Kitchen Cabinet Cost Calculator
Calculate the cost of new kitchen cabinets from linear feet, style, and material. Enter values for instant results with step-by-step formulas.
Formula
Total = (Linear Feet × Material Cost × Style × Door) + Hardware + Install + Countertop
Cabinet cost is calculated per linear foot based on material grade, then adjusted by style and door type multipliers. Hardware, professional installation, and optional countertops are added. Upper cabinets add approximately 60% to the cabinet cost.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation
Problem: 20 linear feet, shaker style, plywood construction, solid doors, with granite countertops and professional installation. Include upper cabinets.
Solution: Cabinets: 20 ft × $220/ft × 1.0 (shaker) × 1.0 (solid) × 1.6 (uppers) = $7,040\nHardware: 20 ft × $50 = $1,000\nInstallation: 20 ft × $75 = $1,500\nGranite countertops: 20 ft × $115 = $2,300\nTotal estimate: $11,840
Result: Estimated total: $11,840 | Range: $9,000-$16,000 | ~16 cabinets
Example 2: Budget-Friendly Update
Problem: 15 linear feet, flat/slab style, MDF construction, thermofoil doors, laminate countertops, DIY installation, with upper cabinets.
Solution: Cabinets: 15 ft × $150/ft × 0.85 (flat) × 0.75 (thermofoil) × 1.6 (uppers) = $2,295\nHardware: 15 ft × $30 = $450\nInstallation: DIY = $0\nLaminate countertops: 15 ft × $35 = $525\nTotal estimate: $3,270
Result: Estimated total: $3,270 | Range: $2,000-$5,000 | ~12 cabinets
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do kitchen cabinets cost on average?
Kitchen cabinet costs vary widely based on material, style, and size. For a standard 20 linear-foot kitchen, stock cabinets from particleboard or MDF range from $2,000-$5,000. Semi-custom plywood cabinets typically cost $4,000-$12,000. Custom hardwood cabinets can range from $10,000-$25,000 or more. These prices are for the cabinets alone. Installation adds $1,500-$3,000 for professional work. When budgeting, also account for hardware ($500-$1,500), countertops ($1,000-$5,000), and potential modifications to plumbing or electrical. The national average for a complete cabinet replacement project is about $6,000-$15,000 for a mid-range kitchen, though high-end custom projects in major metro areas can exceed $30,000.
What cabinet material is best for durability and value?
Plywood is widely considered the best balance of durability and value for cabinet boxes (the structural frame). It resists moisture better than particleboard or MDF, holds screws firmly, and does not swell or warp easily. For cabinet doors, solid hardwood (maple, oak, cherry, or birch) provides the best long-term durability and can be refinished multiple times over decades. MDF doors with thermofoil or paint finish offer a smooth, affordable alternative but cannot be refinished and may peel over time in humid environments. Particleboard is the cheapest option but is susceptible to moisture damage and has a shorter lifespan. For a cost-effective approach, many homeowners choose plywood boxes with solid wood or high-quality MDF doors, providing a premium look without full custom pricing.
Should I reface or replace my kitchen cabinets?
Refacing costs about 30-50% less than full replacement and is ideal when your cabinet boxes are structurally sound but the doors and finish look dated. Refacing involves applying new veneer to the cabinet frames and replacing doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing boxes and layout. It typically costs $3,000-$10,000 for a standard kitchen and can be completed in 3-5 days. However, replacement is better when cabinets are damaged, have poor layout, or you want to change the kitchen configuration. If your cabinets are over 20 years old, have water damage, or use particleboard that is swelling, replacement is the smarter investment. Also consider that refacing does not change cabinet sizes or add features like soft-close hinges, pull-out shelves, or better organizers unless you add them separately.
How do I measure linear feet for kitchen cabinets?
Linear feet is measured by running a tape measure along the walls where cabinets will be installed, measuring the total length of countertop and cabinet run. Measure each wall section separately and add them together. Include only the areas where cabinets will actually go, not doorways, windows, or appliance gaps (though the space above a range typically has a hood or short cabinet). A typical small kitchen has 10-15 linear feet of cabinets, a standard kitchen has 20-25 linear feet, and a large or L-shaped kitchen may have 25-35 linear feet. When measuring for upper cabinets, measure the same walls but subtract spaces above sinks and ranges where full-height uppers may not fit. Most cabinet companies offer free in-home measurements.
Can I use Kitchen Cabinet Cost Calculator on a mobile device?
Yes. All calculators on NovaCalculator are fully responsive and work on smartphones, tablets, and desktops. The layout adapts automatically to your screen size.
Is Kitchen Cabinet Cost Calculator free to use?
Yes, completely free with no sign-up required. All calculators on NovaCalculator are free to use without registration, subscription, or payment.