Kitchen cabinets are one of the biggest investments in any kitchen remodel. Understanding the true cost before starting a project can save homeowners from unexpected expenses. The following guide by Easy Home Service explains how much do kitchen cabinets cost in the United States. We will also explore the factors that impact prices, the differences between stock and custom cabinetry, installation costs, hidden fees and provide additional useful tips for remodeling smart. 

Whether you are upgrading a small kitchen or planning a luxury renovation, this blog answers the most common questions homeowners search online. This becomes helpful especially before replacing kitchen cabinets.

According to industry pricing research from Ambiance Creations Kitchen Cabinet Cost Breakdown, kitchen cabinets alone can account for nearly 30% to 40% of an entire kitchen remodeling budget.

How Much Do Kitchen Cabinets Cost on Average?

Average kitchen cabinet prices vary widely across different types of cabinets, materials used, kitchen dimensions, labor, customisation level, etc. Many homeowners sometimes overlook when considering kitchen cabinets’ price. These variables influence final pricing.

On average:

✔ Stock kitchen cabinets: $100 - $300 per linear foot

✔ Semi-custom kitchen cabinets: $150 - $650 per linear foot

✔ Custom kitchen cabinets: $500 – $1500+ per linear foot

For a full kitchen cabinet replacement project, most homeowners spend between $4,500 and $15,000+, while luxury custom kitchens may exceed $25,000 to $40,000.

The national average kitchen cabinet installation cost falls around $6,000 to $13,000, depending on kitchen size and cabinet quality. 

What Impacts Kitchen Cabinet Costs?

Several important factors affect kitchen cabinet pricing, and understanding them helps homeowners build a realistic remodeling budget. These may help you plan and budget better for cabinet installation and renovations. The common factors are:

Cabinet Type

The biggest pricing factor is this. It is one of the major determinants of kitchen cabinet costs.

You can choose from a variety of cabinet types. Whether you choose stock, semi-custom or custom cabinets.

Stock Cabinets

Stock cabinets are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and available at large retailers like The Home Depot Kitchen Cabinets and Lowe’s Kitchen Cabinets.

They are the most affordable option but offer fewer design choices.

Best for Budget remodels, rental properties and quick renovations

Semi-Custom Cabinets

Semi-custom cabinets provide more flexibility in dimensions, finishes, storage options, and accessories and add-ons.

Best for Mid-range kitchen remodels

✔ Homeowners wanting personalization

✔ Improved storage functionality

Custom Kitchen Cabinets

Custom cabinets are fully built to fit your kitchen layout and design preferences.

Best for:

✔ Luxury kitchens

✔ Distinct kitchen designs

✔ High-end renovations

However, custom kitchen cabinets cost significantly more because of labor, materials, and design complexity.

How Much Do Cabinets Cost for a 10x10 Kitchen?

The 10x10 kitchen is commonly used as a standard measurement in cabinet pricing estimates. Let us know the cabinet pricing for this segment.

Average pricing for a 10x10 kitchen:

These prices generally exclude countertops, flooring, plumbing, appliances, and electrical upgrades.

How Much Do Cabinets Cost for a 12x12 Kitchen?

A 12x12 kitchen typically requires more cabinetry and storage space, increasing overall project costs.  It will involve a bigger expenditure than its smaller counterpart.

Average costs:

✔ Basic stock cabinets: $4,000-$8,000

✔ Semi-custom cabinets: $8,000-  $18,000

✔ Custom cabinetry: $18,000- $40,000+

Homes with islands, pantry walls, ceiling-height cabinets or custom storage solutions usually fall into higher pricing ranges.

How Much Do New Cabinets Cost for a Small Kitchen?

Small kitchens are generally more affordable, but pricing still depends heavily on material and installation choices. It is largely influenced by materials and installation.

Average small kitchen cabinet costs:

✔ Simple remodel: $2,500 - $5,500

✔ Moderate remodel: $6,000 - $12,000

✔ High-end remodel: $15,000 +

Even small kitchens can become expensive when homeowners choose premium wood species, custom finishes, soft-close hardware, or specialty organizers.

Do You Know?

Kitchen remodeling consistently ranks among the highest-return home improvement projects in the USA.

Mid-range kitchen remodels often recover a significant portion of their cost in home resale value.

Updated kitchen cabinets can improve: home appearance, storage efficiency, buyer interest and overall home value

Cabinet Materials and Their Costs

Cabinet material selection greatly affects both durability and pricing.

MDF Cabinets

MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is affordable and smooth for painted finishes. This is a relatively inexpensive cabinet material that provides a smooth surface for painting.

Average cost:

✔ $100 – $250 per linear foot

Pros:

✔ Affordable

✔ Smooth painted finish

✔ Resistant to cracking

Cons:

✔ Less moisture resistance

✔ Lower durability than plywood

Plywood Cabinets

Plywood cabinets are stronger and more moisture-resistant. These are a popular and great choice among the homeowners looking to renovate their home.

Average cost:

✔ $250 – $650 per linear foot

Best for:

✔ Long-term durability

✔ High-moisture kitchens

✔ Mid-level and high-end renovations

Solid Wood Cabinets

Solid hardwood cabinets are considered premium products.

Average cost:

✔ $500 – $1,500+ per linear foot

Popular woods include:

✔ Maple

✔ Oak

✔ Cherry

✔ Walnut

Real-Life Homeowner Scenario

A homeowner in Dallas, Texas, recently replaced aging laminate cabinets in a 12x12 kitchen with semi-custom shaker-style cabinets. It has soft-close drawers and pull-out pantry organizers.

Initial budget estimate:

✔ $9,000

Final project cost:

✔ Approximately $14,500

Unexpected expenses included:

1. Drywall repairs

2. Rerouting plumbing

3. Electrical upgrades

4. Cabinet removal

5. Replacement countertops

The homeowner later mentioned that the enhanced storage space and better layout improved their everyday kitchen performance and home aesthetic.

Additional Costs Most Homeowners Forget

Kitchen cabinet pricing involves much more than cabinets alone. There are other costs too, that one should consider while planning the project. This can help them budget efficiently.

Additional project costs may include:

1. Removal of old cabinets

2. Wallwork

3. Floor alterations

4. Plumbing work

5. Wiring and electrical connections

6. Countertops

7. Backsplash

8. Painting

9. Permits

The labor and installation costs often account for 20% to 35% of total kitchen renovation budgets.

Cost to Remove Old Kitchen Cabinets and Install New Ones

Cabinet removal and disposal usually cost:

✔ $300 – $1,500

Installation labor for new cabinets often ranges between:

✔ $2,000 – $8,000+

Complex kitchens with custom layouts or structural modifications cost more.

State-Wise Kitchen Cabinet Cost Differences

California

Higher labor rates and premium remodeling demand increase cabinet installation costs substantially. There exist high labor costs, building regulations and greater demands for luxury kitchen remodeling. Homeowners in urban areas such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco tend to favor luxurious kitchen cabinet options and designs, which further drive prices.

Average full kitchen cabinet replacement:

✔ $12,000 – $35,000+

Texas

Texas homeowners often choose larger kitchens with islands and extended storage walls.It is usual for residents in Texas to have kitchens that are bigger in size, which include big kitchen islands, pantry walls and cabinet storage space that is expanded. Since houses in Texas are bigger on average than those across the country, cabinet work will also need more supplies and manpower. However, labor cost in Texas is generally lower than that in the coastal regions.

Average cabinet project:

✔ $7,000 – $22,000

Florida

Humidity-resistant materials and coastal construction requirements may increase costs. Kitchen cabinets in Florida need to be manufactured using materials that resist moisture because of the weather conditions. Plywood cabinets, marine-quality cabinets and cabinets with moisture-resistant laminate are the most suitable options. Coastal regions also require special constructions, such as corrosion-proof fastenings and other materials, which would require extra costs.

Average project:

✔ $8,000 – $25,000

Northeast States

Older homes in New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey frequently require structural adjustments before cabinet installation. This might require some alterations before any cabinets can be added. The reasons could range from walls being uneven to needing plumbing and electrical system upgrades in the kitchen. Costs associated with labor will definitely be higher in metropolitan cities.

Average project:

✔ $10,000 – $30,000+

How Long Do Kitchen Cabinets Last?

The average lifespan of cabinets depends on material quality and maintenance. Cabinets exposed to excessive moisture, grease buildup or poor ventilation may wear out faster. Well-maintained cabinets can remain functional and visually appealing for decades.

Typical cabinet lifespan:

✔ Budget cabinets: 10–15 years

✔ Mid-range cabinets: 15–25 years

✔ High-end custom cabinets: 25–50 years

Proper maintenance significantly extends cabinet durability.

Signs Your Kitchen Cabinets Need Replacement

Many homeowners delay replacement too long and experience worsening damage.

Common warning signs include:

✔ Water damage

✔ Warped doors

✔ Mold or mildew

✔ Weak shelving

✔ Peeling laminate

✔ Poor functionality

✔ Outdated layouts

Sometimes refacing may work, but severe damage often requires full replacement.

How Easy Home Service Can Help You

At Easy Home Service, we help homeowners connect with trusted professionals in the United States for all their home services and improvement needs. Homeowners can request the service by filling out the form and we will get you matched with local experts.

✔ Kitchen cabinet installation

✔ Kitchen remodeling services

✔ Cabinet replacement

✔ Custom cabinetry projects

✔ Kitchen renovation planning

✔ Cabinet repairs and upgrades

Whether you need affordable stock cabinets or fully customized luxury cabinetry, Easy Home Service helps simplify the process by connecting homeowners with experienced local professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good budget for kitchen cabinets?

A budget of between $5,000 and $15,000 per project should be suitable for many homeowners, considering the quality and customization of the cabinets.

What is the average cost to put in kitchen cabinets?

It should typically cost between $6,000 and $13,000 on average to install kitchen cabinets in the USA.

How much does it cost to remove old kitchen cabinets and install new ones?

Removing and replacing kitchen cabinets usually costs between $5,000 and $20,000+, depending on labor, materials, and kitchen size.

What is the most expensive part of redoing a kitchen?

Cabinets can be the most expensive part of a kitchen renovation, often comprising 30% to 40% of the overall budget.

What is the average lifespan of cabinets?

Cabinets generally have a lifetime that can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years depending on the quality.

Is cabinet refacing cheaper than replacing cabinets?

Yes. Cabinet refacing is typically cheaper because it keeps existing cabinet boxes while replacing doors and finishes.

Do kitchen cabinets increase home value?

Yes. Updated kitchen cabinets can improve buyer appeal and contribute positively to home resale value.

Are custom kitchen cabinets worth it?

Custom cabinets are worth considering for homeowners who want premium materials, unique layouts, or long-term durability.