How To Properly Price Kitchen Cabinets
Did you know that a kitchen remodel can yield a 52% return on investment? Cabinets play a pivotal role, providing storage for food, cookware, and prep areas, while also creating a powerful design impact in your kitchen. The cost of kitchen cabinets depends on factors like material, color, customization level, and the efficient use of space. But how can you determine the installation costs and understand what influences the final price?
We’re here to guide you through it all. Read on to learn more about what goes into kitchen cabinet pricing and how we can help you make the best choice for your home.
Installation Fees
Labor costs for cabinet installation vary depending on location, installer experience, and project complexity. Nationally, homeowners can expect installation costs to range between $150 and $200 per cabinet. However, in some areas, this rate may be as low as $100 per cabinet or as high as $300, especially for custom cabinetry requiring intricate adjustments or additional preparation. Precise installation is essential for a seamless kitchen look, ensuring cabinets are level, aligned, and securely fastened to the wall. Even minor misalignments can disrupt the entire setup, so the process requires considerable time and skill.
If you’re replacing old cabinets, removal typically comes with added fees, which range from $300 to $600 on average, depending on the size and complexity of the job. Removing cabinetry carefully can also take additional time, especially if you plan to sell or donate them. Many non-profit organizations, like Habitat for Humanity, accept cabinet donations, which can sometimes offer a tax deduction. Alternatively, your installer may have partnerships with businesses that buy or refurbish used cabinets. Discussing this option with your contractor can save on removal costs while giving the cabinets a second life.
Material
Cabinet quality and cost can vary widely based on construction and materials used, from budget-friendly options like particleboard with basic laminate finishes to high-end, durable plywood cabinets with custom finishes. Here’s a breakdown of the different levels of cabinetry based on value and materials:
1. Basic / Value Cabinets (Particleboard with Laminate or MDF)
The most budget-friendly cabinets are often made from particleboard or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and feature a basic laminate or melamine finish. Particleboard is a lightweight, engineered wood made from wood particles bonded with adhesive, making it affordable but less durable. While these cabinets are functional and low-cost, they’re more prone to wear and tear over time, especially in high-moisture environments like kitchens. Prices for basic cabinets usually start around $1,500 and can go up to $5,000 for an average kitchen, making them ideal for budget-conscious homeowners or rental properties.
2. Mid-Range Cabinets (MDF with Better Finishes or Plywood with Veneer)
Mid-range cabinets generally offer better durability and finishes. MDF cabinets at this level often feature improved laminate or vinyl coatings that resist scratches and stains, giving them a more polished look compared to basic particleboard options. Alternatively, some mid-range cabinets are constructed from plywood with a wood veneer finish, which provides a solid feel and improved moisture resistance. Plywood is stronger and more stable than particleboard, making these cabinets longer-lasting while maintaining a reasonable price point. For an average-sized kitchen, these cabinets range from $5,000 to $10,000, providing a balance of quality and affordability.
3. Semi-Custom Cabinets (Plywood with Customizable Options)
Semi-custom cabinets are typically made from plywood with more durable and attractive finishes, such as real wood veneers or specialty laminates. Plywood construction makes these cabinets sturdier and able to withstand the demands of daily kitchen use, while wood veneer finishes give them a natural look that can mimic solid wood. Semi-custom options allow homeowners to personalize details like finishes, door styles, and dimensions without the full custom price tag. These cabinets can range from $10,000 to $20,000, depending on the level of customization and materials chosen, offering a substantial upgrade in both durability and style.
4. Custom / Premium Cabinets (Full Plywood Construction with Solid Wood Options)
At the high end, premium cabinets are constructed from full plywood boxes, with solid wood used for doors, frames, and other visible components. Plywood construction ensures exceptional strength and resistance to moisture, while solid wood doors in finishes like cherry, oak, or walnut add timeless beauty and durability. These cabinets are often handcrafted to precise specifications, allowing for complete customization in terms of dimensions, finishes, and accessories. High-quality hardware, like soft-close hinges and dovetail joints, is commonly included in this level. Custom cabinets typically start at $20,000 and can exceed $40,000, delivering superior quality, longevity, and the luxury of tailored design.
When choosing the right cabinetry level, consider not only your budget but also the expected durability, aesthetic, and long-term value. Higher-end cabinets may require a larger upfront investment but can offer significant savings in repairs and replacements over the years, especially for homeowners who plan to stay in their home long-term.
Custom vs Stock
Stock cabinets are a convenient choice for homeowners looking for a quick and affordable solution. Available at most home improvement stores, they come in standard sizes, colors, and materials, making them easy to install without much wait time. However, because they’re mass-produced, options for customization are limited. Stock cabinets work best in kitchens with straightforward layouts, as unusual dimensions or specific design needs may not align with the standard measurements. The price is typically between $100 and $300 per linear foot, which makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious remodels.
For homeowners seeking complete design freedom, custom cabinets offer endless possibilities. Starting at around $500 per linear foot, custom cabinets allow you to select every aspect of the design, including precise sizing, unique finishes, and specialized features like pull-out drawers or built-in organizers. These cabinets are crafted to fit your kitchen perfectly and allow for personalized touches that enhance both style and functionality.
Semi-custom cabinets offer a middle ground between stock and custom. Ranging from $150 to $650 per linear foot, these cabinets come with more material and style options than stock, as well as added durability. Semi-custom cabinets can be modified to better fit your space, making them an excellent option for homeowners who want customization without the full cost of custom cabinetry.
Size
The size and layout of your kitchen are significant factors in the overall cost of cabinetry. Kitchens vary widely in size, from small galley kitchens to expansive open-concept designs, and the larger the space, the more cabinets are needed to ensure functionality and storage. For an average-sized kitchen, cabinetry costs typically range between $2,000 and $24,000, though this can vary based on the type of cabinets chosen (stock, semi-custom, or custom) and the materials used.
For example, smaller kitchens with basic stock cabinets may cost closer to the $2,000 range, while larger kitchens with semi-custom or custom cabinetry, featuring high-quality finishes and additional storage features, can easily reach the higher end of the range or even exceed it.
To budget accurately, measure your kitchen’s linear footage, and factor in the desired cabinet quality, as well as any special features like pull-out shelves, soft-close hardware, or specialized storage solutions. Researching and comparing quotes from multiple vendors or cabinet makers will also help clarify pricing. By understanding the layout, design needs, and desired cabinet style, you can establish a more precise budget and avoid unexpected costs, ensuring you get the best balance of quality and affordability.
The Color and Finish
The color and finish of kitchen cabinets can significantly impact the overall cost, with options ranging from basic painted finishes to intricate custom stains and high-gloss coatings. Basic paint colors, typically in neutral shades like white, gray, or beige, are among the most affordable finishes, often adding minimal extra cost. These standard finishes are generally factory-applied, ensuring a smooth and durable coating without a hefty price tag.
However, specialty finishes, such as high-gloss or matte acrylic, tend to be pricier. High-gloss finishes, in particular, provide a sleek, modern look and reflect light beautifully, but they come at a premium due to the additional labor and materials required for application. Additionally, dark or bold custom paint colors can add to the cost, as they may require multiple layers for an even finish.
At the high end of the spectrum are custom stains on natural wood and hand-applied glazes. Custom stains emphasize the wood’s natural grain, giving cabinets a rich, high-end appearance. Glazes and distressed finishes, which add texture and depth, are also labor-intensive, making them some of the most expensive options. Homeowners looking for a balance between affordability and style often choose mid-range options like semi-gloss paint or standard wood stains.
Unexpected Extras
In addition to potential fees for moving furniture, some installers may also charge for additional prep work, such as removing old cabinets, adjusting plumbing or electrical outlets, or making modifications to fit custom-sized cabinets. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s essential to clarify all possible charges upfront. Another common extra fee is for disposal of old cabinets and materials—be sure to ask whether this is included or if you’ll need to arrange for it separately. Getting precise measurements from the cabinet company, whether included or as an add-on, ensures a smoother installation, minimizes delays, and helps avoid unexpected costs from adjustments or reordering.
Conclusion
At Superior Stone & Cabinet, we make it easy to turn your dream kitchen into a reality, offering comprehensive design and installation services tailored to your style and budget. Whether you’re looking for cost-effective cabinetry for a simple upgrade or custom, high-end pieces that transform your kitchen into a show-stopping centerpiece, we have options to fit every need. Our expansive 60,000-square-foot showroom and warehouse in Phoenix is filled with inspiration, featuring a wide selection of cabinetry lines, from budget-friendly choices to fully customized designs with unique finishes and details.
Our knowledgeable team is ready to guide you through the process, helping you choose cabinets that match your vision and functional needs. We provide complimentary estimates, and if you prefer, we can come directly to your home to assess the space, discuss your goals, and provide a clear, all-inclusive quote. From initial design through precise, professional installation, Superior Stone & Cabinet is committed to quality and customer satisfaction. Visit our showroom or contact us today to start planning your ideal kitchen with cabinets that combine beauty, durability, and functionality for a space you’ll love for years to come.
Replacing your kitchen cabinets can be pretty pricey. Knowing all the factors that affect the price is important.
Kitchen cabinet pricing can be overwhelming once you realize everything you have to consider. Let us help create the kitchen of your dreams.