Cabinet Painting Estimate Calculator
Estimate the cost to paint your kitchen cabinets — professional or DIY. Covers materials, prep, labor, paint type, and upgrade add-ons.
Cabinet painting cost overview
How It Works
Count cabinet doors and drawers
Count all cabinet faces — both upper and lower — including any pantry doors.
Choose paint type and finish
Oil-based alkyd (most durable), water-based hybrid, or latex — finish affects sheen and hardness.
Get pro vs DIY estimate
Professional spray painting gives a factory finish; brushing/rolling is DIY-friendly but shows texture.
Cabinet Painting Cost by Method
| Method | Material Cost | Labor | Total (40 doors) |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY brush/roll | $100–$250 | $0 | $100–$250 |
| DIY spray | $200–$400 | $0 | $200–$400 |
| Pro brush/roll | $300–$600 | $500–$1,200 | $800–$1,800 |
| Pro spray | $300–$600 | $800–$2,000 | $1,100–$2,600 |
Pro spray adds $300–$600 for door removal, priming, and reinstallation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets?
Professional cabinet painting costs $1,200–$7,000 for an average kitchen with 20 doors and 10 drawers. Per-door cost is $100–$250 professionally. DIY painting costs $200–$600 in materials. The main cost driver is whether you hire a professional painter who uses a spray setup for factory-smooth results.
Is painting kitchen cabinets worth it?
Yes — painting cabinets costs 50–70% less than full cabinet replacement. A professional paint job can last 8–12 years with proper prep and high-quality paint. It's most cost-effective when cabinet boxes and hinges are in good condition and you just want a style refresh.
What is the best paint for kitchen cabinets?
Alkyd or acrylic enamel paints are most durable for cabinets — they cure to a hard, washable finish. Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane and Benjamin Moore Advance are top professional choices. Avoid latex wall paint — it's too soft and won't stand up to kitchen grease and moisture.
How long does cabinet painting take?
Professional cabinet painting takes 2–4 days: 1 day for removal and prep, 1–2 days for spraying and drying between coats, and 0.5–1 day for reinstallation. DIY brush painting takes 3–7 days due to slower dry times and more coats needed to avoid brush marks.
Should I paint or replace my kitchen cabinets?
Paint if: cabinet boxes are structurally sound, you like the layout, and budget is a priority. Replace if: boxes are warped or damaged, you want more storage or a new layout, or you're planning to sell and want maximum ROI. Painting costs $1,500–$5,000 vs. replacement at $5,000–$30,000+.
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