Quick Summary: Wondering how much new kitchen cabinets cost? In 2026, professionally installed kitchen cabinets typically cost $100–$1,500+ per linear foot, with most homeowners spending $5,000–$30,000+ depending on cabinet type, kitchen size, materials, and installation complexity. This guide compares stock, RTA, semi-custom, and custom cabinets, explains what affects installation costs, and shares practical tips to help you choose the best option for your budget and remodeling goals.
The cost to install kitchen cabinets ranges from $100 to $1,500+ per linear foot installed, depending on the cabinet type, materials, and the complexity of the installation.
For most homeowners, the total project cost can range from $5,000 to $30,000 or more, with smaller kitchens using stock cabinets at the lower end and larger kitchens with custom cabinetry at the higher end.
It’s also important to understand the difference between cabinet-only pricing and installed pricing. We break down exactly what’s included in each further down.
Table of Contents:
- Kitchen Cabinet Cost by Type
- Cabinet Cost by Kitchen Size
- Cabinet-Only Cost vs. Installed Cost
- Factors That Affect Installation Cost
- Additional San Diego Cabinet Installation Cost Considerations
- Replace vs. Reface vs. Paint Cabinets
- Kitchen Cabinet Cost-Saving Tips
- DIY vs. Professional Installation
- FAQs
Kitchen Cabinet Cost by Type
A kitchen cabinet’s cost depends largely on the type you choose, with options ranging from affordable stock cabinets to fully custom designs.
| Cabinet Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot (Installed) | Best For | Tradeoff |
| Stock Cabinets | $100 to $300 | Budget-friendly kitchen remodels, rental properties, and fast renovations | Limited sizes, finishes, and design options |
| Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) | $100 to $250 | DIY homeowners and budget-conscious remodels | Requires assembly; less commonly offered through design centers, which typically steer clients toward stock or semi-custom instead |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | $200 to $500 | Homeowners wanting more style, storage features, and sizing flexibility | Higher price and longer lead times than stock cabinets |
| Custom Cabinets | $500 to $1,500+ | Luxury kitchens, unique layouts, and fully personalized designs (common in La Jolla and Rancho Santa Fe) | The highest cost and the longest manufacturing and installation timeline |
Compare cabinet styles, costs, and installation options with guidance from our remodeling experts.
Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinets cost $100 to $300 per linear foot installed, making them the most affordable option for many homeowners. Because they’re mass-produced in standard sizes, they’re readily available and can be installed much faster than other cabinet types.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly for most kitchen remodels
- Available in standard sizes for quick ordering and installation
- Ideal for rental properties and fast renovations
Cons:
- Limited sizes may not fit every kitchen layout
- Fewer finish, color, and door style options
- Less flexibility for custom storage features
Ready-to-Assemble (RTA) Cabinets
Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets generally cost $100 to $250 per linear foot installed. They arrive flat-packed and require assembly before installation, making them a popular choice for DIY homeowners looking to save on labor costs.
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost than many pre-assembled cabinets
- Good option for experienced DIYers
- Available in a variety of styles and finishes
Cons:
- Improper assembly can lead to alignment issues and reduce the cabinets’ lifespan
- Assembly requires time, tools, and careful installation
- Harder to find through design centers, which usually push stock or semi-custom for installed projects
Semi-Custom Cabinets
Semi-custom cabinets typically cost $200 to $500 per linear foot installed. They offer a balance between affordability and personalization by providing more size, finish, and storage options than stock cabinets without the price of fully custom cabinetry.
Pros:
- Greater flexibility in sizes, finishes, and cabinet configurations
- Better fit for kitchens with unique layouts
- Often, the best choice for homeowners who want a more tailored kitchen without paying for fully custom cabinets
Cons:
- Higher cost than stock and RTA cabinets
- Longer manufacturing and delivery times
Custom Cabinets
Custom cabinets generally cost $500 to $1,500+ per linear foot installed and are built specifically for your kitchen. Every cabinet is designed around your space, giving you complete control over the layout, materials, finishes, and storage solutions.
Pros:
- Unlimited design flexibility
- Maximizes storage and functionality
- Ideal for luxury homes and uniquely shaped kitchens
Cons:
- Highest upfront investment
- Longest manufacturing and installation timeline
Cabinet Cost by Kitchen Size
Kitchen size drives most of your cabinet cost. A bigger kitchen means more cabinets, more material, and more labor hours. Add an island, a pantry wall, or drawer-heavy lower cabinets, and the price climbs fast.
| Kitchen Size | Average Size | Estimated Cabinet Cost |
| Small Kitchen | Up to 70 sq. ft. | $5,000 to $15,000 |
| Medium Kitchen | 100 to 200 sq. ft. | $5,300 to $17,400 |
| Large Kitchen | 200+ sq. ft. | $7,900 to $30,000+ |
Small Kitchen
Small kitchens, typically measuring up to 70 square feet, require fewer cabinets, making them the most affordable to remodel.
Homeowners spend $5,000 to $15,000 on cabinetry for this size, depending on whether they choose stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinetry.
Medium Kitchen
A medium-sized kitchen, generally 100 to 200 square feet, offers more storage and design flexibility but also requires additional cabinetry.
Cabinet installation ranges from $5,300 to $17,400, with semi-custom cabinets being a popular choice for homeowners who want a better balance between price and personalization.
Large Kitchen
Large kitchens measuring 200 square feet or more require the highest investment, with costs ranging from $7,900 to $30,000 or more.
An island or a wall of floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets adds real cost, both in materials and installation labor. It’s worth it if you need the storage, but budget for it separately from your base cabinet estimate.
If you’re planning changes beyond cabinets, see the cost of a full kitchen remodel in San Diego for the bigger picture.
We’ll measure your kitchen and provide a detailed estimate with no hidden
Cabinet-Only Cost vs. Installed Cost
A cabinet-only estimate covers the cost of the cabinets themselves, including the cabinet boxes, doors, drawers, shelves, and, in some cases, standard hardware. It does not include delivery, removal of existing cabinets, installation labor, finish work, or any plumbing and electrical modifications needed for the remodel.
While the upfront price may seem lower, you’ll need to account for these additional services when calculating your total project cost.
An installed cabinet estimate includes both the cabinetry and the labor required to complete the installation, giving you a clearer picture of the overall investment.
Most installed quotes cover delivery, installation, alignment, and finish work like fillers, toe kicks, and trim. Plumbing, electrical work, and major repairs are billed separately. Read the estimate closely so you know what’s actually included, and use that same breakdown to compare bids apples to apples.
Factors That Affect Installation Cost
Several factors influence the total cost of installing kitchen cabinets beyond the cabinets themselves.
Kitchen Size and Layout Complexity
The size of your kitchen determines how many cabinets are needed, while the layout affects the amount of measuring, fitting, and installation work required. Kitchens with islands, peninsulas, angled walls, or multiple corners take more time to install, increasing labor costs.
Cabinet Materials
The material you choose affects both the price of the cabinets and the installation process. Solid wood and plywood cabinets cost more than MDF or particleboard, and their added weight requires more labor to install.
Door Style
Cabinet doors with raised panels, inset designs, or decorative details require more precision than simple slab doors. More intricate door styles also increase the overall cabinet cost because of their craftsmanship and materials.
Drawer Count
Drawers require more hardware and installation time than standard cabinet doors. A kitchen with multiple deep drawers, pull-out trays, or storage accessories will generally cost more to install.
Hardware
Cabinet pulls, knobs, hinges, and drawer slides all contribute to the total project cost. Choosing premium decorative hardware can increase your budget, especially in larger kitchens with many cabinets.
Soft-Close Hardware
Soft-close hinges and drawer slides improve convenience by preventing doors and drawers from slamming shut. These upgraded components cost more than standard hardware but add value, durability, and a more premium feel.
Crown Molding
Crown molding creates a finished look by bridging the space between wall cabinets and the ceiling. Installing decorative molding requires additional materials, cutting, and finishing work, which increases labor costs.
Cabinet Height
Standard-height wall cabinets are faster and less expensive to install than ceiling-height cabinets. Taller cabinets require more material and more precise installation to achieve a seamless appearance.
Labor Costs
Professional installation costs vary based on the contractor’s experience and the project’s complexity. Skilled installers charge more, but proper installation helps ensure your cabinets remain level, secure, and functional for years.
Removal of Existing Cabinets
You need to remove existing cabinets before installing new ones, which can add labor and disposal costs to the project. Additional repairs may also be needed if cabinet removal exposes damaged drywall, flooring, or framing.
Plumbing and Electrical Changes
Moving fixtures to fit a new cabinet layout typically requires licensed plumbing or electrical work, which adds to the project cost.
Finishes
Finishing touches like fillers, toe kicks, end panels, touch-up painting, and trim complete the installation’s appearance. These details improve the kitchen’s final look but add both material and labor costs.
Wall Condition
Uneven walls, damaged drywall, or out-of-square corners can make cabinet installation more challenging. Contractors need to repair surfaces or shim cabinets to ensure everything is level and properly aligned.
Location
Installation costs vary by region because labor rates, permit requirements, and material pricing differ from one market to another. Homeowners in higher-cost areas pay more for cabinet installation than those in lower-cost areas.
Understand every material, labor, and installation cost before your remodeling project begins.
Additional San Diego Cabinet Installation Cost Considerations
Beyond the cabinets and installation labor, several project-specific expenses can affect your total remodeling budget. Plan for these additional costs upfront to avoid surprises and get a more accurate estimate before work begins.
Cabinet Modifications
Older homes in San Diego don’t always have perfectly level floors or square walls, so cabinets may need to be trimmed, shimmed, or modified during installation. Custom fillers, end panels, and appliance adjustments can also increase labor and material costs.
Delivery and Transportation
Cabinet delivery costs vary based on the size of the order, the supplier, and the distance to your home. Large custom orders also require special handling or multiple deliveries, particularly if cabinets arrive in separate shipments.
Permits
Cabinet replacement alone generally doesn’t require a building permit in San Diego. However, permits may be required if your project includes structural changes, relocating walls, or significant plumbing and electrical work as part of a larger kitchen remodel.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
Moving a sink, dishwasher, refrigerator, gas line, or electrical outlets adds both labor and material costs to the project. Because licensed professionals must complete this work and often require inspections, it can become one of the largest additional expenses during a kitchen renovation.
Special Finishes
Premium finishes such as custom paint colors, stains, glazing, distressed finishes, or specialty coatings increase the cost of cabinetry. Decorative details and factory-applied finishes also add to the overall investment but can improve durability and enhance the kitchen’s final appearance.
Replace vs. Reface vs. Paint Cabinets
If your kitchen cabinets look outdated, you don’t always have to replace them. The right choice depends on the condition of your existing cabinets, whether you want to change the layout, and how much you’re willing to invest.
| Option | Cost Level | Best For | What to Know |
| Paint Cabinets | Lowest | Cabinets that are structurally sound and only need a cosmetic update | The most affordable option, but the cabinet layout, storage, and door style stay the same |
| Reface Cabinets | Medium | Homeowners who want a fresh appearance without replacing the cabinet boxes | New doors, drawer fronts, and veneer create a new look while keeping the existing cabinet boxes |
| Replace Cabinets | Highest | Kitchens that need a new layout, more storage, or upgraded functionality | The highest investment, but it allows you to redesign the kitchen and install brand-new cabinetry |
If painting is looking like the better fit, see our full breakdown of cabinet painting costs.
Kitchen Cabinet Cost-Saving Tips
Installing new kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to exceed your budget. These practical strategies can help you reduce costs without sacrificing quality or functionality.
- Choose stock or RTA cabinets if you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option, as they cost less than semi-custom or custom cabinetry.
- Refinish or repaint existing cabinets when the cabinet boxes are still in good condition and only the appearance needs an update.
- Handle simple tasks yourself like removing old cabinets or installing cabinet hardware if you have the necessary skills and tools.
- Shop seasonal sales and manufacturer promotions to save on cabinet purchases and installation packages.
- Limit custom features such as specialty organizers, decorative moldings, and built-in accessories, as they can quickly increase costs.
- Keep the same kitchen layout to avoid moving plumbing, electrical wiring, and gas lines, which are some of the most expensive parts of a remodel.
- Reduce the number of drawer stacks by mixing drawers and standard cabinets, since drawers require more materials and hardware.
- Choose standard Shaker or slab cabinet doors instead of more elaborate door styles that cost more to manufacture.
- Select semi-custom cabinets instead of full custom when you want more design flexibility without paying for completely custom-built cabinetry.
- Bundle cabinets with countertops or flooring during a full kitchen remodel, as many remodeling companies offer package pricing that can lower your overall project cost.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Installing kitchen cabinets yourself can save on labor costs. Still, it’s best suited for simple projects using stock or ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets in kitchens with straight walls and standard layouts. If you have carpentry experience, the right tools, and enough time, a DIY installation can be a practical way to reduce your remodeling budget.
For semi-custom or custom cabinets, hiring a professional installer is the better investment. Experienced installers can handle the tricky parts, like uneven walls, appliance panels, and custom finishes, and still get everything level and secure. That’s harder to guarantee on a DIY job, especially once plumbing or electrical work is involved.
FAQs
How much does it cost to install kitchen cabinets?
Most homeowners spend $5,000 to $30,000 total, which works out to roughly $100 to $1,500+ per linear foot depending on the cabinet type you choose. Stock cabinets in a small kitchen sit at the low end. Custom cabinetry in a large kitchen sits at the high end.
Are custom cabinets worth it?
Custom cabinets are worth the investment if you want a personalized layout, premium materials, and storage solutions tailored to your kitchen. They also maximize space and can add long-term value in homes where quality craftsmanship is a priority.
Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?
It depends on the condition of your existing cabinet boxes more than anything else. If the boxes are still structurally sound, refacing gets you a new look for less. If they’re water-damaged, poorly laid out, or you want more storage, replacing is the better long-term investment even at a higher upfront cost.
How long does cabinet installation take?
Most cabinet installations take two to five days, while larger or custom projects may take longer. The timeline can increase if the project includes demolition, plumbing or electrical work, countertop installation, or custom finish carpentry.
Can I install kitchen cabinets myself?
For stock or RTA cabinets in a simple layout, yes, if you have carpentry experience and the right tools. One thing to check first: some cabinet manufacturers require professional installation to keep the warranty valid, so confirm that before you start.
Do new cabinets increase home value?
Yes, new kitchen cabinets can increase home value by improving both the appearance and functionality of the kitchen. Well-designed cabinetry is also one of the features many buyers consider when evaluating a home’s overall appeal.
What affects cabinet installation cost the most?
Cabinet type has the single biggest impact on price. Moving from stock to custom cabinetry can more than triple your per-linear-foot cost on its own. After that, kitchen size and any required plumbing or electrical work are the next-biggest swings in a final quote.
Get a Free Kitchen Cabinet Estimate in San Diego County
Choosing the right kitchen cabinets is about more than just price. Family Interiors has helped San Diego County homeowners with kitchen remodels since 1976. Our team can walk you through stock, semi-custom, RTA, and custom options based on your storage needs and design goals.
Get a free in-home cabinet estimate, and we’ll help you find the best fit for your kitchen and budget.
Receive expert design advice, professional installation, and a free in-home cabinet estimate.
