Cabinet installation costs depend on whether you're using stock, semi-custom, or fully custom cabinets, plus the complexity of your kitchen layout. On average, expect to pay $3,000–$12,000 for a standard kitchen in the US, PLN 8,000–30,000 in Poland, and €4,000–€15,000 in the Netherlands. Labor alone typically runs $50–$120 per linear foot installed, with the cabinets themselves making up 60–70% of the total cost.
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Average cabinet installation costs by project type
| Project type | Typical cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Stock cabinet installation (10 LF kitchen) | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Semi-custom cabinet installation (10 LF) | $5,000–$10,000 |
| Custom cabinet installation (10 LF) | $10,000–$25,000+ |
| Bathroom vanity cabinet install | $300–$1,500 |
| Cabinet refacing (existing frames) | $4,000–$10,000 |
| Single cabinet replacement | $200–$800 |
| Hardware replacement (handles/pulls) | $100–$400 |
| Island cabinet installation | $1,500–$5,000 |
Sources: HomeAdvisor 2025, Angi cost data, NKBA industry reports.
What affects the cost?
- Cabinet type — stock cabinets ($100–$300 per LF) vs semi-custom ($200–$600) vs full custom ($500–$1,500+)
- Material — particleboard and MDF are cheapest; plywood mid-range; solid hardwood costs the most
- Layout complexity — L-shaped and U-shaped kitchens require more cabinets, corner units, and custom filler pieces
- Existing cabinet removal — removing and disposing of old cabinets adds $300–$500 to the project
- Countertop coordination — new cabinets often require new countertops, adding significantly to total cost
- Plumbing and electrical — if sink or appliance locations change, plumbing and wiring adjustments add $200–$1,000+
Costs by country
Cabinet installation costs in the United States
In the US, labor for cabinet installation averages $50–$120 per linear foot, depending on your metro area and the installer's experience. Most installers charge $2,000–$5,000 for labor alone on a standard 20–25 LF kitchen. Big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowe's offer installation packages starting at $2,000–$3,500 for labor (cabinets sold separately). Independent carpenters may charge $40–$80/hour, with a full kitchen taking 2–4 days.
Get at least 3 quotes and verify that the installer carries liability insurance. Many kitchen projects require a building permit if walls are moved or plumbing is rerouted — factor in $100–$500 for permit fees.
How to save on cabinet installation
- Choose stock or RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets — they're 50–75% cheaper than custom and can look just as good with quality hardware
- Keep the existing layout — changing plumbing and electrical locations dramatically increases cost
- Reface instead of replace — if your cabinet boxes are in good shape, new doors and hardware cost 30–50% less
- Get 3+ quotes — installation prices vary 40–60% for the same kitchen
- Buy during sales — IKEA, Home Depot, and Lowe's run major kitchen sales several times a year
Frequently asked questions
How much does cabinet installation cost?
Cabinet installation runs $200–$500 per linear foot in the US, including the cabinets themselves. Labor alone is $50–$150 per linear foot. A typical 10×10 kitchen (20 linear feet) costs $4,000–$10,000+ for cabinets and installation. Custom cabinets push costs to $20,000–$50,000+ for the same kitchen size.
Stock vs custom vs semi-custom cabinets — what's the difference?
Stock ($60–$200/ft): pre-built standard sizes, in-stock at home centers. Semi-custom ($150–$650/ft): made-to-order in standard sizes with finish and feature options. Custom ($500–$1,200+/ft): built to your exact specifications. Stock works for 70% of kitchens; custom is essential only for unusual layouts.
How long does cabinet installation take?
Removing old cabinets: 4–8 hours. Installing new cabinets in a typical 10×10 kitchen: 1–2 days for an experienced 2-person crew. Custom installations with crown molding, built-ins, and trim work: 3–5 days. Most installs include hooking up appliances and basic plumbing.
Can I save money by installing cabinets myself?
Maybe — labor is 30–40% of total cost ($1,500–$4,000 for a typical kitchen). DIY saves that if you're skilled at leveling, plumbing, and electrical for under-cabinet lighting. Most homeowners spend 4–10× longer than pros and end up with visible alignment issues. Worth attempting only if you have prior cabinet or carpentry experience.
Learn about the trade
How to become a carpenter: apprenticeship, licensing, salary expectations, and career paths in the US, Poland, and the Netherlands.
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