Wholesale kitchen cabinets – It seems like just one piece of your renovation puzzle, but they can account for up to 41% of your total kitchen remodeling budget a significant portion you don’t want to overlook.

The cost difference between stock and custom cabinets becomes clear pretty quickly. Most homeowners spend between $2,006 and $11,060 on cabinet replacement, but overall costs can range from $2,000 to $25,000, depending on the size of your kitchen and the choices you make. Stock cabinets typically cost $100–$300 per linear foot, while custom cabinets can climb to $1,200 per linear foot or more.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to drain your savings for stylish, high-quality cabinets. There are smart ways to cut costs—whether it’s by selecting budget-friendly materials, exploring semi-custom options, or choosing cabinet refacing, which can slash expenses by as much as 50%.

This guide will break down what to expect when replacing kitchen cabinets, explore your full range of options, and share tried-and-true money-saving tips from real homeowners. Ready to find out how far your budget can go? Let’s dive in!

Understanding the Average Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Setting a realistic budget for your cabinet replacement begins with understanding the typical cost range. Nationwide, most standard installations fall between $1,978 and $10,111. However, your final cost can vary widely based on several key factors—such as materials, cabinet style, customization, and the size of your kitchen—that can drive the price significantly higher or lower.

Cost Ranges by Cabinet Type: Stock, Semi-Custom, Custom

Your Cabinet Choice Has the Greatest Impact on Budget

Selecting the right type of cabinets is one of the biggest factors influencing your overall kitchen renovation cost. Here’s a breakdown of the three main options:

• Stock Cabinets:

These pre-manufactured cabinets are the most budget-friendly option. You can expect to pay $100 to $300 per linear foot installed, with total costs for a standard kitchen ranging from $3,000 to $8,000. While style and size options are limited, many homeowners value their affordability and fast delivery.

• Semi-Custom Cabinets:

Offering a balance between cost and customization, semi-custom cabinets allow for modifications in size, style, and finish without the expense of fully custom designs. Installed costs range from $150 to $650 per linear foot, with total project costs typically falling between $5,000 and $30,000. For many homeowners, semi-custom strikes the perfect balance between personalization and price.

• Custom Cabinets:

If you’re working with unique dimensions or aiming for a one-of-a-kind design, custom cabinets provide maximum flexibility. However, that flexibility comes at a premium. Installed costs usually range from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot, with projects often starting at $10,000 and climbing well beyond $25,000 for luxury installations.

At ARC Cabinetry, we’ve seen many customers significantly reduce their expenses by opting for ARC Cabinetry stock or semi-custom cabinets and applying their own finishes. This approach offers both savings and a personalized touch.

How Kitchen Size Affects Total Cost?

The size and configuration of your kitchen play a major role in determining how much you’ll spend on cabinets. While total square footage is important, layout complexity—such as corners, angles, or specialty features—can significantly increase the final price.

Here’s a general cost breakdown by kitchen size:

• Small Kitchens (under 10×10 feet):

Expect to spend $3,000 to $8,000 for stock or semi-custom cabinets, depending on materials and finishes.

• Medium Kitchens:

Budgets typically range from $8,000 to $15,000, with costs varying based on cabinet type and layout requirements.

Wholesale Kitchen Cabinets – What is included in the Average Cabinet Replacement Cost?

When you receive a wholesale kitchen cabinets quote, it typically includes four primary components:

• Cabinetry & Materials:

This covers the actual cabinets, doors, drawer fronts, and internal shelving.

• Hardware:

Standard hinges, drawer slides, knobs, and pulls are often included—though premium finishes and soft-close features may come at an additional cost.

• Installation Labor:

Professional installation usually ranges from $50 to $450 per linear foot, depending on complexity and location.

• Removal & Disposal:

The cost to remove and dispose of your old cabinetry typically falls between $300 and $500.

However, many homeowners overlook additional expenses that may not appear in the initial estimate. Plumbing rerouting, electrical adjustments, or custom fitting often add $500 to $2,000 to the total project. Regional differences also impact pricing—urban areas like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago generally see higher labor costs compared to rural markets.

Understanding these components will help you plan a more accurate and stress-free renovation budget. Up next, we’ll break down how cabinet materials and design choices can further impact your total investment.

Breaking Down Cabinet Costs by Material and Style

Your choice of materials and cabinet style can significantly impact your overall costs. At ARC Cabinetry, we’ve seen homeowners save thousands by making thoughtful decisions—selecting budget-friendly materials and timeless designs that deliver the look they want without overspending.

Solid Wood, MDF, Laminate, and Other Material Costs

The materials you choose have the biggest impact on your cabinet budget. Each type comes with its own balance of durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost:

• Solid Wood:

A timeless favorite for its natural beauty and long-lasting strength. Solid wood cabinets typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 for a standard 10×10 kitchen. The type of wood you select significantly affects both the look and price:

• Oak: $100–$250 per linear foot – strong and affordable with a pronounced grain pattern
• Maple: $150–$250 per linear foot – smooth and uniform, ideal for a clean, modern look
• Cherry: $200–$400 per linear foot – offers warm, rich tones that darken gracefully with age
• Walnut: $300–$600 per linear foot – sleek and refined, known for its deep brown hues
• Mahogany: $400–$800 per linear foot – a premium option with elegant reddish-brown coloring

• Plywood:

Durable and moisture-resistant, plywood is a popular mid-range material. It typically costs between $2,500 and $8,000 for a 10×10 kitchen. Many homeowners combine plywood cabinet boxes with solid wood doors and drawer fronts for a cost-effective hybrid solution.

• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard):

An excellent choice for painted cabinets due to its smooth, uniform surface. MDF offers great value, with costs typically ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 for a 10×10 layout. It’s about 12% more affordable than solid wood doors while still providing a high-end finish.

• Laminate:

Budget-friendly and available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Laminate costs around $15 per square foot, with full kitchen installations generally falling between $1,500 and $12,000.

• Thermofoil:

Made by applying a vinyl coating to an MDF core, thermofoil cabinets offer a sleek, uniform finish. They’re a great low-cost option for achieving clean, contemporary white or colored cabinetry.

How Design Choices Impact Your Budget?

Your cabinet costs can vary significantly depending on the design decisions you make.

• Door Style:

Opting for simple designs like shaker or slab doors helps keep costs down, while more intricate options—such as raised panel doors—can increase your price by 20% or more. The good news? Many of today’s most popular styles are clean, minimalist, and budget-friendly.

• Finishes:

Custom colors and specialty finishes elevate your kitchen’s appearance but come at a premium. Natural wood finishes that showcase the grain often cost more than standard paint, while distressed or glazed finishes require extra labor, adding to the final price.

• Interior Accessories:

Functional add-ons like pull-out spice racks, drawer dividers, and specialty inserts improve organization and accessibility—but they also add $50 to $500 per item to your total budget.

• Glass Doors:

Glass-front cabinet doors offer visual appeal and elegance, but they typically cost around 30% more than standard solid cabinet doors.

• Crown Molding & Trim:

Details like crown molding, light rails, and decorative end panels enhance your cabinetry’s visual impact but can increase your overall cabinet cost by 5% to 25%, depending on the complexity.

Understanding how these material and design choices affect pricing empowers you to spend wisely—investing where it matters most and saving where you can. Up next: we’ll look at how cabinet refacing could deliver a stunning transformation at a fraction of the cost of full replacement.

Choosing Between Refacing, Replacing, or DIY

Not sure if a full cabinet replacement is the right move? You’re not alone. Many homeowners look for a middle ground—one that refreshes their kitchen without breaking the bank. At ARC Cabinetry, we help customers explore all their options daily, guiding them toward solutions that best fit their kitchen layout, style, and budget.

When Refacing Is a Better Option?

This cost-effective solution keeps your existing cabinet boxes in place while updating what’s visible: doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. It’s a smart way to achieve a fresh, modern look without starting from scratch.

Refacing is a great option when:

• Your cabinet boxes are structurally sound, with no warping, water damage, or sagging
• You’re happy with your current kitchen layout and how the cabinets function
• The cabinet faces appear outdated or worn, but everything else still works
• You want a quick turnaround—refacing typically takes just 3 to 5 days

Compared to a full cabinet replacement that can take weeks, refacing minimizes disruption and gets your kitchen back up and running fast—perfect for families who can’t afford to be without a functional kitchen for long.

Cost Comparison: Refacing Vs. Full Replacement

Your budget will feel the difference between refacing and full replacement.

Most cabinet refacing projects fall between $4,495 and $10,558, with the average homeowner spending around $3,925. Depending on your kitchen’s size and the materials you choose, costs can range from under $1,000 to over $15,000.

In contrast, a full cabinet replacement typically ranges from $14,608 to $41,376, with custom cabinetry often pushing costs beyond $24,600.

The takeaway? Refacing can save you 30–50% compared to a complete replacement. That’s why many cost-conscious homeowners view it as a high-value option—you achieve a refreshed, stylish kitchen without the financial strain of a full renovation.

Pros And Cons of DIY Cabinet Installation

Thinking about tackling your kitchen cabinet project yourself?

Before picking up your tool belt, here’s what you should consider:

• DIY Advantages:

1. Save on installation costs: Keep that $1,500–$5,000 labor fee in your pocket.
2. Flexible timeline: Work at your own pace without coordinating with contractors.
3. Personal satisfaction: Enjoy the pride of answering, “I did it myself,” when guests compliment your kitchen.
4. Reallocate savings: Use the money saved on labor to upgrade your cabinet materials.

• DIY Challenges:

1. Time-consuming: Be prepared to give up weekends—especially if you’re new to home improvement.
2. Precision required: A single measuring error can lead to costly material waste and setbacks.
3. Tool investment: You’ll need proper tools like a drill, level, stud finder, clamps, and more.
4. Heavy lifting: Cabinets are bulky and awkward—expect some physical strain.
5. Warranty concerns: Some manufacturers won’t honor warranties unless installation is professionally done.

Interestingly, full cabinet replacement can be more DIY-friendly than refacing, which requires skill in applying veneer and working with delicate finishes—tasks that can challenge even experienced DIYers.

Ultimately, the right path depends on your budget, timeline, and comfort level with hands-on work. Whether you embrace the satisfaction of doing it yourself or leave it to the pros, knowing the pros and cons ensures you make the best decision for your kitchen.

How to Estimate Total Installation Time and Cost?

Most standard kitchen cabinet installations take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks to complete. The exact timeline will vary based on several key factors:

What Affects Your Installation Timeline?

• Kitchen size and layout complexity – More space and irregular layouts require additional work.
• Cabinet type selected – Stock cabinets arrive quickly, while semi-custom or custom designs add lead time.
• Structural modifications – Any changes to walls, flooring, or plumbing will extend the project timeline.
• Installer experience and crew size – Seasoned professionals with a solid team can often finish faster.

Get Detailed, Competitive Quotes

Smart homeowners request at least three detailed quotes before selecting an installer. Each quote should clearly outline:

• Labor costs
• Material pricing
• Old cabinet removal and disposal fees
• Any additional or anticipated charges

It’s also wise to build a 10–15% buffer into your renovation budget for unexpected issues—these are almost inevitable in any kitchen remodel.

Don’t Overlook Location and Permits

• City vs. rural pricing: Urban areas tend to have higher labor and permit costs.
• Permits: Large-scale renovations may require permits, adding fees and extending your timeline.

Before You Sign with a Contractor

Ask each installer specific questions about:

• Estimated timelines
• Hidden or variable costs
• What’s included (and not included) in the quote

Comparing at least three proposals will give you a much clearer idea of fair pricing and realistic expectations for your project.

Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are often one of the largest expenses in a renovation, but there are many smart ways to manage the cost without compromising on style. Stock cabinets, starting at around $100 per linear foot, offer a budget-friendly path, while custom designs—reaching up to $1,200 per linear foot—deliver one-of-a-kind luxury for those ready to invest.

Many of the savviest homeowners we work with choose cost-effective alternatives like RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets, often saving 30–50% compared to pre-assembled models. At ARC Cabinetry, we help homeowners create stunning kitchens without draining their savings.

As you begin your planning, consider these proven cost-saving strategies:

• Explore unfinished or RTA cabinet options
• Check out second-hand or surplus cabinet sales
• Collect multiple contractor quotes for better price comparisons
• Ask about seasonal discounts during slower remodeling periods
• DIY installation can lower costs—but weigh it against professional fit and warranty protection

Replacing your kitchen cabinets doesn’t have to break the bank. When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you strike the perfect balance between style, quality, and affordability. Your dream kitchen might be closer—and more budget-friendly—than you think.

FAQs

• What is the average cost to replace kitchen cabinets?

The average cost to replace kitchen cabinets ranges from $2,000 to $25,000, depending on the kitchen size, cabinet style, and materials chosen. Stock cabinets are the most economical, typically costing $100 to $300 per linear foot, while custom cabinets—which offer tailored design and fit—can cost up to $1,200 per linear foot.

• Is it better to reface or replace kitchen cabinets?

Refacing is ideal if your cabinet boxes are in good condition and you’re happy with the existing layout. It costs 30–50% less than full replacement and is usually completed in 3 to 5 days. Replacement, however, allows for layout changes and is better suited for addressing structural or functional issues.

• How can I save money on kitchen cabinet replacement?

To reduce costs, consider ready-to-assemble (RTA) or unfinished cabinets, which can save 30–50% over pre-assembled options. Shopping second-hand or during off-peak seasons can also yield savings. Don’t forget to get multiple contractor quotes and negotiate pricing.

• What factors affect the cost of kitchen cabinet installation?

Several variables impact cost, including kitchen size, cabinet type, and scope of additional work. Labor alone typically ranges from $50 to $450 per linear foot. Additional charges may apply for removal and disposal, as well as plumbing or electrical modifications.

• How long does it take to replace kitchen cabinets?

Most cabinet installations take between a few days and two weeks. Timelines depend on the kitchen layout, type of cabinets (stock, semi-custom, or custom), and whether structural changes are involved. Always confirm a detailed timeline with your installer.