Shaker cabinets are a popular style of cabinetry that feature a simple and clean look. They are characterized by their flat, recessed panel doors and drawer fronts, lacking elaborate details and ornamentation. Shaker cabinets get their name from the Shaker religious movement of the 18th and 19th centuries that valued simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship.

When it comes to kitchen remodeling or new construction, shaker cabinets are an appealing option for many homeowners. But like most things, shaker cabinetry comes in a range of prices to fit different budgets. So how much do shaker cabinets cost?

The cost of shaker cabinets depends on several factors:

Cabinet Quality and Construction

Like all cabinet styles, shaker cabinets come in different grades of quality when it comes to materials and construction. Higher grades will cost more but are generally more durable and sturdy.

Stock vs. Semi-Custom vs. Custom Cabinets

Stock cabinets – These are mass-produced and available “off the shelf” in standard sizes and configurations. Stock shaker cabinets are the most affordable option but offer the least flexibility in terms of sizes, layouts, and customization. They range from $75 – $200 per linear foot installed.
Semi-custom cabinets – These offer more sizes, accessories, and customization than stock. Door styles and wood species can be customized. Expect to pay $200 – $350 per linear foot installed.
Custom cabinets – Fully customized with choice of sizes, layouts, materials, finishes, and details. Custom shakers can cost $350+ per linear foot installed.

Materials

The wood species and materials used impact cost:

Plywood boxes – The strongest and most durable cabinet box material. More expensive than particle board.
Solid wood doors – Most expensive option, starting around $350 per linear foot. Highest quality.
Plywood or MDF doors – Mid-range cost, good quality. MDF is cheaper than plywood.
Particle board doors – Most affordable option but not as durable over time.
Stained finishes – More expensive than painted finishes. Real wood veneers add cost.
Specialty finishes – Distressed, glazed, antique additions increase price.

Hardware

Hardware is an added cost, ranging from basic to high-end:

Hinges – Starting around $2 per hinge up to $8+
Knobs/Pulls – $2 to $10+ per hardware piece
Soft-close hinges/drawer slides – $15+ per cabinet

Kitchen Size and Layout

The overall size of your kitchen and the number of cabinets needed directly impacts the total cost of shaker cabinetry.

Smaller kitchens require fewer cabinets and have lower costs. Standard kitchens generally have 15-30 linear feet of cabinets.
Larger, expansive kitchens require more cabinetry and costs go up. Luxury kitchens may have 40+ linear feet.
The number of corners, islands, and specialty cabinets (pantry, angled, etc) will add cost.

Contractor and Installation Fees

In addition to the cabinet cost itself, contractor fees for design, delivery, and installation are key additions.

Design fees may range from $50 – $100 per hour. Expect to pay at least $1000 for a full kitchen design.
Shipping/delivery typically adds a couple hundred dollars.
Installation fees range from $150 – $250 per linear foot. This covers labor and materials.

Additional Cost Considerations

Other items that impact the total budget for a shaker kitchen include:

Countertops and backsplashes
Sinks and faucets
Appliances
Flooring
Lighting fixtures
Molding/trimwork

In general, you can expect to spend $5000 to $50000+ on a shaker kitchen depending on the factors above. Make sure to get an itemized quote from kitchen designers to understand what is included.

Cost Saving Tips for Shaker Cabinets

There are ways to get the shaker style you want while keeping costs down:

Choose stock cabinets over custom to save significantly on labor and materials. You have less customization but still get the clean shaker look.
Opt for painted finishes rather than stained wood veneers. The grade of paint makes little difference to cost.
Use more affordable wood species like maple rather than oak, cherry or hickory.
Select thermofoil or laminate doors instead of solid wood or plywood. Durable and inexpensive.
Keep door styles simple – no inlays, intricate patterns or carvings.
Go with lower-cost hardware like brushed chrome instead of brass or bronze.
Use quartz or recycled glass countertops rather than natural stone.
Install DIY if possible or get quotes from multiple installers.

Factors That Increase Shaker Cabinet Costs

While you can go with more affordable options to control costs, some features and upgrades do increase the price tag. These “extras” often add beauty and functionality but are not essential:

Solid wood door fronts – can add $100+ per linear foot
Custom or unusual sizes needed
Glass cabinet doors or display hutch cabinets
Full overlay doors that cover cabinet face
Soft-close hinges and drawer slides
Under/over cabinet lighting
Glass/mullion cabinet doors
Wood upgraded from oak to cherry, hickory, walnut
Natural stone countertops like granite, marble or quartzite
Premium hardware finishes – satin brass, bronze, black nickel
Integrated cabinet hardware – recessed finger pulls
Complex multi-step stain/paint finishes
Full height pantry cabinets with rollout shelves
Appliance garages for dishwashers or microwaves

While going with standard sizes, mid-grade materials, and simple doors and finishes keep costs down, splurging on certain premium upgrades can elevate the look significantly. Balance must-have features against nice-to-have adornments based on your budget and priorities.

Average Costs of Shaker Cabinets by Brand

Looking at average price ranges for shaker cabinet packages by leading national manufacturers also provides an idea of budgets:

IKEA – $120 to $260 per linear foot. Stock cabinets focused on affordability. Particleboard construction.
KraftMaid – $170 to $320 per linear foot. Mid-range. Plywood boxes with various door grades.
Hampton Bay (Home Depot) – $190 to $420 per linear foot. Varying quality for stock to custom.
Wellborn Cabinets – $240 to $540+ per linear foot. Huge range from entry-level to luxury.
Woodmont Cabinetry – $250 to $600+ per linear foot. Lots of finishes and storage options.
Thomasville Cabinetry – $380 to $600+ per linear foot. Known for customizable high-end designs.

Within each brand, you get a range based on the factors already outlined like materials, construction, and customization. With any manufacturer, more custom features increase prices.

Shaker Cabinet Cost Comparison Chart

Here is an overview of average installed costs for various shaker kitchens:

| Kitchen Cabinet Type | Low End | Mid Range | High End |
|-|-|-|-|
| Stock (ikea, boxes only)| $100/ft | $150/ft | $200/ft |
| Stock (installed) | $200/ft | $250/ft | $300/ft |
| Semi-Custom | $250/ft | $300/ft | $350/ft |
| Custom | $350/ft | $450/ft | $550+/ft |

DIY Installation to Reduce Costs

One way to reduce the total investment in shaker cabinets is to install them yourself rather than hiring a professional. While this can save on labor fees, keep in mind that DIY installation is challenging. Make sure you are prepared for:

A longer timeline – It could take 20-30 hours for an amateur to install an entire kitchen vs. 1-2 days for a pro.
Learning curve – There are many fiddly steps from assembly to adjustments to getting everything level and square.
Physical demands – Unpacking, lifting, nailing, bending – it’s a workout!
Additional materials/tools needed – nails, screws, glue, saws, sandpaper, clamps and more.

If you hire pros for the design but want to install your own shaker cabinets to save money, here are a few tips:

Carefully check that all cabinets arrived undamaged – contact the company for any missing or damaged pieces right away.
Read through all provided instructions before beginning. Also watch installation videos online.
Start with wall units and work your way down to base cabinets. Get them all secured before adding countertops.
Take your time to get everything perfectly plumb and level – this is crucial. Don’t rush through it.
Use a combination of screws and nails for strongest results. Pre-drill all screw holes.
Caulk and fill all gaps between cabinets, ceilings and walls for a seamless finish.
Add molding/trim work around tops and bottoms to cover any imperfections.

With patience and care, a DIY shaker cabinet install can help you stay within your kitchen remodeling budget. Just be ready for this challenging undertaking!

In Summary

While many factors impact the total price, expect to invest $5000 to $30000 for a full shaker kitchen makeover. Carefully measure your space and analyze which features are must-haves versus optional upgrades. Get quotes from at least 3 showrooms or contractors. And don’t hesitate to negotiate!

Shaker cabinets offer flexible options to suit modest budgets or lavish designs. Keep costs down by:

Choosing stock over custom cabinetry
Opting for painted finishes
Using less expensive wood species
Selecting affordable countertop materials
Installing yourself if possible

Prioritize your wishlist features against your budget. With smart planning, you can get the beautiful shaker style kitchen you’ve been dreaming about!

FAQ About Shaker Cabinet Costs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about how much shaker style cabinets cost and what impacts the pricing:

What is the average cost per linear foot for shaker cabinets?

The average cost per linear foot for shaker cabinets ranges from about $150 – $250 per linear foot installed. Custom shaker cabinets will run $350+ per linear foot.

Are shaker cabinets more expensive than other styles?

Not necessarily. The cost has more to do with materials, construction quality, and customization than the actual door style. Shaker cabinets are mid-range – less expensive than ornate cabinetry but pricier than basic slab cabinets.

Why are custom shaker cabinets so much more expensive?

You’re paying for full customization in size, layout, features, accessories, finishes, and quality materials. Each cabinet is built individually to your specs, so you get a bespoke kitchen but pay for extensive labor and high-end materials.

What upgrades increase the cost of shaker cabinets?

Upgrades like solid wood doors, glass fronts, integrated hardware, soft-close mechanisms, under-lighting, and premium finishes like glazing or distressing increase the costs. Unique storage fittings like spice drawers, tray dividers, and pull-outs also add price.

Can I get good quality shaker cabinets on a budget?

Yes, opting for stock home center cabinets lets you get the clean shaker look while controlling costs. You have fewer options for sizes, configurations, and customization, but stock cabinets start around $100 per linear foot – a very affordable option.

Should I install shaker cabinets myself to save money?

If you have carpentry skills and time, DIY installation can definitely save on labor – just be sure to carefully check cabinets for damage before installing. Hiring pros gets the job done faster and ensures proper adjustments and positioning.

What are the most affordable cabinet brands for shaker style?

Ikea and RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets from big box stores offer the lowest prices on stock shaker cabinets. Other affordable options are brands like KraftMaid, Hampton Bay, Diamond, Aristokraft, and American Woodmark.

Is it better to refinish or replace old cabinets with new shaker cabinets?

If your existing cabinet boxes and layout are in good shape, refacing with new shaker doors and drawers can cost 50% less than replacing. But if your old cabinets are damaged or you want to reconfigure your kitchen, new shaker cabinets may be worth the investment.

What should I budget for a kitchen with shaker cabinets?

A mid-range shaker kitchen with semi-custom cabinets, quartz counters, laminate or tile flooring can be done for $15k-$25k. Budget $25k-$50k+ for larger kitchens with top-grade cabinets, stone counters, high-end appliances and finishes.

What are the best tips for saving money on shaker cabinets?

Go with stock versus custom, limit fancy upgrades, install yourself if possible, negotiate pricing, use IKEA for lower cost boxes, select value-oriented brands like KraftMaid over ultra-premium brands, choose affordable wood, hardware and counter materials. Get multiple quotes.

How to Choose the Best Shaker Cabinets for Your Kitchen

Beyond cost considerations, there are a few important things to keep in mind when selecting shaker cabinets for your kitchen remodel:

Measure Your Space Carefully

Pull out the measuring tape and make sure to capture the accurate dimensions of your cabinets and kitchen layout. This allows you to order cabinets and accessories in the precise sizes needed. Having to make adjustments during installation can get tricky.

Look at Different Grades in Person

Don’t just rely on photos online. Visit home improvement stores and cabinet showrooms to open doors, drawers and check out quality differences. Seeing and touching various material grades and cabinet brands lets you make the best choice.

Choose Durable Finishes

While stained wood shaker cabinets are attractive, they show wear and scratches over time unless you opt for a top of the line finish. For active kitchens, painted finishes or thermofoil doors are more durable and don’t show marks easily.

Include Organizational Accessories

Take advantage of the many organizer fittings available for shaker cabinets, like pull-out spice racks, tray dividers, lazy susans, and tip-out bins for trash and recycling. Maximize function and access!

Decide on Door Style

Shaker doors traditionally have a recessed center panel, but you can find shaker styles with glass fronts, raised panels, or totally flat slab fronts. View all the options when selecting cabinets.

Make Drawers Accessible

Wherever possible, choose drawers over cabinets. Items stored in drawers are much easier to see and access. Melamine interiors make drawers durable and stain resistant.

Allow Time for Delivery

Once you place your order, expect to wait. Most cabinet suppliers are dealing with high demand. Make sure your kitchen remodel timeline allows a minimum of 4 to 8 weeks for delivery and any potential delays.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can select high-quality, affordable shaker cabinets tailored to your kitchen’s size, layout, style and organizational needs!

Shaker Cabinet Alternatives to Consider

While shaker reigns as the most popular kitchen cabinet style by far, some other styles share a similar clean and simple aesthetic. For certain home designs, these options may complement your kitchen as well as (or better than) shaker:

Slab Cabinetry

Slab cabinet doors and drawer fronts have a completely flat panel and lack any recessed detailing. The resulting clean, minimalist look works great with contemporary and modern kitchens. Slab cabinets are usually among the most affordable options too.

Flat Panel

Similar to slab cabinetry but with a subtle recessed panel, flat panel doors still appear sleek and contemporary. The simple profile matches well in modern, urban lofts as well as traditional homes. Durable laminate flat panel cabinetry is budget-friendly.

Thermally Fused Laminate

TFL doors consist of a melamine panel sealed between sheets of thermally fused vinyl. The resulting product resists impact, moisture, warping and wear. Great for family kitchens, TFL provides a shaker-like look for less.

Painted Shaker

For an easy DIY upgrade, paint existing cabinets in neutral shades like white, light gray or cream. Add new hardware to complete the facelift. Painting wood shaker cabinets results in a crisp, clean look for a reasonable cost.

While most homeowners opt for classic shaker these days, exploring some contemporary alternatives can lead to finding a style that suits your taste, kitchen layout and budget just as well!

Design Tips for Creating a Shaker Kitchen

Beyond choosing affordable cabinetry, certain design techniques can help you fully achieve the quintessential shaker kitchen look:

Transition Lightly Between Rooms

Use taller base shaker cabinets (36” to 42” high) on perimeter walls to promote an open, airy feel when moving from kitchen to dining and living areas. Maintain sightlines throughout the space.

Use Interior Glass Doors and Light Valances

Adding glass doors on corner cabinets or open shelving with lights above displays kitchenware while keeping a simple look. Try glass mullion doors on pantry end cabinets to avoid a bulky appearance.

Accent with Contrasting Colors and Textures

While shaker cabinets themselves follow a uniform design, vary materials like butcher block countertops, exposed brick backsplashes, and visible piping for pops of contrast.

Focus on Right Angles and Clean Lines

Align cabinets, shelves, and accessories in symmetrical rows and right angles. Avoid freestanding furniture-look pieces like hoosier cabinets. Keep lines crisp.

Incorporate Vintage Elements

Infuse modern shaker style with reclaimed wood shelving, farmhouse sinks, galvanized metal acc

How Much Do Shaker Cabinets Cost?