What Is the Most Expensive Part of a Kitchen Remodel?
A Dream Custom Carpentry Blog
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, one of the first things you’ll want to understand is where the money goes. Kitchen remodels are a big investment, and while costs can vary, most people are surprised by what ends up being the most expensive part.
In nearly every kitchen remodel I’ve seen, cabinets take the top spot for cost. That surprises a lot of homeowners. People expect fancy appliances or stone countertops to be the big-ticket items. But it’s usually the cabinets that eat up the largest chunk of the budget.
Why Cabinets Cost So Much
Cabinets do more than just hold dishes. They shape the entire look and layout of the kitchen. They take up a lot of wall and floor space, and they need to be built to last. Whether you’re going with custom, semi-custom, or boxed cabinets, the price adds up quickly.
Custom cabinets are often the most expensive option. That’s because they are made to fit your exact kitchen—no gaps, no fillers, just clean lines and smart storage. You get to choose the size, materials, layout, and finishes. That level of detail takes time and skill to build, which is why the cost is higher.
Even semi-custom or stock cabinets can be pricey. Between materials, labor, and installation, it’s easy for cabinets to take up 30–40% of the total
remodeling budget.
Other High-Cost Items in a Remodel
While cabinets are usually number one, they’re not the only big cost. Countertops, flooring, appliances, and plumbing can also take up a large portion of the budget—especially if you’re changing the layout.
If your remodel includes moving plumbing or electrical lines, that can raise the cost fast. Sometimes, just changing where the sink or stove goes means extra work inside the walls or under the floor. Those changes take extra labor, and that means more money.
High-end appliances also raise the budget. Built-in ovens, custom hoods, and panel-ready dishwashers aren’t cheap. That said, many homeowners are willing to invest more in appliances because they use them every day.
Countertops are another big one. Materials like granite, quartz, or solid surface cost more than laminate, but they offer better durability and a higher-end look. Still, they don’t usually beat cabinets for top cost.
Ways to Save on Cabinets
If you’re worried about the price of cabinets, there are ways to save without giving up quality. One way is to go with semi-custom options. These give you some flexibility with size and style but are made in standard sizes to help keep costs down.
You can also save by choosing different materials. Solid wood is beautiful but more expensive. Painted MDF or wood veneers can give a similar look for less. The same goes for hardware. Drawer slides, hinges, and handles come in a wide range of price points.
Another smart way to manage costs is by planning your layout carefully. The fewer changes you make to the existing structure, the more you’ll save. If you keep plumbing and gas lines where they are, you can put more of your budget toward better cabinets or nicer finishes.
Final Thoughts
When starting a kitchen remodel, it’s easy to focus on things like countertops, appliances, or light fixtures. But don’t forget the cabinets. They take up the most space and often take the biggest piece of the budget. In most cases, they’re worth the investment.
Good cabinets last a long time. They affect how your kitchen looks, how it functions, and how much you enjoy being in the space. Whether you go with custom or boxed, they’re something you’ll see and use every day.
If you’re planning a remodel and trying to understand where to spend and where to save, cabinets are a good place to start. At Dream Custom Carpentry, we help homeowners across the Denver area find cabinet options that work with their layout, style, and budget—without cutting corners.
A smart remodel doesn’t just look good—it works well, fits your daily routine, and lasts for years. And when you invest in the right parts of your kitchen, like quality cabinets, you’ll feel the value every time you cook, clean, or gather with family.
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