Kitchen Cabinet Installation Cost Guide for 2025

Installing new kitchen cabinets sounds simple, until you see the bill. Between materials, labor, and little extras, the cost can add up fast. But don’t worry, we’re breaking it all down in plain English so you can plan with confidence.

If you’re thinking about remodeling but might sell soon, we’ve got your back. You can skip the reno drama and get a fair, data-backed cash offer from iBuyer.com. Close when it works for you, no listings, no showings, no surprises.

In this guide, we’ll cover average costs, what really affects the price, and smart ways to save. Let’s dive in and make sense of what cabinet installation really costs.

Average Kitchen Cabinet Installation Costs in 2025

So, how much does it cost to install kitchen cabinets these days? On average, most folks spend between $4,000 and $9,000, depending on the size of the kitchen and the type of cabinets you choose. That includes both the cabinets and the labor to put them in.

If you break it down, you’re looking at $100 to $300 per linear foot just for installation. That number can go up if you’ve got a tricky layout or special features. Labor usually takes up 30% to 50% of the total cost.

Bottom line: it adds up fast, but knowing the numbers ahead of time helps you budget smart and avoid surprises.

Cabinet Costs by Type and Material

Cabinets come in all shapes, sizes, and price tags, and what you pay depends a lot on two things: the type of cabinet and what it’s made of.

Let’s start with cabinet type:

• Stock cabinets are the most affordable. They’re made in standard sizes and colors, so there’s no customizing. Prices usually run $60 to $200 per linear foot. Great for tight budgets or rental properties.
• Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility. You can tweak dimensions and choose from a wider range of finishes. These cost around $150 to $400 per linear foot and work well if you want a personalized look without the custom price tag.
• Custom cabinets are fully built to fit your kitchen. Every detail is made to order. They start at $500 per linear foot and can climb much higher, especially with fancy features.

Now for cabinet materials:

• MDF or particleboard is often found in stock options. It’s cheap, lightweight, but not super durable.
• Plywood is a step up, stronger and more resistant to moisture. It’s common in semi-custom cabinets.
• Solid wood is top tier. It looks great and lasts a long time, but you’ll pay for that quality. Expect to see this in many custom builds.

When you’re picking cabinets, it’s all about balance. Think about what fits your budget and your kitchen goals.

How Kitchen Size and Layout Affects Installation Cost

The bigger your kitchen, the more you’ll spend, it’s that simple. A small kitchen (around 70 to 100 square feet) might cost $4,000 to $6,000 for cabinet installation. A medium one (100 to 200 sq ft) can hit $7,000 to $10,000, while a large kitchen (over 200 sq ft) could push past $12,000.

But it’s not just about square footage. Layout matters too. A straight-line kitchen is quicker to install than an L-shape or one with an island. More walls = more cabinets = more cost.

Also, the number of cabinets matters. A few big cabinets can be cheaper to install than many small ones, even if they cover the same space.

Bottom line? Layout and size play a big role in how much you’ll pay. Planning ahead can save you from surprise costs later.

Additional Factors That Impact Cabinet Installation Costs

It’s not just size and type that drive up your bill, there are a bunch of little extras that sneak into the final price.

First up: labor costs. If your kitchen has weird angles, old wiring, or plumbing that needs moving, expect to pay more. Installers charge for time and skill, and tricky setups take longer.

Then there’s the hardware. Adding soft-close hinges, pull-out drawers, or custom handles? Those add to both materials and labor. They’re nice touches, but they aren’t free.

If you’re replacing old cabinets, don’t forget about removal and disposal. Some pros include it, but many charge extra. And if you uncover hidden problems (like mold or water damage), fixing those will cost even more.

Small things like permits, delivery fees, or having to schedule extra trips can also sneak up on you. Always ask for a full breakdown before signing anything.

How to Save Money on Cabinet Installation

Kitchen cabinets can eat up your budget fast, but there are smart ways to cut costs without cutting corners.

Start with the cabinets themselves. Stock options are way cheaper than custom builds and still look great when paired with the right hardware. You can also save by choosing RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets and putting them together yourself.

Want to lower labor costs? Try keeping your existing cabinet layout. Moving plumbing or electrical means extra work, and extra charges. Reusing frames and just swapping doors can freshen up your kitchen without a full gut job.

Look for seasonal sales at big-box stores or online. End-of-year clearances and holiday deals can save you hundreds.

And don’t be afraid to mix things up. Open shelving is trendy, cheaper, and easier to install. It’s a simple way to lighten both your kitchen look and your budget.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro: What’s Right for You?

Thinking about installing your kitchen cabinets yourself? It can save you money, but it’s not a weekend project for everyone.

DIY is doable if you’ve got the time, tools, and patience. You’ll need to measure perfectly, handle heavy boxes, and make sure everything is level. Mess up one step, and you could end up with doors that don’t close or cabinets that pull away from the wall.

Hiring a pro costs more, but it comes with peace of mind. They’ve done this a hundred times and know how to handle weird corners or wavy walls. Plus, you won’t be making trips to the hardware store every hour.

If your budget is tight, think about a combo: install the easy parts yourself, and leave the tricky stuff, like hanging uppers or cutting around outlets, to the pros.

Reilly’s Two Cents

I’ve helped a lot of folks sell their homes, and I can tell you, kitchen cabinets are one of those things buyers always notice. Even if they don’t say it out loud, they’re checking the doors, peeking inside drawers, and running their hands over the finish. Cabinets can make or break the first impression.

If you’re thinking about installing new cabinets before selling, take a step back. You might not need to go all in. Swapping out the doors or updating the hardware often gives the same fresh feel without the full price tag.

And here’s something else: don’t get too caught up in trends. That deep blue or high-gloss white might look amazing to you, but neutral shades are safer if you’re planning to list your home soon. Clean, simple styles tend to appeal to the most buyers.

If you’re staying put for a while, go ahead and personalize it. Just know that what makes you happy now might not add as much value later. Balance your style with smart spending, and remember, soft-close hinges are always a win.

The Bottom Line

Installing kitchen cabinets isn’t cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. The final price depends on your kitchen size, the type and material of cabinets you choose, and all those little extras like labor and hardware.

The best move? Plan ahead, compare quotes, and don’t spend more than you need, especially if you’re planning to sell soon. Cabinets can definitely boost your kitchen’s look, but smart choices make sure they boost your bottom line too.

Thinking about selling instead of remodeling? Get a fair, data-backed cash offer from iBuyer.com. No listings. No showings. Just a smooth, stress-free close, on your terms.

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