Painting kitchen cabinets is one of the most affordable ways to refresh your kitchen without the high price tag of a full renovation. Whether you’re updating outdated wood cabinets or changing the style of your kitchen, painting offers a dramatic transformation at a reasonable cost. So, what should you expect the total cost to be?
The cost depends on several factors, including the size of your kitchen, the type of paint used, labor rates, and whether it’s a DIY or professional project. Below is a complete guide to help you estimate the actual price of painting your kitchen cabinets.
Average Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets
On average, painting kitchen cabinets costs between $1,200 and $7,000, depending on the project size and whether you hire a professional.
Typical Price Ranges
- Small kitchen: $1,200 – $2,500
- Medium kitchen: $2,500 – $4,500
- Large kitchen: $4,500 – $7,000+
DIY projects cost much less, often between $200 and $600, but require significantly more time and effort.
Cost Breakdown
1. Labor Costs
Labor is the largest part of the expense if you hire a professional painter.
Typical labor cost: $35–$100 per hour or $30–$60 per linear foot.
This includes:
- Door and drawer removal
- Sanding and surface prep
- Priming
- Painting or spraying
- Reassembly
Professionals also ensure a smoother, more durable finish.
2. Material Costs
Materials are usually cheaper but still affect the total cost.
Common material expenses:
- Paint: $30–$70 per gallon (high-quality cabinet paint)
- Primer: $15–$50
- Sandpaper & prep supplies: $20–$50
- Brushes/rollers/sprayer rental: $20–$100
- Hinges or hardware (optional upgrades): $50–$300
Using premium paint increases durability, especially in moisture-heavy kitchen environments.
DIY vs. Professional: Cost Comparison
DIY Painting
Estimated cost: $200–$600
Pros:
- Much cheaper
- Creative control
- Great for minor touch-ups
Cons:
- Time-consuming (often 3–7 days)
- Quality may vary
- Requires skill with sanding, priming, and applying even coats
Professional Painting
Estimated cost: $1,500–$7,000
Pros:
- Smooth, durable, factory-like finish
- Faster turnaround
- Reduced mess and mistakes
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Need to research reputable painters
Professionals often spray the cabinets, which gives a flawless finish difficult to achieve with DIY methods.
Factors That Affect the Cost
1. Kitchen Size
More doors and drawers = more labor and more paint.
2. Type of Paint / Finish
- Oil-based paint (rare but durable): more expensive
- Water-based acrylic/alkyd: most common and cost-effective
- High-gloss finishes: harder to apply, higher cost
3. Cabinet Material
- Solid wood: easiest to paint
- Laminate: requires special primers
- Veneer: needs extra prep work
4. Condition of the Cabinets
Damaged, greasy, or heavily worn cabinets require extra prep, increasing cost.
5. Spray vs. Brush Application
- Spraying creates a factory-level finish but adds to labor cost.
- Brushing/rolling is cheaper but less smooth.
Is It Worth Painting Kitchen Cabinets?
Painting cabinets is a budget-friendly alternative to replacing them. Most homeowners choose it because it:
- Costs far less than a full remodel
- Instantly modernizes the kitchen
- Increases home value
- Works with most cabinet types
If your cabinets are structurally sound, painting is almost always worth the investment.
For more renovation tips and cost guides, explore resources in <a href=”https://builtuphome.com/” target=”_blank”>Builtup Home</a>.
Final Thoughts
The cost to paint kitchen cabinets typically ranges from $1,200 to $7,000, depending on labor, materials, kitchen size, and the finish you choose. DIY can drastically reduce costs, but professional work ensures a smooth, long-lasting result.
Painting cabinets is one of the best ways to refresh your kitchen without breaking the bank. With proper planning, the right materials, and an understanding of cost factors, you can achieve a stunning transformation that fits your budget.