If you are asking yourself, “How much should you budget for kitchen cabinets?” you are not alone. Cabinets can easily become the single biggest expense in a kitchen remodel, often representing 29% to 40% of the total budget (Showcase Remodels). The good news, however, is that with the right understanding of costs, you can make confident choices that fit both your style and your wallet.
Plan your cabinet budget
Kitchen cabinets come in all shapes, sizes, and price tags. Before settling on a final figure, it helps to look at broad ranges and see where your needs fall.
Consider typical price ranges
Costs for a 10×10 kitchen can range from $2,700 for basic finishes to well over $60,000 for premium custom work (Showcase Remodels). On a per-linear-foot basis, stock (or pre-fabricated) cabinets start around $60, while custom options can reach $1,500. The decision depends on factors like material quality, construction methods, and the size of your space. If you plan to replace countertops at the same time, you might also want to read how much does new countertops cost? for a clearer sense of how each element contributes to your bottom line.
Aim for 29% to 40%
Many homeowners discover that cabinets eat up nearly a third of their remodeling budget (sometimes even more). This range is high because cabinets do much more than store your dishes. They anchor the entire kitchen look, support hardware like drawer glides, and often feature specialty interior accessories. By planning your cabinet outlay first, you can then allocate remaining funds to appliances, backsplash, lighting, and labor.
Understand your main options
Choosing the right style of cabinet can save you money, prolong your cabinets’ lifespan, or both. Each option has its pros and cons.
Stock or pre-fabricated
You will find these at big-box retailers or through quick-delivery outlets. According to the RTA Store Blog (RTA Store Blog), these typically cost between $60 and $200 per linear foot. Pre-fabricated cabinets ship quickly, come in standard sizes, and have limited color choices. They may last 10 to 15 years before needing replacement. If you want to dig deeper into common pitfalls, check out what are the hidden costs of new cabinets?.
Semi-custom
Semi-custom cabinets blend personalization with affordability. Costs range from about $150 to $650 per linear foot, and the lifespan often exceeds 25 years (RTA Store Blog). You can modify certain dimensions or finishes to match your kitchen’s layout, but the designs still rely on pre-manufactured components.
Custom
If you need cabinets that fit unique corners or you just want high-end quality, custom solutions are a strong choice. These can run from $500 to $1,500 per linear foot, and a full kitchen often exceeds $15,000. Yet custom cabinets can last 50 years or more, thanks to better materials and precise craftsmanship (Olive Branch Woodworking). For a closer look at how premium cabinet construction compares, see what is the difference between cheap and expensive cabinets?.
Factor in extra expenses
When you are budgeting, remember that the cost of the cabinets themselves is only part of the story. Materials, installation, and unexpected surprises can add up.
Materials and construction
The box construction (particle board vs. plywood) can change prices by around 15% (Cabinet IQ). Painted cabinets cost about 10-15% more than stained ones, but if you opt for high-density fiberboard doors instead of solid wood, you might save around 12%. Hardware upgrades like decorative pulls also add to final costs, but they can improve functionality and style.
Installation and hidden fees
Professional installation can range from $50 to $450 per linear foot, sometimes totaling 15% to 25% of your budget (Showcase Remodels). If you have to dispose of old cabinets or fix damaged walls, expect those charges too. Keeping a 10-20% contingency fund is wise. For households in Washington Township, NJ, or anywhere else, that extra cushion provides peace of mind against any curveballs.
Return on investment
Minor kitchen remodels can recoup around 70% to 80% of their cost, especially if you focus on functional upgrades like high-quality cabinets (Showcase Remodels). By investing in durable storage, you enhance daily life now while boosting future resale value. If you wonder how cabinets hold up over time, you can read what is the average lifespan of cabinets?.
Wrap up your plan
Budgeting for cabinets means more than simply picking the least or most expensive set. Deciding what matters most to you (durability, style, or delivery speed) helps guide every choice. Stock systems offer instant gratification on a tight budget, semi-custom balances variety with value, and custom solutions bring painstaking craftsmanship for the long haul. Good news—once you define your priorities, you can confidently spend where it counts and trim where it does not.
Whether you want a simple refresh or an intricate upgrade, starting with a solid cabinet plan can make your entire kitchen remodel smoother. You deserve cabinets that look great, work hard, and fit your financial comfort zone. By considering each factor early on, you will build a kitchen you love for years to come.
