Installing new cabinets and countertops can completely transform the look and feel of your kitchen. However, this type of renovation also comes with a significant price tag. The costs of new cabinets and countertops can vary widely depending on the materials, quality, and amount of labor involved. Here is a detailed look at what goes into the costs of new kitchen cabinets and countertops.
Cabinet Costs
The cabinetry is often the biggest expense when renovating a kitchen. There are several factors that affect the total cost of new cabinets:
Cabinet Quality
The quality of the cabinets has a big impact on price. Basic stock cabinets made of particle board with laminate finishes are the most affordable option, costing $100-300 per linear foot installed. Semi-custom and custom cabinets made of plywood or solid wood with stain-grade finishes range from $200-500 per linear foot installed. High-end custom cabinets can be $500-1,000+ per linear foot.
Cabinet Style
The style of the cabinets also affects cost. Simple shaker-style cabinets tend to be cheaper than ornate cabinets with more decorative details. Specialty cabinetry like glass-front cabinets, lazy susans, and pull-out shelving will add to the overall price.
Number of Cabinets
The total number of base cabinets, wall cabinets, and specialty cabinetry needed is a major cost determinant. More cabinets means higher material and installation costs. An average 10×10 kitchen may have 15-20 cabinets total.
Custom vs Stock
Custom cabinets that are built specifically for your kitchen layout tend to cost 50-100% more than pre-fabricated stock cabinets. However, custom allows a perfect fit and customization options.
Labor Costs
Installation and labor costs typically add an extra 20-40% over the base price of the cabinets. More complex installations or built-ins will be pricier. DIY installation can save significantly on labor.
Other Costs
Other potential cabinet costs include delivery fees, taxes, modification charges, and hardware like knobs and pulls. Expect another 5-15% of the cabinet price for these additional expenses.
In summary, the typical cost range for new kitchen cabinets is:
- Economy/Stock Cabinets: $3,000 to $7,000
- Mid-Range Semi-Custom: $7,000 to $15,000
- High-End Custom: $15,000 to $30,000+
So for the average 10×10 kitchen, you can expect to pay $5,000 to $10,000 for a quality cabinet remodel. Ultra high-end custom work or large gourmet kitchens could run $20,000 to $50,000 or more.
Countertop Costs
In addition to cabinets, most kitchen remodels involve installing new countertops as well. The costs for countertops include:
Countertop Material
This is the biggest factor in countertop prices. Materials like laminate and wood are the most economical at $20-50 per square foot installed. Tile, stone, quartz, solid surface, and high end wood run $50-150 per square foot installed.
Labor Costs
Fabrication and installation typically add $40-100 per square foot in labor costs depending on material and complexity. DIY countertop installs can save substantially on labor.
Number of Countertops
The total linear footage of countertops needed will drive overall costs. An average 10×10 kitchen may have 25-30 sq ft of countertop space.
Edge Profiles & Backsplashes
Optional edges like bullnose or ogee along with backsplashes can add $10-30 per linear foot.
Other Costs
Other potential costs for new countertops include sink cutouts, seams, taxes, and modifications. Budget an extra 10-15% of material cost.
The typical range for new kitchen countertops is:
- Laminate: $1,000 to $2,000
- Wood: $1,500 to $3,500
- Tile: $2,000 to $3,500
- Quartz: $2,500 to $4,500
- Granite: $3,000 to $5,500
- Marble: $3,500 to $6,500
- Solid Surface: $3,000 to $5,500
For the average 10×10 kitchen, expect to spend around $2,500 to $5,000 for new countertops. High-end materials like marble or quartz in larger gourmet kitchens could run as high as $10,000 to $15,000.
Total Costs
When budgeting for a kitchen remodel involving both new cabinetry and countertops, you can expect total costs in the following ranges:
- Economy: $5,000 to $10,000
- Mid-Range: $10,000 to $20,000
- High-End: $20,000 to $50,000+
The final costs depend on the quality of materials, extent of the remodel, and options chosen. Carefully review quotes and estimates from multiple contractors before settling on a final budget. Be sure to account for sales tax, modifications, appliances, labor, and contingencies. With strategic planning, you can renovate your kitchen within your budget.
Factors That Affect the Costs
Several other factors influence the total costs of new cabinets and countertops:
- Location – Labor and materials cost more in some regions.
- Scope of remodel – Full gut renovations cost more than facelifts.
- Plumbing or electrical work – Moving pipes, wires, or fixtures adds expense.
- Appliances and lighting – Upgrading these items increases costs.
- Removal fees – Demolishing and disposing of old cabinets/counters.
- Contractor vs DIY – Hiring a contractor is more convenient but pricier.
- Financing fees – Loans, payment plans, and credit cards add fees.
- Time of year – Costs are often higher during busy seasons.
- Customization – More custom options increase costs but add value.
- Quality of materials – Higher-end materials cost more but last longer.
- Size of kitchen – Larger kitchens require more cabinets/counters.
How to Save on Costs
If your budget is limited, here are some tips to reduce the costs of new cabinets and counters:
- Shop sales and closeouts for significant discounts.
- Consider stock cabinets instead of custom-built.
- Install counters and cabinets yourself if possible.
- Choose economical countertop materials like tile or laminate.
- Reface existing cabinet boxes rather than fully replacing.
- Replace counters but keep existing cabinetry if in good shape.
- Reuse and repurpose salvaged cabinets and counters from other builds.
- Opt for simple countertop edges and backsplash designs.
- Work with affordable general contractors rather than specialists.
- Complete the project in the off-season when demand is lower.
- Get multiple quotes to find the best value contractor.
- Pay upfront instead of financing to avoid interest and fees.
- Limit specialty cabinets and storage solutions.
- Select mid-priced fixture and appliance upgrades vs high-end.
Key Takeaways:
- For new cabinets, costs range from $3,000 to over $30,000 depending on quality, style, size etc.
- Countertop costs range from $1,000 to $15,000+ depending on material and size of kitchen.
- The total for a new cabinet/countertop kitchen remodel averages $5,000 to $20,000.
- Many factors like labor, demolition, and customization impact the final price.
- Smart choices like DIY, stock cabinets, and economical materials can reduce costs.
Renovating your kitchen with beautiful new cabinets and countertops is a major investment. Carefully weighing the costs and benefits will help guide smart design choices to get a personalized kitchen within your budget. With some strategic planning and savvy cost-saving techniques, you can achieve the fresh modern kitchen of your dreams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do new kitchen cabinets cost per foot?
On average, new kitchen cabinets cost $100-500 per linear foot depending on materials, construction, and features. Stock cabinets start around $100/ft while custom handcrafted cabinets are $400-500+/ft.
What is the most affordable countertop material?
Laminate is the most budget-friendly countertop option at around $20-50 per square foot installed. Butcher block, tile, engineered quartz, and solid surface can also be relatively affordable kitchen countertop choices.
Can I install kitchen cabinets myself?
With some DIY skills, proper tools, and help, you can install ready-to-assemble cabinets yourself. This allows you to save significantly on labor costs, but may take more time and effort.
What countertop material is best value for money?
Quartz and granite countertops offer the best value, blending durability, visual appeal, and maintenance-free convenience at moderate price points around $80-150/square foot installed.
Should I reface or replace old kitchen cabinets?
If your cabinet boxes are structurally sound, refacing with new veneers and hardware can cost 50-70% less than full replacement. But replacing may be better if cabinets are damaged, outdated or you want an entirely new look.