How Much Do Custom Cabinets Cost?

Written By Nick Hall

The Bottom Line Up Front

Let’s start with the honest truth: custom cabinets cost more than big-box or RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets.
There’s no way around that.

That said, I encourage you to keep reading—because for many homeowners, the difference in cost is relatively small compared to the massive upgrade in quality, functionality, and overall feel of the space. When you understand what goes into custom cabinetry and what you get in return, the value becomes very clear.

This article explains how pricing works, what affects cost, and how I help homeowners in Sanford, NC and the surrounding areas determine whether custom cabinets are the right fit for their project and budget.

How Our Custom Cabinet Estimating Process Works

Every project begins with a free initial consultation, usually over the phone. This is a straightforward conversation about your space, your goals, and the type of cabinetry you’re considering—kitchens, built-ins, closets, or storage solutions.

To provide a free estimate, I’ll typically ask for:

  • Photos of your existing space

  • Basic measurements (if available)

  • Floor plans or house plans, which are ideal if you have them.

Using that information, we can put together a preliminary estimate, often within 24 hours. This estimate is not a contract—it’s a planning tool meant to help you understand whether your budget aligns with the typical cost of custom cabinets in Sanford, NC.

There’s no obligation, and it never hurts to ask.

What Actually Drives the Cost of Custom Cabinets?

Custom cabinetry isn’t priced by a single number per cabinet. Cost is driven by design decisions, materials, and construction methods. Here are the most common factors that affect pricing.

Drawer-Based Cabinets vs. Doors

Drawer-heavy layouts are extremely popular—and for good reason. Drawers are more ergonomic, especially for taller homeowners, and make better use of storage space.

However, drawers cost more than doors because they require:

  • Solid wood drawer boxes

  • Premium drawer hardware

  • Additional labor and installation time

A kitchen with mostly drawers will typically cost more than one with standard base cabinets and doors, but many homeowners find the usability well worth it.

Frameless vs. Face-Frame Inset Cabinets

Cabinet construction style has a significant impact on cost.

  • Frameless (European-style) cabinets are efficient, clean-lined, and cost-effective to build.

  • Face-frame inset cabinets require more precision, more material, and more labor.

Because of that added work required, face-frame inset cabinets generally cost more. Both styles are excellent—it comes down to your preferred look and how much detail you want invested in the build.

Paint-Grade vs. Stain-Grade Cabinets

Finish choice is another major pricing factor.

  • Paint-grade cabinetry is typically more budget-friendly.

  • Stain-grade cabinetry costs more because it requires:

    • Higher-quality lumber

    • More preparation time

    • Premium finishes, since every surface will be visible

Stain-grade work leaves no room to hide imperfections, which is why it demands more time and care.

Custom Cabinets vs. Big-Box or RTA Cabinets

If you’re comparing custom cabinets to big-box or RTA options, it’s important to compare more than just the sticker price.

Installation Is Included

We include professional installation with our custom cabinets. Many big-box and distributor cabinets either exclude installation or outsource it separately.

Local Support Matters

We’re a local cabinet shop in Sanford, NC, which means you’re working directly with the person designing and building your cabinets. If anything ever comes up, you’re not dealing with a call center.

Warranty & Accountability

We stand behind our work and warranty our cabinets. With mass-produced cabinets, warranty coverage and responsibility can be unclear.

Cost vs. Value

On average, custom cabinets may cost roughly 10% more than big-box options, but the difference in fit, durability, and overall quality is substantial. Custom cabinets are built specifically for your home—not adapted to it.

Why a Free Estimate Is Worth Your Time

Our estimates are designed to be clear, fast, and informative. They exist to answer one simple question early in the process:

Does custom cabinetry make sense for your home and your budget?

Even if you decide custom cabinets aren’t the right fit, that clarity is valuable. And if they are, you’ll move forward with realistic expectations and a well-planned design.

If you’re considering custom cabinets in Sanford, NC or the surrounding Central North Carolina area, I’m always happy to talk through your project and provide a free estimate.

Sometimes, that first phone call is all it takes to understand just how big of an upgrade custom cabinetry can be.

Nick Hall