Kitchen Cabinet Installation Cost in the USA
- Jayant Upadhyay
- May 31
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 28
The cost of kitchen cabinet installation in the USA can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of cabinets, the size of your kitchen, labor rates in your area, and whether the cabinets are custom, semi-custom, or stock.
💰 Average Cost Breakdown of Kitchen Cabinet Installation (2025 Estimates):
Type of Cabinet | Cost Per Linear Foot (Cabinets Only) | Total Installed Cost (10’x10’ Kitchen) |
Stock Cabinets | $60 – $200 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Semi-Custom | $100 – $650 | $4,000 – $9,000 |
Custom Cabinets | $500 – $1,200+ | $10,000 – $20,000+ |
📦 Types of Kitchen Cabinets and Their Costs
1. Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinets are pre-manufactured and come in standard sizes. They're the most affordable option and are available at most big-box retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Cost per linear foot: $60 – $200
Installation cost: $1,000 – $3,000
Pros: Budget-friendly, quick delivery
Cons: Limited customization, lower material quality
2. Semi-Custom Cabinets
Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility in size, style, and finishes. They’re built to order but not fully custom.
Cost per linear foot: $100 – $650
Installation cost: $2,000 – $5,000
Pros: Variety of styles, moderate customization
Cons: More expensive, longer lead time
3. Custom Cabinets
Custom cabinets are built to your exact specifications. They're ideal for unique kitchen layouts or high-end remodels.
Cost per linear foot: $500 – $1,200+
Installation cost: $3,000 – $8,000+
Pros: Tailored design, premium materials
Cons: Expensive, longer wait times
🛠️ Labor Costs for Kitchen Cabinet Installation
Average Labor Cost
Professional cabinet installation typically costs $50 – $250 per linear foot. Labor accounts for 20–40% of the total project cost.
Kitchen Size | Labor Only (Approximate) |
Small (10 linear feet) | $500 – $2,500 |
Medium (20 linear feet) | $1,000 – $5,000 |
Large (30 linear feet) | $1,500 – $7,500 |
Labor rates vary based on location, contractor experience, and the complexity of the job.
📐 Other Factors That Affect the Total Cost
Several elements can influence how much you'll pay:
1. Kitchen Size and Layout
More cabinets mean more materials and more installation time. Complex layouts (L-shaped, U-shaped, island setups) may require custom solutions, increasing the cost.
2. Cabinet Material
Laminate or MDF: Affordable
Solid wood (oak, maple, cherry): Higher cost
Plywood construction: Stronger and more durable, but pricier
3. Cabinet Finish and Style
High-gloss, painted, or stained finishes can raise the price. Intricate designs like raised panels or glass fronts also cost more than basic slab doors.
4. Hardware and Accessories
Soft-close drawers, pull-out trays, lazy Susans, and spice racks add to the cost.
Premium knobs, handles, and pulls also increase expenses.
5. Demolition and Removal
Removing old cabinets can cost $300 – $800, depending on complexity and disposal fees.
6. Modifications or Repairs
If your walls or floors need repairs before installation, expect additional charges.
🧰 Cost Example: Real-Life Kitchen Installation Scenarios
➤ Basic Remodel with Stock Cabinets
Kitchen size: 10x10
Cabinets: 20 linear feet @ $120/foot
Installation: $80/foot
Total: $4,000 – $6,000
➤ Mid-Range Remodel with Semi-Custom Cabinets
Kitchen size: 12x12
Cabinets: 25 linear feet @ $300/foot
Installation: $150/foot
Total: $9,000 – $12,000
➤ Luxury Remodel with Custom Cabinets
Kitchen size: 15x15
Cabinets: 30 linear feet @ $700/foot
Installation: $200/foot
Total: $20,000 – $25,000+
📍 Regional Price Differences in the USA
Costs can vary based on where you live:
Region | Cost Range (10x10 kitchen) |
West Coast (CA, WA) | $6,000 – $20,000 |
Northeast (NY, MA) | $6,500 – $18,000 |
Midwest (IL, OH) | $4,000 – $12,000 |
South (TX, FL) | $3,500 – $11,000 |
💡 Tips to Save Money on Kitchen Cabinet Installation
Choose Stock or RTA Cabinets: Ready-to-assemble options cost less and are easy to install if you're handy.
Do the Demo Yourself: Remove old cabinets on your own to save on labor.
Get Multiple Quotes: Always compare at least 3 contractor estimates.
Buy During Sales: Look for deals at big-box stores or during holiday sales.
Skip Unnecessary Extras: Fancy organizers and hardware can be added later.
Consider Refacing Instead of Replacing: If the cabinet structure is sound, just replace doors and drawer fronts to give your kitchen a new look at a lower cost.
🧑🔧 DIY vs. Professional Installation
🛠️ DIY Installation
Pros: Save on labor, flexible timing
Cons: Requires tools, skills, and time; mistakes can be costly
Estimated cost for DIY:
RTA Cabinets: $2,000 – $4,000 total (materials only)
Time investment: 2–4 days
👷♂️ Professional Installation
Pros: Efficient, quality workmanship, warranties included
Cons: More expensive
Best for:
Custom cabinets
Large kitchens
Complex layouts
📅 How Long Does Kitchen Cabinet Installation Take?
Small Kitchen (10x10): 1–2 days
Medium Kitchen (12x12): 2–3 days
Large or Custom Kitchen: 4–7 days
Add time for demolition, repairs, or painting.
🧮 Kitchen Cabinet Cost Calculator (Quick Formula)
CopyEdit
Total Cost = (Cabinet Cost per ft x Total Linear ft) + (Installation Cost per ft x Total Linear ft)
Example:
25 linear ft of semi-custom cabinets @ $300/ft
Installation @ $150/ft
Comments