Planning a kitchen renovation? Cabinet replacement is likely your biggest expense. The average cost to install kitchen cabinets as of 2025 ranges between $4,000 and $13,000 or more. Understanding what drives these costs helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
At T And J Remodeling, we’ve installed thousands of cabinets across Wisconsin homes. This guide shares real pricing data from our recent projects, plus strategies to maximize your budget without compromising quality.
Average Kitchen Cabinet Replacement Costs in 2025
National Pricing Ranges
Kitchen cabinet replacement costs vary wildly. The exact cost of new cabinets depends on how you plan to upgrade them. However, it may cost you anywhere from $1,500 to $30,000. This broad range reflects differences in kitchen size, cabinet quality, and installation complexity.
For most homeowners, expect to invest around $7,500 for a standard kitchen cabinet replacement. This middle-ground figure typically covers semi-stock cabinets with professional installation for an average-sized kitchen.
Cost Per Linear Foot Breakdown
Linear foot pricing gives you the clearest cost comparison. On average, expect to spend between $150 and $500 per linear foot on kitchen cabinet installation. Here’s what that means for your kitchen:
- Small kitchen (15 linear feet): $2,250 – $7,500
- Average kitchen (25 linear feet): $3,750 – $12,500
- Large kitchen (40+ linear feet): $6,000 – $20,000+
Remember, these figures include both materials and basic installation. Complex layouts or premium finishes push costs higher.
Small vs. Large Kitchen Comparisons
Kitchen size dramatically impacts your total investment. A galley kitchen with 15 linear feet of cabinets costs significantly less than an open-concept kitchen with an island. In a larger kitchen, the number of cabinets and a longer countertop add to the overall cost. Expect to add an average of $300 per linear foot of cabinets you need to install.
Types of Kitchen Cabinets and Their Costs
Stock Cabinets ($60-$200/linear foot)
Stock cabinets offer the best value for budget-conscious homeowners. Generally, pricing for stock cabinets is between $60 and $200 per linear foot. These pre-manufactured options come in standard sizes and limited finishes, but modern stock cabinets have improved significantly in quality.
Our kitchen remodeling projects in New Berlin often use stock cabinets for rental properties or quick flips. They install faster since they’re readily available, reducing labor costs.
Semi-Custom Cabinets ($150-$650/linear foot)
Semi-custom cabinets balance affordability with personalization. Expect to pay around $150 to $650 per foot for semi-stock models. You choose from various door styles, finishes, and some size modifications while avoiding custom cabinet lead times.
Most of our Brookfield clients choose semi-custom options. They get the exact color they want, upgraded soft-close features, and special organizational inserts without breaking the budget.
Custom Cabinets ($500-$1,200/linear foot)
Custom cabinets maximize every inch of your kitchen. $500 to $1,200 per foot for fully customized designs buys you complete control over dimensions, materials, and features. Pricing for Custom Cabinets is typically 25-30% more than semi-custom cabinetry.
We recently completed a historic home renovation where standard cabinets wouldn’t fit the unusual ceiling heights and angles. Custom cabinets solved these challenges perfectly, though the investment was substantial.
Installation and Labor Costs
Professional Installation Rates
Labor represents a significant portion of your budget. Labor costs are usually between $80 and $190 per cabinet. Hourly charges usually go from $60 to $90. For a typical kitchen with 20 cabinets, installation alone costs $1,600 to $3,800.
Professional installation includes:
- Removing old cabinets
- Preparing walls and ensuring level surfaces
- Installing cabinets securely
- Adjusting doors and drawers
- Adding crown molding and fillers
DIY vs. Professional Comparison
DIY installation saves money but requires significant time and skill. Consider these factors:
DIY Advantages:
- Save $2,000-$4,000 in labor
- Work at your own pace
- Complete control over the process
Professional Advantages:
- Guaranteed level and secure installation
- Warranty protection
- Completed in 1-2 days vs. weeks
- No tool purchases needed
Our home remodeling contractors often fix DIY attempts gone wrong. These corrections usually cost more than hiring professionals initially.
Timeline Impact on Costs
Rush jobs cost more. Planning your cabinet replacement during contractors’ slower seasons (late fall through winter) often yields 10-15% savings. Spring and summer demand drives prices higher.
Hidden Costs Most Homeowners Miss
Removal and Disposal Fees
Old cabinet removal and disposal adds $300-$600 to your project. Some contractors include this, others charge separately. Always clarify upfront. Heavy solid wood cabinets cost more to remove than lightweight particleboard options.
Electrical and Plumbing Modifications
New cabinet layouts often require moving outlets or plumbing. Budget an extra:
- $200-$400 per relocated outlet
- $500-$1,500 for moving plumbing
- $300-$800 for new under-cabinet lighting
Countertop Adjustments
If you’re replacing your cabinets, you may want or need to replace your countertops as well. Even if keeping existing countertops, expect $200-$500 for adjustments to fit new cabinets properly.
Cost-Saving Strategies Without Sacrificing Quality
Cabinet Refacing Alternatives
Cabinet refacing costs will rise by 10-15% by 2026, with average prices ranging from $4,500 to $10,500 depending on kitchen size and material choice. Refacing saves 30-50% compared to full replacement when your cabinet boxes remain structurally sound.
Mix-and-Match Approaches
Combine cabinet types strategically:
- Use custom cabinets for visible areas
- Install stock cabinets in the pantry
- Choose semi-custom for the island
This approach saved one of our remodeling services New Berlin clients $4,000 while achieving their dream kitchen look.
Timing Your Purchase
Strategic timing reduces costs:
- Black Friday sales offer 20-40% discounts
- End-of-year clearances move discontinued lines
- Bulk purchases for multiple rooms earn contractor discounts
Real Project Examples and ROI
10×10 Kitchen Case Study
Our recent Brookfield project replaced dated oak cabinets with modern shaker-style semi-custom options:
- Cabinet cost: $4,500 (20 linear feet)
- Installation: $1,800
- Modifications: $600
- Total investment: $6,900
The homeowner’s property value increased by approximately $12,000, delivering strong ROI.
Return on Investment Data
Kitchen cabinet replacement typically returns 60-80% of your investment at resale. Higher returns come from:
- Matching neighborhood standards
- Choosing timeless styles over trends
- Maintaining proportion to home value
Key Takeaways
Kitchen cabinet replacement costs depend on multiple factors, but understanding these variables helps you budget effectively. Stock cabinets offer affordability, custom provides perfect fit, and semi-custom balances both needs. Include hidden costs in your budget and consider strategic compromises to maximize value.
Ready to transform your kitchen? Contact T And J Remodeling for a detailed quote tailored to your specific needs and budget.
FAQ of
How much does it cost to replace cabinets in a 10×10 kitchen?
A 10×10 kitchen typically needs 20-25 linear feet of cabinets. Using stock cabinets costs $1,500-$5,000, while semi-custom runs $3,750-$16,250 including installation.
Is it cheaper to reface or replace kitchen cabinets?
Kitchen cabinet repairs cost $120 to $600 on average. Refacing costs 30-50% less than replacement but only works when cabinet boxes remain structurally sound. Choose replacement for layout changes or damaged boxes.
What is the labor cost to install kitchen cabinets?
In July 2025 the estimated cost to Install Kitchen Cabinets starts at $479 – $726 per cabinet. Most kitchens require 15-25 cabinets, making labor costs range from $7,185 to $18,150.
Can I replace kitchen cabinets without replacing countertops?
Yes, but budget $200-$500 for adjustments. New cabinets might sit slightly different heights, requiring shimming or trimming countertops for proper fit.
How long do kitchen cabinets typically last?
Quality cabinets last 20-50 years depending on materials and maintenance. Solid wood cabinets outlast particleboard by decades. Regular cleaning and prompt repairs extend lifespan significantly.
