How much does a kitchen cabinet remodel cost?
A kitchen cabinet remodel cost typically ranges from $5,000 to $35,000+, depending on whether you refinish, reface, or replace cabinets. Painting costs the least, refacing offers mid-range value, and full replacement costs the most due to material quality, labor, and layout changes.
What Is the Average Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Cost?
The kitchen cabinet remodel cost is primarily determined by scope of work, materials, and labor complexity. Cabinets, which are the structural storage system of a kitchen, account for approximately 30–40% of a total kitchen remodel budget $30,000 to $35,000+.
Average Cabinet Remodel Costs (2026)
| Remodel Method | Typical Cost Range | Best For |
| Cabinet Painting / Refinishing | $2,500 – $9,000 | Cosmetic upgrades, rentals |
| Cabinet Refacing | $7,000 – $15,000 | Mid-range kitchens, solid cabinet boxes |
| Cabinet Replacement | $18,000 – $35,000+ | Layout changes, high ROI remodels |
👉 See how cabinetry pairs with flooring choices in Kitchen Remodeling Services.
What Are the Main Cabinet Remodeling Options?
Homeowners generally choose from three approaches, each with distinct cost drivers and outcomes.
Cabinet Painting or Refinishing
Cabinet refinishing, which is the process of sanding and repainting existing doors, is the lowest-cost option.
Pros:
- Minimal disruption
- Short timeline (3–5 days)
- Lowest labor and material cost
Cons:
- No structural improvement
- Limited ROI compared to replacement
This option pairs well with Luxury Vinyl Flooring when refreshing a kitchen on a budget.
Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing replaces doors, drawer fronts, and veneer, while keeping existing cabinet boxes.
Pros:
- 40–50% cheaper than replacement
- Eco-friendly (less waste)
- Significant visual transformation
Cons:
- Cabinet boxes must be structurally sound
- Limited layout flexibility
Refacing is popular in transitional kitchens, especially when paired with Quartz Countertops.
Cabinet Replacement
Cabinet replacement is a full removal and rebuild of kitchen storage systems.
Pros:
- Total layout control
- Highest resale value
- Compatible with smart storage and lighting
Cons:
- Highest upfront cost
- Longest timeline (3–6 weeks)
This approach is common in Design-Build Remodeling Projects.
How Does Cabinet Material Affect Remodel Cost?
Material selection has a direct Is-A relationship with pricing. Cabinet material is a cost multiplier.
Common Cabinet Materials Explained
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard):
MDF is an engineered wood product ideal for painted finishes. It resists warping but lacks moisture tolerance. - Plywood:
Plywood is a layered wood product with high structural integrity. It is the industry standard for semi-custom cabinetry. - Solid Wood:
Solid wood cabinets (oak, walnut, maple) are natural materials with premium pricing due to supply volatility.
| Material Type | Cost Impact | Durability |
| MDF | Low | Moderate |
| Plywood | Medium | High |
| Solid Wood | High | Very High |
Learn how cabinetry materials coordinate with flooring in Waterproof Kitchen Flooring Options.
How Much Does Labor Influence Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Cost?
Labor is often the largest hidden variable, accounting for 50–70% of total cabinet remodel pricing [$4,000 to $9,500]
Labor Costs Increase Due To:
- Skilled carpenter shortages
- Integration of LED lighting and soft-close hardware
- Regional labor premiums (urban markets cost more)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, finish carpentry wages increased by wages and salaries increased by 4.1% year-over-year. bls.gov
What Is the Cost Per Linear Foot for Cabinets?
Pricing is commonly calculated per linear foot, which includes cabinet boxes, doors, and standard hardware.
| Cabinet Type | Cost Per Linear Foot |
| Stock Cabinets | $150 – $300 |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | $300 – $650 |
| Custom Cabinets | $800 – $1,500+ |
👉 Explore cabinetry styles in Kitchen Cabinet Solutions.
What Hidden Costs Should Homeowners Budget For?
Many homeowners underestimate secondary expenses that raise final cabinet remodel cost.
Common Hidden Costs:
- Hardware upgrades ($500–$2,000)
- Structural wall or floor leveling
- Permit fees ($300–$1,500)
- Old cabinet removal and disposal
According to Houzz remodeling data, unexpected costs affect nearly one-third (approx. 30%) of kitchen projects. houzz.
How Can You Reduce Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Cost Without Sacrificing Quality?
Cost control is about strategic compromise, not cutting corners.
Smart Cost-Saving Strategies:
- Keep existing cabinet layout
- Use plywood boxes with MDF doors
- Choose slab-style doors (less labor)
- Upgrade hardware instead of cabinetry
This strategy works well when paired with Kitchen Flooring Installation.
What Is the ROI of a Kitchen Cabinet Remodel?
Cabinet upgrades deliver one of the highest ROIs in home renovation.
| Remodel Type | Average ROI |
| Cabinet Refinishing | 65–75% |
| Cabinet Refacing | 75–85% |
| Cabinet Replacement | 80–95% |
According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value Report, kitchen cabinetry upgrades remain a top resale driver.
🔗 https://www.remodeling.hw.net
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
While DIY painting is possible, cabinetry installation requires precision leveling, anchoring, and load distribution.
DIY Is Suitable For:
- Painting doors
- Replacing hardware
Professional Installation Is Required For:
- Cabinet replacement
- Structural modifications
- Integrated lighting or appliances
Find professional help through AMS Designer Floors.
FAQ
Q1: How much does a kitchen cabinet remodel cost in 2026?
A kitchen cabinet remodel typically costs between $5,000 and $35,000+, depending on whether cabinets are painted, refaced, or replaced.
Q2: Is cabinet refacing cheaper than replacement?
Yes. Cabinet refacing costs 40–50% less than full replacement while offering strong visual impact.
Q3: Do new cabinets increase home value?
Yes. New or refaced cabinets can return up to 95% ROI, especially in mid-range kitchen remodels.