July 4, 20268 min read

Kitchen Cabinet Replacement Cost Calculator: 2026 Per Linear Foot

Kitchen cabinets cost $110-$700 per linear foot in 2026 depending on construction. This guide breaks the per-LF number into cabinets, install labor, demo, and upgrades — with a ZIP-adjusted calculator.

Cabinets are 35-45% of a full kitchen remodel — no other line item comes close. The pricing convention is per linear foot (LF) of cabinet run, which lets you compare a $110/LF big-box order against a $425/LF custom shop bid on equal footing.

2026 Cabinet Cost per Linear Foot

Stock (RTA / big-box, particleboard box): $90-$135/LF
Semi-custom (shaker, plywood box, soft-close): $200-$275/LF
Custom (built-to-order, all-plywood, dovetail): $375-$500/LF
Luxury (inset, exotic wood, custom finish): $625-$850/LF

Install Labor & Demo

Cabinet install: $95-$165/LF (varies with wall condition and shim work)
Demo of existing cabinets: $20-$35/LF plus dumpster
Crown molding + light rail: $18-$28/LF
Soft-close hinge / undermount slide upgrade: $12-$25/LF

How Many Linear Feet in a Typical Kitchen?

A small U-shape or galley is usually 15-22 LF of cabinets. A mid-size kitchen with an island runs 25-32 LF. Large open kitchens with a full island and pantry can exceed 40 LF. Measure both upper and lower runs and add them together.

Refacing vs Replacement

If your existing boxes are plywood and square, refacing (new doors, drawer fronts, and skins) runs $145-$275/LF — 30-50% cheaper than replacement. If boxes are particleboard, water-damaged, or you need a new layout, replace.

Regional Cost Differences

Cabinet materials price nationally, but install labor swings 25-35% between metros. The calculator applies a ZIP-based multiplier to both.

Estimate cabinet replacement by linear foot, tier, and ZIP.

Open the Cabinet Cost Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

Are stock cabinets worth it?

For rental units and flips, yes. For a primary residence, the semi-custom tier is the sweet spot — plywood boxes and soft-close hardware for roughly 2x stock pricing.

How long do cabinets last?

Stock: 10-15 years. Semi-custom: 20-25 years. Custom plywood: 30+ years. Water is the main killer under sinks — replace supply lines when you replace cabinets.