Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets: A Complete Breakdown

Are you thinking about getting a new kitchen? A good way to change the feel of your space is by replacing the kitchen cabinet. A new kitchen cabinet can really make a big difference. But, cabinet installation can take up a lot of your kitchen renovation budget. When you know what it will cost for kitchen cabinet installation, you can plan better. This helps you to make good choices for your money and for your home. This guide will help you learn about the costs. That way, you can get the kitchen you want and feel ready for anything.

Understanding the Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen cabinet replacement cost can change a lot from home to home. Most people spend somewhere from $2,200 up to $24,600 for cabinet replacement in the kitchen. In 2025, many people will pay about $8,200 for an average kitchen. The overall cost for kitchen cabinet replacement will be more or less depending on many things.

The things you pick for your kitchen remodel matter. The materials you use for the cabinets change the price. If you go with standard sizes, that can affect what you pay. A cabinet installer may also add to the cost.

If you want to know the kitchen remodel cost, you should see what happens step by step. Your choices in the process can change the final price.

What Does Cabinet Replacement Involve?

When you start a cabinet replacement project, it is not only about swapping your old boxes for new ones. The first thing you need to do is to take out and throw away your current cabinets. This process is known as demolition. You have to do it in a way that keeps your walls, floors, and plumbing safe from any harm.

Next, you get the space ready for the new cabinets. You may need to fix small spots on the wall, paint, or check that the area is flat and clean. In cabinet installation, this step is important. It helps the cabinets look good. It also makes sure they last a long time.

The new cabinets are in now. The team puts up the upper cabinets and places the cabinet boxes on the floor. Doors and drawer fronts go on. They add the hardware, too. This part makes your kitchen’s look change. You can see how new cabinets give the whole room a fresh feel.

Typical Price Ranges in the United States

The kitchen cabinet replacement cost can be very different depending on where you live in the United States. For an average kitchen of about 150 square feet, the overall cost to replace kitchen cabinets is often between $2,200 and $24,600. If you have a small kitchen, you may get a lower kitchen cabinet replacement cost at Home Depot. But if you want custom cabinet replacement in your kitchen, the price can go over $30,000.

Sources like USA Today say the price is set for each linear foot. This makes it easy to know how much you will pay based on your kitchen size. The cost usually covers cabinet boxes. It also includes the doors and shelves.

Here is what you can pay for each linear foot when you want different kinds of cabinets. This price covers the materials, and also what you pay to have them put in.

Key Factors That Influence Cabinet Replacement Costs

Several things can change the final price when you go for cabinet replacement. The main things that matter the most are your kitchen size, the materials you choose for the cabinets, and how complex your kitchen layout is. A bigger kitchen will need more cabinets. Because of this, both the cost for materials and the labor costs will go up.

The cabinet style you go with and the design you choose will be important. If you pick premium materials or styles with more detail, you will pay more for them. A simple and regular style will cost less than those options. Let’s look at how these things can add up in your total project cost.

Cabinet Style and Design Options

The cabinet style you choose has a big impact on the overall cost. The way a cabinet is made, like if it is framed, frameless, or inset, changes the price. Framed cabinets are common and are usually the most affordable.

Frameless cabinets look modern. The storage in them is easy to reach. These cabinets often cost more than some other types.

Inset cabinets have doors and drawer fronts that line up with the cabinet’s front edge. These usually cost the most. The reason is, they need very careful work to build. People often pick this style when looking for custom cabinetry.

Beyond the main setup, adding some extra design features to your wall cabinets and bases can make the price go up. These parts include:

• Specialty paints, stains, or high-gloss finishes can give your space a new feel. These can help a room stand out and look good. A fresh coat can make a big difference for your home.

• Decorative moldings and trim add style and make any wall or corner feel special. They give a finished look that many people want in their homes.

• Glass-front doors or unique paneling let more light in and make rooms feel more open. These touches can bring in a modern look or feel to your house.

• Upgraded hardware like designer knobs and pulls can change how your cabinets and doors look. Swapping out regular pieces for these is a good way to make things feel new without a lot of work.

Material Choices: Wood, Laminate, Metal, and More

The material you pick for your cabinets changes the price a lot. Many people like cabinets made from solid wood, but these can be costly. It also matters what wood you decide to use. Premium materials like cherry and walnut cost more than oak or pine.

Many people choose laminate or wood veneer when they need a budget-friendly option. Both of these can make a space look like it has wood, but they cost less. Wood veneer has a thin layer of real wood put on top of particleboard. Laminate is a material made by people, not made from wood. Metal cabinets, like the ones built with stainless steel, can make a room feel more industrial. These often cost more than most other choices out there.

Here is how the price of the materials will usually be when you look at the whole project:

• Wood Veneer: $2,000 – $15,000

• Laminate: $4,000 – $15,000

• Solid Wood: $5,000 – $25,000

• Metal: $20,000 – $38,000

Kitchen Size and Cabinet Quantity

It is simple. If your kitchen is bigger, you will pay more for cabinets. The price is mostly based on the linear foot. When your kitchen has more wall space, the cost goes up too. A small kitchen that is less than 70 square feet will not cost as much. A bigger kitchen with over 200 square feet will be pricier.

The number of cabinets you pick can change the installation costs and what you spend on material. If you want a large island, a pantry, or many top and bottom cabinets, then your budget will go up.

When you start to plan, first look at all the wall space where you want to put cabinets. Measure that area. This total helps you know the materials you will need. It also makes it easier for people doing the job to tell you how much it will cost.

Comparing Cabinet Types: Stock, Semi-Custom, and Custom

When you shop for cabinets, you will find three main types. There are stock cabinets, semi-custom, and custom cabinets. Stock cabinets are usually the cheapest. Custom cabinets are the most costly, but you get them made just the way you want. Semi-custom cabinets sit between the others in price and style. These give you more choices than stock cabinets but do not cost as much as custom cabinets.

It is good to know what makes each cabinet type different. This will help you pick the right one for your budget and the look you want. We will talk about what is good and not so good with each cabinet type. You can also see how much they can cost.

Stock Cabinets: Pros, Cons, and Pricing

Stock cabinets are built before you buy them. They come in sizes that fit most homes. This type of cabinets is the best choice if you want to save money. Stock cabinets also help if you want your project to be finished quickly. You can get them at almost any home improvement store.

The big downside is that you do not get to change much. There are only limited sizes, styles, and finishes you can choose from. This can be a problem if your kitchen has a special shape. It might not fit the design you want.

Here is a quick look at what you get with stock cabinets:

• Pros: This is the cheapest choice. You will see it in lots of places, and it can be sent to you quickly.

• Cons: The sizes and styles are limited. The materials may not be strong, and you cannot change or personalize it.

• Average Cost: The average cost to install is $100 to $300 for each linear foot.

• Best For: It works well for budget remodels, rentals, and regular kitchen layouts.

Semi-Custom Cabinets: Features and Costs

Semi-custom cabinets offer you a nice mix of stock and custom cabinets. In a home improvement job, they let you do more to change how your cabinet design looks. But you do not spend as much as you would for custom cabinets. You can get more choices in size, finish, and style.

With semi-custom cabinets, you can put on custom hardware and use different drawers. You can also pick storage that fits what you need in your kitchen. This makes it feel like you have your own style, and it helps your kitchen remodel feel like yours. A lot of people say semi-custom cabinets are good if you want to get value for your money.

Key features of semi-custom cabinets include:

• A good way to get both a fair price and a bit more of what you want.

• There are more choices for style, finish, and size than you get with stock cabinets.

• The average cost is $150 to $670 for each linear foot. This is the price when installed.

Custom Cabinets: What to Expect

If you want your dream kitchen with no limits, custom cabinets are a good way to go. You get to choose all the details, like size, material, finish, and the handles. Custom cabinets are made just for you. They fit in places that are not normal shapes. These also work great in luxury kitchens.

Yes, it does cost a lot more to get custom kitchen cabinets than to pick stock ones. The cabinet costs are higher because of the skilled work, the use of premium materials, and the way a custom kitchen fits your space. You pay more since you are getting something made just for your home, so your kitchen is one of a kind.

Here’s what to expect with custom cabinets:

• Ultimate Personalization: This is made for you. It is built to fit what you need.

• Highest Quality: The builders use the best stuff, and they put it together in a way that lasts.

• Highest Cost: The price for each linear foot is often between $470 and over $1,230.

Installation Costs for Kitchen Cabinet Replacement

When you want a new kitchen cabinet, it’s good to remember to include installation costs in your budget. The labor costs for kitchen cabinet installation by a pro often take up a large part of what you spend. Sometimes, these installation costs are close to half of the total price for your kitchen cabinet project.

Quotes for cabinets alone often do not cover the cost to put them in. You have to get a separate price from a professional installer for that job. It is good to know how these installers set their fees. This can help you plan your money the right way. Now, let’s look at what most people pay in labor. We will also see if you should do the work on your own or hire a professional installer.

Professional Labor Rates Explained

Professional installers work out their labor costs in different ways. Some ask for money by the hour. Others give a set price for each cabinet or each linear foot. The kitchen layout and the type of cabinets you choose can change the final price. If the work is hard, the cost may be higher.

Hourly rates are common, but many people use a price per linear foot to know the full cabinet installation costs for the whole project. If cabinets have detailed moldings, or it is a kitchen with walls that are not flat, the cabinet installation costs will be higher. So, installation costs often go up for these tough jobs.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Thinking of putting in cabinets yourself to cut installation costs? Doing this can save you some money, but it’s not simple if you haven’t done it before. You have to be very precise to hang cabinets the right way. You also need the right tools. Plus, you need some know-how to make sure things stay level and safe. If you make just one small error, it could cost you more down the road. It can also make your kitchen remodel look wrong.

For many people who own a house, getting a professional installation is the safer option. A professional will check that your cabinets work right and last a long time. But if you have good DIY skills, you can do the work yourself.

Here’s a comparison to help you decide:

• DIY: You can save money if you do it yourself instead of paying someone. But, there is a good chance that you can make mistakes.

• Professional: You pay more when you start. The job gets done well and it often lasts a long time.

• A Middle Ground: While you take out the old cabinets by yourself, you can save some money. A professional can help with cabinet installation after that.

Beginner’s Guide: How to Replace Your Kitchen Cabinets

If you want to take on a kitchen cabinet installation yourself, you need to plan well. A kitchen remodel will go better if you know each step. First, you remove the existing cabinets. After that, you add the new kitchen cabinets. This is a big job, but you can feel good when you finish it. You have to be patient and watch the small things while doing your kitchen cabinet installation.

Are you thinking about taking out old kitchen cabinets and putting in new kitchen cabinets by yourself? You will need to get the right tools and supplies before you start. A good plan is also important. This guide will tell you what you need and give you easy steps to follow.

What You’ll Need to Get Started (Tools, Materials, Resources)

Before you begin, get all you need for the job. A good replacement job needs the right tools, good materials, and a plan. First, check your order for cabinet boxes. You should also look at the cabinet doors. Make sure the new hardware is ready, too.

Getting all your tools ready before you begin will make things go more smoothly. You need to use some hand tools. If you want better work, you should get power tools too. Remember to put on safety gear like gloves and goggles each time.

Here is a list of good tools and things that you need to have with you:

• You need to have a tape measure, level, and stud finder for this.

• Get a drill and use a set of bits with it too.

• Keep screwdrivers and a pry bar with you.

• Use shims to help the cabinets stay level.

• Clamps can hold the cabinets together when you install them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Taking a simple step-by-step plan for kitchen cabinet installation will help you save time and stay away from problems. This works if you do it yourself or if you choose a cabinet installer. You have to know which steps you need to follow and in what order. There are a few main steps in kitchen cabinet installation.

First, be sure to plan each step early on. After that, take down old things with care. Next, put in the new ones the right way. Each step is needed for the next one to work well. If you spend more time at the start, you will have a better result when it’s done. If you rush, there could be mistakes, and that can be hard or cost a lot to fix.

Here are the main steps for a cabinet replacement project:

• Take time to measure your kitchen. Plan out how the new cabinets will fit in there.

• Take out the old cabinets. Make sure you get rid of them in a safe way.

• Fix any holes in the wall. Mark where the studs are.

• Put in the new cabinets. Start with the top ones.

• Add doors, handles, and any other small touches.

Step 1: Measuring Your Space and Planning Layout

The main thing when you do cabinet replacement is to measure the space right. Before you buy new cabinets, know the kitchen size. Look at the wall space, too. Use a tape measure for width and height of your walls. Make sure to check windows and doors. You should also see and mark where the plumbing and electrical outlets are.

After you take your measurements, you can start to plan the kitchen layout. You can draw a sketch of what you want your kitchen to be on paper. You can also try to use an online design tool for this. This helps you to see what cabinet sizes you need and how many will fit in the space. This way, you make sure everything will fit well.

A good plan helps you make sure the new cabinets will fit in the space you have. It also lets you set up your kitchen so it is easy to use. Be sure to check the measurements again before you finish your order. This helps you not make a mistake that could cost you money.

Step 2: Removing Old Cabinets Safely

When your new cabinets arrive at your home, you need to get rid of the old cabinets first. If you remove the old cabinets by yourself, this can help you lower the labor costs. But, it is important to be careful and do this job in a safe way. Start by taking all the items out of your existing cabinets. Next, make sure to turn off the water and the electricity in the kitchen before you get started.

Take off the countertops first. These are most often connected to the lower cabinets. Once you do that, begin to unscrew the cabinets. You need to take them off the walls, and also separate them from each other. It helps to have another person with you, since the cabinets can be big and tough to move.

To remove your cabinets safely, remember to:

• Take off all plumbing and electrical lines that be hooked to the cabinet boxes.

• Take out doors and drawers before starting. This will make the cabinet boxes feel lighter.

• Start on one side of the kitchen. Work your way across to the other end step by step.

Step 3: Installing New Cabinets and Finishing Touches

With the old cabinets gone and the walls ready, you can begin with the kitchen cabinet installation. Start by putting up the upper cabinets first. This way, the base cabinets won’t get in your way. Use a level and shims to be sure the cabinets stay straight and even.

Once you get the uppers in place and locked, you can put in the base cabinets. Make sure the cabinets are straight and even next to each other. After you have all the new cabinets in, add the countertops. These last steps finish the job.

These final small steps help it look the best it can:

• Attach the cabinet doors and the drawer fronts.

• Install all the new hardware, like handles and knobs.

• Add crown molding or trim to the cabinets so they look finished.

Additional Costs to Consider During Cabinet Replacement

When you start to plan a cabinet replacement, know that you spend money on more than just new cabinets and putting them in. There may be extra costs as well. Taking out old cabinets can cost you. Sometimes, problems happen that you did not think about, and you may have to pay someone to fix them.

When you put in new cabinets at your place, you may also have to move some things around. You might need to do some carpentry, take care of electrical work, or fix plumbing for the setup. It’s smart to set aside an extra 10-15% of your budget, so you are ready for these costs.

Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing Adjustments

When you begin kitchen renovations, you may see that your new cabinets could change how things are set up in the home. You might have to get an electrician to move outlets or add wires if you want lights under the cabinets. This is needed for safety. A certified expert must do the job each time.

If you want to move your sink or dishwasher, you will need to call a plumber. A plumber will have to move the pipes to a new spot. Doing this will raise your installation costs. But if you want your kitchen to work well, you will need to do these things. It adds to your cabinet installation costs, but it is still part of a good cabinet installation.

Here are some common adjustments you might need:

• Carpentry: Take down the walls and then fix them. You can also build a soffit if you need it.

• Electrical: Move the outlets if you want to. You can add new wires for appliances or put up new lights.

• Plumbing: Change where the water lines or drains are for a sink or dishwasher.

Accessories and Upgrades (Hardware, Lighting)

Accessories and upgrades can make your kitchen look good. They also help your kitchen work better. But, you should know that these choices will make cabinet costs go up. A common way to upgrade is to add new hardware. This can change how your cabinets look in a big way, but it does not cost much.

Lighting is a change many people want to make. Lights under the cabinets help you see well when you are in the kitchen. They also make it feel warm and nice. You can also add things inside your cabinets, like pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, or organizers for your drawers. These updates help you use your kitchen in a good way.

Consider budgeting for these popular upgrades:

• New hardware like knobs and pulls can help to give the space a fresh feel. You may find that this makes things look good and feel new.

• Under-cabinet or in-cabinet lighting will make it easy to see when you cook or do work in the room. It can also make the area feel warm.

• Soft-close hinges and drawer slides keep doors and drawers from slamming shut. These can help to make everything feel smooth and quiet.

• Drawer organizers and pull-out trash bins make it simple to keep things in order. You may get more space and it’s just easier to use every part.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Full Cabinet Replacement

If a full cabinet replacement is not in your kitchen renovation budget, it is okay. You can find good options that cost less and still make the kitchen look new. If the cabinet boxes are strong, you can update your kitchen without spending a lot.

Options like cabinet refacing and painting your cabinets can help change the look of your kitchen. You can do this for much less money than what you would spend on new cabinets. Let’s look at how these money-saving choices can help you get the kitchen design you want without spending too much.

Cabinet Refacing: Save Money and Time

Cabinet refacing is a good way to give your kitchen a fresh look without spending too much money. You keep the cabinet boxes you have now. Then, new doors and drawer fronts are added. A new layer is put on the outside of your cabinet boxes to match the new doors.

Refacing your kitchen can help save money, cutting your kitchen remodel cost by up to half compared to changing everything. The work is done in a short amount of time, so your kitchen will be ready fast. This is a good way for people to keep their kitchen layout but still get a fresh look in their space.

Here are the key benefits of cabinet refacing:

• This costs a lot less than getting new cabinets.

• The work is fast and does not leave much mess.

• You use your existing cabinets, so you make less waste.

• You can add new hardware. This helps make your cabinets feel new and fresh.

Painting or Refinishing Existing Cabinets

If you want to save money and make your kitchen look nice, try painting or fixing your old cabinets. This can be a DIY job so you do not have to pay high labor costs. A new coat of paint can change the cabinet style. It can also help your whole kitchen feel fresh and bright.

Getting ready for painting is very important. You have to clean, sand, and prime the cabinet doors and boxes before you start. Take your time to do this well. The result after you finish can be very good.

Consider these points before you start painting:

• Cost-Effective: This is the cheapest way to make your cabinets look new.

• DIY-Friendly: You can do this on your own if you have time and are patient.

• Preparation is Key: You need to spend time on getting ready before you start. This helps it look good and last longer.

• Material Matters: This works well for wood cabinets. Painting laminate be tough and may not last or look the same.

Tips to Lower Your Cabinet Replacement Costs

Keeping your kitchen renovation budget in check is key for most people. The good thing is, you can lower the total cost and still get good results. If you plan well and do some of the work yourself, you can save a lot of money.

You can save money on cabinet installation in several ways. One way is to get quotes from more than one company before you choose. You can also do some of the work by yourself. These steps will help you lower cabin installation costs. Making smart choices from the beginning will help you pay less for cabinet installation. Here are good ideas that will help you keep more of your money while working on your cabinet installation project.

Getting Multiple Quotes

One way to make sure you pay a fair price is to look at different options. You should ask more than one cabinet installer for their price before you choose who to hire. Do not say yes to the first price someone gives you, even if it sounds good at first.

When you ask for quotes, make sure each contractor gives a price to do the same work. This helps you look at the final price in a way where you can be fair. Tell them to give you a clear list of costs. The costs should show what you pay for materials, the work, and other fees.

Why getting quotes is so important:

• It lets you see what the average kitchen remodel cost is in your area.

• It helps you have more power when you talk about price, and you can find what will give you the best value for your kitchen remodel.

• It gives you a way to look at several contractors and pick the one you feel good about for your kitchen remodel.

Doing Some Work Yourself

You do not need to be an expert to help with your cabinet installation. You can do some simple work yourself. This will lower labor costs when you hire a cabinet installer. Then, you will have more of your kitchen renovation budget to spend on the cabinets.

One job that many people do on their own is taking things apart. Taking out old cabinets is not hard. Most people can do it. You only need some simple tools. You might also want to put on the last coat of paint or clean up after you finish. This work can help you save money instead of getting a pro.

Here are some things you can do by yourself to help bring your costs down:

• Demolition: This is the step where we take out your old cabinets and get rid of them.

• Painting: Here, we paint the kitchen walls before cabinet installation starts.

• Cleanup: We clean up after work each day. This helps save on labor time and makes sure there is less to do later.

Conclusion

Replacing your kitchen cabinets can take a lot of money. It is smart to know the costs first so you can make good choices. Look at how much stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets cost. Each one has things that are good and things that are not so good. Choose what is best for you and what you can pay for. A few things can change how much you will spend in the end. Think about all of these before you start.

If you want to save some money, you can try things like cabinet refacing or just painting them. These often cost less. You still get the look you want for your kitchen. A good plan helps you feel better about your work. Doing some jobs yourself can also bring the cost down.

Get a few quotes before you pick which way to go. Make your plan early. If you get ready the right way, your kitchen can feel new and nice without using all your money. Happy renovating!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace kitchen cabinets in a standard-sized kitchen?

For an average kitchen, the kitchen cabinet replacement cost might be as little as $2,200 or as much as $24,600. Most people pay around $8,200 for a kitchen cabinet replacement. The overall cost depends on the type of kitchen cabinet you choose. If you pick stock cabinets that have standard sizes, the cabinet costs will be lower. If you want custom cabinets or semi-custom cabinets, the cabinet replacement will be more expensive.

Is installation included in cabinet replacement quotes?

No, installation costs are not mostly included in the starting price of the cabinets. The cabinet installer will give you a new quote for labor costs. Cabinet installation costs make up a big part of the total cost. So, be sure to plan for these costs on their own.

Can removing old cabinets myself reduce total costs?

Yes, you can save money if you do some tasks on your own. If you take out the old cabinets by yourself, you will pay less overall. A cabinet installer will have to do less work. This will lower the installation costs. The amount you save can change based on the size of your kitchen. Some people save several hundred dollars.

Are there affordable options besides full cabinet replacement?

Yes, if you want to save money, you can go with cabinet refacing or painting your cabinets. These two ways can give your kitchen a fresh look for a lot less cash, sometimes even up to 70% cheaper than buying new cabinets. Cabinet refacing is nice if you want the kitchen to feel new but still stick to your kitchen renovation budget. This can help you get good results without paying as much.