Installing new kitchen cabinets can transform the look and feel of your kitchen. However, kitchen cabinet installation costs can vary widely depending on the type, style, and quality of cabinets you choose as well as additional factors like labor and installation method. On average, new kitchen cabinets installed tend to range from $100 to $1000 or more per linear foot. Let’s take a closer look at what impacts the cost of new kitchen cabinets installed so you can budget and plan this major kitchen upgrade accordingly.

Cabinet Quality and Type

The quality and type of kitchen cabinetry play a major role in determining installation costs. Higher-end, solid wood or full custom cabinets generally cost much more than lower-end options.

Stock Kitchen Cabinets

Stock kitchen cabinets are pre-manufactured in standard sizes and configurations. They are the most affordable cabinetry option, ranging from $50 to $350 per linear foot installed. Stock cabinets are constructed from materials like particle board or plywood with plastic laminate or thermofoil finishes. The doors are typically medium density fiberboard (MDF) with vinyl or polyurethane overlays. Stock cabinet hardware consists of hinges and drawer slides made from materials like zinc or steel.

Semi-Custom Kitchen Cabinets

Semi-custom kitchen cabinets provide more flexibility in terms of sizing and layout compared to stock cabinets. Semi-custom cabinets range from $150 to $850 per linear foot installed. They are constructed from plywood or MDF, with wood doors and veneered, stained, or painted finishes. Hardware contains upgrades like soft-close hinges and full extension drawer slides. Expect to pay more for specialty storage and organizational features.

Custom Kitchen Cabinets

For a fully customized kitchen, custom cabinets allow you to select premium woods like maple, cherry, oak, or hickory and customize every detail. Custom cabinets tend to start around $400 per linear foot up to $2000 or more for exquisite, handcrafted all-wood cabinetry with high-end finishes and hardware. Unique storage solutions, built-ins, organizers, and accents can also be seamlessly incorporated with custom cabinetry.

Cabinet Finish Options

The finishes and colors chosen for kitchen cabinets also impact the overall cost of installation. For stained or painted cabinets, more labor-intensive techniques will increase the price per linear foot.

Stained cabinets: Staining, which highlights the natural wood grain, starts around $50-100 per linear foot. More intensive hand-rubbed or distressed staining can be $150 per linear foot or more.
Painted cabinets: Painted kitchen cabinets range from $100-200 per linear foot installed. Options like glazing, antiquing, and distressing add another $50-100 per linear foot.
Specialty finishes: Options like thermofoil and melamine cost $50-100 per linear foot. High-gloss lacquer or polyurethane finishes add $100-300 per linear foot.

Door Styles

The style and construction of cabinet doors also impact the installed price. More ornate, specialty, or custom door styles will increase costs.

Slab cabinet doors made from solid MDF or wood start around $50 per linear foot.
Shaker-style doors with a simple, clean design tend to cost $70-100 per linear foot.
Raised or recessed panel doors with decorative detailing range from $100-200 per linear foot.
Intricately designed custom doors can cost hundreds per linear foot.

Additional Factors Affecting Cost

Several other factors impact the overall investment when installing new kitchen cabinets:

Labor: Installation costs range from $50-100 per hour. Complex projects or extensive remodeling may take 20 hours or more.
Site conditions: Modifications for plumbing, electric, or unusual room layouts will increase costs.
Kitchen size and layout: More cabinets mean higher overall costs, especially for larger, gourmet kitchens.
Install method: Professional installation recommended for best durability. DIY is possible but imperfections more likely.
Countertops: Budget for new countertops if replacing cabinets. Costs vary by material.
Fixtures and molding: New lighting fixtures, sinks, faucets and trim molding increase budget.
Location: Labor rates in some markets are higher based on average cost of living.

Factors That Impact the Cost Per Linear Foot

To estimate the cost of your new kitchen, an often-quoted metric is price per linear foot. However, it’s important to note that many factors affect the final price per linear foot. These include:

Number of cabinets – More cabinets means more overall cost but potentially lower cost per linear foot.
Size of cabinets – Larger or deeper cabinet units can mean higher prices per linear foot.
Layout complexity – Angled, curved, or fragmented layouts require more customization and increase per linear foot costs.
Special storage features – Specialty drawers, rollouts, and organizational features add cost per linear foot.
Use of fillers – Fillers to cover gaps add to overall project cost and increase price per linear foot.
Choice of modifications and upgrades – More modifications mean higher costs per linear foot.
Amount of demolition/renovation work – More complex tear-out or renovation work can increase the price per linear foot.
Geographic location – Per linear foot costs are typically higher in areas with higher wages and cost of living.

New Cabinet Installation Cost Estimator

Use the cost ranges below for an rough estimate of new kitchen cabinet installation costs:

| Cabinet Type | Cost per Linear Foot Installed |
|-|-|
| Stock Cabinets | $50 – $350 |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | $150 – $850 |
| Custom Cabinets | $400 – $2000+ |

For a more accurate estimate, contact multiple kitchen cabinet suppliers for quotes. Be sure to ask about options, modifications, and any additional costs ahead of time.

Keep in mind, unique designs, storage solutions, specialty hardware, and premium materials can significantly increase costs, sometimes exceeding $1500+ per linear foot installed.

Saving on New Cabinet Installation

Here are some tips to save on your new kitchen cabinet installation:

Opt for stock cabinets over custom, if the size and layout allow.
Consider DIY installation if you have carpentry skills.
Purchase unfinished cabinets and finish them yourself.
Inquire about returned special-order cabinets from suppliers for discount.
Limit modifications and opt for standard sizes to reduce labor time.
Purchase cabinets and hardware from the same manufacturer to reduce costs.
Avoid specialized storage features like pull-out pantries and spice racks.
Install countertops yourself or reuse existing countertops if in good condition.
Use modular cabinets for easier DIY installation with minimal labor costs.
Purchase cabinets out of season when demand is lower.

Setting a New Cabinet Installation Budget

Budgeting for new kitchen cabinets starts with measuring your existing kitchen layout in linear feet. Measure across all countertops, walls, and other surfaces needing new cabinets.

Multiply the total linear footage by your desired price per linear foot based on the quality of cabinets desired.

Be sure to add additional costs not included in the per linear foot estimate, such as:

Demolition and disposal of old cabinets
Modifications to plumbing or electrical
New lighting fixtures and kitchen appliances
Countertop material and installation
Sinks, faucets and hardware
Tax and labor overages

Leave a 10-15% buffer as a contingency for unforeseen costs or modifications.

Hiring a Contractor vs DIY Installation

Installing kitchen cabinets requires careful measurement, secure mounting, and adjustments to ensure proper functioning. Hiring a professional contractor is recommended for most homeowners for best results.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Kitchen Cabinet Installer

Hiring a professional contractor for new cabinet install comes with several important benefits:

Expertise with standards: Understands best practices for measuring, leveling, plumbing, and installing cabinets according to manufacturer specifications.
Proper tools: Has the necessary tools and equipment to cut, drill, and mount cabinets with precision. Avoids damage that can occur with DIY mistakes.
Problem solver: Can troubleshoot inevitable issues like crooked walls, plumbing challenges, or tricky electrical.
Efficiency: Has installed numerous kitchens and can complete the job quickly and efficiently.
Full service: Many include countertop fabrication and installation as an option for turnkey service.

Downsides of DIY Cabinet Installation

While DIY cabinet installation is possible and you can save on labor costs, some downsides exist:

Inexperience can lead to imperfect measurements, mounts, and alignments.
Possible damage to cabinets, walls, plumbing, or electrical without proper tools.
Frustrations dealing with problems like uneven floors/walls and layout challenges.
Much more time consuming than professional install.
Result may look “homemade” or sloppy unless carpentry skills are excellent.

Tips for DIY Success

If attempting a DIY install, these tips can help increase chances of success:

Have an experienced assistant to help with the project.
Watch detailed tutorial videos and read installation guides before starting.
Purchase high-quality levels, saws, drills, drivers, nails, and fasteners.
Be extremely careful in measurements and marking attachment locations.
Work slowly and methodically. Rushing leads to mistakes and damage.
Be prepared and patient in solving unforeseen problems – they will occur.
Accept imperfections and learn to work with quirks of your existing kitchen.
Install dishwasher, appliances, and sink after cabinets are mounted.

New Cabinet Installation Process and Timeline

Installing new kitchen cabinets follows a general series of steps from demolition to completion. Here is a basic overview of the process and timeline:

Step 1: Measure and Order Cabinets

First, measure existing space and create cabinet plan/layout. Order cabinets based on measurements, allowing 6-8 weeks for custom cabinet fabrication and delivery.

Step 2: Remove Existing Cabinets and Prep

Remove old cabinets, modify electrical or plumbing if needed. Repair walls and flooring. Approximately 1-3 days.

Step 3: Install Mounting Rails and Base Cabinets

Anchor mounting rails to wall securely. Place base cabinets and secure to rails and each other. Takes approximately 1-2 days.

Step 4: Install Wall Cabinets

Hang wall cabinets and secure onto rails or directly to wall. Approximately 1-2 days.

Step 5. Install Countertops

Complete cabinet install then measure and install new countertops. 1-2 days.

Step 6. Install Finishing Touches

Install sinks, fixtures, appliances, trim molding, and hardware. 1-2 days.

Step 7. Clean Up and Caulk

Clean and fill gaps/spaces with caulk for finished appearance. 1 day.

10 Questions to Ask When Planning for New Kitchen Cabinet Installation

What is my budget for new kitchen cabinet installation? Get quotes on costs per linear foot installed based on quality.
What style and finish do I want for my new kitchen cabinets? Traditional, modern, colorful?
What special storage or organizational features will I need? Drawers, rollouts, pull-outs?
How can I make sure the new cabinet layout is highly functional? Consider kitchen work triangle.
Should I go with stock, semi-custom, or fully custom cabinets? Assess needs vs. costs.
Do I want to install the countertops myself or have the contractor do it? Factor into labor costs.
Will I need to modify electrical or plumbing? How much will that increase budget?
Should I demo the old cabinets myself or have contractor do it? Assess time and costs.
What contingencies should I add to the budget? At least 10%+ buffer recommended.
Should I hire a kitchen designer? If so, how much do they charge? Are they worth the investment?

Hiring a Kitchen Designer: Is it Worth the Cost?

Kitchen designers can provide valuable expertise when renovating a kitchen. Key benefits of hiring a designer include:

Recommends the best layout and workflow for your needs and preferences. Ensures a functional space.
Provides 3D visualizations so you can view options before investing. Reduces decision uncertainty.
Helps select cabinetry styles and storage solutions that maximize usefulness.
Assists with material and finish selections to realize your vision. Provides visual harmony.
Develops solutions for unique layouts like galley kitchens or additions.
Acts as project manager handling contractor selection and coordination. Alleviates homeowner stress and time.

The cost of a designer averages $50-$150 per hour. Most charge 10-20% of the total project budget. This investment is returned many times over in increased functionality, appropriate material selections, and an efficient, cohesive design. For kitchen cabinets costing $15,000 to $30,000 or more, the percentage fee is money well spent for most major renovations. The expertise of a qualified kitchen designer pays dividends for the entire lifespan of your new kitchen.

New Cabinet Installation: Key Takeaways

The cost of installing new kitchen cabinets varies greatly based on the quality, style, and customization selected. On average, costs range from $50 – $350 per linear foot for stock cabinets and $400 – $2000+ per linear foot for custom cabinets installed. Hiring a professional for installation is recommended to ensure proper assembly and avoid imperfections. For major renovations, investing in a kitchen designer can maximize functionality and provide an efficient, harmonious design. Carefully assessing your budget, being realistic about DIY skills, and asking the right questions will lead to a smooth, successful cabinet installation resulting in your dream kitchen.

Conclusion

Installing new kitchen cabinets can be a sizable investment, with the potential for significant cost overruns if the project scope grows beyond original plans. Carefully measuring the existing kitchen, understanding different cabinet quality levels, getting multiple itemized quotes, and allocating contingency funds helps contain costs. Hiring professional installers and designers is advisable for most homeowners for superior results. With proper planning, diligent research, and realistic budgeting, the project can transform the kitchen into a highly functional and beautiful space that delights for years to come. What seemed like a daunting investment in new kitchen cabinets can reap enjoyment and enhanced lifestyle every single day.

How Much Do New Kitchen Cabinets Cost Installed?