Installing and assembling kitchen cabinets is a specialized skill that requires experience, attention to detail, and expertise using various power tools. Cabinet installers play a critical role in kitchen remodeling projects and new home constructions. So how much do these skilled tradespeople make per hour for their services? Read on for a deep dive into cabinet installer hourly wages.
Average Hourly Pay for Cabinet Installers
The average hourly pay for cabinet installers in the United States is approximately $20 to $35 per hour. However, wages can vary depending on factors like geographic location, qualifications, experience level, and whether someone is self-employed or works for a larger installation company.
Some key factors that influence cabinet installer hourly pay include:
- Geographic Location – Cabinet installers in high cost-of-living urban areas like New York City or San Francisco can command upwards of $40 to $50 per hour. In lower cost suburban and rural areas, rates are typically $15 to $25 per hour.
- Experience Level – Entry-level cabinet installers straight out of trade school often start around $15 per hour. Those with 5+ years experience commonly make $25 to $35 per hour. Highly seasoned professionals can make $40 per hour or more.
- Union vs Non-Union – Many cabinet installers working for union contractors receive higher hourly wages along with benefits like healthcare and retirement plans. Non-union shops tend to pay $5 to $10 less per hour.
- Self-Employed vs Company – Self-employed cabinet installers set their own rates but must also cover their own expenses. Installers working for larger companies may make less per hour but have steadier workflow.
- Scope of Work – Simple cabinet swaps pay less than extensive custom installs. Supplementary skills like countertop templating, plumbing, or electrical work also boost hourly rates.
- Certifications – Installers with advanced certifications like North American Technician Excellence (NATE) tend to earn higher hourly wages reflecting their specialized skills.
While the national average is $20 to $35 per hour, it’s best to check with installers in your local area to get an accurate rate range based on the above factors.
Hourly Billing Considerations for Self-Employed Installers
For cabinet installers who run their own business, determining an appropriate hourly rate involves some careful consideration. Key factors include:
- Desired Income – Consider your target annual income after expenses to determine an hourly rate that will meet your goals. Factor in costs like tools, transportation, insurances and taxes.
- Experience & Reputation – Your capabilities and reputation will influence the hourly rate you can command. Have a strong portfolio and customer reviews to justify higher pay.
- Operating Expenses – Account for expenses like gas, vehicle maintenance, tool purchases, licensing fees, insurances, and other costs of doing business.
- Labor Market Rates – Research what other local cabinet installers charge per hour so your rates are competitive. Balance competitiveness with covering costs.
- Profit Margin Goals – Determine the profit margin you want to earn on each job and set an hourly rate accordingly. Aim for 30% or more after expenses.
- Scope & Difficulty – Account for project variables that will take more time and skill. Charge higher rates for intricate custom cabinetry installs vs simple cabinet swaps.
- Travel Time & Expenses – Factor in drive time and mileage costs if traveling to job sites. Consider a minimum hourly charge.
Setting an appropriate hourly rate is important for self-employed installers to earn a living while remaining price competitive. Track your time and expenses closely when starting out to find the optimal billing rate.
Factors That Increase Cabinet Installers Hourly Wages
Certain skills, credentials and capabilities can boost a cabinet installer’s earning potential:
- Finish Carpentry Skills – Proficiency in trim, molding and other fine carpentry earns higher pay for refined work.
- Custom Fabrication – Ability to build and install custom cabinets from scratch commands higher billing rates.
- Countertop Templating – Skills for measuring and fabricating countertops in materials like quartz and granite.
- Plumbing Expertise – Connecting sinks, faucets and appliances boosts installer pay.
- Electrical Wiring – Safely installing under-cabinet and accent lighting raises rates.
- Certifications – Credentials like NATE, NKBA, EPA Section 608, and lead renovator certs demonstrate specialized skills.
- Kitchen Design – Understanding kitchen workflow helps optimize cabinet layouts.
- Project Management – Overseeing teams and client communications warrants increased pay.
- Renovation Experience – At ease with older homes and remodeling intricacies.
- Speed & Efficiency – Working quickly without sacrificing quality saves clients money.
- Reputation & Reviews – Proven track record and outstanding references justify higher billing.
Gaining expertise across cabinetry installation and related construction trades is key for installers to maximize their earning potential and provide premium service. Advanced skills, training and certifications translate directly into higher hourly wages.
Hourly vs Per Project Billing
Another consideration for cabinet installers is whether to charge by the hour or provide an overall project bid. Each approach has pros and cons:
Hourly Billing
- Pros – Guaranteed payment for all time on-site. Rewards efficiency.
- Cons – Clients may monitor clock closely. Unpredictable final costs.
Per Project Bidding
- Pros – Client has cost certainty. Installer efficiency directly increases profits.
- Cons – Requires accurate scoping. Unexpected issues eat into profit margin.
Many cabinet installers utilize hybrid billing that combines both approaches:
- Bid flat rate for well-defined scopes of work
- Charge hourly for unknowns and change orders
- Bill a minimum number of hours per day on-site
This provides the predictability of a quote while getting paid for variables. Keep detailed time tracking no matter the billing method.
Factors That Reduce Cabinet Installers Hourly Wages
Certain conditions can negatively impact how much a cabinet installer can earn per hour:
- Slow Market – In economic downturns, installers may lower rates to secure jobs.
- Overhead Costs – Things like high insurance premiums eats into billable income.
- Unbillable Hours – Time spent driving, planning and managing projects reduces effective hourly wage.
- Apprentice Work – Helpers working under supervision often start around $12 to $15 per hour.
- Piecework Payment – Some shops pay installers per cabinet instead of hourly, reducing earnings.
- Remote Location – Long drives between rural job sites cuts into compensated time.
- Complex Scope – Intricate details require more preparatory work, indirectly lowering effective hourly pay.
- Inefficient Time Usage – Too much time on non-install tasks limits billable hours in day.
- Lacking Specialization – Installers with expertise in just basic cabinets are limited to lower rates.
Careful time and expense tracking is vital for cabinet installers to maximize their real, take-home hourly earnings. Finding ways to work efficiently and minimize unbillable hours also helps optimize pay.
Salary vs Hourly Pay for Cabinet Installers
Some cabinet installers work on annual salary for companies rather than as hourly employees or contractors. Here’s how salary pay typically compares:
Hourly Pay
- Only paid for actual hours on job sites
- No compensation for drive time, planning, etc
- Unpredictable income week-to-week
Salary Pay
- Fixed income regardless of weekly hours
- Paid during slower periods with less install time
- Potentially less per hour for busier weeks
Salary + Commission
- Base income plus added percentage of project cost
- Rewards sales skills bringing in bigger jobs
- Less predictable take-home than straight hourly
Salary + Hourly Overtime
- Guaranteed income plus overtime pay
- No commission component
- More pay stability than straight hourly
There are pros and cons to different pay structures. Some installers may prioritize a more consistent salary over maximizing dollars per hour worked. Exploring different options can open doors to higher earning potential long-term.
Long-Term Earning Potential for Cabinet Installers
A cabinet installer who starts out at $15 per hour as a helper has room to grow their income substantially over the course of a career. Here is one potential long-term trajectory:
- Apprentice – $15/hour learning basics
- Semi-Skilled – $20/hour assisting installs
- Skilled Installer – $25 to $30/hour solo jobs
- Lead Installer – $30 to $40/hour running projects
- Master Craftsman – $40+/hour for intricate work
- Shop Owner – $75K+ in sales, installing as needed
By gaining expertise in specialty skills like custom fabrication, countertop templating, finish carpentry and design, installers can reach the highest tiers of earning potential. Obtaining advanced training and certifications while honing their craft is essential.
Many installers open their own shops once fully seasoned, merging project management with hands-on labor. The business ownership route provides the highest potential earnings but also entails risk, management demands and upfront investment.
Overall, cabinet installers have promising prospects for earning an excellent living and gradually increasing their income over their career span. Starting with an apprenticeship and small jobs, they can progress to running entire projects and shops. A passion for the craft, business savvy and commitment to ongoing training helps maximize installers’ long-term success and wages.
Maximum Income Potential for Cabinet Installers
What is the maximum salary potential for the most skilled, successful cabinet installers at the very top of their field? Here are some top ranges:
- $80,000 to $120,000 per year – As owner and head installer at a busy, high-end custom cabinetry shop charging premium rates. May also sell cabinets and related remodeling services.
- $150,000+ per year – With additional income streams like cabinet and countertop wholesale distribution to other installers and remodelers.
- $200,000+ per year – As a prominent brand name in the luxury kitchen cabinet installation space, also consulting on large remodeling projects. May have cabinet product licensing deals and media exposure.
- $250,000+ per year – Owning a major regional or national installation company with multiple trucks and crews running jobs. Significant wholesale cabinet distribution business. High-profile name recognition.
Very few cabinet installers reach the summit of earning $200K+ per year. It requires outstanding craftsmanship plus shrewd business management and marketing. But it is possible for the most dedicated installation professionals to build a highly profitable enterprise over decades in the field. Many successful shop owners still enjoy working hands-on while reaping the financial rewards of their reputation and capabilities.
Benefits Beyond Base Hourly Pay
Beyond their basic hourly wages, some cabinet installers enjoy additional benefits:
- Health insurance – Provided by some employers, but generally must be purchased independently by installers who are self-employed.
- Retirement savings plans – Some union and large shop installers have access to 401K plans and pensions. Others must set up their own IRAs and savings.
- Performance bonuses – May be rewarded with bonuses for on-time job completion or positive customer reviews.
- Profit sharing – Installers who are part business owners may benefit from sharing in the company’s overall profits.
- Vehicle and cell phone – Shop installers may have work-related auto and communication costs reimbursed.
- Paid time off – Salaried and long-tenured hourly installers may earn paid vacation, holidays and sick days.
- Continuing education – Larger employers may cover or subsidize training costs and certifications.
- Flexible schedule – Experienced installers may enjoy some choice in jobs and freedom to set their weekly schedule.
- Recruiting referral fees – Some companies compensate for referring new installers who are hired.
- Low/no cost materials – Relationships with cabinet suppliers may provide free or discounted products.
The most lucrative benefit is earning a share of company ownership for installers who open their own small business. The income upside and equity is immense for those who ultimately make this leap.
How Much Do Cabinet Installers Make Per Hour: Key Takeaways
- Typical cabinet installer hourly pay is $20 to $35 depending on experience, skills, location and employment type
- Self-employed installers must factor in all operating expenses when setting hourly billing rates
- Specialized skills like custom fabrication and countertop templating increase earning potential
- Hourly, per project and salary pay structures have different pros and cons
- Maximum income is $200K+ for installer/business owners with large operations and solid reputations
- Benefits like healthcare, retirement plans and profit sharing boost total compensation
In summary, becoming a cabinet installer can be a rewarding profession both financially and in terms of job satisfaction. There is room for substantial wage growth over the course of a career. Installers willing to hone their expertise and business skills can ultimately attain earnings of $100K+ annually. It is a craft that combines creativity, problem solving and specialized technical abilities. If you enjoy working with your hands to transform spaces, it is an excellent and lucrative trade to pursue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge hourly as a self-employed cabinet installer?
As a self-employed cabinet installer, you should charge between $35 and $50 per hour depending on your experience level and local market rates. Carefully factor in your business expenses then add at least a 30% profit margin.
How can I maximize my income as a cabinet installer?
To maximize income as a cabinet installer: specialize in high-value skills like custom cabinetry and countertop fabrication, obtain certifications, build your reputation for quality work, learn project management and business skills, and consider opening your own shop.
What is the income potential for an independent cabinet installer?
An independent cabinet installer who runs their own business has an income potential of $75,000 to $150,000+ per year after several years experience. By building their brand and optimizing operations, the most successful indie installers make $200,000+.
Should I be paid hourly or on salary as a cabinet installer?
For maximum earnings per hour worked, hourly pay is preferable. Salary ensures more income stability but may pay less for overtime hours. Blended hourly rate plus fixed project fees is a good compromise providing steady base pay plus overtime.
What is the best way to get compensated fairly as a cabinet installer?
The best approach is to charge fixed project rates combined with an hourly fee for change orders and uncertainties. Track your hours and expenses closely when starting out to determine a fair baseline hourly rate. Communicate clearly with clients on billing practices.
How much do union cabinet installers make?
Union cabinet installers typically earn $5 to $10 more per hour compared to their non-union counterparts. Average union wages range from $25 to $40+ per hour thanks to collective bargaining power. Benefits tend to be better as well.
How can I get better pay as an apprentice cabinet installer?
As an apprentice, focus intently on developing skills and proving yourself reliable. Ask questions and practice during down times. Gain proficiency in basic tasks then seek training in specialties like fabrication and templating. The fastest path higher pay is through skill acquisition.
What qualifications help cabinet installers earn the highest wages?
The most lucrative cabinet installer qualifications are fine carpentry proficiency, training in plumbing and electrical, custom fabrication expertise, kitchen design knowledge, and advanced certifications like NATE. Developing a reputation for outstanding quality and service also boosts earning potential.
Should I accept hourly or piecework pay as a cabinet installer?
For maximum pay and fair compensation, avoid piecework pay where you are paid per cabinet installed. You have no control over variables that slow your pace. Hourly pay ensures you earn for all time on site. Combine with fixed price project bids for the best of both structures.
Conclusion
Becoming a well-rounded cabinet installer with expertise in specialties like custom cabinetry and countertop fabrication can provide a six-figure income over time. By mastering both the hands-on trade skills and small business management abilities, installers create a path to an incredibly rewarding and profitable career. With persistence, commitment to ongoing learning, and cultivation of a sterling professional reputation, the income possibilities in this field are tremendous long-term.