Updating your kitchen doesn’t always mean tearing everything out. In fact, replacing just the cabinet doors and drawer fronts can give your kitchen a completely fresh look without the full renovation price tag. But how much does this upgrade really cost? Let’s break it down.
Average Cost Per Door or Drawer
On average, replacing a single cabinet door—including material and labor—costs $180 to $595 per door. Drawer fronts typically fall into the same range. The price depends largely on the type of material you choose (laminate, MDF, or solid wood) and whether you hire a professional or go the DIY route.
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Budget-friendly stock doors: $50 – $150 each
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Mid-range semi-custom doors: $150 – $300 each
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High-end custom wood doors: $300 – $500+ each
Cost by Kitchen Size
Since most homeowners replace all their cabinet fronts at once, it’s useful to think in terms of kitchen size:
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Small kitchen: $2,000 – $2,500
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Medium kitchen: Around $4,000
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Large kitchen: $6,000 and up
These totals cover new doors, drawer fronts, hinges, and professional installation.
What Affects the Price?
Several factors influence the final bill:
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Material & Finish – MDF and laminate are cheaper; solid wood and custom finishes cost more.
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Hardware Updates – Swapping in soft-close hinges or modern handles adds to the budget.
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Labor Complexity – Intricate styles or painting/staining can increase installation time.
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DIY vs. Professional – Doing it yourself saves on labor but requires tools, skill, and time.
An Alternative: Cabinet Refacing
If you’re replacing every door and drawer anyway, you might consider cabinet refacing. This process replaces doors and drawer fronts, applies new veneer to cabinet boxes, and updates hardware. It gives a full “new kitchen” feel without replacing the boxes. Refacing typically costs $100 – $455 per linear foot, averaging $8,300 for a standard kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Replacing kitchen cabinet doors and drawers is a smart middle ground between repainting and a full remodel. With costs ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 for most kitchens, it’s a project that adds style and value without the stress of a full renovation.
If your cabinet boxes are still solid, this upgrade could be the perfect way to transform your kitchen—at a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry.