How Do I Estimate the Cost of Kitchen Cabinets?

Hey there, I'm Steve Shirley from Sarasota’s Custom Cabinets. If you're thinking about upgrading your kitchen, one of the first questions you're likely asking is, "How much are these cabinets going to cost me?" Don’t worry—you’re not alone.


Many homeowners struggle to figure out how to budget for kitchen cabinets. Today, I’ll walk you through how to estimate the cost of kitchen cabinets and what factors will affect the price.

How Big is Your Kitchen?

Let’s start with one of the biggest factors—kitchen size. The more cabinets you need, the more you’re going to spend. It’s as simple as that. A smaller kitchen with fewer cabinets is naturally going to be less expensive than a large kitchen with tons of storage.


  • In my experience, smaller kitchens might cost around $4,000 to $8,000 for basic cabinets.


  • A medium-sized kitchen usually runs between $8,000 and $15,000.


  • If you have a large kitchen, you could be looking at $15,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the materials and finishes you choose.


I once worked with a homeowner who had a small kitchen but wanted high-end custom cabinets. Even though it was a small space, the cost shot up because of the premium materials they chose. So, size is just the starting point—other factors come into play, too.

Choosing the Right Materials

When it comes to the cost of cabinets, materials matter. Basic cabinets made from MDF (medium-density fiberboard) are going to cost a lot less than high-quality hardwood. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:


  • Stock cabinets: These are pre-made, standard-sized cabinets that are the cheapest option. They usually range from $100 to $300 per linear foot.
  • Semi-custom cabinets: These offer more flexibility and come in various sizes, styles, and finishes. They typically cost between $150 and $650 per linear foot.
  • Custom cabinets: These are top-of-the-line, fully tailored to your kitchen’s layout, size, and style preferences. Custom cabinets usually cost between $500 and $1,200 per linear foot.


I remember working with a client who wanted custom cabinets for their unique kitchen layout. They thought about going with stock cabinets at first to save money, but ultimately chose custom cabinets to get exactly what they wanted. Yes, it cost more, but they were happy with the result because the cabinets fit their space perfectly and met their specific needs.

Countertops are another major investment. Materials like granite and quartz are popular choices because they are durable and stylish. These materials fit within a mid-range budget. They add significant value to your kitchen.


Example: I worked with a couple who wanted to refresh their kitchen without overspending. We decided to refinish their solid wood cabinets and add quartz countertops. This approach saved them a lot of money compared to buying new cabinets. And the quartz countertops provided a durable, beautiful surface.

Design and Style: How it Affects the Price

The design and style of your cabinets also make a big difference in price. A simple, straightforward cabinet design will be less expensive than something more detailed or ornate.


For example, shaker-style cabinets—which have a simple, clean look—are often more affordable. On the other hand, if you’re looking for intricate designs with detailed moldings, expect to pay more.


One time, a client came to me wanting beautifully carved custom doors with unique handles. These little details made their kitchen stand out, but it also bumped up the total cost. If you’re on a budget, opting for a more basic design can help keep costs down without compromising on quality or style.

Don't Forget about Hardware and Finishes

Another thing that can sneak up on you is hardware—the knobs, pulls, and hinges. Basic hardware is cheap and can run for just a few dollars per piece. But if you’re looking at high-end decorative options, it could easily cost $50 or more per piece.


One client I worked with decided to splurge on fancy hardware for all their cabinets, and it added up fast! They spent nearly $2,000 just on knobs and pulls for their kitchen. So, keep this in mind when budgeting for cabinets.



Finishes like paint or stain also matter. A basic paint finish will cost less, while a high-gloss finish or special stain will cost more. Depending on what you choose, finishing could add another $2,000 to $5,000 to your overall budget.

Installation: A Cost You Can't Ignore

While it’s easy to get caught up in material costs, don’t forget about installation. Professional installation can range anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on how complicated your kitchen layout is.


I’ve worked on some projects where the installation was a breeze—basic, straightforward, and everything went smoothly. On the other hand, I’ve had more complex projects where we had to work around oddly shaped spaces or custom layouts, which increased the installation costs.


For example, a homeowner had a unique kitchen with sloped ceilings and beams. Custom cabinets were the best option, but the installation required extra time and effort to get everything to fit perfectly. It cost a bit more, but the end result was flawless.

Always Budget for Extras

No matter how well you plan, it’s a good idea to set aside a little extra in your budget for surprises. There are always unexpected things that come up during kitchen renovations—whether it’s an upgrade you decide to make or an issue with plumbing or electrical that needs to be addressed before installation can move forward.


I once worked with a family who wanted extra pull-out drawers and a custom pantry halfway through the project. They had saved some extra money for upgrades, so they were able to make these changes without going over their budget. If they hadn’t planned for these extras, it could have been a financial headache.

Get an Estimate from a Professional

At the end of the day, the best way to get a clear idea of your kitchen cabinet costs is to get a detailed estimate from a professional. A good contractor will break down the costs for materials, labor, and any extras so you can see exactly where your money is going.


At Sarasota’s Custom Cabinets, we always make sure to provide detailed quotes, so there are no surprises. If you’re ready to start your kitchen remodel, give us a call, and we’ll walk you through every step of the process.

Final Thoughts

Estimating the cost of kitchen cabinets can seem like a challenge, but once you understand the factors involved—size, materials, design, hardware, and installation—it becomes easier to get a ballpark figure. Whether you're looking for stock cabinets on a budget or high-end custom designs, you can find options that work for your kitchen and budget.


Remember, a kitchen remodel is an investment, and having a good understanding of the costs can help you make informed decisions. Ready to start planning? I’m here to help!

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