Wood cabinets are a popular choice for many homeowners looking to remodel or upgrade their kitchens and bathrooms. With numerous styles, finishes, and pricing options to choose from, it’s common for homeowners to wonder – how much do wood cabinets cost?
The cost of wood cabinets can vary significantly based on the type of wood, door styles, finishes, hardware, size and layout of the space, and additional customizations. The quality of the cabinets along with whether they are stock, semi-custom, or fully custom built will also dramatically impact the bottom line.
Understanding the factors that influence the cost of wood cabinets will help homeowners budget for a cabinetry project and select options to stay within their desired budget.
Cost Factors To Consider For Wood Cabinets
Many elements influence the final price tag when budgeting for new wood kitchen or bathroom cabinets. Being aware of these cost factors will help homeowners make informed decisions when selecting their dream cabinets.
Type of Wood
The type of wood used to construct the cabinets will affect the overall cost. Solid hardwoods like cherry, maple, and oak are generally the most expensive wood species. Exotic woods can also command top dollar. Laminates and veneers with solid wood frames represent lower priced options.
Particleboard or MDF with veneers are the lowest cost cabinet constructions. Durability, scratch resistance, and ability to withstand moisture should be considered when selecting wood type. Unique wood grain patterns also impact cost.
Door Styles
Simple slab cabinet doors are the most affordable option. More intricate door styles will increase the price. Raised panels, inset panels, specialty shapes, and framing detail all add to the door cost. Consumers can pick one or two special door styles to elevate the design for focal points while keeping other doors simple to save money.
Stains, Paints, Glazes
The finish dramatically affects the look of cabinets. Stains allow the wood’s natural pattern and color to show through. Glazes or paints add another layer of color for opaque coverage. The more steps involved in the finishing process, the higher the price tag. Accent finishes through glazing or multiple coats of paint increase cost compared to standard stain or paint.
Hardware
Cabinet hardware includes handles or knobs, pulls, hinges, and other functional pieces. Opting for high-end hardware finishes like brushed nickel, antique bronze, or wrought iron will increase the price over standard hardware options. Unique hardware shapes or sizes also cost more. Homeowners can stick to standard hardware finishes and styles to reduce costs.
Customizations
Any customized options will add cost over stock cabinets. Choices like adding drawers, pull-out shelves, spice racks, waste bin compartments, adjustable shelves, and other specialty storage items will increase the price. Unique sizes to fit odd spaces or incorporate architectural details like soffits boost the price as well.
Cabinet Quality
Higher end cabinet brands command more for the quality of their construction and craftsmanship. Attention to detail on joinery, soft-close doors and drawers, shelf brackets, and drawer glides impact cost. Veneer thickness, durable finishes, plywood box construction, and strong corner joints represent quality touches.
Low-priced cabinets from home improvement stores usually represent lower quality. Deciding on the right balance between cost and long-lasting construction is key.
Stock vs. Semi-Custom vs. Custom
Stock cabinets are pre-fabricated in standard box sizes and come ready to install as-is. Semi-custom offers some size and layout flexibility along with material and design choices. Fully customized cabinets are built from scratch specific to your kitchen or bath layout and design vision.
Stock is the most affordable option but offers the least flexibility. Custom costs more but provides one-of-a-kind cabinets tailored to your space. Semi-custom offers a middle ground to balance cost with customization options.
Installation
Some cabinet suppliers include installation services, while others require homeowners to arrange their own contractor for cabinet installation. Complex projects with challenging site conditions or extensive customization will likely cost more in labor fees for experienced installers. Simple layouts need less installation time.
Sales Tax
Sales tax will need to be added to the total cost of cabinets depending on your location. Average sales tax cost is 6-10% but can reach over 10% in some areas. This must be factored into the total project budget.
Average Costs For New Wood Kitchen Cabinets
To budget for a kitchen or bath cabinet replacement or remodel, understanding estimated costs per linear foot provides a helpful guideline on what to expect:
- Stock cabinets: $50 – $100 per linear foot
- Semi-custom cabinets: $100 – $200 per linear foot
- Custom cabinets: $200 – $500+ per linear foot
These are rough averages only. The actual price can sometimes be below or above these price points depending on materials, features, brand, and more.
As a very broad average for a complete 10×10 kitchen with 30 linear feet of cabinetry, homeowners might expect:
- Stock: $1,500 – $3,000
- Semi-custom: $3,000 – $6,000
- Custom: $6,000 – $15,000+
Other kitchens may require 50 linear feet or more of cabinets, in which case overall costs scale up significantly.
Again, many details can alter these averages. But it provides a ballpark starting point for budgeting purposes.
Cost Saving Tips
Fortunately, there are ways homeowners can get the beautiful custom cabinet look they want while keeping costs in check. A few smart design decisions can yield big savings:
- Opt for stock cabinets for most of the kitchen, then splurge on 1-2 visible focal areas like a stunning range hood canopy or island. Add semi-custom for those spots only.
- Look for special sales on stock overstock or discontinued cabinets to find deals.
- Use open shelving in some areas to reduce linear cabinet footage.
- Pick a versatile neutral stain that works across several wood types instead of pricier exotic stains.
- Keep hardware, molding, and trim simple rather than ornate.
- Use quartz countertops instead of granite or marble to save thousands.
- Focus customization on clever storage solutions rather than pricy material upgrades.
- Work with a designer or contractor familiar with cost-saving tricks of the trade.
Popular Wood Species For Cabinets
With literally hundreds of wood species to choose from, selecting the right wood type for kitchen or bathroom cabinets can feel overwhelming. Here is an overview of some of the most popular woods used for cabinetry along with their typical price points, pros, and cons:
Maple
Cost: $$
Pros: Hard and durable, stains well, smooth tight grain, light color
Cons: Can show wear, susceptible to scratches over time
Maple is a very common choice for painted and stained cabinets due to its versatility and smooth canvas for finishes. It brings a light, airy look that suits many home styles from traditional to contemporary.
Cherry
Cost: $$$
Pros: Rich red undertones, ages beautifully over time, stains deeply
Cons: Can be prone to moire patterning beneath stains
Cherry wood darkens naturally from a medium reddish-brown to a deep, warm red hue. This makes it a top pick for an elegant, timeless look. The aging process adds vintage character.
Oak
Cost: $-$$
Pros: Affordable, durable, bold grain patterns
Cons: Can clash with some decor styles due to busy grains
Rustic, sturdy oak infuses traditional flavor thanks to its dramatic grain patterns. With varying hues from white oak to red oak, it offers lots of depth. Durability makes it family-friendly.
Hickory
Cost: $$
Pros: Rustic appeal, dynamic textural grain, very hard and durable
Cons: Can be prone to warping or bowing
For a dynamic, textured look hickory’s sweeping grain stands out. The hardness makes it suitable for active households while bringing a sense of cozy natural warmth.
Alder
Cost: $
Pros: Affordable, versatile for stains or paint, consistent grain
Cons: Low durability, easily dented
If you plan to paint your cabinets, alder represents a budget-friendly choice. The fine, straight grain allows paints and stains to adhere evenly. Just take care to avoid dents.
Pine
Cost: $
Pros: Very affordable, classic cottage-style charm, easy to DIY
Cons: Requires regular sealing, not as durable as pricier woods
Pine has an unmistakable homey, country appeal. The soft porous wood is budget-friendly but requires sealing to prevent stains or damage in kitchens. Charming for casual spaces.
Bamboo
Cost: $$
Pros: Eco-friendly renewable resource, attractive grain patterns, durability
Cons: Prone to absorbing moisture, sensitive to direct sunlight
For an eco-conscious option, bamboo offers a durable choice that is easily renewable. The distinctive grain and warm hues bring visual interest. Keep it protected from direct sunlight to avoid fading.
Teak
Cost: $$$$
Pros: Luxurious, exotic aesthetic, resilient to weather and moisture
Cons: Very expensive, difficult to source sustainably
Prized for its tropical appeal and water-resistant properties, genuine teak makes a lavish (and pricey) statement in bathrooms or kitchens. Responsible sourcing is key for this exotic wood.
Mahogany
Cost: $$$
Pros: Rich reddish-brown color, ages well over decades
Cons: On the softer side for cabinetry, requires careful sealing
Nothing quite matches mahogany’s elegance and luxury. The exquisite wood darkens slowly over time, taking on a refined patina. Dents are a concern due to the soft nature of the wood.
Walnut
Cost: $$$
Pros: Visually striking grain, ages beautifully, dark chocolate colors
Cons: Susceptible to light damage/fading over time
For contemporary and modern kitchens, walnut makes a statement with contrasting creams and chocolate hues. Natural light can cause fading, so position carefully. When finished properly, walnut ages wonderfully.
Alder
Cost: $$
Pros: Affordable, versatile for stains or paint, consistent grain
Cons: Not as durable as pricier options
Offering a middle ground for cost and quality, alder represents a nice option for painted cabinets. The fine grain creates an even canvas for painted finishes to shine.
Popular Door Styles
Beyond choosing a wood type, selecting a door style is one of the most impactful aesthetic decisions for kitchen or bathroom cabinets. From simple shaker to dramatic cathedral styles, doors set the tone for the whole look.
Shaker
Cost: $
Overview: A versatile classic combining clean lines and visible square wood framing for a pared-down look. Works with numerous design aesthetics from traditional to modern.
Works Well For: Contemporary, cottage, farmhouse, industrial, modern, transitional, traditional.
Slab
Cost: $
Overview: The most minimalist and affordable door option featuring a flat panel without any recesses or framing. Provides a streamlined look.
Works Well For: Contemporary, modern, industrial.
Raised Panel
Cost: $$
Overview: Quintessential traditional style with a central recessed panel bordered by a sturdy wood frame. The “raised” panel adds dimension.
Works Well For: Traditional, transitional, cottage, farmhouse.
Cathedrals
Cost: $$$
Overview: Makes a bold dramatic statement with sharply arched tops mimicking Gothic cathedral windows. The epitome of classic luxury.
Works Well For: Traditional, French country, romantic.
Inset Panel
Cost: $$$
Overview: Door fits wholly within cabinet frame for seamless built-in look. No visible seams between doors and face frames. Ultra sleek.
Works Well For: Modern, contemporary, minimalism.
Beaded Inset
Cost: $$
Overview: Inset door style characterized by a small lip or bead around the panel edges adding subtle dimension. Traditional meets modern.
Works Well For: Eclectic, farmhouse, cottage, coastal.
Popular Cabinet Finishes
The finish applied to cabinets including stains, paints, glazes, and more ultimately determines their final look and color tone. Consider the pros and cons of popular finishing options:
Stain
Overview: Translucent layers allow wood grain to show through tinting the natural pattern. Multiple coats build up tone.
Pros: Let’s wood’s beauty shine through.
Cons: Grain inconsistencies can be emphasized.
Paint
Overview: Opaque pigmented coats fully cover wood substrate. Allows any color palette.
Pros: Provides uniform finished look.
Cons: Can chip or scratch revealing wood underneath.
Glaze
Overview: Secondary sheer coat over stain or paint adds extra dimension with contrasting hues. Often applied to recesses.
Pros: Adds age, depth, and visual complexity.
Cons: Extra labor intensive application steps.
Whitewash
Overview: Thin white pigment allows wood grain and texture to show through. Lightens overall appearance.
Pros: Airy, beachy look.
Cons: Can yellow over time.
Distressing
Overview: Intentional wear, sanding, and damage is mimicked for antique character.
Pros: Adds vintage charm and depth.
Cons: Trendy look, time consuming process.
Cabinet Installation & Labor Costs
In addition to the cabinet cost or pricing per linear foot, homeowners need to factor in potential labor fees for installation and integration unless they plan to tackle this DIY. Kitchen cabinet installation costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on the size of the space.
Bigger kitchens with a larger cabinet footprint or challenging layouts will fall at the higher end while small, straightforward kitchen layouts can cost less for installation.
Some elements that can increase installation cost include:
- Difficult access to the job site that slows progress
- Numerous fixed appliances or plumbing requiring work arounds
- Electrical or wall modifications needed to fit cabinetry
- Tricky existing wall shapes or poor wall alignment
- Extensive tile or backsplash demo before cabinets go in
- Specialty storage and organization customizations
When possible, selecting stock cabinetry and keeping the existing footprint minimizes the installation cost. Significant layout changes drive up labor time.
If hiring an installer, here are tips to find the best rate:
- Get at least 3 detailed quotes for accurate cost comparison
- Ask about their years of experience, check reviews and references
- Clearly communicate your project scope, goals, and timeline
- Confirm they carry liability insurance as part of their services
- Request an itemized estimate with labor hours and rates outlined
- See if they charge flat fee or hourly and understand when payments are due
With proper planning and budgeting for all cost elements, selecting new dream wood cabinets is an attainable goal for upgrading your home. Carefully weighing options for wood species, door styles, finishes and customizations will allow you to balance your design vision with your budget for a kitchen or bath you will enjoy for years.
The Cost Of Stock Cabinets
Stock cabinetry represents a cost-effective option for homeowners looking for a quality kitchen or bathroom update on a budget. What exactly are stock cabinets, and how much do they typically cost compared to semi-custom or fully custom cabinetry?
What Are Stock Cabinets?
Stock kitchen and bathroom cabinets are pre-manufactured cabinet boxes and doors produced in standard sizes by major cabinet brands. They are mass produced in a factory, then sold “off the shelf” through home retailers, lumberyards, big box stores, and some cabinet dealers.
The cabinets come ready to assemble with no customization. The components are designed to fit together in common kitchen or bath layouts with typical dimensions.
Stock cabinets are the most affordable cabinet option because no custom work is involved in their production. The downside is little flexibility outside the standard sizes and configurations.
How Are Stock Cabinets Priced?
Pricing for stock cabinets is typically calculated per linear foot. This accounts for different kitchen shapes and run footages. Industry pricing averages break down as:
- Economy: $50 – $80 per linear foot
- Standard: $100 – $150 per linear foot
- Premium: $175 – $250+ per linear foot
Other factors like material and door style impact price as well:
- Wood type: particleboard is cheapest, solid wood most expensive
- Door style: slab doors most affordable, intricate details cost more
- Brand: Quality and name brands command higher price tags
Those price ranges reflect complete cabinets with doors, shelves, and hardware. Specialty fittings cost extra.
For a 10×10 kitchen with a typical 30 linear feet of cabinets, a stock remodel would start around $3,000 on the very low end and cap at $7,500 on the high end for premium brands. Double those costs for larger 20 linear foot kitchens or more.
Pros Of Stock Cabinets
There are a few key benefits that make stock cabinetry an enticing choice for homeowners:
Cost Savings
The pre-fabricated nature provides economies of scale that lower manufacturing costs substantially compared to custom work. Homeowners save significantly over customized options.
Faster Project Timeline
Stock cabinets ship pre-assembled with standardized sizes designed for typical layouts. This allows for faster installation compared to the measuring and building process for customized cabinets.
Wide Availability
With stock cabinets mass-produced by major brands, homeowners