How Much Does Professional Cabinet Painting Cost? A Homeowner’s Guide

Thinking about painting your kitchen cabinets? You’re not alone. Cabinet painting is one of the fastest ways to give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh, modern look—without the sky-high price of a full remodel. But how much does professional cabinet painting actually cost, and what should you expect when hiring a painter?

At Latest Design, we know you want answers before you commit. Let’s break down what really goes into the price of cabinet painting, so you can make the best choice for your home and your budget.

Why Choose Cabinet Painting Over Replacement?

Cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen. But even the sturdiest ones can look tired after years of daily use. Replacement might seem tempting, but it’s like tearing out a good hardwood floor just because the finish is dull. Cabinet painting offers a smart, sustainable alternative.

Benefits of painting over replacing:

• Cost savings: Painting typically costs a fraction of replacement.
• Sustainability: Keeps perfectly good materials out of the landfill.
• Faster turnaround: Most projects wrap up in days, not weeks.
• Customization: Choose from classic whites, trendy colors, or bold accents to match your style.

When you opt to paint, you’re refreshing what you already love—while saving money for other upgrades. Plus, repainting uses fewer resources, making it a greener choice for homeowners who care about the environment. 🌱

Key Factors That Impact Cabinet Painting Costs

No two cabinet jobs are identical. It’s a bit like baking bread—ingredients, time, and technique all play a role. Here’s what matters most when calculating your painting investment.

Material, Condition, and Size

• Material type: Solid wood, MDF, laminate, or metal each have their quirks. Wood soaks up paint differently than laminate.
• Cabinet condition: Dents, peeling, and grease buildup may require extra prep.
• Project size: A small bank of bathroom cabinets costs less than a sprawling kitchen with an island and pantry.

Larger, more detailed cabinet setups need more paint, more labor, and more prep time.

Prep and Finishing Steps

Painting isn’t just slapping on a coat and calling it done. The process is layered and precise:

• Surface prep: Cleaning, sanding, and minor repairs.
• Priming: Essential for adhesion and even color.
• Painting: Spraying, brushing, or rolling—each with its own finish and labor needs.
• Finishing: Protective topcoats for durability; more coats mean more time.
• Hardware removal/replacement: Handles, hinges, and pulls off and on again.

The more steps involved, the higher your final price. But skipping any can mean peeling paint or a rough finish—worth the extra attention if you want a result that lasts.

Average Price Ranges for Cabinet Painting

Let’s talk actual numbers. While every project is unique, most professional painters base their pricing on the number of doors, drawers, and total surface area. Here’s what you can expect based on national averages and industry sources like HomeAdvisor and the Painting Contractors Association:

• Small kitchens or bathrooms (up to 20 doors/drawers): $1,200–$3,000
• Medium kitchens (20–40 doors/drawers): $2,500–$6,000
• Large kitchens (40+ doors/drawers, islands, pantries): $5,000–$10,000+
• Specialty finishes or colors: Add 20–40% to the base cost
• Extra prep or repairs: Additional, depending on extent

Remember, these are ballpark figures. Factors like paint quality, finish type (matte, satin, gloss), and your local cost of living can shift the price north or south.

Pro tip: Ask if your price includes prep, priming, and finishing, so there are no surprise charges after work begins.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

A clear, honest estimate is worth its weight in gold paint. Here’s how to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples—not apples to oranges.

• Ask about surface prep: Will they clean, sand, and prime? This is where corners get cut.
• Request details: How many coats? What brand and type of paint?
• Clarify scope: Are hardware removal and reinstallation included?
• Get references: A reputable painter should be able to provide recent residential referrals.
• Review insurance and safety: Confirm they use proper ventilation, masking, and (if needed) lead safety protocols per EPA guidelines.

Don’t be afraid to ask for a written, itemized estimate. This helps you see exactly what’s included—and what isn’t—so you’re not hit with hidden costs.

Make Your Cabinet Painting Project a Success

A freshly painted set of cabinets can brighten your entire home. It’s an investment in style, comfort, and value—without the sticker shock of a full renovation. Take your time, ask questions, and choose a painter who treats your home with care.

Ready to learn more or want a detailed quote for your own cabinets?

Call Latest Design now — or reach us anytime at  888-832-1759 .