Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets | Price Guide 2024 from HomeBuddy

Installing kitchen cabinets typically costs between $3,000 and $14,000. The price can vary widely based on several factors.

Want to know what goes into this cost? Or what is the labor cost to install kitchen cabinets? Curious about ways to save money on your cabinet installation? In this article, we will review all these questions.

We will also share some useful tips on how you can save money without compromising on quality. Read on to find out everything you need to know to plan your kitchen cabinet installation effectively.

Ready to pe in and plan your perfect kitchen? Let’s get started!

What Can Affect the Cost to Install New Kitchen Cabinets

When installing new kitchen cabinets, several factors can affect the overall cost. Understanding them can help you to be more effective in planning your budget. Here are the main elements that influence the cost:

Stock Cabinets: These are pre-made and come in standard sizes and styles. They are the most affordable option, costing between $60 and $200 per linear foot.
Semi-Custom Cabinets: These offer more styles, finishes, and sizes compared to stock cabinets. They typically cost between $100 and $650 per linear foot.
Custom Cabinets: These are made-to-order, offering the highest level of customization. Custom cabinets can cost from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot.
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Type of Cabinets

Materials

The material you choose for your cabinets significantly impacts the price.

Laminate: Affordable and easy to maintain, costing $50 to $200 per linear foot.
Wood Veneer: Offers a wood-like appearance at a lower cost, typically $80 to $300 per linear foot
Solid Wood: More expensive but durable and attractive, ranging from $200 to $650 per linear foot.
High-end materials (mahogany, walnut): With luxury appearance and great design, they are extremely durable and offer unique grain patterns. The price ranges from $500 to over $1,200 per linear foot.

Basic Installation: For straightforward installations, labor costs range from $50 to $150 per linear foot.
Complex Installations: If your kitchen layout is complicated or requires additional work, how much does it cost to install cabinets? Only labor can cost $150 to $250 per linear foot.

Labor Cost

Labor is a crucial part of the installation process and can vary based on the complexity of the job. The average labor cost is $50 to $250 per hour and typically accounts for 40-50% of the total project cost.

Cabinet Hardware

Handles, knobs, and pulls also add to the overall cost.

Basic Hardware: Costs around $2 to $5 per piece.
Mid-range hardware: More stylish designs, better quality materials, and more finish options. The cost ranges from $5 to $20 per piece.
Premium Hardware: Designer brands, unique designs, premium materials (solid brass, bronze), special finishes, or hand-crafted pieces. The cost ranges from $20 to over $100 per piece.

Standard Finishes: These include paint or stain and cost between $2 and $10 per square foot.
Special Finishes: Glazes, distressing, or high-gloss finishes can cost $10 to $25 per square foot.
Custom Features: Features like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, or integrated lighting can add $50 to $500 or more per feature.

Finishes and Customizations

Special finishes and custom features can increase the cost.

Removal of Old Cabinets

If you need to remove existing cabinets, this will add to the average price to install cabinets.

Basic Removal: Costs between $300 and $500.
Complex Removal: If there’s extensive work needed, such as disposal or repair of walls, the cost can go up to $1,000 or more.

Moving plumbing or electrical: $500 - $5,000+
Adding or removing walls: $1,000 - $10,000+

Structural Changes

Finishing Touches

Paint or stain: $3 - $10 per square foot
Crown molding: $5 - $15 per linear foot

Soft-close hinges: $5 - $15 per door. They prevent slamming, extend cabinet life, and can be retrofitted to existing cabinets.
Pull-out shelves: $100 - $200 each. They improve accessibility, are available in various sizes and weight capacities, and can be added to existing cabinets.
Lazy Susan: $100 - $500. Great for corner cabinets and improves storage efficiency. It is also available in various sizes and materials.
Built-in spice racks: $200 - $400.
Trash pull-outs: $150 - $300.
Tip-out sink trays: $50 - $100.

Additional Features

Location

Labor costs can also differ depending on where you live:

In urban areas, the cost is generally higher due to higher labor rates, increased material costs due to shipping and storage, as well as stricter building codes and permit requirements.
Rural areas might have lower labor rates, but higher material delivery costs as fewer local suppliers may mean higher delivery fees. At the same time, longer travel times for installers can increase labor costs.

New Kitchen Cabinets: Do It Yourself or Hire a Pro?

When it comes to installing kitchen cabinets, you have two main options: do it yourself or hire a professional. Let’s compare both approaches:

Aspect	DIY Installation	Professional Installation
Cost	Generally cheaper No labor costs Potential savings: $2,000 - $5,000	More expensive Labor costs: $50 - $250 per hour Total cost of kitchen cabinets installed by a pro is often 40-50% higher than DIY
Time	Takes longer: 1-2 weeks for average kitchen Work around your schedule This can be done in stages	Faster: 2-3 days for average kitchen Set completion date Minimal disruption to daily life
Quality	Depends on your skill level Risk of errors or imperfections May not look as polished	Professional-grade results Precise measurements and cuts Seamless appearance
Tools	Need to buy or rent specialized tools Cost of tools: $200 - $1,000 The learning curve for tool use	Professionals have all the necessary tools High-quality, professional-grade equipment Expertise in tool use
Physical Effort	Labor-intensive Risk of injury Requires strength and stamina	No physical effort on your part Professionals are trained for the task Reduced risk of personal injury
Customization	Complete control over the process Can make changes on the fly Ability to work at your own pace	Limited flexibility once work begins Changes may incur additional costs Faster implementation of design
Permits & Codes	Must research local requirements Responsible for obtaining permits Risk of failing inspections	Usually handle the permit process Familiar with local building codes Higher pass rate on inspections
Warranty	No labor warranty Only manufacturer warranty on materials	Often offer labor warranty (1-5 years) Can handle manufacturer warranty claims
Resale Value	May be lower if the work is not professional-looking Could deter potential buyers	Often increases home value Professional work appeals to buyers
Troubleshooting	Must solve problems yourself Can be time-consuming and frustrating Potential for costly mistakes	Experience in problem-solving Quick resolution of issues Accountability for mistakes
Satisfaction	Pride in completing the project yourself Learning new skills Sense of accomplishment	Stress-free process Confidence in professional results More free time

How to Hire a Pro to Install a Kitchen Cabinet?

Finding a qualified and reliable professional installer can make a world of difference in the success of your kitchen renovation. Here are some tips to find the best one for you:

Get multiple quotes

Homebuddy.com is an excellent service for finding professional kitchen cabinet installers. The platform connects you with vetted professionals in your area, ensuring they have the necessary credentials and good reviews. Simply enter your project details, and Homebuddy.com will match you with qualified installers who can meet your needs.

Tips to Save Money When Installing a Kitchen Cabinet

Installing kitchen cabinets can be a significant expense, but there are several ways to reduce the cost of installing new kitchen cabinets without compromising on quality. Here are some practical tips to help you save money:

Prefer Stock Cabinets: Stock cabinets are pre-made and come in standard sizes. This can save you up to 50% compared to custom cabinets.
Choose Affordable Materials: Prefer laminate over hardwood. Also, consider thermofoil for a wood-like look at a lower cost. Potential savings: $2,000 - $5,000 for average kitchen.
Do What You Can Yourself: If you're comfortable with some basic carpentry skills, consider tackling tasks like removing old cabinets or painting the cabinets yourself. This can save you hundreds of dollars in labor costs.
Simple Designs and Layouts: Complex designs and custom features can add $50 to $500 or more per feature. Opting for simpler designs can reduce these additional costs.
Shop Around for Quotes: Comparing at least three quotes from different installers can save you up to 20% on labor costs.
Reuse Existing Cabinets: Refacing or repainting existing cabinets can cost $1,000 to $3,000, significantly less than the average price to install cabinets.
Buy During Sales: Purchasing cabinets during sales or using discount codes can save you 10% to 30% off the regular price.
Plan and Budget Carefully: Avoiding last-minute changes and sticking to your budget can prevent unexpected expenses, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars.

Conclusion

Installing kitchen cabinets is a significant investment in your home. The cost can vary widely based on factors like cabinet type, materials, and labor. By understanding what affects the cost, you can make informed decisions and plan your budget effectively. Remember to balance cost-saving measures with your long-term satisfaction and home value. With careful planning and smart choices, you can achieve the kitchen of your dreams within your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Installing a New Kitchen Cabinet Worth It?: Installing new kitchen cabinets is often worth the investment. It can significantly improve your kitchen’s functionality and appearance. New cabinets can also increase your home’s value, with potential returns of 70-80% on the investment. However, consider your long-term plans and budget before deciding.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Install a New Kitchen Cabinet?: The time to install new kitchen cabinets varies based on the kitchen size and project complexity. For an average kitchen, professional installation usually takes 2-3 days. If you decide to install it yourself, it may take 1-2 weeks. Custom cabinets or major layout changes can extend the timeline.
What Permits Do I Need for Kitchen Cabinet Installation?: Permit requirements can vary depending on your local municipality. In some cases, upgrading plumbing or electrical work during your cabinet installation might necessitate permits. It’s always best to check with your local building department before starting your renovation project.

Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets?