Kitchen Cabinet Cost Calculator

Cabinets are typically 30–40% of kitchen remodel budget; quality tier drives price 3–10x.

Linear feet

Per linear ft (base)

Per linear ft (wall)

Wall to base ratio

Installation

Soft close upgrade

Total cabinet cost

$10,320

Blended $/LF

$344

Cabinets only (no install)

$7,820

How the math works

Cabinets = LF × base $/LF + LF × ratio × wall $/LF + soft close. Total = cabinets + install.

30 × $150 + 30 × 0.7 × $120 + $800 + $2,500 = $4,500 + $2,520 + $800 + $2,500 = $10,320.

How to Use

Enter linear feet.
Enter per linear ft (base).
Enter per linear ft (wall).
Enter wall to base ratio.
Enter installation.
Enter soft close upgrade.
Read total cabinet cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cabinet quality tier costs?

Stock (RTA, IKEA, Home Depot): $80–200/linear ft. Semi-custom (KraftMaid, Diamond): $200–500/linear ft. Custom (local cabinetmaker): $500–1,500+/linear ft. RTA (ready-to-assemble): cheapest, online retailers. Factory-built but installed by others. Solid wood vs particle board: 30–50% premium for solid. Soft-close hinges/drawers: $5–25/each, often included in semi-custom. Average kitchen: 25–35 linear feet. 10×12 kitchen ~25 LF; large open kitchen 35–50 LF.

How accurate is this estimate?

Material and labor estimates are accurate to ±15% with reasonable inputs but local market conditions vary. Major markets cost 30–60% more than rural. Labor rates regional (union vs non-union, prevailing wage). Material prices fluctuate with commodity cycles. Get 3 contractor bids for any work over $5k. This calculator is a sanity check, not a substitute for actual quotes.

DIY vs contractor?

DIY savings: 40–70% of contractor cost on labor. Realistic skill threshold: painting, basic plumbing, simple electrical, drywall, flooring. Pro required: structural, gas, complex electrical, HVAC, roofing (warranty + insurance), permits. Permitted work without license risks insurance and resale. Time: hobby DIYers 3–5x slower than pro. Tools and learning curve real.

Permit and code compliance?

Permits required for: structural changes, additions, electrical service changes, plumbing rough-in, HVAC replacement, roof replacement (varies), fence (varies). Cost: $50–2,000+ depending on scope. Skipping permit risks: stop work order, fines, forced removal, insurance denial, resale title issues. Always pull permit; cost is small relative to compliance friction.