I know how frustrating it is to stare at worn-out cabinets and wonder how much kitchen cabinet replacement actually costs. You deserve straight answers, not confusing estimates.
I’ve spent years helping homeowners like you navigate renovation pricing. I’ll break down everything in this guide.
We’ll cover ready-made versus custom cabinet pricing, installation labor costs that actually matter, and whether you should replace or just refresh your cabinets. I’ll also share real numbers for your budget planning.
No fluff. No sales pitch. Just honest information you can trust to make the right choice for your home. Let’s figure out what your kitchen renovation will really cost.
Kitchen Cabinet Replacement Costs
Most homeowners spend $4,000 to $13,000 to replace kitchen cabinets. The wide range depends on your kitchen size, a small galley kitchen costs far less than a large U-shaped layout with an island.
Cabinet type makes the biggest difference. Stock cabinets from hardware stores are much cheaper than custom-built options. Installation is the other major cost factor. DIY work saves thousands, while hiring a pro adds $2,000 to $5,000 but guarantees quality results.
The average mid-range project runs about $11,000 total with decent cabinets and professional installation. Budget DIY projects can cost as little as $2,000, while luxury custom cabinets can reach $30,000 or more.
Average Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinet
This is going to help you figure out what
| Cost Category | Price Range | Details |
| Total Project Cost | $4,000 – $13,000 | Most homeowners spend within this range for complete cabinet replacement |
| Average Mid-Range Project | $11,000 | Typical cost for mid-range cabinets with professional installation in an average-sized kitchen |
| Basic to Mid-Range Cabinets | $100 – $280 per linear foot | Includes cabinet boxes and doors (installation not included) |
| High-End Custom Cabinets | Up to $1,200 per linear foot | Premium materials, custom designs, and exact measurements for your specific space |
Types of Kitchen Cabinets and Their Costs
Kitchen cabinets come in three types: stock ($100-$300/ft), semi-custom ($150-$650/ft), and custom ($500-$1,500+/ft).
Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinets come pre-made in standard sizes. You buy them off the shelf at home improvement stores. They arrive ready to install.
These cabinets cost $60 to $200 per cabinet or $100 to $280 per linear foot. They’re the most affordable option for cabinet replacement.
The good news: Stock cabinets save you money and arrive quickly. You can take them home the same day. Installation is straightforward.
The downside: Limited sizes mean they might not fit your space perfectly. You have fewer color and style choices. Quality varies by brand.
Stock cabinets work well for rental properties or tight budgets. They’re also good if your kitchen has standard measurements.
Semi-Custom Cabinets
The price range is $150 to $650 per cabinet or $200 to $550 per linear foot. You pay more than stock but less than full custom.
These cabinets fit homeowners who want some personalization. You get better quality than stock. But you don’t pay custom cabinet prices.
Order time runs 4 to 8 weeks. You can pick from more door styles and wood types. Some brands let you choose interior features too.
Custom Cabinets
Costs range from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot. Some luxury projects go even higher. You’re paying for skilled craftsmanship and unique materials.
Custom work is ideal for unusual kitchen layouts. It’s also perfect if you want specific wood types or special features. High-end homes often use custom cabinets.
The build time takes 8 to 12 weeks or longer. You work with a designer to plan every detail. The result is cabinets that fit your exact vision.
Material Choices and Their Impact on Price
Cabinet materials include laminate ($50-$200/ft), wood veneer ($150-$400/ft), and solid wood ($200-$1,000+/ft).
Popular Wood Types
Alder: is a light-colored softwood that costs less. It stains well but dents easier than hardwoods.
Maple: is strong and affordable. It has a smooth grain and works with many kitchen styles. This wood is very popular for mid-range cabinets.
Oak: shows a prominent grain pattern. It’s durable and classic. Red oak costs less than white oak.
Cherry: darkens over time and looks rich. It’s a premium hardwood with a higher price tag.
Hickory: is one of the strongest woods. It has a rustic look with varied grain patterns.
Walnut: is dark and expensive. It’s a luxury choice for high-end kitchens.
Alternative Materials
MDF: (medium-density fiberboard) is an engineered wood product. It costs less than solid wood. It works well for painted cabinets but doesn’t handle moisture well.
Plywood: is stronger than MDF and more water-resistant. It costs a bit more but lasts longer in kitchens.
Thermofoil: is a plastic coating over MDF or plywood. It resists moisture and costs less than wood. The finish can peel over time.
Laminate: is affordable and easy to clean. It comes in many colors and patterns. It’s not as durable as wood cabinets.
Installation Costs and Labor Rates
|
Option |
Cost |
Key Points |
|
Professional Installer |
$50-$150/cabinet or $40-$100/hr |
Standard installation service |
|
General Contractor |
Higher |
Handles all work, coordinates trades, one contact |
|
Handyman |
Lower |
Less experience, simple jobs only |
|
DIY |
$0 labor |
Needs tools/time/skill, risk of damage |
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Choosing between DIY and professional installation can save you thousands or ensure flawless results. Here’s how each option compares in cost, time, and quality.
DIY Installation
- Savings: $2,000 to $4,000 in labor costs
- Best for: Simple layouts, small kitchens, stock cabinets
- Time needed: 1 to 2 weeks
- Risks: Crooked cabinets, gaps, difficult heavy lifting
Hiring a Professional
- Cost: $2,000 to $5,000 ($50-$150 per cabinet or $40-$100/hour)
- Timeline: 2 to 5 days completion
- Benefits: Perfectly level cabinets, warranty included
- Best for: Complex layouts, custom cabinets, if you lack carpentry experience or tools
Additional Cost Factors to Consider
Kitchen Size and Layout
A small galley kitchen needs fewer cabinets than a large U-shaped kitchen. Complex layouts with corners, angles, and islands take longer to install and cost more.
Removing old cabinets costs $300 to $500 if you hire someone. DIY removal saves money but takes time and effort.
Hardware, Trim, and Accessories
Cabinet handles and knobs cost $2 to $40 each. Multiply that by every door and drawer. The cost adds up fast.
Glass front inserts run $50 to $100 per door. Soft-close hinges cost $5 to $15 per hinge. Under-cabinet lighting ranges from $100 to $500 total.
Crown molding and trim pieces add a finished look. Budget $200 to $600 for these extras.
Regional Price Variations
Where you live affects costs significantly. Big cities have higher labor rates than rural areas. Coastal regions typically cost more than the Midwest or South.
Get local quotes to understand your area’s pricing. Online averages are just starting points.
Factors That Actually Affect Your Cabinet Replacement Costs
Your final bill depends on way more than just picking cabinets off a shelf. Let me walk you through what really drives the price up or down.
Kitchen Size:A 10-foot galley kitchen needs maybe 10 to 12 cabinets total. A large U-shaped kitchen with an island? You’re looking at 25 to 30 cabinets or more.
Cabinet Type:Stock cabinets cost $100 to $280 per linear foot. Semi-custom runs $200 to $550 per linear foot. Custom cabinets hit $500 to $1,200 per linear foot. That’s a huge difference for the same space.
Material Quality:Laminate costs $50 to $200 per linear foot. Wood veneer runs $150 to $400 per linear foot. Solid wood like cherry or walnut hits $200 to $1,000 per linear foot or more.
Installation Labor:Professionals charge $50 to $150 per cabinet installed. For 20 cabinets, that’s $1,000 to $3,000 just for labor. DIY saves that money but takes weeks of your time.
Hardware and Extras:Cabinet handles cost $2 to $40 each. Soft-close hinges add $5 to $15 each. Crown molding runs $200 to $600. Under-cabinet lighting hits $100 to $500.
Refinishing vs. Replacing
Sometimes you don’t need a full replacement. Refinishing saves money if your cabinets are in good shape.
| Option | Cost | Key Points |
| Professional Installer | $50-$150/cabinet or $40-$100/hr | Standard installation service |
| General Contractor | Higher | Handles all work, coordinates trades, one contact |
| Handyman | Lower | Less experience, simple jobs only |
| DIY | $0 labor | Needs tools/time/skill, risk of damage |
Ways to Save on Cabinet Replacement Costs
Compare Quotes and Suppliers:
- Get at least three quotes from Home Depot, Lowe’s, CabinetNow, and local cabinet shops
- Don’t choose based on price alone—check quality, warranty, and reviews
- Slightly higher prices often mean better cabinets that last longer
Mix Stock and Custom Options:
- Use stock cabinet boxes with custom or semi-custom doors for a hybrid approach
- Install stock cabinets on less visible walls
- Put nicer cabinets where people see them most
Plan During Sales or Promotions:
- Big box stores offer cabinet sales several times a year
- Holiday weekends and end-of-year clearances save 20% to 40%
- Order during slow seasons (late fall and winter) for better contractor rates
Conclusion
Most homeowners spend $4,000 to $13,000 on cabinet replacement, but your final cost depends on the choices you make today.
My advice from years of renovation projects: Get at least three quotes before deciding. Don’t rush, the cheapest option isn’t always the smartest.
Pro tip that actually works: Mix affordable cabinet boxes with nicer doors. You get the premium look without the premium price, saving thousands while still achieving amazing results.
Start calling contractors this week for personalized quotes. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’re cooking in your dream space.
Got questions about your specific situation? Drop a comment below and I’ll help you figure it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to replace kitchen cabinets?
Stock cabinets with DIY installation offer the lowest cost. You can replace a small kitchen for $2,000 to $4,000. Paint or reface existing cabinets for even less if they’re structurally sound.
How long does cabinet replacement take?
Professional installation takes 2 to 5 days for an average kitchen. Custom cabinets need 8 to 12 weeks to build before installation. Plan for a week without full kitchen access during the work.
Can I replace cabinets without changing countertops?
Yes, but it depends on how your counters are attached. Some countertops come off easily and can be reused. Others break during removal or don’t fit new cabinets properly.
Are custom cabinets worth the extra cost?
Custom cabinets make sense for unusual layouts or high-end homes. They fit perfectly and offer unlimited design options. For standard kitchens, semi-custom or stock cabinets provide good value.
How do I know if my cabinets need replacing?
Replace cabinets if doors sag, boxes show water damage, or hinges keep breaking. Also consider replacement if your layout wastes space or the style looks very outdated.
