How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets? Full cost breakdown

If your kitchen cabinets are chipping, peeling, or simply looking tired, you have two main options: replace them entirely or refresh them with a new coat of paint.

Full cabinet replacements are expensive and can take weeks from ordering to installation. Painting, on the other hand, is far more affordable and gives your space a clean, updated look without major disruption — especially if your cabinets are structurally sound.

But how much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets?

Keep reading for a complete breakdown, including the cost per kitchen size, price differences between DIY and hiring a professional, and the key factors influencing the overall cost. We'll also share tips to save money without compromising on quality.

Key takeaways 

• Typical cost: Most homeowners spend $1,000–$6,500 to paint kitchen cabinets, depending on kitchen size and cabinet condition.
  
  
• DIY vs pro: DIY projects cost $250–$800, while professional painting usually ranges from $1,000–$6,500.
  
  
• Biggest cost drivers: Prep work, cabinet material, and paint type have the largest impact on total price.

Understanding the cost to paint kitchen cabinets

The cost to paint kitchen cabinets depends on labor, materials, paint type, and how much prep work is required. Most homeowners spend $1,000–$6,500 for a standard project, with smaller kitchens at the lower end and larger or more detailed layouts at the higher end.

Painters typically price the job by square foot or linear foot. Expect around $4–$15 per square foot or $30–$70 per linear foot, depending on the condition of the cabinets, the finish you choose, and the level of prep involved.

To better understand these costs, let’s look at the key factors that influence the total price of a kitchen cabinet painting project.

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Key factors affecting the cost of painting kitchen cabinets

The cost to paint kitchen cabinets depends on cabinet material, paint type, finish, kitchen size, job complexity, and location. Labor is the biggest cost driver, followed by prep time and paint type. Whether you DIY or hire a pro also makes a significant difference.

Kitchen size and layout

A larger kitchen usually means more cabinets and more surface area to cover, which increases the prep work needed and both labor and material costs. The complexity of the layout also plays a role. If your kitchen has tall cabinets, intricate designs, or hard-to-reach areas (such as corners or high spaces), it will take more time to complete the job and may require special tools or techniques, all of which can add to the expense.

The average cost to paint kitchen cabinets for a smaller kitchen of around 60 square feet is $1,000–$1,800, accounting for labor, materials, prep work, and cleanup. A kitchen with about 100 square feet typically ranges from $1,500–$3,000, while a larger kitchen of 200 square feet can cost $2,500–$6,500.

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Cabinet material

Different materials require varying levels of preparation, including sanding, priming, or special coatings, which directly influence the cost.

Wood cabinets typically need sanding to ensure proper paint adhesion. This usually adds $5–$10 for sandpaper and $10–$20 for a chemical deglosser. Wood veneer cabinets require more care during priming to avoid lifting the veneer; expect $40–$60 per gallon for a veneer-friendly primer and around $10 for wood glue if needed for repairs.

Laminate cabinets require special bonding primers, along with sanding to rough up the surface. Costs generally include $5–$10 for sanding materials and $20–$80 for a quality laminate-safe primer. MDF cabinets often need small repairs before painting; a $10 tub of joint compound and an $30–$60 oil-based primer will help smooth and seal the surface properly.

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Paint type and finish

The type of paint you use affects overall cost, durability, and appearance.

Latex-based paint is commonly used for cabinets due to its ease of application and fast drying time. It typically costs $20–$50 per gallon and covers about 350–400 sq. ft. Acrylic paint offers similar coverage for $20–$50 per gallon and provides a flexible, crack-resistant finish.

Oil-based paint is known for its smooth, durable finish and is often used for high-traffic kitchens. Prices typically range from $20–$80 per gallon, with premium options on the higher end.

Finish also influences durability. Semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes are the most durable and easiest to clean, while matte and eggshell finishes are less suited for heavy-use areas like kitchens.

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Labor costs

Professional painters typically charge between $25 and $100 per hour, with labor making up 50% to 80% of the total project cost. The time required depends on kitchen size, number of doors/drawers, detail level, and cabinet condition.

Some painters charge by the number of cabinet doors or drawers instead of hourly. Painting a cabinet door typically costs $75–$200, and a drawer costs $25–$100, depending on material, paint type, and complexity. Regional labor rates also play a major role in overall pricing.

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Calculating the cost of painting kitchen cabinets

Estimating the total cost of a cabinet painting project comes down to a few key factors: how much surface area you’re painting, the quality of paint and primer you choose, the amount of prep work needed, and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional. Use the steps and tables below to calculate a realistic range for your project.

How to calculate the total cost of painting kitchen cabinets

1. Measure your cabinet surface area.
   Add up the square footage or linear footage of doors, drawer fronts, and exposed cabinet frames.
   
   
2. Choose your paint and primer.
   Paint generally costs $30–$90 per gallon, and primer runs $30–$70 per gallon, with most kitchens requiring 1–2 gallons of each.
   
   
3. Factor in prep work and repairs.
   Extra sanding, filling dents, or priming difficult surfaces (like laminate or MDF) can add $20–$100+ in materials.
   
   
4. Add labor (if hiring a professional).
   Professional labor typically ranges from $500–$3,000+, depending on kitchen size and detail level.
   
   
5. Include optional extras.
   Hardware replacement, sprayer rental (DIY), or high-gloss finishes can increase the total cost.
   
   
6. Add it all together.
   Base cost + additional materials + labor (if applicable) = your estimated total.

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Cost by paint type

Different paint types and finishes can significantly affect the total cost. Use the table below to calculate the cost of your paint type per gallon.

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Cost by cabinet material 

Cabinet material affects how much prep work is needed — and that changes the bottom line.

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Cost of DIY vs. hiring a professional

If you paint your kitchen cabinets yourself, you can avoid labor charges, but you’ll still need to invest in tools, materials, and prep time. DIY cabinet painting requires stripping or degreasing, sanding, priming, removing cabinet doors, labeling hardware, and applying multiple coats of paint. Getting a smooth, durable finish also takes practice.

Hiring a professional house painter costs more upfront but saves time and reduces the risk of uneven finishes, peeling, or damage to hinges and surfaces. A professional painter will prep the cabinets correctly, use high-quality materials, and complete the job more efficiently.

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Cost to paint kitchen cabinets yourself

The DIY cost to paint cabinets typically ranges from $250 to $800, depending on the paint quality, primer type, and whether you need to purchase tools.

Essential supplies for a DIY cabinet painting project:

How much does it cost to have kitchen cabinets painted professionally?

Professional cabinet painting generally costs $1,000–$6,500, with most mid-sized kitchens falling between $1,500 and $3,500. Total cost depends on the kitchen size, number of doors/drawers, the cabinet material, and the finish selected.

Generally, the costs will add up as:

Alternatives to painting kitchen cabinets (+ costs)

Painting your kitchen cabinets is one of the most affordable ways to give your kitchen a refreshed look. But it isn’t the only option. Depending on your budget, cabinet condition, and the style you want, alternatives like refacing, replacing, or vinyl wrapping may be worth considering.

Below is a breakdown of the most common alternatives, including cost, lifespan, and when each option makes the most sense.

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Painting

Painting is typically the most cost-effective way to refresh cabinets. It works best when your cabinet boxes and doors are structurally sound but look worn or outdated. You can expect a freshly painted finish to last 5–10+ years, depending on prep quality and paint type.

Ideal for: good cabinets needing a cosmetic update.

Cabinet refacing

Refacing replaces the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. The surfaces are covered in a veneer or laminate to match the new doors. This gives the look of brand-new cabinets without the cost of a full replacement. Costs usually range from $4,500 to $12,000, depending on materials and kitchen size.

Ideal for: solid cabinets with outdated doors, homeowners wanting a more “new cabinet” look than paint can deliver.

Cabinet replacement

Full replacement is the most expensive option but offers the longest lifespan and maximum customization. Replacement is common in large renovations, when cabinet boxes are damaged, or when homeowners want to reconfigure the layout. Costs range from $8,000 to $25,000+, depending on cabinet quality, layout, and finishing choices.

Ideal for: full remodels or structurally damaged cabinetry.

Vinyl wrapping (cabinet film)

Vinyl wrapping uses heat-applied adhesive film to cover the cabinet doors and frames. It offers a smooth, modern look at a lower cost — typically $1,000 to $3,500. It’s fast and renter-friendly but less durable than paint or refacing and may peel in high-heat or high-moisture spots (around stoves and dishwashers).

Ideal for: budget-friendly makeovers, rentals, or temporary upgrades.

Converting flat doors to shaker-style

If you want the shaker look without replacing doors, pros can add trim to flat cabinet doors and repaint them. This approach costs $1,000 to $4,000, depending on how many doors you have and the labor required.

Ideal for: homeowners wanting a style upgrade while keeping existing doors.

How to maximize the lifespan of painted cabinets 

Painting your kitchen cabinets is one of the most cost-effective ways to update your kitchen without committing to a full remodel. While painted cabinets don’t last as long as brand-new replacements or full refacing, they offer excellent value when prep and paint quality are done correctly.

With proper cleaning, prep, and a durable finish, painted cabinets typically last 5–10+ years before needing a refresh. High-quality paint, careful sanding, and professional application can extend the lifespan, while shortcuts in prep or using low-quality paint shorten it.

Compared to the cost of replacing cabinets — which can run $8,000–$25,000+ — painting offers a high return on investment for homeowners wanting a fresh look on a reasonable budget.

What affects painted cabinet lifespan?

• Paint quality: Oil-based or high-quality enamel paints last longer and resist wear.
  
  
• Finish type: Semi-gloss and high-gloss are the most durable and easiest to clean.
  
  
• Prep work: Proper sanding, cleaning, and priming add years to the life of the finish.
  
  
• Cabinet material: Solid wood holds up best; laminate and MDF tend to chip or peel sooner without strong bonding primers.
  
  
• Kitchen conditions: High humidity, grease, and frequent contact shorten longevity.
  
  

Daily use: Heavy traffic kitchens with kids or renters tend to see wear faster.

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How to save money when painting kitchen cabinets

If you want to save money when painting cupboards or kitchen cabinets, here is how to do so without sacrificing quality.

• DIY where possible. If you have the technical know-how, do the prep work to save significant labor costs. Leave the more specialized painting work to a professional.
  
  
• Opt for mid-range paint brands that offer durability and finish at a much lower price.
  
  
• Get multiple quotes from different painters to ensure that you're getting the best deal for your budget. Ask for itemized quotes so you know what you’re paying for and can negotiate where possible.
  
  
• Reuse your cabinet hardware instead of replacing it. If your knobs, handles, or hinges are still in good condition, you can refinish them. Alternatively, buy budget-friendly hardware or look for sales to keep this cost down.
  

How much does it cost to get kitchen cabinets painted?

The cost to get your kitchen cabinets painted depends on your kitchen size, the type of paint and finish you choose, and the labor involved. While DIY can be a more cost-effective option, achieving good results requires significant time and effort. On the other hand, hiring a professional ensures high-quality work, a smoother, more durable finish, and the safety of your cabinets, even though it comes at a slightly higher price. 

Ultimately, the choice between DIY and professional services depends on your budget, time, and desired outcome for your kitchen.

How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets FAQs

Is it cheaper to paint kitchen cabinets or replace them?
Painting costs $1,000–$6,500, while full replacement often costs $8,000–$25,000+. Painting is the most affordable way to refresh the look of your kitchen.

How much do professionals charge to paint kitchen cabinets?
Most pros charge $1,000–$6,500, depending on kitchen size, prep work, cabinet material, and finish quality. Complex layouts or laminate cabinets cost more.

Is it better to spray paint or brush paint kitchen cabinets?
Spraying gives the smoothest, most professional finish. Brushing and rolling are more budget-friendly but may show subtle texture. Many painters combine both for best results.

Do painted cabinets increase home value?
Often, yes. Freshly painted cabinets make a kitchen look updated and clean, which can improve buyer appeal. While it’s not a major ROI project, it can help a home show better.

What’s the best color for kitchen cabinets?
White, off-white, light gray, navy, and warm neutrals are the most popular. These colors tend to age well and appeal to most buyers, helping kitchens look brighter and more modern.

Why is cabinet painting so expensive?
Cabinet painting is labor-intensive. Prep work, sanding, priming, and multiple coats take significant time. Complex layouts, damaged surfaces, or specialty finishes increase cost.

What is the least expensive way to redo kitchen cabinets?
Painting is the cheapest option. It costs far less than refacing or replacing and can dramatically update the look of your kitchen for a relatively low investment.

What is the downside of painting cabinets?
Painted cabinets can chip or wear over time, especially in high-traffic kitchens. Good prep and high-quality paint help, but the finish won’t last as long as new or refaced cabinets.

What is the best paint for cabinets?
High-quality acrylic or enamel paints are best. They’re durable, smooth, and easy to clean. Oil-based paints offer excellent durability but dry slowly and have stronger fumes.