How much an IKEA kitchen costs in the US: From cabinet costs to installation fees

The kitchen design service market in the US is booming, valued at $21.27 billion in 2023 and projected to grow to $34.3 billion by 2032. With this growth comes increasing interest in budget-friendly yet stylish options like IKEA kitchens. But how much does an IKEA kitchen cost? 

The average IKEA kitchen installation cost in the US ranges from $4,800 to $47,000, depending on factors like size, materials, and design. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to budget effectively and design a kitchen that fits your style and needs while keeping up with modern trends.

Advantages of installing an IKEA kitchen

A man measuring benchtop space during a hands-on kitchen installation (Source: iStock)

IKEA kitchens are a hit with homeowners. Let’s take a closer look at why so many people choose them for their homes.

Affordability

IKEA kitchen prices are budget-friendly, which is why they’re a popular choice for homeowners looking to save. Their kitchenettes start at just $129, giving you great quality at a lower price point. Their flat-pack kitchens also help keep shipping and storage costs down. 

And if you’re up for some DIY, assembling the kitchen yourself can save you even more. A sample affordable setup is the KNOXHULT Modular Kitchen, which provides a budget-friendly solution with pre-matched cabinets and worktops.

Customization

IKEA kitchens let you design a space that fits your style and needs perfectly. Their modular cabinets come in different sizes, finishes, and colors, so you can mix and match them to suit your layout. Plus, their kitchen planner tool makes it easy to visualize and tweak your design before buying. Want something unique? 

You can also pair IKEA parts with custom fronts and countertops for a personalized touch. A good example is the SEKTION Kitchen System, known for its flexibility and customization options.

Sustainability

If you're all about making eco-conscious choices, IKEA kitchens are a great pick. They use recycled materials for many of their cabinets and aim to be a fully circular business by 2030. So, choosing an IKEA kitchen means you’re investing in a brand that’s working toward more sustainable practices.

Durability

Despite the flat-pack reputation, IKEA kitchens are built to last. Their cabinets are made from strong materials like MDF, solid wood, and composite layers. With proper care, they can last 10 to 20 years. And if you’re worried about longevity, some kitchen ranges come with a 25-year warranty for extra peace of mind.

Ease of assembly and installation

IKEA kitchens are made for DIYers who can work with just a few tips under their belt. Their pre-cut and pre-drilled parts come with clear instructions, so putting them together is straightforward. They also have a rail-mounting system that makes installing cabinets easier. 

IKEA offers systems like the ENHET Kitchen System, which is ideal for quick and reconfigurable designs. Not into DIY? No problem—there are professional installers who can do the job for you, too.

What is the average price of an IKEA kitchen installation in the US?

How much an IKEA kitchen installation costs depends heavily on your kitchen’s size and the finishes you select. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect for small, medium, and large kitchens: 

If you’re planning a small kitchen (up to 100 sq. ft.), expect to pay between $4,800 and $11,500. This includes cabinetry, which typically costs $2,000 to $4,000, and countertops ranging from $800 to $2,500. Labor costs for assembly and installation start from $1,000 to $2,500.

For medium kitchens (100–200 sq. ft.), the average cost is $8,500 to $21,000. Cabinets fall in the range of $4,000 to $7,000, while mid-sized countertops cost between $2,500 and $5,000. Labor costs for a complete installation sit at around $2,000 to $4,000.

A large kitchen (over 200 sq. ft.) is the most expensive, with total costs ranging from $20,500 to $47,000. Cabinets alone can cost $6,500 to $15,000, while premium countertops for large spaces range from $5,000 to $10,000. Labor for these large-scale installations can be $4,000 to $10,000.

From budget-friendly setups to high-end designs, the next section will break down the key factors that can influence these costs, so you can plan with confidence.

What factors affect the costs of IKEA kitchen installation?

The price of installing an IKEA kitchen isn’t set in stone. It varies depending on several factors. 

Everything from the size of your kitchen and the materials you choose to the complexity of the design and labor requirements can influence the final cost. If you’re working with a tight budget or planning to go all out, understanding these factors will help you make smarter decisions and avoid surprises.

Location and labor

Where you live has a big impact on the cost to have an IKEA kitchen installed. In cities like New York and Sacramento, installation rates typically range from $75 to $300 per square foot, driven by high living expenses and demand for skilled tradespeople. On the other hand, locations like Austin or Indianapolis are more affordable, with prices starting at $46 to $186 per square foot.

If you’re in cities like Chicago or Miami, you can expect mid-range costs, usually falling between $54 and $218 per square foot. Meanwhile, places like Kansas City or Birmingham tend to have similar price ranges, starting at $47 per square foot and going up to $187.

In rural or remote areas, costs can increase due to additional travel fees, which typically range from $50 to $150 per trip. Contractors may also charge more for time spent reaching distant locations. Additionally, urban regions often see more elaborate kitchen layouts, which can require higher-skilled labor and further increase costs.

Proximity to IKEA stores can make a difference as well. Areas near IKEA locations tend to have more experienced contractors available. In contrast, remote areas might face higher delivery fees if products need to be shipped from faraway stores.

Complexity of the kitchen layout and size

*Considering both IKEA and non-IKEA kitchen fixtures and labor rates

The layout and size of your kitchen influence how much it costs to get kitchen cabinets installed and the fixtures that can be added. Simple layouts, like one-wall kitchens where basic KNOXHULT cabinets can be installed, are the most affordable at $3,700 to $7,500. Galley kitchens, which can have two rows of ENHET modules facing each other, cost more—around $5,000 to $11,000—because aligning both sides takes extra work.

More complex layouts like L-shaped kitchens, which use two connected walls, can use METOD system fixtures but may cost between $8,500 to $16,500. This is especially the case if corner cabinets or special kitchen benchtop types are needed. 

U-shaped kitchens wrap around three walls and offer more storage, but come with a price tag of $7,000 and $15,000 due to the extra cabinetry and materials involved.

Island kitchens are among the priciest too, averaging $7,500 and $14,500. Adding an island often means additional plumbing or electrical work for sinks or stovetops, increasing labor costs. Open-concept kitchens, which often require removing walls and structural modifications, are the most expensive, ranging from $11,000 to $33,000.

Structural modifications or plumbing work

Modular kitchen layout under construction with base cabinets installed (Source: iStock)

Making changes to your kitchen’s structure or moving utilities can quickly increase how much it costs to install an IKEA kitchen. For example, removing a non-load-bearing wall to create an open floor plan costs $2,000 to $5,000, while removing a load-bearing wall can cost $5,000 to $10,000 due to the need for reinforcements and permits. If you need to replace or adjust flooring to fit your new kitchen, it’ll cost about $5 to $15 per square foot, depending on the material.

Plumbing adjustments are another major factor. Relocating a sink, dishwasher, or gas line typically costs $1,000 to $3,000. Meanwhile, electrical upgrades like adding outlets or rewiring for modern appliances range from $500 to $2,000. Larger adjustments, such as enlarging a window or adding French doors, can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000.

These kinds of updates often mean bringing in carpenters and plumbers, which adds to the overall bill as well. So, if your kitchen plan includes major structural or plumbing changes, it’s good to plan for these extra costs from the start.

Customization options or requests

*Considering materials and units alone

Customizing your IKEA kitchen can make it more personal and functional, but it comes at an extra cost. For example, custom cabinet fronts from providers can increase your budget by $2,000 to $5,000, especially if you opt for premium finishes like walnut or high-gloss.

If your kitchen needs non-standard cabinet sizes, hiring cabinet makers to create custom fronts or panels can cost more as well. In fact, adding special features like pull-out organizers, lazy Susans, or spice racks costs $100 to $500 per unit. Built-in charging stations or drawer dividers range from $50 to $150 each.

When it comes to countertops, materials like quartz, marble, or granite cost $75 to $200 per square foot, compared to $29 to $60 per square foot for laminate. A custom backsplash using designer tiles ranges from $30 to $50 per square foot, while standard subway tiles are a more affordable option at $10 to $15 per square foot.

For those not assembling the kitchen or painting the cabinets themselves, professional help can cost $46 to $184 per square foot. Moreover, lighting upgrades, like LEDs for under cabinets, cost $50 to $150 each, while smart lighting systems can add $500 to $1,000 to the overall project.

Pre-existing kitchen condition

An existing kitchen space ready for IKEA upgrade or full remodel (Source: iStock)

The condition of the kitchen plays a big role in how much an IKEA kitchen remodel costs. Demolishing old cabinets, countertops, and flooring can add $300 to $1,500 to your expenses. Additional costs can arise if materials like tiles or backsplashes are difficult to remove or if hazardous materials, such as asbestos, are found.

Wall and floor repairs are another consideration. Fixing damaged drywall costs around $200 to $500, while leveling uneven subfloors can range from $500 to $1,500. If your kitchen has outdated systems, electrical upgrades can add $1,000 to $3,000, and plumbing repairs may cost $500 to $2,000, especially if new lines need to be added for modern appliances.

Preparing for additions like kitchen islands and peninsulas may also require extra adjustments, further raising labor and material expenses.

Appliance integration

*Considering labour and installation alone

Adding appliances to your IKEA kitchen can bump up the cost to install an IKEA kitchen as well, especially if you want built-in options that require accurate measurements. 

Appliances like ovens, dishwashers, and microwaves must fit perfectly into your kitchen space and cabinets, and installation can cost about $150 to $500 each. 

Freestanding appliances, like standalone refrigerators, are generally less expensive to integrate. They’ll only cost about $200 to $500 for adjustments or fitment.

Installing range hoods and ventilation systems adds more to the bill, too. Basic under-cabinet models cost $300 to $500, but if ductwork needs installation or reconfiguration, expect to pay $800 to $2,000. Custom panels for integrated dishwashers or refrigerators add $150 to $500 per appliance, as well. Enlarging refrigerator space may require cabinet adjustments costing $200 to $500, too.

For appliances requiring gas or water connections, such as stoves or refrigerators with water dispensers, the costs range from $1,000 to $3,000. These can quickly add $3,000 to $7,000 to your overall installation budget, depending on the appliances' complexity.

Permits and compliance

Approved building permit required for major IKEA kitchen renovations (Source: iStock)

Renovating your kitchen in the US usually means dealing with permits to meet local building rules, which can add to your costs. For smaller projects, permits often cost between $50 and $500, depending on the type of work. For example, plumbing permits can range from $30 to $500, while electrical permits for new wiring or outlets typically cost $50 to $500.

If your renovation is more extensive, like a full kitchen remodel involving structural changes, the permit fees will be higher. Building permits for major projects usually cost between $500 and $1,500. Some cities calculate permit fees as a percentage of the total project cost, which can range from 0.5% to 2%.

Ultimately, the cost of permits depends on several factors, like the complexity of the work, where you’re located, and the total value of the project. Big changes, like knocking down walls or moving plumbing, might need extra approvals, which push costs up. You might also need to hire architects or surveyors to handle paperwork and inspections, which adds to the overall expense.

Additional considerations

There are a few more extra costs to think about when installing your IKEA kitchen to make sure everything works and looks right. Getting rid of the old kitchen and other wastes can cost $300 to $1,500, including removing cabinets, countertops, and other debris. 

You’ll likely need some new power outlets too. These cost $150 to $300 each, while rewiring for high-power appliances like ovens can cost $1,000 to $3,000. If your circuit breaker needs an upgrade for a more sustainable smart kitchen, that adds another $2,000 to $5,000.

Good lighting is essential for a functional and stylish kitchen. So, prepare for under-cabinet LED lights, which can cost $50 to $150 per strip, plus $100 to $300 for installation. Ceiling lights like recessed fixtures run about $100 to $300 each, while pendant lights for islands are $100 to $400 per light. They might cost a little more, but they make a big difference in both style and visibility.

Plumbing changes like moving a sink can cost $1,000 to $3,000. Adding water lines for a dishwasher or fridge ranges from $500 to $1,500. Even something simple, like upgrading a tap or faucet, can add $150 to $500.

Lastly, don’t forget about flooring. Vinyl or laminate flooring costs $5 to $12 per square foot, while hardwood or tile ranges from $10 to $25 per square foot, depending on the type. These extras might not be the first thing you think of when considering your kitchen’s design, but they’re important for a complete and polished finish.

Hiring IKEA’s partner installers vs. independent contractors

Professionals fitting cabinetry and appliances during kitchen installation (Source: iStock)

When it comes to installing your IKEA kitchen, you’ve got two main options: IKEA’s partner installers or independent contractors. Each comes with its own pros and cons, depending on your budget and how involved you want to be.

IKEA’s partner installers are trained specifically to assemble IKEA products whether it’s SEKTION, ENHET, or KNOXHULT. Their IKEA kitchen installation service costs are straightforward. And IKEA takes care of the whole process—coordinating everything from plumbers to electricians. 

The downside? They’re not as flexible with customizations, and scheduling depends on IKEA’s availability.

Independent contractors are often cheaper and more flexible. They’re great for handling customizations, like adding third-party cabinet fronts or unique layouts, and they can work around your schedule. 

The catch is you’ll need to manage the project yourself, including hiring tradespeople like plumbers and electricians.

If you want a hands-off, stress-free experience, IKEA installers are a solid choice. But if you’re after flexibility and don’t mind coordinating things yourself, independent contractors can save you money on carpenter costs and custom cabinet options, among other things. It all comes down to what works best for you.

10 tips to save money on IKEA kitchen renovation costs

A sketch of renovation plans and estimated costs (Source: iStock)

Renovating an IKEA kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. With some smart planning and cost-saving strategies, you can cut down on expenses without sacrificing quality or functionality. Here are some practical ways to reduce your IKEA kitchen installation price:

1. Use IKEA’s kitchen planning tool. Take full advantage of IKEA’s free kitchen planner to design an efficient layout. It prevents unnecessary purchases and reduces waste in the end.

2. Watch for IKEA sales and discounts. Kitchen promotions and loyalty program perks like IKEA Family discounts can help you save significantly on cabinets and other essentials.

3. Stick to standard cabinet sizes. Opt for IKEA’s standard METOD cabinets instead of custom options or third-party modifications. 

4. Reuse existing kitchen cabinets and fixtures. Keep your current appliances, plumbing, and electrical setups if they’re still functional. 

5. Choose laminate countertops. They’re durable and budget-friendly compared to quartz or stone. 

6. Plan renovations during the off-season. Schedule your installation in the winter when demand for tradespeople is lower.

7. Shop smart for lighting and fixtures. Look for deals on lighting, handles, and taps from other retailers or during sales events. You can surely find similar yet cheaper options in local stores.

8. Get multiple installation quotes. Compare quotes from IKEA installers and independent contractors offering professional installation. This will help you find the best value for your budget and ensure transparency about costs and warranties.

9. Avoid structural changes. Stick to your current kitchen layout to skip expensive structural modifications. 

10. Take control of the design and finishing touches. Once your new kitchen and cabinets are installed, you can paint or customize them yourself to match your preferred style. This gives you more flexibility over colors and finishes. Plus, it’s a great way to save on expenses.

Find trusted IKEA kitchen installers on Airtasker

Designing a beautiful, budget-friendly kitchen is easier than ever with the right help. Whether you’re planning a modern kitchen renovation, installing cabinets, or fine-tuning your space’s design, Airtasker connects you with reliable pros who can get the job done.

From start to finish, experienced tradespeople on Airtasker can handle everything, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Don’t let your kitchen upgrade feel overwhelming. Post a task today and find skilled IKEA assembly experts ready to work within your budget and timeline.