Wondering how much does it cost to put in 10×10 kitchen cabinets? You’re not alone. The price can vary widely, from as low as $2,700 for basic finishes to over $60,000 for premium custom cabinetry. This article helps you understand the key factors that shape your final bill. By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of the decisions that fit your budget and style.
Recognize the cost factors
Several core elements drive the cost of 10×10 kitchen cabinets. First, the materials you select make a big difference. Simple laminate or melamine cabinets often start at around $1,000 to $4,000 for a 10×10 layout, while hardwood or stainless steel can escalate the price by 50% to 100%. A Rigid Thermofoil setup begins at about $2,700 and resists moisture and stains, making it a popular choice for busy homes.
A second factor is cabinet style. Stock or semi-custom cabinets can range from $4,000 to $13,000, whereas a fully customized solution can soar beyond $28,000. Custom designs can deliver a tailor-made look, but they often cost four to five times more than factory-made options. To stay within a comfortable range, define your must-haves (like soft-close drawers or glass-front doors) before you shop.
Explore cost-saving cabinet options
If you want decent cabinets without overspending, consider these tips:
- Stock designs: These come pre-built in standard sizes. They’re the most budget-friendly, often falling between $8,000 and $15,000 for a full-size kitchen.
- Semi-custom: You’ll have more choices for finishes, but still keep costs in check (starting around $2,000 to $12,000 for a 10×10 space).
- Refacing or refinishing: If your existing cabinets are sturdy, a simple refresh can cost $400 to $1,800 and give your kitchen a brand-new look.
Choosing a simpler cabinet style also helps you allocate more of your budget to other upgrades. If you’re curious how that affects an entire remodel, take a look at how much does it cost to remodel a 10×10 kitchen?. It breaks down the bigger picture, so you know where your money goes.
Balance labor and other expenses
Good news—you have flexibility in assigning labor. Still, it’s important to plan for installation costs, which can run $50 to $450 per linear foot. If your 10×10 kitchen has 20 linear feet of cabinets, that labor adds up quickly. On average, labor could be 15% to 25% of your total bill, depending on the complexity of your install.
Here are a few strategies to manage these extra costs:
- Shop during the off-season. When contractors have fewer projects, you may land better deals.
- Consider assembly services. Certain retailers offer low-cost (or even free) assembly with your purchase, saving you time and stress.
- Connect with one reliable pro. Working with a single general contractor can streamline your budget and keep fees transparent. You might also explore what is the biggest expense in a kitchen remodel? for more clarity on how labor compares to other major costs.
Finalize your budget plan
Because cabinets can eat up 29% to 40% of your remodel budget, it helps to be prepared. If you’re aiming for a complete kitchen overhaul, you’ll want to factor in potential curveballs like leaky pipes or outdated wiring. Expect to set aside an extra 10% to 20% of your total funds for these surprises. Keep in mind:
- Investments often pay off: Some homeowners see a 50% to 70% return when they sell, especially if their new finishes match neighborhood expectations.
- Budget for the unseen: It’s more common than you think to discover hidden floor damage or misaligned walls, so building in a cushion is smart.
- Tailor spending to home value: If your house is modest, going all-in on luxury cabinets may not offer a strong resale payoff.
Once you confirm which features matter most, you’ll have a practical path to new cabinets. Need a bigger picture view of your kitchen transformation? Check out what adds the most value to a kitchen remodel? or how much should you budget for a small kitchen remodel? for added insights.
In short, how much it costs to put in 10×10 kitchen cabinets depends on crucial choices: materials, finish quality, and labor. Start with a realistic assessment of your budget, pinpoint the style that fits your taste, and plan a safety margin for the unexpected. With these steps, you’ll secure beautiful cabinets that meet both your needs and your wallet—and that’s value you can trust.
