Why is cabinet making so expensive?

Author: Nicole Becker  |  Last update: Monday, November 24, 2025

Quality in Construction and Materials Craftsmanship in cabinetry has a long history. Custom, customized cabinets are highly prized and are the result of a trade that has been passed down from generation to generation. For this reason, a set of kitchen cabinets may cost as much as $20,000.

Why are cabinets so expensive right now?

The premium for durability and longevity

High-end materials and construction methods might come with a steeper initial cost, but they pay off in the long run. Cheaper alternatives might be tempting, but they often show wear and tear much sooner.

Is it cheaper to build cabinets or buy them?

  • It depends - if you have all the equipment and a supply of (free) material, and the time to do it, building them is much cheaper especially if you want something bespoke.
  • If you hanker after the sort of high-end unfitted kitchen furniture beloved of the post-modernists, building them is a good option.

How much should I expect to pay for cabinets?

Cabinet prices are typically calculated per linear foot. The average cost of stock or semi-custom cabinets ranges between $150 to $700 per linear foot, while custom cabinets can cost as much as $1,200 per linear foot.

What is the profit margin on making cabinets?

The profit margin for cabinets usually falls somewhere between 25% and 50%. This is heavily dependent on how much you actually put into making each cabinet.

He Makes HOW MUCH from Cabinet Making!?

Where do cabinet makers make the most money?

Highest paying cities for Cabinet Makers near United States
  • Seattle, WA. $28.83 per hour. 16 salaries reported.
  • Rancho Cordova, CA. $26.23 per hour. 3 salaries reported.
  • Burnsville, MN. $22.86 per hour. 4 salaries reported.
  • Kansas City, MO. $21.27 per hour. 3 salaries reported.
  • O'Fallon, MO. $18.97 per hour. 3 salaries reported.

How much do contractors mark up cabinets?

Most general contractors use a markup of between 15-20%. However, contractor markups largely depend on the project and average costs in the area.

What is a good budget for kitchen cabinets?

Due to the wide-ranging differences in materials and quality, new kitchen cabinets typically cost anywhere from $2,500 to $24,000. However, most new cabinet prices average between $5,500 and $13,000. This wide price range can be divided into three cabinet categories: stock, semi-custom, and custom.

What is the hourly rate to install kitchen cabinets?

The quantities of cabinets are estimated for an average-sized kitchen, with costs of $200.00 and $180.00 per unit, respectively. Labor cost is based on an estimated 20 hours of work at $50.00 per hour, a rate that varies by region and contractor expertise. Delivery charges are included as a flat rate cost.

How can I save money on built-in cabinets?

How Can I Save Money on New Kitchen Cabinets?
  1. Avoid Pull-Outs. ...
  2. Open Shelving. ...
  3. Minimalist Styles. ...
  4. Pick An Affordable Wood Species. ...
  5. Opt For Engineered Wood. ...
  6. Get Fewer Drawers. ...
  7. DIY What You Can. ...
  8. Avoid Too Many Customizations.

What is the best wood to build cabinets with?

While many different options for wood species exist, the most common high-quality choices include solid oak, beech, cherry, maple, and walnut. Cheaper, less durable options include pine, poplar or even fake wood substitutes like MDF and particle board.

What cabinet style is more expensive?

Inset Cabinet Style

Although this style tends to be one of the most expensive on the market, it's a classic look that'll last for generations. The inset door gets its name because it is set inside of the cabinet frame – typical cabinet doors rest on the outside of the frame.

What is the best time of year to buy cabinets?

During the holiday season, kitchens seem to be what everyone needs. It's also the best time of the year to purchase kitchen cabinets. There are many stores that offer kitchen cabinets during this time of the year for considerably lower prices.

Why are Ikea cabinets cheaper?

Stock cabinets

IKEA keeps its costs low because they are sending your order to you in pieces and because the materials they use are very inexpensive.

What cabinets last the longest?

Solid wood cabinets, particularly oak, are the most durable kitchen cabinet material due to their strength, resistance to wear and tear, and ability to withstand moisture without warping. Plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) are also durable, economical options.

Why is cabinet installation so expensive?

Installing cabinets, even stock cabinets, requires a lot of skill and expertise. The cabinets must be level, the doors must open smoothly, and they need to last for years. It's very easy to install cabinets incorrectly, which is why skilled kitchen cabinet contractors are worth the money you pay to have them work.

How much should a 10x10 kitchen remodel cost labor only?

Labor costs can vary based on your location and the complexity of the remodel. On average, labor for a 10×10 kitchen remodel ranges from $3,000 to $8,000. This includes plumbing, electrical work, and installation, which are critical for a functional kitchen.

How many hours does it take to install cabinets?

On average, kitchen cabinet installation will be completed between 2-3 days. Depending on the size of the home and extent of customization being done, larger kitchens may require an additional 1-2 days.

What is the cheapest way to get new cabinets?

Stock and semi-custom cabinets are affordable alternatives to fully custom cabinetry. Stock cabinets come in standard sizes and designs, making them readily available and budget-friendly. Semi-custom cabinets offer more flexibility in terms of design and sizing while still being cost-effective.

What is the markup on cabinets?

Just so everyone understands what the markup at factory cabinet dealers is... The normal markup is 50-100%. Home Depot and Lowe's normally markup 50% or more depending on the market. Also keep in mind that the big box stores require 100% payment up front and offer no refund on special order items.

Is making cabinets cheaper than buying them?

Building your cabinets is very cost-effective since you get to choose the kinds of materials you want firsthand and you won't have to pay for artistry. If you're not up for a full-blown construction or starting from scratch, you can buy low-priced pre-made cabinets and modify them to suit your style.

Why do contractors charge so much?

Guess again. They have overhead. Advertising, sales commission, job supervision (which isn't usually a job cost), office expenses (even if they work out of their home), insurance, accounting and legal fees, licenses, taxes, employee expenses, and their own salary are just a few of their overhead expenses.

What do contractors charge to install cabinets?

Cabinet installation: The labor cost to install cabinetry typically ranges between $50 to $200 per linear foot, depending on the complexity of installation. Hardware installation: From simple knobs to fancy pulls, choose from thousands of options to match cabinet style, color or stain, and your preferences.

How are cabinets priced?

We price by the square foot of cabinetry. The price depends on the door style, finish, etc. Then we add the extras, number and type of drawers, square footage age of finished gables, lineal feet of crown, etc. We add all this up and add an administration fee and a shipping fee.

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