How Much Does It Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets?

AvatarByNora Gaines Kitchen DIY & Renovation

Replacing kitchen cabinets is a significant home improvement project that can dramatically transform the look and functionality of your kitchen. Whether you’re aiming to modernize an outdated space, increase storage, or boost your home’s resale value, understanding the costs involved is essential before diving into the renovation process. The question “How much is it to replace kitchen cabinets?” is one many homeowners ask, as it involves a range of factors that influence the final price.

The cost of replacing kitchen cabinets can vary widely depending on materials, design complexity, labor, and whether you choose custom, semi-custom, or stock cabinets. Additionally, the size of your kitchen and any additional work, such as plumbing or electrical adjustments, can impact the overall expense. While the price tag might seem daunting at first, knowing what contributes to the cost can help you make informed decisions and plan your budget effectively.

In this article, we’ll explore the key elements that affect cabinet replacement costs and provide insights to help you navigate your options. From understanding different cabinet types to considering installation and finishing touches, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what to expect financially when updating your kitchen cabinetry.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Several key factors influence the overall cost of replacing kitchen cabinets. Understanding these elements can help homeowners plan their budget more effectively and make informed decisions during the renovation process.

Material Choice
The material used for the cabinets plays a significant role in pricing. Common materials include:

  • Solid wood: Offers durability and aesthetic appeal but tends to be the most expensive option.
  • Plywood: A strong, cost-effective alternative to solid wood, often used for cabinet boxes.
  • Medium-density fiberboard (MDF): A budget-friendly option that can be painted but may not be as durable.
  • Particleboard: The least expensive material, typically found in lower-end cabinets.

Cabinet Style and Design
The complexity of the cabinet design affects labor and material costs. Custom cabinets with intricate details, special finishes, or unique shapes will increase the price compared to stock or semi-custom cabinets.

Size and Layout of the Kitchen
The number of cabinets and the kitchen’s layout impact the overall cost. Larger kitchens with more cabinets require more materials and labor, thereby increasing expenses.

Installation Costs
Installation fees vary depending on the contractor’s rates, the complexity of the job, and any additional work required such as removing old cabinets or modifying plumbing and electrical systems.

Additional Features
Extras like soft-close hinges, pull-out shelves, built-in organizers, or glass fronts will add to the total cost. Choosing premium hardware and accessories also influences pricing.

Typical Price Ranges for Kitchen Cabinet Replacement

The cost to replace kitchen cabinets can vary widely based on the factors outlined above. Below is a general overview of price ranges by cabinet type and material:

Cabinet Type Material Cost per Linear Foot Average Total Cost (Medium Kitchen)
Stock Cabinets Particleboard / MDF $60 – $100 $3,000 – $5,000
Semi-Custom Cabinets Plywood or MDF $100 – $200 $5,000 – $10,000
Custom Cabinets Solid Wood $200 – $500+ $10,000 – $30,000+

These prices typically include the cabinets themselves and basic installation but may exclude additional costs such as removal of old cabinets, plumbing, electrical work, or countertop replacement.

Cost Breakdown for Cabinet Replacement Projects

To better understand where the money goes in a kitchen cabinet replacement project, consider the typical distribution of costs:

  • Cabinet Materials: 50% to 70% of total cost
  • Installation Labor: 20% to 35%
  • Hardware and Accessories: 5% to 10%
  • Additional Costs (removal, modifications): 5% to 15%

This breakdown helps highlight that while materials are the largest expense, installation labor and extra features can significantly impact the final price.

Ways to Manage and Reduce Replacement Costs

Homeowners can employ several strategies to keep cabinet replacement costs manageable without sacrificing quality:

  • Opt for Semi-Custom Cabinets: These offer a balance between customization and affordability.
  • Refinish or Reface Existing Cabinets: Instead of full replacement, updating cabinet doors and hardware can refresh the kitchen at a lower cost.
  • Simplify Cabinet Design: Choosing flat-panel doors or standard sizes reduces manufacturing and labor expenses.
  • DIY Installation: For those with experience, installing cabinets themselves can save on labor costs.
  • Shop Sales and Discounts: Purchasing cabinets during promotional periods or from outlets can lower material expenses.
  • Limit Additional Features: Prioritize essential hardware and avoid costly extras unless necessary.

By carefully considering these options, homeowners can achieve a stylish kitchen upgrade while controlling their budget.

Factors Influencing the Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Replacing kitchen cabinets involves several variables that directly affect the total cost. Understanding these factors can help homeowners budget effectively and make informed decisions.

The primary considerations include:

  • Material Quality: The choice of materials—ranging from laminate to solid wood—can significantly change the price. Higher-end woods like maple or cherry are more costly than MDF or particleboard.
  • Cabinet Style and Design: Custom or semi-custom cabinets with intricate details or unique finishes increase labor and material costs compared to stock cabinets with simpler designs.
  • Size of the Kitchen: Larger kitchens require more cabinets, which naturally elevates the price. The number of cabinets and their configuration influence the overall expenditure.
  • Installation Complexity: Removing old cabinets, adjusting plumbing or electrical systems, and dealing with uneven walls or floors can add to labor costs.
  • Additional Features: Soft-close hinges, pull-out shelves, glass inserts, and other upgrades will increase costs.
  • Geographic Location: Labor rates and material availability vary by region, affecting the final price.

Typical Cost Ranges for Kitchen Cabinet Replacement

Cabinet Type Cost per Linear Foot Description Estimated Total Cost for Average Kitchen (10-15 linear feet)
Stock Cabinets $60 – $200 Mass-produced, limited styles and finishes, readily available $600 – $3,000
Semi-Custom Cabinets $100 – $650 More styles and finishes, some customization allowed $1,000 – $9,750
Custom Cabinets $500 – $1,200+ Fully tailored design, premium materials and craftsmanship $5,000 – $18,000+

Note: Total costs include materials and installation but exclude additional remodeling expenses such as plumbing or electrical work.

Cost Breakdown of Kitchen Cabinet Replacement

The total expense of replacing kitchen cabinets can be divided into several components:

  • Materials (40% – 60%): The cabinet boxes, doors, drawers, hardware, and finishes.
  • Labor (30% – 50%): Removal of old cabinets, preparation, and installation of new cabinetry.
  • Additional Expenses (10% – 20%): Delivery fees, permits, disposal of old cabinets, and minor structural modifications.

Ways to Manage and Reduce Replacement Costs

Homeowners can employ several strategies to keep kitchen cabinet replacement within budget without compromising quality:

  • Refacing Existing Cabinets: Instead of a full replacement, refacing involves replacing doors and drawer fronts while retaining the cabinet boxes, reducing costs by up to 50%.
  • Selecting Stock or Semi-Custom Options: These provide balance between cost and customization, avoiding the premium price of fully custom cabinets.
  • Opting for Durable, Cost-Effective Materials: Materials like plywood with veneer finishes offer longevity and aesthetics at a moderate price.
  • DIY Installation: Skilled homeowners can save on labor by installing cabinets themselves, although this requires time and expertise.
  • Shopping Sales and Discounts: Purchasing cabinets during promotional periods or from clearance inventory can yield substantial savings.

Additional Costs to Consider Beyond Cabinets

Replacing kitchen cabinets often coincides with other renovation elements that add to the overall budget:

  • Countertops: New countertops may be required if the cabinet layout changes or for aesthetic upgrades.
  • Plumbing and Electrical Work: Moving sinks, dishwashers, or lighting fixtures can incur significant costs.
  • Flooring and Backsplash: Updates to flooring or backsplash might be desirable to complement the new cabinets.
  • Appliance Adjustments: Modifications to fit new cabinetry dimensions or styles.

Planning these elements together with cabinet replacement ensures a cohesive design and more accurate budgeting.

Expert Perspectives on the Cost of Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Jessica Martin (Certified Kitchen Designer, National Kitchen & Bath Association). The cost to replace kitchen cabinets varies widely depending on materials, cabinet style, and labor. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $5,000 and $15,000 for a full cabinet replacement in a standard-sized kitchen. Custom cabinetry and high-end finishes will drive the price higher, while stock cabinets offer more budget-friendly options.

David Chen (General Contractor, Chen Home Renovations). When budgeting for cabinet replacement, it is crucial to factor in not only the price of the cabinets themselves but also installation costs, which typically range from 20% to 35% of the total cabinet price. Additional expenses may include removal of old cabinets, plumbing or electrical adjustments, and potential repairs to walls or flooring, all of which can significantly affect the final cost.

Linda Alvarez (Interior Architect and Renovation Consultant). The timeframe and complexity of the project directly influence the overall cost to replace kitchen cabinets. For example, kitchens with irregular layouts or those requiring custom solutions will incur higher labor and design fees. It is advisable to obtain multiple quotes and consult with professionals early in the planning phase to gain an accurate estimate tailored to your specific kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it typically cost to replace kitchen cabinets?
The average cost to replace kitchen cabinets ranges from $4,000 to $12,000, depending on the size of the kitchen, materials used, and labor fees.

What factors influence the cost of replacing kitchen cabinets?
Material quality, cabinet design, customization level, labor rates, and whether existing cabinets need removal or structural modifications all impact the total cost.

Are custom cabinets more expensive than stock cabinets?
Yes, custom cabinets generally cost significantly more due to tailored designs, higher-quality materials, and specialized craftsmanship compared to stock or semi-custom options.

Can I reduce costs by refacing instead of replacing kitchen cabinets?
Refacing cabinets typically costs 30-50% less than full replacement by updating cabinet doors and veneers while retaining the existing cabinet boxes.

How long does the cabinet replacement process usually take?
Replacing kitchen cabinets usually takes between one to three weeks, depending on the scope of work, cabinet type, and any additional remodeling required.

Do installation costs vary based on cabinet type?
Yes, installation costs vary; custom cabinets often require more time and expertise, leading to higher labor charges compared to stock or semi-custom cabinets.
Replacing kitchen cabinets is a significant investment that varies widely depending on factors such as the size of the kitchen, the quality of materials chosen, and whether you opt for custom, semi-custom, or stock cabinets. On average, homeowners can expect to spend anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000 or more, with custom cabinetry often commanding the highest prices due to its tailored fit and premium craftsmanship. Additional costs may include labor, removal of existing cabinets, and any necessary modifications to plumbing or electrical systems.

Understanding the scope of the project and setting a realistic budget are crucial steps before beginning a cabinet replacement. While stock cabinets offer a budget-friendly option with quicker availability, semi-custom and custom cabinets provide greater flexibility in design and materials, which can enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It is also important to factor in installation costs and potential upgrades such as soft-close hinges, pull-out shelves, or integrated lighting, which can improve the overall value and usability of the kitchen.

Ultimately, the decision to replace kitchen cabinets should balance cost considerations with the desired outcome in terms of style, durability, and long-term satisfaction. Consulting with a professional kitchen designer or contractor can provide valuable insights and help ensure that the project stays within budget while meeting your specific

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.