How Much Does It Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets? [Real Prices + Money-Saving Tips]

Kitchen cabinets might seem like just one element of your remodel, but did you know they can gobble up to 41% of your entire kitchen renovation budget?

Your wallet feels the difference between stock and custom options pretty quickly. Most homeowners spend anywhere from $2,006 to $11,060 on cabinet replacement, though total costs typically range from $2,000 to $25,000 depending on your choices and kitchen size. Stock cabinets run about $100 to $300 per linear foot, while those gorgeous custom cabinets could reach $1,200 per linear foot. That's quite a jump!

The good news? You don't have to empty your savings account for beautiful cabinets. Smart homeowners have plenty of options to keep costs reasonable - from material selection to considering alternatives like cabinet refacing, which often cuts your expenses by half.

This guide walks you through exactly what you'll pay for kitchen cabinet replacement, breaks down all your options, and shares money-saving tricks we've learned from helping countless homeowners create their dream kitchens without the nightmare price tag. Ready to see what's possible for your budget? Let's get started!

Understanding the Average Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Setting a realistic budget for your cabinet replacement starts with knowing the typical costs. Most standard installations nationwide range from $1,978 to $10,111. However, your final price tag depends on several key factors that can push costs significantly higher or lower.

Cost ranges by cabinet type: stock, semi-custom, custom

Your choice of cabinet type creates the biggest swing in your budget:

Stock cabinets: These ready-made options offer the most budget-friendly path forward. You'll typically spend $100 to $300 per linear foot installed, with total costs for a standard kitchen running between $3,000 and $8,000. While style and size options are limited, many homeowners appreciate the straightforward pricing and quick availability.

Semi-custom cabinets: The middle-ground option gives you more flexibility with sizing and design without the premium price of fully custom work. Expect costs between $150 and $650 per linear foot installed, potentially totaling $5,000 to $30,000. Many of our customers find semi-custom cabinets hit the sweet spot - unique enough to feel special while keeping costs manageable.

Custom cabinets: When you need cabinets tailored to unusual spaces or specific design visions, custom work delivers unlimited possibilities at premium prices. These typically run $500 to $1,200 per linear foot installed. Projects usually start around $10,000 and can easily exceed $25,000 for high-end installations.

We've watched many of our customers at Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets save substantial money by selecting unfinished stock or semi-custom cabinets and finishing them themselves.

How kitchen size affects total cost

The physical dimensions of your kitchen directly impact how much cabinet material you'll need. Kitchen layout complexity adds another cost variable beyond simple square footage.

Here's what you might expect:

• Small kitchens (under 10×10 feet) typically keep costs between $3,000 and $8,000 for stock or semi-custom options
• Medium kitchens generally fall between $8,000 to $15,000 depending on your cabinet choices
• Large kitchens (over 10×10 feet) often exceed $12,000 and might reach $30,000+ for high-end designs

Cabinet pricing usually works on a per linear foot basis - more wall space means more cabinets needed. Kitchens with unusual angles or complex layouts often require custom sizing solutions, which pushes costs even higher.

What is included in the average cabinet replacement cost

Your cabinet quote typically covers these four core elements:

1. Cabinets and materials: The actual cabinets, doors, drawer fronts, and interior shelving
2. Hardware: Basic hinges, pulls, knobs, and drawer slides (premium options usually cost extra)
3. Installation labor: Professional installation, which typically runs $50 to $450 per linear foot
4. Removal and disposal: Taking away your old cabinets, generally costing $300 to $500

Many first-time renovators miss hidden costs that don't appear in initial quotes. Plumbing adjustments, electrical work, or custom fitting might add $500 to $2,000 to your project. Your location matters too—expect higher installation costs in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago compared to rural areas.

Understanding these cost components helps you create a realistic budget before diving into your kitchen cabinet replacement. Next, let's look at how materials and design styles further influence what you'll pay.

Breaking Down Cabinet Costs by Material and Style

Your material and style selections can make a dramatic difference in your final cabinet bill. We've watched homeowners at Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets save thousands simply by making smart choices about cabinet materials and designs without sacrificing the look they want.

Wood, MDF, laminate, and other material costs

The materials you select create the biggest swing in your cabinet budget. Each option brings its own mix of benefits and costs:

Solid Wood - The classic choice for beauty and longevity, solid wood cabinets typically run $5,000 to $25,000 for a standard 10×10 kitchen. Different wood species create different looks—and different price tags:

• Oak: $100-$250 per linear foot - a durable option with distinctive grain
• Maple: $150-$250 per linear foot - popular for its smooth, consistent appearance
• Cherry: $200-$400 per linear foot - known for its rich, warm tones that deepen over time
• Walnut: $300-$600 per linear foot - prized for its chocolate brown hues and elegant grain
• Mahogany: $400-$800 per linear foot - the premium choice with reddish-brown coloring

Plywood - This engineered option stands up well to moisture and costs moderately less at $2,500-$8,000 for a 10×10 kitchen. Many homeowners choose plywood for cabinet boxes even when using solid wood for doors and drawer fronts.

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) - Perfect for painted cabinets thanks to its smooth, knot-free surface. MDF cabinets typically run between $1,500 and $5,000 for a 10×10 kitchen, saving you about 12% compared to solid wood doors.

Laminate - The wallet-friendly choice that still offers plenty of style options. Laminate averages around $15 per square foot with total kitchen installations typically ranging from $1,500 to $12,000.

Thermofoil - This vinyl coating applied to an MDF core gives you an affordable path to white or colored cabinets with a consistent finish.

Framed vs. frameless vs. inset cabinet pricing

The construction style of your cabinets affects both appearance and price:

Framed Cabinets - The traditional American design features a face frame that adds stability. These typically save you about $1,000 compared to frameless options for an entire kitchen installation.

Frameless Cabinets - Also known as "European-style," these cabinets offer slightly more storage space without a face frame but need sturdier materials. For a 10×10 kitchen, you might pay around $5,570 for frameless versus $4,740 for framed options.

Inset Cabinets - The premium option where doors sit flush with the frame, creating a tailored, furniture-like appearance. The precise craftsmanship required means you'll pay 25-30% more than standard overlay options. The clean lines and traditional look make this splurge-worthy for many homeowners seeking a high-end kitchen.

How design choices impact your budget

Your cabinet costs continue to shift based on these design decisions:

Door Style - Simple door designs like shaker or slab styles keep costs down, while intricate raised panel doors can bump your price up by 20% or more. The good news? Today's most popular styles tend to be the simpler, more affordable options.

Finishes - Custom colors and specialty finishes add cost but create unique looks. Natural finishes that show off wood grain might cost more than basic paint options, while distressed or glazed finishes require extra labor.

Interior Accessories - Those handy organizational features like pull-out spice racks, dividers, and specialty inserts make your kitchen more functional but add $50-$500 per item to your bottom line.

Glass Doors - Adding glass-front cabinet doors creates visual interest but typically costs about 30% more than standard solid doors.

Crown Molding and Trim - The finishing touches like crown molding, light rails, and decorative side panels can increase your cabinet budget by 5-25% but add considerable character to your kitchen.

Understanding these material and design factors helps you make smarter decisions about where to invest and where to save. Next, we'll explore whether refacing your existing cabinets might give you the fresh look you want at a fraction of the replacement cost.

Choosing Between Refacing, Replacing, or DIY

Not sure whether to fully replace your cabinets? You're not alone. Many homeowners wonder if there's a middle path that saves money while still giving their kitchen a fresh look. At Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets, we help folks weigh these options daily, finding what works best for their specific kitchen needs.

When refacing is a better option

Cabinet refacing gives you a kitchen facelift without the full surgery price tag. This approach keeps your existing cabinet boxes but replaces the "skin" - those doors, drawer fronts, and hardware that everyone actually sees. Refacing makes the most sense when:

• Your cabinet boxes are still in good shape (no warping, water damage, or sagging)
• You like your current kitchen layout and how your cabinets function
• Only the cabinet faces look tired or dated while the rest works fine
• You need your kitchen back in action quickly (who wants to eat takeout for weeks?)

The time difference is striking - refacing typically wraps up in just 3-5 days compared to weeks for full replacement. For busy families, that means far less kitchen downtime and disruption to your daily routine.

Cost comparison: refacing vs. full replacement

Your wallet will definitely notice the difference between these options:

Most refacing projects cost between $4,495 and $10,558, with the average homeowner spending about $3,925. Depending on your kitchen size and material choices, you might pay anywhere from under $1,000 to over $15,000.

Full replacement, on the other hand, typically runs between $14,608 and $41,376. Going the custom cabinet route might push your costs beyond $24,600.

The bottom line? Refacing usually saves you 30-50% compared to complete replacement. That's why many budget-conscious homeowners see refacing as "tremendous bang for the buck" - you get that fresh kitchen look without emptying your savings account.

Pros and cons of DIY cabinet installation

Thinking about handling the project yourself? Here's what you should know before grabbing your tool belt:

DIY Advantages:

• Keep that $1,500-$5,000 installation fee in your pocket
• Work at your own pace without contractor schedules
• Feel that pride when friends ask "Who did your kitchen?"
• Spend the labor savings on better cabinet materials instead

DIY Challenges:

• Kiss your weekends goodbye - expect days or even weeks of work if you're new to this
• One measuring mistake can mean costly do-overs and wasted materials
• You'll need proper tools: drill, level, stud finder, clamps, and more
• Those cabinets are heavy - your back might remind you the next day
• Watch out for warranty issues - many manufacturers only honor warranties with professional installation

Interestingly, full cabinet replacement is actually more DIY-friendly than refacing. The veneering skills needed for proper refacing take experience to master, making it trickier for first-timers.

Your best choice ultimately depends on your budget, timeline, and DIY comfort level. Some homeowners love the savings and satisfaction of doing it themselves, while others prefer letting professionals handle the heavy lifting. Either way, knowing all your options helps you make the right call for your specific kitchen situation.

Installation and Labor Costs You Should Expect

That beautiful new cabinet price tag? It's just part of the story. Installation costs make up a hefty chunk of your kitchen renovation budget, and many of our customers at Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets are surprised by these figures when they first start planning.

Labor cost per linear foot or per hour

Professional cabinet installers typically charge between $50 and $450 per linear foot. This wide range exists because installation complexity varies dramatically. Basic stock cabinets need simpler installation (keeping costs lower), while those gorgeous custom cabinets require precision work that pushes rates toward the higher end.

Some contractors prefer hourly billing instead:

• Cabinet specialists: $67-$125 per hour
• Handymen: $60-$90 per hour

You might also find pros who charge per cabinet, usually between $55 to $85 for each cabinet. Kitchens with unusual angles, custom inserts, or specialty designs often come with premium installation rates too.

Additional costs: removal, disposal, plumbing, electrical

Getting rid of your old cabinets isn't free. Removal and disposal typically adds $300 to $800 to your bill. Larger kitchens with more cabinets might push this cost up to $1,000.

Don't forget these potential extras that catch many homeowners off guard:

• Plumbing adjustments: $45-$200 per hour
• Electrical modifications: $50-$100 per hour
• Water line relocation: $650-$800 per project

The real budget-busters often come from unexpected issues. Measurement errors or construction delays can snowball into expensive fixes, requiring redesigns, additional materials, and extended labor time.

How to estimate total installation time and cost

Most standard kitchen cabinet installations take a few days to a couple of weeks from start to finish. Your specific timeline depends on:

• Your kitchen's size and layout complexity
• Whether you chose stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets
• Any structural changes needed to your walls or flooring
• Your installer's experience and crew size

Smart homeowners get at least three detailed quotes before choosing an installer. Each quote should break down labor, materials, removal costs, disposal fees, and potential additional expenses. We always suggest adding a 10-15% buffer to your budget for those surprise issues that seem to pop up in every renovation.

For major kitchen overhauls, check if your project requires permits, which may add city fees to your total. Also, keep location in mind – city dwellers typically pay more for the same installation than those in rural areas.

Before signing with any contractor, ask specific questions about their timeline estimates and what potential hidden costs might arise during your project. Three comparative quotes will give you a much clearer picture of what your specific installation should cost.

Smart Ways to Save on Cabinet Replacement

Looking to keep your cabinet replacement budget under control? You're not alone. Many of our customers at Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets slash thousands from their renovation costs without settling for lower quality. These proven money-saving approaches work for kitchens of all sizes.

Use RTA or unfinished cabinets to cut costs

Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets arrive in flat packages, eliminating factory assembly costs while reducing shipping expenses through more compact packaging. This smart approach typically saves 30-50% compared to pre-assembled options. Most homeowners spend between $606 and $903 for basic RTA cabinet installation including both labor and supplies.

Unfinished cabinets offer another excellent savings opportunity. These typically cost 20-30% less than their pre-finished counterparts, translating to approximately $2,000-$4,000 in savings for a standard kitchen. For a modest 10×10 kitchen, you might spend around $4,000 for unfinished cabinets. You can then either finish them yourself or hire a painter at rates much lower than the premium charged for factory-finished units.

Buy used or discounted cabinets

Second-hand cabinets often represent the biggest potential savings. Look at these striking price differences:

• New stock cabinets (10×10 kitchen): $1,250-$3,250
• New custom cabinets (10×10 kitchen): $6,000-$12,000
• Used cabinets (same size): $800-$1,350 or even less

Where should you look for quality used cabinets? Try these sources:

• Facebook Marketplace (offering everything from well-worn to nearly new)
• Habitat ReStore (your purchase supports Habitat for Humanity's mission)
• Kitchen showroom displays (typically offered at half the retail price)
• Renovation Angel (online marketplace with prices around 50% off retail)

Negotiate with contractors and get multiple quotes

Collecting at least three estimates gives you both negotiating power and a clearer picture of fair pricing. Many contractors offer better deals during their slower seasons, particularly winter months.

Try these negotiation strategies:

• Offer to purchase materials directly, avoiding contractor markups
• Be friendly but clear about your budget limitations
• Take time to build good rapport with potential contractors
• Mention competing quotes (tactfully) to encourage better pricing

Sometimes simply telling contractors your budget openly helps them suggest creative money-saving alternatives. Even modest negotiation efforts might trim 10-15% from initial estimates, while thoughtful, persistent bargaining could save you 15-30%.

The key to saving on your cabinet replacement isn't cutting corners—it's making smarter choices about what truly matters in your kitchen. Many of our customers find they can get the look they want while keeping enough in their budget for other kitchen upgrades or that well-deserved vacation afterward.

Cost To Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets represent one of the biggest ticket items in your renovation budget, but you've got plenty of options to keep costs manageable. Stock cabinets starting at $100 per linear foot give you budget-friendly choices, while those gorgeous custom designs at up to $1,200 per linear foot create truly unique spaces for homeowners who can make the investment.

The savviest homeowners we work with often choose money-saving alternatives like RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets, cutting their costs by 30-50% without sacrificing the look they want. Here at Unfinished Kitchen Cabinets, we specialize in helping folks get beautiful kitchens without emptying their savings accounts. Our unfinished cabinet options typically save customers 20-30% compared to pre-finished versions.

Take these money-saving tips with you as you plan your project: look into unfinished or RTA options, check out second-hand cabinets for dramatic savings, collect multiple contractor quotes, and ask about special pricing during slower seasons. While DIY installation works well for handy homeowners, remember that professional installation usually ensures proper fitting and keeps your warranty intact.

Kitchen cabinet replacement doesn't have to break your budget. When you're ready to start your project, we'd love to help you find that perfect balance between the quality you deserve and the price that works for your budget. Your dream kitchen might be more affordable than you think!

FAQs

1. What is the average cost to replace kitchen cabinets?
The cost typically ranges from $2,000 to $25,000, depending on cabinet type and kitchen size. Stock cabinets are the most affordable at $100 to $300 per linear foot, while custom cabinets can cost up to $1,200 per linear foot.

2. Is it better to reface or replace kitchen cabinets?
Refacing is a good option if your cabinet boxes are in good condition and you're satisfied with the current layout. It costs 30-50% less than full replacement and takes only 3-5 days to complete. However, replacement offers more flexibility for layout changes and addressing structural issues.

3. How can I save money on kitchen cabinet replacement?
Consider using ready-to-assemble (RTA) or unfinished cabinets, which can save 30-50% compared to pre-assembled options. Buying used or discounted cabinets can also lead to significant savings. Additionally, getting multiple quotes and negotiating with contractors can help reduce costs.

4. What factors affect the cost of kitchen cabinet installation?
Installation costs are influenced by kitchen size, cabinet type, and any additional work required. Labor typically ranges from $50 to $450 per linear foot. Additional expenses may include removal and disposal of old cabinets, plumbing modifications, and electrical work.

5. How long does it take to replace kitchen cabinets?
A standard kitchen cabinet installation usually takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. The timeline depends on factors such as kitchen size, cabinet type (stock vs. custom), and any structural modifications needed. It's best to get a specific estimate from your chosen contractor.