When you’re ready to give your kitchen a facelift, cabinets and countertops are often the first things to go. But if you’re like most homeowners, you’re probably wondering, “What’s a reasonable budget for this type of project?” and “How do I get quality without breaking the bank?”

In the New Hampshire seacoast, costs can vary depending on your choices—are you going for high-end custom cabinets, or will stock options do the trick? Is it time for sleek granite or more affordable laminate countertops? And, of course, how much of the total cost will go toward labor? 

Let's walk through the key questions, so you can budget for your project with confidence.

What are the typical costs for replacing kitchen cabinets and countertops?

When you focus on just replacing cabinets and countertops, the average cost for homeowners in the New Hampshire seacoast ranges between $35,000 and $50,000. This price range will generally get you quality-grade cabinets and countertops, as well as essentials like a new sink and faucet. Costs will increase if you opt for custom cabinets, high-end countertops, or add-ons like electrical or plumbing upgrades.

If you’ve been thinking about a complete overhaul—new flooring, appliances, maybe even knocking down a wall—that's a whole different ballgame. A full, gut-to-the-studs kitchen remodel typically runs between $90,000 and $120,000. If you’re curious about how that breaks down, you can dive into the details in our article: How much does a kitchen remodel cost?

While we explore full remodels elsewhere, in this article, we’re sticking to cabinets and countertops.

How much of the cost of replacing kitchen cabinets & countertops is materials and how much is labor?

A common pitfall for homeowners is focusing on material costs and forgetting about labor. Even the most beautiful countertops or custom cabinets won’t do much good without a quality installation to match.

Typically, labor accounts for around 50% of your total budget. If you’re planning to spend $40,000 on the project, around $20,000 will go toward labor costs— demolition, installation, and any necessary plumbing or electrical work.

The other half of your budget covers the materials themselves— cabinets, countertops, sink, faucet, etc.

Now, let’s break down the cabinet and countertop costs, so you know what you’re looking at.

How much do kitchen cabinets cost?

Your cabinets will likely be your largest material expense, and the cost depends on whether you choose stock, semi-custom, or custom cabinets. Here's a quick comparison, but we’ll share a bit more about how your choice can affect the budget later:

• Stock cabinets: Mass-produced (Not that Mass, this is a good mass…) and budget-friendly at $100 to $300 per linear foot.

• Semi-custom cabinets: A step up, offering more flexibility and costing $250 to $650 per linear foot.

• Custom cabinets: The premium option, designed specifically for your kitchen, ranging from $500 to $1,200 per linear foot.

In Portsmouth, NH, cabinet prices may vary depending on your supplier and installation requirements, but these ranges provide a good starting point.

What factors influence the cost of cabinets?

Several factors play into the cost of cabinets. When you walk into a showroom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options—solid wood, soft-close hinges, custom stains. But understanding the factors that drive pricing can help:

• Customizability: Stock cabinets cost less because they’re mass-produced, while custom cabinets—built to fit your space—require more time and craftsmanship.

• Style: Frameless cabinets, which require thicker panels, tend to cost more than framed cabinets.

• Material: Solid wood cabinets are more expensive than those made from MDF or particleboard.

• Hardware: Upgrades like soft-close drawers or pull-out shelving increase the price.

• Finishes: A custom paint or stain finish will push the price higher than standard finishes.

It’s all about finding balance. If you’re dreaming of a unique design, custom cabinets are worth the splurge. But if you’re budget-conscious, stock or semi-custom options can still meet your needs without breaking the bank.

How much do kitchen countertops cost?

Countertops may seem straightforward, but with so many options on the market, it’s easy to get stuck. Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials:

• Laminate: Budget-friendly at $20 to $60 per square foot. It’s durable, but doesn’t offer the longevity of natural stone.

• Butcher block: Warm and natural, costing $50 to $150 per square foot, though it requires regular maintenance.

• Granite: Durable and popular, ranging from $50 to $200 per square foot, depending on the quality of the stone.

• Quartz: Engineered stone with consistent color and durability, costing between $75 to $150 per square foot.

From Portsmouth to Exeter, NH, prices can vary slightly depending on where you source your materials and how intricate the fabrication process is, but these estimates will give you a solid starting point.

What factors influence the cost of countertops?

Several factors can impact how much you’ll pay for countertops:

• Material type: The type of material you choose has the biggest influence on the cost.

• Thickness: Thicker countertops require more material, which can drive up the price.

• Custom cuts: If you have an undermount sink or need custom shapes for an island or other area, that will add to the cost as well.

How much of the cost of cabinet & countertop replacement is labor?

When replacing cabinets and countertops, labor typically makes up about 50% of the total project cost. This includes:

• Demolition: Out with the old—your contractor will remove your existing cabinets and countertops and dispose of the debris.

• Templating: For custom pieces, especially countertops, a template is made to ensure a perfect fit.

• Installation: Your new cabinets and countertops need to be carefully installed to fit your space.

• Plumbing and electrical work: If you’re installing a new sink or need outlets moved, this work will need to be done too.

Remember, the more intricate your layout and design, the more labor is required—especially if you’re going for custom cabinets or premium countertop materials.

What can cause labor costs for cabinet & countertop installation to go up?

Several factors can lead to higher labor costs. These might not be immediately apparent when you start the project, but they can pop up during the installation:

• Complex layouts: Kitchens with unusual angles or layouts require more precision, which can increase labor time.

• Necessary repairs: If your contractor discovers issues like water damage or outdated wiring, additional labor will be needed to address these problems.

• Related work: Sometimes a project will require flooring to be replaced, wires moved, or drywall patched to make up for a new cabinet layout.

• Custom work: Installing custom cabinets or countertops requires specialized skills and takes more time, which raises labor costs.

Why do contractors charge more to install high-end materials—is it a zipcode tax?

You might be wondering why the installation costs for high-end cabinets and countertops are higher. Isn’t a cabinet just a cabinet? What difference does it make if the cabinet itself costs more?

The reality is that high-end products often come with additional features, tighter tolerances, and might even require specialized tools or techniques to install correctly.

With low-cost materials, manufacturers assume that saving money is more important than achieving perfect fitment or flawless design details. This means that even a skilled installer can only do so much with these materials.

But with high-end products—especially custom or designer materials—the expectation is to solve aesthetic challenges. These materials require a more detail-oriented installer, and sometimes even specialized tools. So, while the labor for installing high-end materials may feel like a “zipcode tax,” it’s typically reflective of the extra time, precision, and expertise required for a flawless installation.

How can I keep the costs of cabinet & countertop replacement down?

Even if you're working within a budget, you don’t have to compromise on style. Here are a few ways to ​​keep costs down without sacrificing too much:

• Choose stock or semi-custom cabinets: These options offer a lot of value without the hefty price tag of custom cabinets.

• Opt for laminate or a lower-grade countertop material: Laminate can be a durable and affordable alternative. If you’re set on stone, choosing a lower-grade granite or quartz can still give you the aesthetic you want, at a lower price point.

• Simplify the design: Avoiding complex layouts or specialty finishes can help keep labor costs in check.

For more tips on keeping your budget in line, take a look at our guide: How can I keep my kitchen remodeling costs down?

How can material choices affect the total cost of this type of project?

Material choices play a huge role in your overall budget. High-end custom cabinets and premium countertops will obviously raise the price, while budget-friendly options like stock cabinets and laminate countertops will help keep costs down.

It’s about finding the right balance—choosing durable materials where it matters most, while also considering where you can save without sacrificing too much on quality or style.

Is it cheaper to replace cabinets and countertops together or separately?

If you’re planning to replace both cabinets and countertops, it’s almost always cheaper to do them together. Cabinets and countertops go hand in hand, and replacing them separately will often require re-work. This especially applies to replacing cabinets after new countertops have been installed. The new countertops will have to be removed before the cabinets can be installed and re-installed or replaced afterward.

By combining the projects, your contractor can streamline the work, reducing overall labor costs. Plus, you’ll save yourself the hassle of having two separate installations down the road.

Can I save money by choosing stock cabinets and laminate countertops?

Absolutely! Stock cabinets and laminate countertops are both budget-friendly options that offer a wide range of styles and finishes. While they may not have as many customization options or last as long as higher-end materials, they can still give you a beautiful, functional kitchen without the hefty price tag.

These can both be a great option for budget-conscious projects.

What hidden costs should I plan for when I’m replacing my cabinets and countertops?

Every remodeling project comes with the potential for unexpected costs, so it’s smart to plan for them upfront. Some common hidden or often overlooked costs include:

• Plumbing or electrical updates: If your existing systems need updating, this can add to the cost of your project.

• Structural repairs: Issues like water damage or mold might be discovered once the cabinets are removed.

• Flooring or drywall work: If your new cabinets are a different size or layout than the old ones, you may need to repair or patch exposed areas of flooring or drywall.

• Contractor fees: If you are hiring a general contractor to oversee the project, don’t forget to budget for the cost of their time and expertise.

• Delivery & disposal fees: Don’t forget about the cost of getting materials to your home and getting rid of the old ones.

A good rule of thumb is to set aside 15-20% of your budget as a contingency fund to handle any surprises that crop up.

How can I ensure I get an accurate quote from a contractor?

Getting an accurate quote can be tricky, especially if you’re concerned about hidden costs creeping up later. While many homeowners think that getting a quote with a detailed breakdown of labor and materials is the answer, it’s actually a bit more nuanced than that.

What you really want is a detailed scope of work—this outlines all the tasks involved, the materials being used, and design specifics. The quote should also include any costs for permits, delivery fees, and any potential extras like dumpsters or miscellaneous charges.

Here are a few tips:

• Request a clear scope of work: Make sure the quote outlines the tasks involved, the product specifications, and any allowances for fixtures or finishes.

• Clarify all costs: Ensure that things like dumpster rentals or permit fees are accounted for.

• Understand the pricing structure: A good proposal should clearly state whether the cost is guaranteed (fixed-cost) or subject to change based on hours worked and material costs (T&M). Fixed cost agreements are almost always better for the homeowner.   

• Define allowances: Make sure any allowances (budget amounts for items that haven’t been selected yet) are clearly stated, and of a reasonable amount, to avoid surprise expenses.

• Discuss change orders: Talk to your contractor about how any changes during the project will be handled to avoid unexpected costs.

The more transparent your contractor is upfront, the fewer surprises you'll face down the line. For more on how to get a reliable quote, check out What information does a contractor need to provide a quote?

Ready to replace your cabinets and countertops?

If you’re ready to make your dream kitchen a reality, Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling is here to help! Our team specializes in creating beautiful, functional spaces that make your life easier—and we can’t wait to work with you. Contact us today to start planning your next kitchen renovation!