Cabinets are a key kitchen renovation expense and a major factor when deciding on your kitchen design. However, the average cost of custom cabinets can vary greatly depending on the materials and design you choose as well as installation costs. Generally speaking, expect to spend between $300 and $750 per linear foot of cabinetry. There are a few other factors to keep in mind when calculating the total costs for your project, including the type of door you select, additional hardware, and the overall size of your kitchen.

The main driver of your Custom Kitchen Cabinets prices is the material you choose. Kitchen cabinets can be constructed from wood and/or wood-based materials, like plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), birch veneers, or solid wood. Wood alternatives tend to be less expensive than solid wood. However, there is a trade-off in quality as lower-grade MDF and particleboard can warp or shrink over time, which affects their appearance. Solid woods are more durable and offer a natural look to your kitchen but can be much more expensive.

Stock and semi-custom cabinets are manufactured in standard sizes, styles, and finishes whereas custom cabinets can be designed to your exact specifications. As a result, they’re the more expensive options.

If you’re looking for the most budget friendly option, consider refinishing your existing cabinets instead of replacing them. This will save you a significant amount of money, but you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of this type of kitchen remodel.

When comparing cabinet prices, it’s important to understand that the price of a kitchen can fluctuate based on supply and demand. When demand is high, prices go up and when demand is low, prices go down. Therefore, it’s important to plan ahead for a future remodel so you can anticipate the potential increase or decrease in cabinet costs.

The final major factor that influences the price of your new cabinetry is installation costs. Labor rates vary, but on average you can expect to pay one to three times the price of your cabinetry for installation. This is a large part of why it’s so important to work with an experienced cabinet installer or handyperson.

Depending on the size of your kitchen and the amount of cabinetry, the job can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to complete. If you’re replacing or refacing your cabinets, expect to pay for the removal and disposal of the old cabinetry as well as any necessary remodeling expenses like electrical or plumbing work.

To keep your cabinet costs in line, choose a more affordable material such as MDF or solid wood and stick with a basic door style. Avoid the temptation to add more features or a custom design, as you’ll likely end up spending more than you anticipated. Additionally, prioritize your add-ons and focus on those that are necessary for functionality. For example, if you’re upgrading your cabinets to be more energy efficient, consider upgrading the hardware to LED lights rather than adding a touch-dimmer feature that will only add to your overall costs.