Are you tired of your outdated kitchen but worried about the cost of new cabinets? I get it! Figuring out how much new cabinets will cost for your 12×12 kitchen can feel like a huge headache. You see those beautiful kitchens in magazines and online, and then the fear of a massive bill hits you. It’s a real problem.
Don’t let those worries stop you. I’ve put together a simple guide to help you understand the costs of different cabinet options, from budget-friendly to totally custom. The price of kitchen cabinets typically take up about 41% of the budget, costing $2,500 to $35,000 or more. Knowing the facts will empower you to make smart choices and achieve the kitchen of your dreams without breaking the bank. Keep reading to discover all the details and start planning your dream kitchen today.
What Makes Cabinets Cost Different Amounts?
Lots of things can change how much you pay for kitchen cabinets. Here are some of the big ones:
Different Types of Cabinets:
Stock Cabinets
These are like ready-made meals. They’re the cheapest and easiest to find at any cabinet store. They come in set sizes and styles, so what you see is what you get. For a 12×12 kitchen, these might cost between $2,000 and $8,000. Stock kitchen cabinets cost $100 to $400 per linear foot or $220 to $500 per box installed.
Semi-Custom Cabinets
Think of these as a mix-and-match option. You can change some things, like the size or finish, but they’re still based on standard designs. Expect to pay around $5,000 to $15,000 for a 12×12 kitchen. Semi-custom cabinets cost $150 to $700 per linear foot or $250 to $850 per box installed.
Custom Cabinets
These are like having a chef create a meal just for you. They’re made exactly how you want them, to fit your kitchen perfectly. But, they’re also the most expensive. For a 12×12 kitchen, you might spend $10,000 to $25,000 or even more! Custom cabinets cost $500 to $1,200 per linear foot on average or $600 to $1,600+ per box installed.
- What They’re Made Of: The stuff your cabinets are made from really changes the price. For example, cabinets made from laminate are usually cheaper than those made of solid wood.
- Fancy Features: Cool features like pull-out shelves or drawers that close softly can also make cabinets more expensive.
- Cabinet Overlay: The way the cabinet doors sit on the frame also affects cost. Inset cabinets, where the doors sit inside the frame, can cost a lot more. Frameless cabinets can cost about 15% more than framed ones.
What Will It Actually Cost?

Here’s a simple look at what you might spend on cabinets for your 12×12 kitchen, depending on the type you choose:
- Stock Cabinets: $2,000 to $8,000
- Semi-Custom Cabinets: $5,000 to $15,000
- Custom Cabinets: $10,000 to $25,000+
Keep in mind, other sources give slightly different estimates.
- HomeGuide says stock or semi-custom cabinets could be $3,800 – $15,000, while custom ones might be $12,500 – $32,000.
- Angi estimates $2,400–$28,800.
- The Spruce says a whole 12×12 kitchen remodel could be around $11,250 to $37,500, with the cabinets alone (if you replace them) costing $2,000 – $28,000.
- Also, the average cost of kitchen cabinets can be $6,382, but it can range between $2,006 and $11,060.
Other Things That Add to the Bill
Don’t forget these extra costs:
- Fitting : You’ll need someone to put the cabinets in. This can cost $40 to $80 per hour.
- Materials: Things like wood, screws, and other bits and bobs.
- Height: Really tall cabinets can cost more.
- Design: Drawers, fancy doors, and special cabinets all add to the price.
- Moulding: Decorative trim can cost extra.
- Taking Away Old Cabinets: Getting rid of your old cabinets might cost $300 to $600.
- New Appliances: If you’re also getting a new cooker or fridge, that’s extra.
- Pipes and Wires: Moving pipes or wires can be expensive.
- Building Permits: You might need permission to do the work, which costs money.
- Knobs and Handles: New hardware can be $6 to $60 per piece.
- Cool Extras: Pull-out bins or spice racks add to the cost.
Designs and Styles
There are loads of different cabinet styles to pick from:
- Slab: Simple and flat for a modern look.
- Shaker: Classic with a simple frame.
- Beadboard: With vertical lines for a country feel.
- Raised Panel: With a fancy raised centre.
Saving Money on Your Cabinets

Here are a few ideas to keep costs down:
- Plan Carefully: A smart kitchen design can mean you need fewer cabinets.
- Choose Materials Wisely: Wood veneers can look like solid wood but cost less.
- Good Quality Bits: Spend a bit more on good quality hinges and drawer runners.
- Reface or Refinish: If your cabinets are in good shape, give them a makeover instead of replacing them.
- Use Stock Cabinets: These are cheaper than custom ones.
- Do It Yourself: Taking out the old cabinets yourself can save some money.
- Get Quotes: Shop around and get prices from different cabinet shops.
What Else Can You Do?
If new cabinets are too expensive, think about these options:
- Refacing: New doors and drawer fronts can make a big difference.
- Refinishing: A fresh coat of stain can make your old cabinets look new.
- Just Replace the Doors: Sometimes just new doors are enough.
Do It Yourself or Get a Pro?
Putting in cabinets yourself can save money, but it’s tricky. If you’re not experienced, it’s best to get a professional cabinet installer.
Where You Live Matters
The cost of a kitchen remodel can change depending on where you live. Labour and materials cost different amounts in different areas.
Finding the Balance
Getting new kitchen cabinets is a big decision. It’s all about finding the right balance between how they look, how well they work, and how much they cost. By understanding the different options and planning carefully, you can create a fantastic kitchen in your Glendale home without spending too much. Whether you shop at a dedicated cabinet store or a larger retailer, remember to compare your options.
Glendale Cabinet Store – Cabinets 4 Less

Are you planning a kitchen remodel and wondering how much cabinets cost for a 12×12 kitchen? At Cabinets 4 Less Glendale, we offer high-quality kitchen cabinets at affordable prices, so you get the best value without overspending. Whether you’re looking for custom cabinetry, wholesale cabinets, or budget-friendly options, we have a wide selection to fit every style and price range.
As the go-to cabinet store in Glendale, Arizona, we provide expert guidance to help you choose the right cabinets for your space. Our team is here to make your dream kitchen a reality with durable, stylish, and cost-effective solutions.
Visit our showroom today to explore our inventory and get a free consultation. Call (623) 335-3558 to speak with a cabinet expert and get a quote on your kitchen cabinet project! Don’t miss out on the best deals in Glendale!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost of Cabinets for a 12×12 Kitchen:
How can I estimate the total cost of my kitchen remodel project?
To estimate the total cost, consider that, on average, kitchen cabinets make up about 41% of your budget. You’ll also need to factor in appliances (5%), backsplash (4%), countertops (14%), faucets and plumbing (2%), flooring (18%), labor (25%), and lighting (5%).
What is the typical lifespan of kitchen cabinets?
Custom cabinets made from solid wood tend to last the longest, remaining in good condition for 20 to 50 years. The lifespan depends on upkeep, the amount of heat and moisture inside the home, and general wear and tear.
What are RTA cabinets?
Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets come in pieces in a flat pack, with all holes pre-drilled in cabinet doors, boxes, and drawers. RTA cabinets are best for DIY in-home assembly.
What if my cabinet structure is still sound?
If your cabinet structure is still sound, replacing only the doors is both a viable and economical option for a more budget-friendly cabinet makeover. This process, known as cabinet refacing, allows you to only pay to have the doors and drawers of your cabinets replaced. The cabinet boxes themselves get covered with veneer or laminate. Replacing cabinet doors costs $2,200 to $6,600 total on average, depending on the size, material, style, and finish.
How does kitchen size affect the cost of new cabinets?
The cost of kitchen cabinetry can vary significantly, ranging from approximately $100 to $1,200 per linear foot. Depending on the size of your kitchen, you’ll pay more or less based on square footage. A 12×12 kitchen would be 24 linear feet and cost between $2,400–$28,800.
What are some popular cabinet door styles?
Some popular cabinet door styles include:
- Slab/flat: A flat panel without decoration for a contemporary, minimalist look.
- Shaker: A recessed-panel style door with a simple raised frame featuring no beveling or detail.
- Beadboard/beaded: A center panel with vertical lines or grooves cut into the wood, creating a tongue-and-groove appearance.
- Raised panel: A door with a thicker, raised center panel that tapers to a raised frame, creating a square or arched design.
- Recessed panel: A large, flat center panel surrounded by a raised frame of four boards or bevels.
- Mullion: A glass-front door with a grid of wood braces dividing the glass panel into window-like panes.
- Open frame: A door with a single glass center panel and no mullions.
- Louvered: A door with a center panel of angled horizontal slats that allow air to pass through for improved ventilation.
What are the standard kitchen cabinet sizes?
Standard kitchen cabinet sizes are:
- Base cabinet: Height 34.5″, Width 12″ – 48″, Depth 21″ – 24″
- Wall cabinet: Height 12″– 42″, Width 12″ – 42″, Depth 12″ – 24″
- Tall cabinet: Height 84″, 90″, or 96″, Width 18″ – 36″, Depth 12″ – 24″
- Filler cabinet: Height 34.5″, Width 6″ – 9″, Depth 21″ – 24″
How can I save money on cabinet installation?
- Consider swapping out hardware.
- Replace doors.
- Paint or stain the cabinets yourself.
- Choose factory stock models over custom builds.
- Handle the demolition and removal of your old cabinets on your own.
- Get at least three quotes from different contractors.
Should I put flooring under my kitchen cabinets?
Whether or not you put flooring under kitchen cabinets depends on the type of flooring you’re installing. Tile and hardwood flooring can throw off the height measurement for cabinets, so the best practice is to install it first then add the cabinets on top. Laminate flooring, or any floating floor, should not be installed underneath cabinets because it expands and contracts, making the cabinets unstable.
Read more: Which Type of Cabinets Last the Longest? Expert Guide










