate measurement for purchase. Instead, you need the “square linear feet.” The linear feet is the length of the cabinets. The square feet is the face of each cabinet, and the square linear foot combines them. One square linear foot is accounting for the length the cabinet takes on the wall and the overall size. A simple rule of thumb is to take your measurements and get the linear foot cost. Multiply this by 2 and divide by 20 to get your total costs, which are often twice as high as the linear foot cost you started with. The other method is to simply ask for the square linear foot cost, which is more accurate. Multiply this number by the number of feet of cabinets you need to get the total project cost. The costs below are for the cabinet boxes and do not include the cost of the doors, hardware, moldings, or installation.
| Type of Material | Cost per Square Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Particle Board | $60 - $150 |
| Wood Veneer | $70 - $250 |
| MDF | $70 - $250 |
| Plywood | $70 - $300 |
| Solid Wood | $70 - $450 |
| Acrylic | $200 - $600 |
| Metal | $700 - $1,500 |
Particle Board Kitchen Cabinets
Particle board is another material option that works well when you’re on a budget. You can expect to pay between $60 and $150 per square linear foot. Theseare designed by gluing layers of particle board and covering with a laminate or veneer to make an easy-to-clean surface. It is lightweight, which also makes it easy to use. Drawbacks include the fact that it can warp easily and it is not as durable. On average, particle board cabinets last between three and five years.
Wood Veneer Kitchen Cabinets
Wood veneer cabinets run between $70 and $250 per square linear foot and are a cost-effective option that provides you with a more realistic wood look. They are made of thin layers of wood, glued together with a laminated top to create a realistic wood-look appearance. Some of the pros of wood veneer are that it is easy to fix minor scratches and nicks, durable and allows for easy care. The main drawback is the fact that it can bubble if excess moisture loosens the veneer.
MDF Kitchen Cabinets Price
Medium-Density Fiberboard or MDF cabinets are still fairly cost-effective, running an average of $70 to $250 per square linear foot for materials. This type of board is an amalgamated material made from fibers and resin, which produces units that rival the performance of solid wood. They also are considered a green building material since they are made of recycled parts. They are popular because they are less likely to crack or warp and have a high level of moisture and fire resistance. Drawbacks are that they cannot be as easily refinished, are less dense, and do not perform as well in high heat.
Plywood Kitchen Cabinets Price
The cost of plywood boxes for your cabinets is $70 to $300 per square linear foot. Plywood comes in many different wood species. It is easy to work with and gives you a more stable cabinet than solid wood because it does not swell with moisture. Plywood is the most common type of cabinet box. However, you can have birch, maple, oak, and many other wood species made of plywood, gaining their characteristics. Plywood is also used for curved cabinets and specialty cabinet shapes. It may be finished with a veneer or simply stained to show the natural wood grain.
Solid Wood Kitchen Cabinets Prices
Solid wood kitchen cabinets run $70 to $450 per square linear foot. The costs below are for the cabinet boxes and do not include the cost of the doors, hardware, moldings, or installation. They can include options like maple, oak, birch, beech, ash, pine, walnut, mahogany, bamboo, and cherry. Solid wood cabinets are sturdy and attractive, with a grain that shows throughout. They do not need veneers and can be refinished later. If you do not want doors on your cabinets, solid wood can be a nice option. The cost depends largely on the wood’s rarity and how hard it is to work with. Walnut kitchen cabinets cost more than beech or ash because walnut is typically less available and may be harder to work with. White oak kitchen cabinets cost more than ash or pine but considerably less than mahogany and cherry, which are more sought after and difficult to work with. Below are the average costs per square linear foot for the various wood cabinets.
| Type of Wood | Cost per Square Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Beech | $70 - $100 |
| Ash | $70 - $100 |
| Pine | $70 - $100 |
| Walnut | $110 - $200 |
| Oak | $110 - $200 |
| Maple | $150 - $250 |
| Birch | $150 - $255 |
| Cherry | $250 - $425 |
| Mahogany | $300 - $450 |
| Bamboo | $300 - $450 |
Acrylic Kitchen Cabinets Cost
Acrylic is one of the most desirable but also one of the most expensive materials for use in kitchen cabinets. The price goes from $200 to $600 per square linear foot. It resists moisture, stains, scratches, and other marks. They are very strong and can last a long time, even with rough wear. They are also easy to clean and available in a variety of colors. The cons of this material are that fingerprints can mar the surface, and permanent stains can occur.
Metal cabinets cost $700 to $1,500 per square linear foot. They are growing in popularity because they elevate the look of kitchens to a more modern feel. When choosing metal kitchen cabinets, you can choose aluminum or stainless steel. Both work well in various weather conditions and are durable and easy to keep clean, making them popular with homeowners who prefer less maintenance. However, stainless steel kitchen cabinets cost considerably more because they are more durable and difficult to form and work with, while aluminum is softer and easier to form into cabinets. Stainless steel cabinets can also have more finishes because the material is hard enough to take different surface treatments. Below are the average prices for materials based on the metal option.
| Metal Type | Cost per Square Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Aluminum | $700 - $1,200 |
| Stainless Steel | $1,000 - $1,500 |
New Kitchen Cabinets Prices by Type
While creating a fully customized kitchen is always an option, you can also choose from various standard-sized units designed to fit the areas in standard-layout kitchens. The price for these standard options depends on the size of the formation and cabinet components. Below are the average costs per linear foot for materials based on the most common types of standard options.
| Type | Costs per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Wall | $100 - $300 |
| Base | $100 - $500 |
| Corner | $180 - $1,000 |
| Specialty / Utility | $500 - $3,000 |
Cost of Wall Cabinets
Wall cabinets hang on the walls above the countertop. These average $100 to $300 per linear foot, depending on the size and materials. They offer the advantage of providing additional storage for the kitchen without occupying floor space. They are at a comfortable height for you to reach and grab the items you need. You must determine the appropriate depth for your wall units for the proper height underneath for appliances you wish to keep there.
Cost of Base Cabinets
Base cabinets are placed beneath the countertop, helping support it and providing a lower level of storage for the kitchen. The average price varies from $100 to $500. They are often easier to install than wall units because they do not need to be lifted and securely attached to the wall. Kitchen island base cabinet prices are higher because they are often more customized to hold items on the island.
Kitchen Corner Cabinet Price
The average cost of corner units ranges from $180 to $1,000 per linear foot. They fit into room corners 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. This cabinet can separate the kitchen area into a larger space or provide storage in a small kitchen.
Utility Cabinets Prices
Utility cabinets are often much larger than base or wall units. The average cost ranges from $500 to $3,000 per linear foot. They often feature various doors, drawers, and storage spaces, offering flexibility. Sink base cabinets, which hold the kitchen sink, are utility cabinets. Other utility cabinets may include those designed to hold trash cans or trash compactors, cleaning materials, and larger pots, pans, and other equipment. Due to their larger size, these cabinets are the most expensive.
Framed vs Frameless Cabinets Cost
When choosing the best cabinets for your kitchen design, you must decide between framed and frameless options. The primary difference is how they are constructed and installed. With a framed unit, there is a face frame made of rails and horizontal and vertical supports between the solid wood face and the box. Frameless units are affixed through the side panels. The costs below are for the cabinet boxes and do not include the cost of the doors, hardware, moldings, or installation.
| Type | Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Framed | $100 - $350 |
| Frameless | $150 - $400 |
Framed Kitchen Cabinets
Framed units cost $100 to $350 per linear foot for materials. They come in a range of materials and styles and are more affordable than frameless ones. Framed cabinets can have two different overlays or the amount of frame visible when the door is shut. Full overlays allow the door front to cover most of the frame. They are more expensive because the door is large. Partial overlay units are more common and have the doors and drawers sitting on the face with a small gap allowing the frame to be seen. Partial overlays are more traditional than full. Below are the basic differences in price between opting for full or partial overlays.
| Type of Overlay | Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Partial | $100 - $275 |
| Full | $175 - $350 |
Frameless Kitchen Cabinets
Frameless units are the more expensive option, running from $150 to $400 per linear foot. This option provides a more contemporary design. They are easy to hang, accessible, and made of durable materials. The main cons of this option, aside from the price, is the way they are installed, making them more prone to warping. Also, you will have more limitations when it comes to style and color choice. While frameless units can be made using most materials, you will commonly see wood or metal options.
Kitchen Cabinet Prices by Quality
The quality of your cabinets also impacts the total cost of your kitchen design. The quality level largely depends on the materials, how they are constructed, and the number of available customizing options. When talking about quality, there are three main categories: budget, mid-level, and premium. Budget cabinets often use materials like particle board and may have a real wood veneer to make them look nicer. The doors are often made of real wood, but because the box and shelves are not, they often do not last as long. Mid-level cabinets may be made of plywood or MDF with a veneer. The doors are usually made of wood, and you start seeing options at this level for more moldings and trim options and soft-closing drawers or dovetail drawer box construction. Premium materials always use high-quality plywood or solid wood boxes, or they may be made of acrylic or steel. They almost always feature soft-close drawers, dovetail construction, anti-slam hinges, and other features, setting them apart and ensuring they last much longer. Below are the average cost per linear foot of each quality level.
| Quality Level | Cost per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Budget | $50 - $80 |
| Mid-Level | $100 - $200 |
| Premium | $300 - $800 |
Cost of Kitchen Cabinets by Finish
Some people love the appearance of wood and others like the rainbow of hues that paint offers. You can have painted or smooth-finish cabinets in your home. You must decide which type best fits your home and style.
Unfinished options are great for those who may want to paint them in the future or are looking for a rustic appearance. Thermofoil is another popular option with many styles and colors that uses heated and pressurized vinyl to create an MDF core. Painted cabinets provide a smooth finish in any shade to match your kitchen, while wood stain can help highlight the wood grain. Below are the average costs per unit for the cabinets with the various finishes available.
| Type of Finish | Cost per Unit (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Unfinished | $80 - $200 |
| Painted / Stained | $130 - $360 |
| Thermofoil | $250 - $350 |
Labor Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets
The labor cost to install cabinets depends on which professional you hire. The installers plan and prepare the area for setup. You can also hire a handyman with experience in similar projects.
The top cabinets are installed first, followed by the base units. It is important to note that assembling cabinets, which involves constructing the box portion, is part of the preparation and not the total process or cost. If you are quoted a price for assembling them, you also pay to install them.
Whether you choose a cabinet installer or handyman to perform your project, each may have their own way of charging. They may charge per box or completed cabinet. They may also charge per linear foot or by the hour. If you plan to have a designer come in to help, expect to pay $50 to $250.
Handymen and cabinet installers are the most common professionals involved in this installation. Below is a breakdown of the cost difference between a professional installer and handyman based on the different ways they charge.
| Pricing Type | Handyman (Labor Only) | Cabinet Installer (Labor Only) |
|---|
| Per Hour | $50 - $100 | $70 - $200 |
| Per Box | $100 - $200 | $105 - $300 |
| Per Linear Foot | $125 - $275 | $150 - $380 |
Cabinet Installation Prices per Hour
Your professional may choose to charge by the hour for their cabinet installation work. When you hire a handyman, you can expect to pay between $50 to $100 per hour. A professional installer is likely to charge an average of $70 to $200 per hour. The main difference between the two types of professionals is that a cabinet installer would most likely be contracted out from where you purchase your units. A handyman would be an outside person you hire on your own. Hourly billing is typical for jobs with a lot of customization and those with more difficult installation.
Cabinet Installation Price per Box
If your professional charges per cabinet to install new kitchen cabinets, the cost is $100 to $200 per box if you use the services of a handyman or $105 to $300 per box when using a professional installer. Some professionals use this pricing if they anticipate various cabinet sizes and types. In this case, they may quote several line item costs. For example, they may charge one price for smaller wall-hung cabinets and another for larger utility cabinets. This ensures they get a fair rate for complex jobs and do not need to overcharge on the easier items.
Suppose the professional you select to install your kitchen cabinets charges per linear foot for installation. In that case, you can expect to pay an average of $125 to $275 per linear foot for labor if using a handyman, or somewhere between $150 to $380 per linear foot when using the services of a cabinet installer. Pricing by linear foot is often a common method when pricing a large kitchen with several standard-sized units.
Average Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets by Type
The kitchen cabinet type affects the price due to the differences in material costs and labor. Certain types require more labor-intensive installation, adding to the project cost. Each cabinet comes in different widths, heights, and depths, impacting its total cost and the installation cost. If a wall cabinet’s cost is $100 per linear foot and it is 3’ wide, then its unit cost is $300 plus the cost of installation, making its cost between $450 and $500. However, a wall cabinet may also be 12” wide, making its total costs $250 to $300. Below are the labor costs for each type and the overall installation cost.
| Type | Labor Costs to Install (per Unit) | Total Installation Cost (per Unit) |
|---|
| Wall | $150 - $200 | $250 - $1,100 |
| Base | $200 - $325 | $275 - $2,325 |
| Corner | $265 - $370 | $865 - $3,370 |
| Utility | $300 - $485 | $400 - $9,485 |
Cost to Install Wall Cabinets
The labor cost to install wall cabinets runs from $150 to $200. With material included, expect to pay $250 to $1,100. They are the least expensive in materials and labor costs because they can easily be anchored into the wall and ceiling. Wall installation can be problematic if the wall is uneven, increasing labor costs. Wall installations may also be more difficult if appliances like your refrigerator are taller.
Cost to Install Base Cabinets
Base cabinets cost more than wall units to install, with an average labor cost of $200 to $325 per box and a total average installation cost of $275 to $2,325 each. Base cabinets come in widths as small as 9”, meaning the lowest cost to install a cabinet per unit is lower than its linear foot cost. The material chosen can raise the total price of installation. Another factor affecting the price is the flooring type. This installation is relatively easy but can be challenging in kitchens where the cabinets run the length of the walls. It may require some customization on the size of the base units to make sure they fit.
Corner Cabinet Installation
Corner cabinet installation labor costs run from $265 to $370. The cost, including installation and materials, ranges from $865 to $3,370. Corner cabinets are generally around 3 linear feet, so their per-unit costs are often much higher. Corner cabinet installation can be more difficult because they must be created in special shapes and sections that fit to create the angle of the kitchen space. During installation, you need to ensure plenty of space around the corner unit to maneuver appliances if they need to be replaced.
Utility Cabinet Installation
Installing a utility cabinet costs $300 to $485 in labor costs and comes to a total overall installation average of $400 to $9,485, depending on the size and material. A utility cabinet can be as small as 12” wide and may be much larger. The total project cost largely depends on the cabinet’s size and design and additional cutouts or areas for sinks or other enhancements. These installations range from moderate to difficult, accounting for the cost range.
Cost to Install New Kitchen Cabinets by Cabinet Size
Another major factor affecting the cost of your cabinet installation project is the size of the cabinets you install. This mainly affects the material costs but may slightly change installation costs. While there are several sizes you can choose from to customize your kitchen and maximize your storage space, you can find a few standard options in most kitchens. Wall and utility cabinets have the most size variation, while corner cabinets have the least. Most corner cabinets measure around 36” in width, 35” in height, and 24” in depth. Base cabinets always have the same height and depth but may come in different widths. Below are some of the common sizes and the average cost per unit, including installation.
Cost to Install Wall Kitchen Cabinets
Wall cabinets come in a range of lengths, widths, and depths, depending on which kitchen areas they will be installed in and the appliances they have around them. Heights typically come in 12” ranges, with 12” being the smallest. Standard depth sizes run between 12” and 24”, and widths are in 3” increments starting at 9”. Below are the common sizes that most kitchens use and the average cost for the materials and installation.
| Size (Width x Height x Depth) | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|
| 24”x30”x12” | $300 - $800 |
| 27”x30”x15” | $375 - $875 |
| 30”x36”x18” | $400 - $950 |
Cost to Install Base Kitchen Cabinets
While there are many sizes that base cabinets come in to fit in various kitchens, the range is often less than with wall units. Most are 35” tall because this is the standard height of kitchen countertops. Depths are also standard, with the most common being 24”. The main variation is in widths, which range in increments of 12” and 12” being the lowest. Below are the most common sizes of base cabinets and the cost for materials and installation.
| Size (Width x Height x Depth) | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|
| 12”x35”x24” | $300 - $825 |
| 24”x35”x24” | $400 - $1,325 |
| 36”x35”x24” | $500 - $1,825 |
Install Kitchen Utility Cabinet Price
Kitchen utility cabinets come in many sizes. Because a utility cabinet can be used as a wall or base cabinet, depending on its use, it can have the same sizes as wall and base cabinets, including the varying depths, widths, and heights. For example, if the utility cabinet is a sink base cabinet, it likely has measurements of 35” in height, 36” or more in width, and 24” in depth. However, a utility cabinet used for a trash can may have a height of 35”, a width of 12”, and a depth of 24”, and a utility cabinet that sits on the kitchen counter and extends upwards may have a height of 42”, a width of 15”, and a depth of 12”. This can create a range of costs for utility cabinets, depending on their use and where in the cabinet layout they are installed. Below are the costs of some of the more common sizes for utility cabinets and their costs for materials and installation.
| Size (Width x Height x Depth) | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|
| 18”x35”x24” | $1,150 - $4,985 |
| 24”x36”x12” | $1,400 - $6,485 |
| 36”x35”x24” | $1,900 - $9,485 |
Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets by Kitchen Size
Your kitchen’s size will most likely impact the project’s cost. The larger your kitchen, the more cabinets you are likely to install. For example, a galley kitchen of 70 sq.ft. may have just one run of cabinets, but a galley kitchen of 90 sq.ft. may have two. L and U-shaped kitchens can also have more cabinets, but an L or U-shaped kitchen may not always use cabinets on the short bends, using a peninsula to separate the kitchen from another room instead. This means your kitchen’s size influences the project’s cost, but there can still be a range, depending on the layout, number of cabinets, and cabinet type and style. Below are the average costs for installing cabinets of mid-grade quality in kitchens of various sizes, assuming a small kitchen is between 70 and 90 sq.ft, a medium-sized kitchen is between 100 and 150 sq.ft., and a large kitchen is between 150 and 300 sq.ft. If your kitchen falls outside these ranges or you use budget or premium cabinets, your costs could be different.
| Kitchen Size | Installed Price (Bottom Only) | Installed Price (Bottom and Top) |
|---|
| Small | $2,500 - $5,800 | $3,500 - $8,800 |
| Medium | $2,500 - $11,400 | $3,500 - $17,600 |
| Large | $5,000 - $22,000 | $7,000 - $36,000 |
Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
If you already have kitchen cabinets and need to replace them, you must cover the cost of removing and disposing of the old ones. The labor costs of replacement include the new ones and the labor to install them. The cost varies depending on the number of cabinets, but expect to pay between $300 and $500 for removal. This is in addition to the new cabinet installation. If your walls and floors do not need updating and you do not make changes to the kitchen or the layout, replacement costs are between $4,300 and $9,500 for mid-grade cabinets. Your costs could increase if you change the layout, need to make modifications, or have mold or water damage that must be repaired before the new cabinets are installed.
Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops
When you decide to remodel your kitchen completely, you likely have to replace your kitchen cabinets and countertops. Occasionally, if your cabinets or your countertops are in good condition and you are using the exact layout, you may keep one to reuse. However, if there are size or dimension changes, both must be replaced. Part of the cost includes demolishing and removing the countertops and cabinets, costing $300 to $500. The cost of new countertops and cabinets ranges from $5,500 to $13,500, depending on the countertop type. This makes the total $5,800 to $14,000 to replace the cabinets and countertops in your kitchen. These costs assume you do not change the kitchen layout or make major repairs due to water damage. These could increase the total project cost.
Kitchen Cabinet Door Cosr by Design
The door design of your kitchen cabinets affects the overall price. One of the least expensive options is the slab door. Slab cabinets include one flat piece covering the cabinet and are most often made of MDF. They are easy to clean and are a popular choice for contemporary kitchens. Flat-panel doors are another popular and affordable option. This is one of the most commonly used and has the center panel slightly below the door frame. They provide homeowners with more variety in style options. If you are looking for doors with more design, you can use mitered doors, which have more intricate detailing along the face, allowing more customization.
Adding a plain glass panel insert on your kitchen cabinet doors adds a modern look. The most expensive door options are mullioned glass inset panel doors, which have a glass panel with decorative trim to create a modern look while providing some privacy. The costs shown in the table below are for materials only.
| Design | Price per Door (Materials Only) |
|---|
| Slab | $20 - $40 |
| Flat Panel | $20 - $45 |
| Mitered | $35 - $65 |
| Plain Glass Inset Panel | $70 - $100 |
| Mullioned Glass Inset Panel | $90 - $175 |
Add-Ons
There are several nice features you can choose from, such as self-closing to prevent the cabinet doors from banging shut, roll-out islands to place trash receptacles, pull-out shelves so that you can see what is in each cabinet, double trash cabinets, ironing board pull-outs, ergonomic drawers, vertical dividers for cooking sheets, corner storage, and units with a lazy Susan. Knobs and handles allow you to open the door easily and add interest to the design, while soft-closing systems can prevent wear. If you want to swap a cabinet for a drawer bank, this is considered an add-on but can allow you to change how the cabinet is used. Pull-out spice racks and shelves are helpful for keeping things organized, while wine racks can enhance the design and provide more storage. Undercabinet lighting can also enhance your kitchen’s function. This is a popular addition to many cabinet designs. Below are the average costs for each of the most popular kitchen cabinet add-ons.
| Add-On Type | Cost (Installed) |
|---|
| Under Cabinet Lighting | $225 - $425/project |
| Knobs | $1 - $100/each |
| Handles | $2 - $125/each |
| Soft-Closing System | $15 - $45/each |
| Drawers | $25 - $40/each |
| Spice Pull-Out Rack | $80 - $850/each |
| Wine Rack | $100 - $400/each |
| Pull Out Shelves | $140 - $350/each |
| Lazy Susan | $350 - $900/each |
Color Ideas and Designs
While there are many styles and design schemes to revolve your kitchen design around, from Mediterranean to rustic, a few of the most widely used styles include traditional, modern, farmhouse, and contemporary.
A traditional kitchen style provides a timeless, elegant feel that is comfortable and inviting. In this style, you see more classic design elements and fresh colors. Some popular colors for 2023 that work well in traditional kitchens include classic white, natural wood stains, and even a few shades of gray, blue, and green. Painted cabinets are popular in many traditional designs. Modern kitchens are sleek and minimal, often utilizing high-end and exotic materials. In 2023, you may also see more sleek, black cabinets and some with natural wood that let exotic grains show through. This style shows beautiful bare countertops and minor artistic details throughout the room. Those who enjoy a more rustic decor will like farmhouse-style kitchens designed to be intimate, cozy, and full of decoration. The room features many natural materials and detailing, from the cabinets to the countertops. Farmhouse design works beautifully with painted cabinets. Look for shades of blue or dark blue-green, which are popular in 2023 in many farmhouse designs.
For those who like transitional kitchens - designs that can straddle two or more styles - popular colors include gray and earth tones, which work in many styles and can bridge the different styles for a unified look.
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 allows for much easier meal preparation 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 one a purpose and start placing the items back in. For example, one 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.
Cleaning
Keeping your kitchen cabinets clean improves their longevity and helps them maintain their aesthetic appeal. Depending on the type of material, failure to keep them clean can lead to warping, discoloration, and blotching. They should be wiped down whenever they have water exposure or a spill and fully cleaned once or twice a year. All you need to do is clear them out and wipe the entire cabinet using warm soapy water and a microfiber cloth. Wipe the soap residue with a wet cloth and then dry them before replacing the items. It is important to note that if you have glass panels on the front, you should use glass cleaner to clean them as needed.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Sink Replacement
When installing kitchen cabinets, you may also decide to upgrade or replace your current sink. Installing a new sink averages $400 to $1,000, depending on the style and size. Kitchen sinks are quite versatile. You can go with a more rustic appearance and choose a farm basin, opt for a modern and clean look with stainless steel, or bring a more traditional feel to your kitchen with ceramic.
New Countertop Installation
Installing new kitchen countertops is common when new cabinets are installed. Most homeowners pay between $1,500 and $4,500 for the project. Options for kitchen countertops are as diverse as the options for cabinets. For a more rustic look, choose a butcher block. Those looking for a high-end and modern finish to their kitchen may want to consider copper, quartz, granite, and recycled glass. You can choose concrete and tile for countertop materials. This versatility allows homeowners to customize their kitchen look.
Built-In Appliances
If you plan to add or upgrade any appliances that will be built into the cabinets, such as a dishwasher, stove hood, or microwave, doing so when installing your new kitchen cabinets will make the process much simpler. Total installation costs for built-in appliances have a wide range and mainly depend on the appliance being installed and any wiring or plumbing associated with it. Expect to pay between $200 and $2,000 to have a built-in appliance installed.
Kitchen Cabinet Painting
For homeowners trying to achieve a certain color scheme to have their kitchen cabinets worked into their decor can choose to have them painted. Expect to pay between $3 and $12 per sq.ft. for cabinet painting, depending on the material, color, and paint type. Plywood units are the least expensive to paint, averaging $3 to $5 per sq.ft. since they need little preparation and absorb paint well. Steel options are the most expensive, costing $7 to $12 per sq.ft. because it takes more preparation to get the paint to adhere properly.
Cost to Add Crown Molding to Kitchen Cabinets
Adding crown molding to your cabinets averages $150 to $350 per project. Molding adds more detail to your unit, enhancing or even changing the overall look. The cost you pay for your crown molding mostly depends on the wood type and its thickness.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Location. Where you live affects the price of installing kitchen cabinets because of supply and demand. Large cities have more competition, so businesses may offer lower prices. However, the higher cost of living may balance out any potential savings.
- House décor. You can have matching cabinets installed in your bathroom, laundry room, or supply room, creating a cohesive style throughout the house.
- Prep work. Prepare for the installation day by removing all breakables, valuables, and other items from the old units. Clear a path for them to be removed and the new ones brought into the home.
- Kitchen design. Always consider kitchen appliances when designing your kitchen and selecting cabinets. Also, consider the kitchen flow and which items you want close to each appliance so that your cabinets can be designed to accommodate them.
- Licensed installers. Many retailers work with dedicated cabinet installers. If you want to hire a handyman or solo cabinet installer, ensure they are licensed and bonded.
- Maintenance. Maintenance depends on the cabinet type. Most are easily wiped clean with a mild cleaner. However, wood units require a specialized wood cleaner.
- ROI. Renovating your kitchen might seem expensive, but you will garner a 65% to 80% return on your investment if you decide to sell your home.
- Saving tips. If you are looking for saving tips, perform as much of the project as possible before you call in the professionals. Many people can easily remove their old kitchen cabinets and save on removal costs.
- Lifespan. If you are wondering how long your kitchen cabinets will last after installing them, note that the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors states that most will last for around 30 to 60 years after installation.
- Change location. Some homeowners change the cabinets around in the kitchen when they remodel. On average, expect to pay between $200 and $600, depending on how well they will fit in the new location.
- Cabinet refacing. An alternative to having your cabinets replaced is to have them refaced. Refacing allows you to keep the current units in place and give them a new look. It costs from $7,000 to $12,000 for the entire kitchen.
- Refinishing. Another alternative is to refinish your cabinets. This involves sanding, painting, staining, and replacing the hardware. The average costs for the entire kitchen are $1,000 to $3,000.
FAQs
- Can cabinets be installed on concrete?
Yes, cabinets can be installed on concrete. Installing base and wall units on concrete can be more expensive because extensive anchoring needs to be done to affix them securely.
- How much do cabinet installers make?
On average, cabinet installers make between $30,000 and $40,000 per year, depending on their geographic location and whether they work for a company or are independent.
- Which wood is best for kitchen cabinets?
Maple is considered one of the best types of wood for creating kitchen cabinets as it is easy to work with and readily available. In some cases, homeowners may choose based on the coloring and grain of a certain wood.
- How long does it take to install kitchen cabinets?
The length of time it takes to install kitchen cabinets depends on the size of the kitchen and the customization needed. You can expect most projects to take two to three days to complete.
- What is the best month to buy kitchen cabinets?
Most companies have a slow time in December and January, which could give you some discounts. However, most kitchen contractors book 12 to 18 months out, and it is important to book your project as soon as possible to get onto lists regardless of the time of year.
- What adds the most value to a kitchen?
This is often a blend of the layout and cabinets. A well-laid-out kitchen with good-quality cabinets will add a lot of value to the home, even if the cabinets are a few years old.
- Are staggered kitchen cabinets out of style?
Staggered cabinets can break up a large wall and make a kitchen look more interesting. This trend is not expected to fall out of style any time soon.
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