Identify the biggest expense
What is the biggest expense in a kitchen remodel? If you’re planning to refresh or fully revamp your kitchen space, it’s natural to ask which part of the project will take the largest chunk of your budget. While every remodel varies, cabinets nearly always top the list. Industry data consistently shows that cabinetry can represent around 29% of total renovation costs. Some homeowners even put up to 40% of their overall budget toward cabinets, making them the single biggest line item in most kitchen makeovers.
Cabinets cost more than simple boxes and doors. They serve as the focal point of your remodeling project, define your layout, and must withstand daily use for years. Because cabinetry is so crucial to both form and function, you’ll want to choose materials and finishes that pair durability with a style you’ll love long-term. Good news, though—by understanding where these costs come from, you can make confident decisions and avoid spending beyond your comfort zone.
Explore why cabinets cost so much
Cabinetry prices vary widely based on materials, construction methods, and level of customization. Solid hardwoods, like maple or oak, tend to be more expensive than particleboard but last longer. Custom-built cabinets are designed to your exact specifications, while stock cabinets offer limited style choices at a lower price. Here’s a quick look at typical price ranges:
| Cabinet type | Approx. cost per linear foot |
|---|---|
| Stock | $100–$400 |
| Semi-custom | $350–$700 |
| Custom | $500–$1,200+ |
- Stock cabinets: Prefabricated options that arrive ready to install. You’ll save on labor and materials, but style and size choices can be limited.
- Semi-custom cabinets: Let you pick from a range of partial customizations, such as door styles, finishes, and added accessories like pull-out shelves.
- Fully custom cabinets: Built from scratch to your design, which means a perfect fit for your space but potentially higher costs in both labor and premium materials.
Because cabinetry can quickly consume up to 40% of your budget, it helps to know exactly which type suits your needs. If you only need the basics, stock cabinets might be enough. If you crave a unique look with special storage features, custom designs could be worth the extra expense.
Consider other major cost drivers
Although cabinets usually top the list, countertops are another significant expense. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, countertops account for about 10–20% of your material costs, depending on the material you select. Engineered quartz, granite, and marble can be pricey but deliver long-term performance, while laminate or butcher block offer savings, though they may require extra care over time.
Keep in mind that labor also impacts your final bill. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that around 67% of a full kitchen remodel budget can go to labor tasks. This includes everything from demolition to plumbing, electrical, and the installation of fixtures and appliances. If you plan big structural changes, such as removing walls or relocating your sink, you’ll often spend thousands more on skilled labor and permits.
Common big-ticket items beyond cabinets:
- Countertops (10–20% of your materials budget).
- Appliances (15–20% of your materials budget).
- Flooring (around 7% of total costs).
- Lighting and ventilation upgrades.
- Structural modifications, such as moving walls or adding gas lines.
Balance your budget effectively
Staying within budget takes careful planning. Think of your kitchen renovation as a puzzle: each piece (cabinetry, countertops, appliances) needs its share of the budget without crowding out the others. For instance, some homeowners choose less expensive, semi-custom cabinets so they can allocate more funds toward high-quality appliances. Others prefer premium cabinets but opt for a more affordable countertop material.
If you’re working on a smaller kitchen, you may also want to explore ideas in how much should you budget for a small kitchen remodel?. Balancing each element of the design up front helps you avoid difficult choices—and unexpected bills—later.
Plan your next steps
- Think about your top priorities. Do you dream of premium cabinets, or do you want to splurge on a show-stopping countertop?
- Gather quotes from a few contractors and cabinet suppliers. Compare stock vs. custom to see which matches your goals.
- Check out bigger-picture costs in how much does it cost to remodel a 10×10 kitchen?. This can help you understand total remodel expenses.
- If cabinets really matter to you, see how much does it cost to put in 10×10 kitchen cabinets?. You’ll find practical numbers for common layouts.
- Get a sense of which features will add lasting improvement by reading what adds the most value to a kitchen remodel?.
You have plenty of ways to keep your renovation costs in sync with your vision. By focusing on cabinetry first—it’s the biggest expense—and then planning around countertops, metalwork, and labor needs, you’ll shape a kitchen that looks and works exactly the way you want. With careful choices, you can stay within your target budget and still create a space that feels both fresh and functional. You’ve got this. And the data supports that a well-planned approach always pays off in the end.
