Editor’s note: Lantern by SoFi seeks to provide content that is objective, independent and accurate. Writers are separate from our business operation and do not receive direct compensation from advertisers or partners. Read more about our
Editorial Guidelines and
How We Make Money.
A nice new set of kitchen cabinets can really freshen up a kitchen, but they can be pricey. The average cost of kitchen cabinets depends on the size of the kitchen, but homeowners can expect to spend $100 to $1,200 per linear foot. In total, homeowners spend an average of $5,854 on kitchen cabinets. Keep reading to learn more about kitchen cabinet pricing and how to lower costs on this home renovation project. How Much Do Kitchen Cabinets Cost?
When planning to renovate a kitchen, it’s helpful to understand the average cost of new kitchen cabinets when creating a home renovation budget. The pricing for kitchen cabinets ranges from $100 to $1,200 per linear foot, covering both basic and high-end custom options. There are three main categories:- Stock cabinets, priced at $100 to $300 per linear foot. Stock cabinets offer limited design choices and potential quality concerns.
- Semi-custom cabinets, costing $150 to $650 per linear foot. These provide more options to customize the cabinets to match your kitchen design.
- Custom cabinets, the priciest at $500 to $1,200 per linear foot. Custom cabinets offer extensive design possibilities, but come with a significant cost increase. Custom cabinets cater to specific needs, but are the most expensive choice overall.
Recommended: Guide to $15,000 Personal LoansHow Much Does Cabinet Installation Cost?
If a homeowner has some handy DIY skills, they can save money by installing their own kitchen cabinets. If they need to hire a professional contractor, they can expect to spend $50 to $450 per linear foot on installation alone. Factors That Influence the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets
The reason that kitchen cabinet supply and installation costs can vary so much is on account of a few different factors, such as:Custom vs Semi Custom vs Stock
The type of cabinets chosen will have a significant impact on the cost. Stock cabinets, being pre-made and limited in customization, are the most affordable option. Semi-custom cabinets offer more customization choices while still being based on standard sizes, and custom cabinets provide the highest level of personalization, but are the most expensive.Framed vs Frameless vs Inset
The style of the cabinets also affects the cost. Framed cabinets, with a structural frame and a traditional design, fall within a certain price range. Frameless cabinets, which have a contemporary look and require a heavier box construction, tend to cost about 15% more than framed cabinets. Inset cabinets, known for their clean and seamless appearance, can be around 20% more expensive due to the precision and craftsmanship required.Materials
The choice of materials can significantly drive up the cost of kitchen cabinets. Different materials, such as wood, wood veneer, laminate, acrylic, and stainless steel, have varying price ranges. Wood and stainless steel tend to be the most expensive options.Labor and Installation
The cost of installation by a local contractor will be an additional factor. Installing stock cabinets is usually less expensive than custom builds, and the complexity of the installation can affect the labor cost.Design and Features
Upgrading to custom or unique cabinet hardware, stain, paint, and lighting can add to the overall expense. The cost of new cabinet hardware varies widely, and special or ornate designs can be particularly costly. Opting for secondhand hardware from thrift stores or online retailers can be a more budget-friendly option.How to Save Money on Kitchen Cabinets
If you’re looking to save money on kitchen cabinets, there are several smart strategies to consider. While homeowners can install cabinets on their own, it's a time-consuming and skill-demanding task. One easier approach is to assess the current state of the cabinets and determine if replacing or refacing them is more cost-effective. Refacing can offer a fresh appearance at a fraction of the cost by simply updating hardware and doors or applying new paint or stain. If you decide on total cabinet replacement, there are ways to keep expenses in check. Opt for factory stock cabinets instead of custom builds, as they are significantly more affordable. Additionally, consider handling the demolition and removal of the old cabinets yourself to save on potential extra fees for trash disposal.Before making a commitment to hiring someone to help with this project, it's crucial to gather multiple quotes from different contractors. This makes it possible to compare prices and find the best deal.Financing Options
The cost of replacing kitchen cabinets is substantial, regardless of what style or installation process is chosen by the homeowner. Because of this, many homeowners need to borrow money to finance this project. Here are some popular kitchen remodel financing options that can make replacing kitchen cabinets possible.Personal Loan
Personal loans for home improvement are flexible loans where borrowers typically don’t have to secure the loan with collateral. One of the main downsides of personal loans is that they tend to have short borrowing terms, which can lead to high monthly payments that can be difficult to manage. Home Equity Loan
Home equity loans have longer repayment terms than personal loans and are typically repaid over a period of five to 30 years. Borrowers receive a lump sum once the loan funds are issued. However, the homeowner has to have enough equity in the home to take out a home equity loan, and the home is used as collateral. This means interest rates are typically lower, but defaulting on the loan could put your home at risk.Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a revolving financial product that allows homeowners to access funds by using their home's equity as collateral. Unlike a traditional loan, a HELOC usually comes with a variable interest rate that can change over time based on market rates. Initially, the variable interest rate tends to be lower than what one might get with a fixed-rate home equity loan. HELOCs also are a revolving line of credit, meaning you can use the funds, pay them off, and use them again.The Takeaway
Planning and executing any type of kitchen remodel is a big financial undertaking. Because of this, it can be helpful to plan a project budget and save as much as you can before getting started. If you need financial assistance with your kitchen remodel, including replacing kitchen cabinets, Lantern can help you find a top-rated lender that meets your needs.Lantern can help you compare rates and find loan offers in minutes. Photo credit: iStock/sturti
LCPL0723009
About the Author
Jacqueline DeMarco
Jacqueline DeMarco is a personal finance writer and editor based in Southern California. While she spends the bulk of her time writing about complex financial issues, she also tackles a variety of subjects ranging from food to fashion to travel. Her work can be found across dozens of publications such as Credit Karma, LendingTree, Northwestern Mutual, The Everygirl, and Apartment Therapy.
