Cabinet Painting Cost by Kitchen Size
| Kitchen Size | Doors | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small kitchen | 10–15 doors | $150–$300 | $600–$1,500 |
| Medium kitchen | 20–25 doors | $250–$450 | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Large kitchen | 30–40 doors | $400–$700 | $2,000–$3,800 |
| Per door (professional) | — | — | $60–$120 per door |
Cabinet Painting vs New Cabinets — Cost Comparison
New kitchen cabinets cost $5,000–$25,000 installed depending on material and quality. Professional cabinet painting costs $900–$3,800. DIY cabinet painting costs $200–$600. Painting is the most cost-effective way to transform a kitchen — achieving 70–80% of the visual impact of new cabinets for 10–20% of the cost.
Cabinet refacing (replacing doors while keeping boxes) costs $4,000–$12,000 — still significantly more than painting for a similar visual result.
What is Included in a Professional Cabinet Painting Quote?
A complete professional cabinet painting job includes removing all doors and hardware, degreasing and sanding, applying primer, two topcoats on doors and box fronts, and reinstalling. Some painters spray doors off-site for a smoother finish — this typically costs more but produces a better result.
Always ask whether the quote includes hardware reinstallation and whether doors will be sprayed or brush/roller applied. Spray application typically adds 20–30% to cost but produces a significantly better finish.
DIY Cabinet Painting Cost Breakdown
Cabinet paint (1–2 gallons): $60–$180. Use Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane for the best results.
Cabinet primer (1 quart): $15–$25. Essential for adhesion, especially over previously painted or laminate surfaces.
Deglosser/TSP cleaner: $10–$20. Removes grease and prepares the surface for primer.
Sandpaper, foam rollers, brushes: $20–$50. Use 220-grit between coats for a smooth finish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets?
Professional cabinet painting costs $900–$3,800 for an average kitchen. DIY costs $200–$600 in materials. The cost per door is typically $60–$120 professionally.
Is it worth painting kitchen cabinets?
Yes — cabinet painting delivers one of the highest ROIs of any home improvement. It costs 10–20% of new cabinets while achieving 70–80% of the visual impact.
How long does it take to paint kitchen cabinets?
A professional takes 2–3 days for an average kitchen. DIY typically takes a full weekend plus additional drying time between coats.
How long do painted kitchen cabinets last?
Professionally painted cabinets using quality enamel last 7–10 years with normal use. DIY results vary based on prep quality and paint choice.
Should I paint or replace kitchen cabinets?
If the cabinet boxes are in good structural condition, painting is almost always the right choice — significantly cheaper with excellent results.
What colour is most popular for kitchen cabinets?
White and off-white remain the most popular cabinet colours, followed by navy blue, sage green, and warm grey. Two-tone kitchens (white uppers, colour lowers) are increasingly popular.