How Much Does It Really Cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets? A Comprehensive Guide

When planning a kitchen remodel, the kitchen renovation cost is one of the first concerns that come to mind.  Among various renovation elements, the cost incurred for installing kitchen cabinets is one of the most major factors that greatly influences your overall budget. 

Be it custom-made cabinets or pre-fabricated, the choices made to this aspect will affect the final cost. Below, there is a full guide that will delineate all that one needs to know about the cost of renovating a kitchen concerning the installation of cabinets. We shall analyze what influences the costs, comparisons of materials, and give an estimate that would be helpful for purposes of budgeting.

Factors Influencing Kitchen Renovation Cost

Several factors go into the overall cost of replacing kitchen cabinets, and even more when renovating your whole kitchen. Consider these factors in your pre-renovation planning so you will be able to make decisions with confidence, knowing that your decisions will fit into your budget. Key factors to take into account include:

a. Size of Your Kitchen

The size of your kitchen directly impacts the number of cabinets you’ll need, which in turn affects the kitchen renovation cost. A larger kitchen will naturally require more cabinets, driving up both material and labor expenses. Conversely, a smaller kitchen will be more cost-effective in terms of cabinetry.

b. Cabinet Materials

Cabinet material is one of the most significant variables in your kitchen renovation cost. Many different materials run a wide gamut in price and characteristics. Everything from high-end solid wood to more budget-friendly MDF or laminate-the chosen material will go a long way in dictating how much the end product will cost. Solid wood cabinets, while durable and visually appealing, tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. MDF and laminate offer more budget-friendly alternatives without compromising too much on aesthetics.

c. Custom vs. Pre-Fabricated Cabinets

Another major factor influencing the kitchen renovation cost is whether you choose custom or pre-fabricated cabinets. Custom cabinets are made to order and tailored to fit the exact specifications of your kitchen, making them a more expensive option. Pre-fabricated cabinets, on the other hand, come in standard sizes and designs, which can help reduce costs. However, the trade-off is less flexibility in design and layout.

d. Labor Costs

Indeed, the cost of labor that is involved in installing kitchen cabinets varies greatly, depending on where you reside and whether it is a complex installation. Labor costs are much higher in urban areas, and any complex installation that calls for great detail or adjustments raises the overall cost of kitchen renovation. On average, labor charges could be from $50 to $250 per cabinet; therefore, this needs to be considered as part of your budget.

Detailed Breakdown of Kitchen Cabinet Costs

Let’s dive deeper into the specifics of kitchen cabinet costs to give you a better understanding of how much you can expect to spend. You can also check this link.

a. Cabinet Material Costs

Choosing the right cabinet material is crucial for managing your kitchen renovation cost. Here’s a breakdown of popular cabinet materials and their respective price ranges:

• Solid Wood Cabinets: Solid wood is a premium choice, known for its durability and timeless appeal. Prices typically range from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot. While more expensive, solid wood cabinets can last for decades with proper care.
• MDF Cabinets: MDF is a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $150 to $400 per linear foot. MDF cabinets are smooth and can be painted in any color, making them a versatile choice for homeowners on a budget.
• Laminate Cabinets: Laminate is the most budget-friendly material, costing between $100 and $300 per linear foot. These cabinets are durable, easy to clean, and come in a wide range of colors and finishes, though they may not have the longevity of wood or MDF.

b. Custom vs. Stock Cabinets

The decision between custom and stock cabinets will also affect your kitchen renovation cost:

• Custom Cabinets: Custom cabinets are made to size, just for your kitchen, and to your design specifications. The cost of custom cabinets is from $500 to $1,500 per linear foot, depending on the material and level of customization. This will be the best option for homeowners with different layouts or those who want custom designs.
• Stock Cabinets: Since stock cabinets are mass-produced to standard sizes and designs, they are considerably cheaper than custom cabinets. The prices will normally range from 100 to 400 dollars per linear foot. Stock cabinets, in this case, are good for those people who are seeking to save on the kitchen renovation cost while managing to look stylish.

Installation Costs: What to Expect

Installation is another significant component of your kitchen renovation cost. On average, professional installation can range from $50 to $250 per cabinet, depending on the complexity of the job and your geographic location. If your kitchen has unusual dimensions or requires significant adjustments, expect to pay more for labor. Additionally, if you’re opting for custom cabinets, installation costs may be higher due to the precision required.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond cabinet materials and installation labor, several other expenses can contribute to the overall kitchen renovation cost. These include:

a. Demolition and Removal

If the work involves the removal of old cabinets, one would want to add demolition and disposal costs. Of course, this can range from $300 to $800 depending on the size of your kitchen and how much demolition is involved.

b. Hardware and Finishes

Don’t forget about the small details like handles, knobs, and drawer pulls. High-quality hardware can enhance the look of your cabinets but can also add to the kitchen renovation cost. Depending on your choices, hardware can cost an additional $100 to $500.

c. Modifications and Upgrades

Any elements of kitchen renovation that involve more than new cabinets, such as updating plumbing or electrical works or installing new appliances, will also need to be considered in the overall cost of kitchen renovation. Changes like moving a sink or installing new lighting fixtures can add a few hundred or thousands of dollars to your budget.

Estimating Your Total Kitchen Renovation Cost

To help you get a clearer picture of what your kitchen renovation cost might look like, here’s a rough estimate based on different budget ranges:

• Budget Kitchen Remodel: $4,000 – $12,000. This range typically includes stock cabinets, basic materials, and minimal upgrades.
• Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel: $12,000 – $30,000. In this range, you might opt for semi-custom cabinets, higher-end materials, and more detailed upgrades.
• High-End Kitchen Remodel: $30,000 and up. A high-end remodel often includes custom cabinets, premium materials, and extensive modifications, including luxury finishes and appliances.

These estimates are meant to serve as a general guideline. Your actual kitchen renovation cost will vary depending on your specific project, location, and choices.

Tips to Save on Your Kitchen Renovation Cost

While kitchen renovations can be expensive, there are ways to reduce your overall kitchen renovation cost without compromising on quality or style. Here are some tips to help you save:

• Opt for Stock Cabinets: Choosing stock or semi-custom cabinets instead of custom can significantly reduce your costs.
• Do Some Work Yourself: If you’re handy, consider taking on tasks like demolition or painting yourself to save on labor expenses.
• Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Compare prices from different contractors and suppliers to find the best deals.

Kitchen Renovation Cost

Understanding the cost of renovating a kitchen is obviously the first step in the whole planning process. One of the most costly operations a house owner will undergo during a kitchen remodel is installing kitchen cabinets, but once you carefully weigh your options and understand the various factors that affect the cost, you will be able to arrive at a budget that works for you. Whether your aim is an inexpensive update or an opulent makeover, you will have to know just how much it really costs to install kitchen cabinets. That way, you can make informed decisions and achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

If you’re ready to start your kitchen renovation and want to know the true cost of installing cabinets, Upstate Kitchen & Bath is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re envisioning sleek, modern cabinets or a timeless, classic design, our expert team will help you choose the perfect cabinets to suit your style and budget. Contact us today at +1 (864) 497-2319, email us at info@upstateknb.com, or click the WhatsApp icon on our website to request a personalized quote.

Let us bring your dream kitchen to life with a flawless cabinet installation tailored to your renovation needs.