If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is, “How much do custom cabinets cost?” The truth is, the cost of custom-built cabinets can vary a lot depending on the design, materials, and craftsmanship you choose.
Custom kitchen cabinets give you complete control over style, size, and finish, but that flexibility also affects the final price. Whether you’re comparing the average cost of custom cabinets per linear foot or trying to estimate your custom cabinets price per square foot, understanding what drives the price helps you budget wisely and avoid surprises later.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about custom cabinetry cost, from key pricing factors to money-saving tips.
What Are Custom Cabinets?
Custom cabinets are made just for your home, built to fit your exact space, style, and storage needs. Unlike stock or semi-custom cabinets that come in set sizes and designs, custom ones are made from scratch based on your choices.
The cost of custom-built cabinets depends on the materials, design, and features you pick. Solid woods like maple or cherry usually cost more than MDF or plywood but last longer and look more elegant. Many homeowners choose custom kitchen cabinets when they want a special layout, modern look, or features like pull-out shelves, soft-close drawers, or hidden storage.
In short, custom cabinetry gives you full control over the design, but that flexibility also makes the custom cabinetry cost higher than pre-made cabinets.
Factors Affecting Custom Kitchen Cabinets Cost
The cost of custom kitchen cabinets can vary a lot because every project is different. Several things can change the final price, from the materials you choose to how detailed the design is. Here are the main factors that affect your custom cabinetry cost:
- Material: The type of wood or material makes a big difference. Solid woods like oak, cherry, or maple cost more, while MDF or plywood are more budget-friendly options.
- Size and Quantity: A larger kitchen or more cabinets means higher costs since more materials and labor are needed.
- Design and Features: Extra details like glass doors, soft-close hinges, pull-out drawers, or built-in organizers increase the custom cabinets’ price.
- Finish and Paint: Painted, stained, or laminated finishes add to the total cost, especially for high-end finishes.
- Hardware and Accessories: Handles, knobs, and decorative hardware can change the price depending on style and quality.
- Labor and Installation: Skilled craftsmanship and professional installation also affect the custom kitchen cabinets cost, especially if your design is complex.
Average Cost of Custom Cabinets
The average cost of custom cabinets usually falls between $2,800 and $13,000, depending on the design, materials, and labor involved. Most homeowners spend around $7,000 to $8,000 for a full installation.
If we break it down further:
- Per linear foot: Custom cabinets typically cost between $500 and $1,200.
- Small kitchen (around 20 linear feet): $6,000–$14,000.
- Medium kitchen (around 30 linear feet): $15,000–$25,000.
- Large kitchen: $25,000–$40,000 or more.
For reference, stock cabinets are much cheaper (about $100–$300 per linear foot), and semi-custom cabinets fall in the middle range ($150–$650 per linear foot). But custom cabinetry offers the best fit, quality, and finish, especially if you’re designing a unique kitchen layout or want long-lasting craftsmanship.
Custom Cabinets Cost by Room
The price of custom cabinets depends on where you’re installing them. Kitchens usually cost the most because they need more storage and detailed finishes, while smaller rooms like bathrooms or laundry areas cost less.
Here’s a quick idea of what you can expect:
Room | Average Cost | What Affects the Price |
Kitchen | $12,000 – $30,000 | More cabinets, drawers, and finishes make kitchens more expensive. |
Bathroom | $2,000 – $6,000 | Fewer cabinets and a smaller space keep costs lower. |
Laundry Room / Mudroom | $1,500 – $5,000 | Basic storage cabinets with simple designs. |
Home Office | $3,000 – $10,000 | Built-in shelves or desks can raise the cost. |
Living Room / Entertainment Area | $4,000 – $12,000 | Depends on size, design, and materials used. |
Custom Cabinet Pricing per Linear Foot
Knowing the custom cabinet cost per linear foot makes it easier to plan your budget. Cabinet makers often price their work this way, depending on the size and design you want.
“Here’s how custom cabinet pricing compares to other cabinet types.
Cabinet Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot | Description |
Stock Cabinets | $100 – $300 | Ready-made cabinets in standard sizes and limited styles. |
Semi-Custom Cabinets | $150 – $650 | Some custom options for size, color, or finish. |
Custom Cabinets | $500 – $1,200+ | Fully made to fit your space, design, and material choices. |
The price of custom cabinets depends on materials, finish, and how detailed the design is. Choosing solid wood or fancy finishes costs more, while simple designs and local materials can help you stay on budget.
Custom Cabinetry Cost Breakdown
When you order custom cabinets, the total price includes more than just the wood and design. It covers materials, labor, hardware, and installation. Here’s a simple breakdown of where your money goes:
Cost Component | Percentage of Total Cost | What It Covers |
Materials | 40% – 50% | Wood, finishes, paints, and stains. |
Labor | 20% – 30% | Building, assembling, and fitting the cabinets. |
Hardware & Finishes | 10% – 20% | Handles, knobs, hinges, and decorative touches. |
Design & Installation | 10% – 15% | Design planning, delivery, and on-site setup. |
In most cases, materials and labor make up the biggest part of the custom cabinetry cost. The more complex your design or the higher-end your materials, the more you’ll pay overall.
If you want to save, choose simpler styles or skip expensive finishes like glass doors or soft-close drawers.
How Much for Custom Cabinets?
How Much for Custom Cabinets?So, how much do custom cabinets really cost? The answer depends on the size of your space, the materials you pick, and how detailed your design is. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot for custom-built cabinets.
Here’s a general price guide based on kitchen size:
Kitchen Size | Average Cost Range | Details |
Small Kitchen (around 70 sq. ft.) | $7,000 – $15,000 | Basic setup with fewer cabinets and simpler designs. |
Medium Kitchen (around 150 sq. ft.) | $15,000 – $25,000 | More cabinets, upgraded materials, and finishes. |
Large Kitchen (250+ sq. ft.) | $25,000 – $40,000+ | High-end materials, detailed designs, and full customization. |
You can also use a custom cabinet cost estimator to get a more accurate idea based on your exact layout and material choices.
Keep in mind, the cost of custom kitchen cabinets can rise quickly with premium wood, decorative details, or built-in features like pull-out drawers or lighting.
Custom Cabinets Price: Tips to Save Money
Custom cabinets can be a big investment, but there are smart ways to keep your custom cabinets’ price within budget without losing quality or style. Here are a few tips to help you save:
- Choose cost-effective materials: You don’t always need expensive hardwoods. Options like MDF or plywood can still look great and last longer at a lower cost.
- Go for a simpler design: Avoid too many curves, glass inserts, or intricate moldings. Clean, straight lines reduce both material and labor costs.
- Stick to standard sizes: The more custom cuts and adjustments your design needs, the higher your custom cabinetry cost will be.
- Mix stock and custom: Use custom cabinets for special areas (like a kitchen island) and stock cabinets for the rest to balance your budget.
- Compare quotes: Get estimates from at least two or three cabinetmakers or use a custom cabinet cost estimator to find the best deal.
- Bundle services: Some contractors offer discounts when you order design, fabrication, and installation together.
With careful planning and smart choices, you can achieve a beautiful, custom look without overspending.
Is Custom Cabinetry Cost Worth It?
Many homeowners wonder if the higher custom cabinetry cost is really worth it, and in most cases, it is. Custom cabinets offer a level of quality, fit, and design that stock or semi-custom options just can’t match.
Here’s why investing in custom kitchen cabinets often pays off:
- Perfect Fit: Every cabinet is built to match your kitchen’s exact size and layout, making the most of your space.
- Personalized Design: You get to choose the wood, color, finish, and hardware to match your style.
- Better Quality: Custom cabinets are made by skilled craftsmen using strong materials, so they last for years.
- Added Home Value: Well-designed, custom-built cabinets can increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers.
- Long-Term Savings: While the custom cabinets price is higher upfront, you save on replacements and repairs later.
If you plan to stay in your home long-term or want a kitchen that fits your lifestyle perfectly, the investment in custom cabinetry is often worth every penny.
FAQs
How much do custom kitchen cabinets cost
Custom kitchen cabinets typically cost between $12,000 and $30,000 total, or around $500 to $1,200 per linear foot, depending on materials, design, and finishes. Premium wood, intricate details, and larger layouts can push costs higher, while simpler designs and local makers help reduce expenses.
Are custom cabinets more expensive than semi-custom or stock cabinets?
Yes, custom cabinets usually cost more because they’re built to your exact measurements and design preferences. While stock cabinets cost about $100–$300 per linear foot and semi-custom cabinets range from $150–$650, custom-built cabinets offer higher quality and a perfect fit.
Are custom cabinets worth the price?
Absolutely. Though they cost more upfront, custom cabinets last longer, fit your space perfectly, and add real value to your home. They’re ideal if you want a unique look, better storage, and lasting quality that cheaper options can’t match.
Do custom kitchen cabinets increase home value?
Yes, they can. High-quality custom kitchen cabinets often boost your home’s resale value because buyers appreciate durable materials and well-designed storage. A custom kitchen can make your home more appealing and stand out in the market.
Are custom cabinets only for kitchens?
Not at all. You can install custom cabinetry in bathrooms, laundry rooms, offices, and living areas. Each space has its own average cost range, but the benefit is the same: a perfect fit and personalized design made to match your home.
Conclusion
Investing in custom cabinets is about more than just storage; it’s about creating a space that fits your home, your style, and your daily needs. While the cost of custom cabinets may seem high at first, the quality craftsmanship, perfect fit, and lasting value make it a smart choice for any homeowner.
At Prime Estimation, we help you plan your project with accurate and detailed cost estimates, so you know exactly what to expect before you start. Whether you’re designing a new kitchen, updating your bathroom, or adding built-ins to your home, our expert estimators make sure your custom cabinetry fits your vision and your budget.
Ready to find out how much your custom cabinets will cost?
Contact Prime Estimation today for a professional estimate and start building the space you’ve always wanted.
