Cabinet Replacement Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of replacing or refacing kitchen cabinets based on linear feet, material type, and scope.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
This calculator estimates the cost of replacing or refacing kitchen cabinets. Cabinets are the single largest expense in most kitchen remodels, accounting for 30-50% of the total budget. Refacing can save 40-60% compared to full replacement.
The Formula
Variables
- Linear Feet — Total linear footage of cabinet runs along walls
- Material — Cabinet material quality: stock laminate, semi-custom wood, or custom hardwood
- Scope — Extent of work: refacing, door/drawer replacement, or full cabinet replacement
- Labor Rate — Installation labor as a percentage of material cost (20-35%)
- Demolition — Cost to remove old cabinets for full replacement projects
Worked Example
For 25 linear feet of semi-custom wood cabinets (full replacement) with uppers and new hardware: Lower = $15,000, Upper = $9,750, Hardware = $720, Labor = $8,915, Demo = $563 = approximately $34,948 total.
Practical Tips
- Cabinet refacing keeps existing boxes and replaces doors and drawer fronts, saving 40-60% over full replacement.
- Stock cabinets from big box stores cost 50-70% less than custom but come in limited sizes.
- Soft-close hinges and drawer slides are an inexpensive upgrade that adds a premium feel.
- Painting existing cabinets white or gray is the cheapest refresh, costing $3,000-$7,000 professionally.
- Measure carefully — cabinets are typically ordered 4-8 weeks before installation and returns are difficult.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do new kitchen cabinets cost in 2026?
Stock cabinets run $75-$300 per linear foot installed, semi-custom $350-$650, and custom $800-$1,200+ per linear foot.
Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?
Refacing costs 40-60% less than full replacement. For a 25 linear foot kitchen, refacing runs $4,000-$10,000 vs $12,000-$30,000+ for replacement.
How long do kitchen cabinets last?
Quality wood cabinets last 50+ years. Laminate and thermofoil typically last 15-25 years before showing significant wear.
What cabinet material is best for the money?
Plywood box with hardwood doors (semi-custom) offers the best balance of durability and value. Avoid particleboard boxes if budget allows.
How long does cabinet replacement take?
Refacing takes 3-5 days. Full replacement takes 1-2 weeks for installation, plus 4-8 weeks lead time for ordering.