Is the smartest kitchen upgrade actually setting a good cabinet budget? Are people spending too much or too little?
Cabinets make up about 41% of a full kitchen remodel. A good budget guide shows costs from $1,500 to $30,000+. Most projects fall between $4,500 and $15,000. Homeowners balance type, materials, and layout with style and resale value.
A 10×10 layout costs from $2,000 to $25,000+. This depends on materials like MDF, plywood, or solid wood. Whether you install it yourself or hire a pro also affects the price.
Key Takeaways
- Cabinets often represent about 41% of a full kitchen remodel cost.
- Typical project totals range from roughly $1,500 to $30,000+, with many between $4,500 and $15,000.
- Per-linear-foot prices vary widely, from about $50 to $1,500 based on quality and customization.
- Urban markets can be 20–50% higher due to labor and logistics; shipping adds more for remote areas.
- A 10×10 layout can run from about $2,000 to $25,000+, depending on type and materials.
- Allocating around 40% of the remodel budget to cabinets is a common starting rule.
Kitchen cabinet budget basics and typical cost ranges
Setting a kitchen cabinet budget begins with understanding the overall costs. Costs can range from $1,500 to over $30,000. Most projects fall between $3,000 and $12,000.
For a standard 10×10 layout, costs vary. They can be between $2,000 and $25,000+, depending on the type and finish.
When it comes to pricing, the type of cabinet matters a lot. Ready-to-Assemble cabinets cost between $1,000 and $8,000. Stock cabinets are about $1,500 to $5,000. Semi-custom cabinets range from $3,000 to $12,000+, and custom can go up to $30,000+.
Per-linear-foot prices also vary. Stock cabinets cost $100 to $400, semi-custom $150 to $700, and custom $500 to $1,200. Some quotes can go from $50 to $1,500 per linear foot, depending on materials and customizations.
Labor costs are also important. Installation can cost $50 to $300 per linear foot. For complex builds, it can go up to $450 per linear foot. Smaller kitchens, under 70 square feet, can cost between $1,700 and $20,000.
Hardware adds to the cost, with prices ranging from $2 to $50 per piece. Demolition can cost $300 to $800. For plumbing, electrical, or custom fitting, plan for $500 to $2,000.
Style choices also affect the budget. Simple styles like minimalist slab and classic Shaker are more affordable. More detailed styles like raised-panel and louvered doors increase labor and finish time.
Choosing trendy styles like two-tone palettes and natural wood grain can also impact costs. These styles often require more pieces and higher per-piece pricing.
What is a good budget for kitchen cabinets?
When deciding on a budget for kitchen cabinets, start by setting aside 40% of the total remodel cost. The ideal budget will depend on the size and layout of your kitchen. You’ll also need to consider the materials, hardware, and local labor costs.
For a small to mid-size kitchen, expect to spend around $2,000–$6,000. This includes stock or RTA cabinets. Semi-custom cabinets in a 10×10 kitchen can cost between $6,000–$12,000+. Custom designs for larger kitchens can reach $20,000–$30,000+.
Linear-foot pricing is a useful way to estimate costs. Stock cabinets cost $100–$400 per foot, semi-custom $150–$700, and custom $500–$1,200. Installation adds $50–$300 per foot, with urban jobs costing up to $450. This helps you compare different options and find the best value.
The type of material you choose also affects the cost. MDF and laminate are budget-friendly, while plywood offers a good balance. Solid wood is the most expensive option. Here’s a rough guide to material costs for a 10×10 kitchen: MDF $1,500–$5,000, plywood $2,500–$8,000, solid wood $5,000–$25,000, and wood veneer $2,500–$6,000.
- To save money, look for RTA or stock cabinets during holiday sales for 10–30% off.
- Consider swapping some uppers for open shelves and choosing simpler door styles. Keep accessories minimal.
- If you’re handy, assembling the cabinets yourself can save on labor costs. Hiring pros in busy cities may increase costs by 20–50%.
Key factors that impact kitchen cabinet pricing
Cabinet type is the main factor in cost. RTA and stock cabinets are more affordable. Semi-custom offers a balance between features and price. Custom cabinets are the priciest due to their unique designs and craftsmanship.
Prices vary by category. RTA cabinets cost $1,000–$8,000, while stock ones are $1,500–$5,000. Semi-custom cabinets range from $3,000–$12,000+, and custom ones can go up to $30,000+.
Costs also depend on size. Stock cabinets cost $100–$400 per linear foot. Semi-custom ones are $150–$700, and custom ones can be $500–$1,200. A 10×10 kitchen can cost between $2,000 and $25,000+.
Materials greatly affect prices. MDF is the cheapest, while plywood is more durable. Solid wood is the most expensive. For a 10×10 kitchen, MDF costs $1,500–$5,000, plywood $2,500–$8,000, and solid wood $5,000–$25,000.
Size and layout also play a role. U-shaped kitchens need more cabinets, increasing costs. Galley or L-shaped kitchens can be more affordable. These choices affect the overall cost before adding finishes or hardware.
Door style and finish also impact prices. Simple doors cost less, while more complex designs increase labor costs. Different finishes can change both price and durability. Finishing cabinets on-site can save money.
Labor and installation are big factors. Installation costs $50–$300 per linear foot. In complex cases, it can be up to $450 per foot. Location also affects prices due to labor and material costs.
Additional items add to the cost. Hardware costs $2–$50 per piece. Demolition is $300–$800, molding $210–$570, and utility changes $500–$2,000.
- Choose RTA or pre-assembled lines for budget-friendly kitchen cabinets without losing core function.
- Pick simpler door profiles and fewer drawers to trim labor and parts.
- Swap some uppers for open shelves and use standard pulls to lower kitchen cabinet pricing.
Conclusion
Setting a smart kitchen cabinet budget is key to a successful project. In the United States, it’s wise to spend about 40% of the budget on cabinets. This keeps costs in line with what experts suggest.
Most kitchen remodels cost between $5,500 and $13,000. But, prices can vary from $2,000 to $40,000, depending on the type. Using a 10×10 layout helps determine the right budget without uncertainty.
When planning, remember to convert design ideas into dollars. Stock cabinets cost $100 to $400 per linear foot. Semi-custom ones are $150 to $700 per foot, and custom can be $500 to $1,200 per foot.
Don’t forget to add installation costs, which range from $50 to $300 per foot. In some areas, this can go up to $450 per foot. Also, include the cost of hardware, demolition, molding, and any plumbing or electrical work.
Timing your purchases right can save 10 to 30%. Choosing simpler door styles and open shelving can also cut costs. This way, you get affordable cabinets without losing functionality.
For a good long-term investment, many opt for quality stock or semi-custom cabinets. This balance of price, fit, and durability can lead to a 50 to 80% return on investment. With a clear budget, you can manage your project well and enjoy a beautiful kitchen for years to come.