How Much Does Bathroom Cabinet Installation Cost?

Bathroom Cabinet Installation Costs & Smart Ways to Save

Adding new cabinets can transform the entire look of your bathroom. You will achieve a fresh aesthetic, better organisation, and a more modern appeal without needing a full remodel. Exactly how much this upgrade will set you back depends on several factors, such as the cabinet material, size, style, finish, and installation costs. This guide breaks down all the essential information you need so you can plan your budget properly and install the perfect cabinets for your bathroom.

Bathroom cabinet prices vary widely. They can be quite affordable, or you can pay a premium for custom-ordered units. Simple cabinets typically run from $200 to $500. Mid-level cabinets range between $500 and $1,500. High-end, custom cabinets start at $1,500, with the price potentially soaring based on your choice of design and materials.

How Cabinet Material Affects the Price

The material used to construct the cabinet plays an important role in determining the final cost. For cabinets made from laminate, the price may start from about $200. They are easy to maintain and come in a variety of finishes. Another relatively inexpensive option is Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF). It possesses a sleek surface and is especially good for paint or veneer finishes. MDF is pricier than laminate but is still considered affordable.

Cabinet Material

Material is the most significant factor. It governs the cost as well as how the cabinet will look and perform over the years.

• Laminate Cabinets: For affordable yet easy maintenance, laminate cabinets are likely your best bet. They normally cost between $200 and $500. There are many designs and colours to choose from, making them suitable for both modern and traditional bathrooms.


• MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) Cabinets: Another economical material is MDF. Its smooth surface is a major advantage. It costs between $300 and $800 based on the design.


• Solid Timber: Timber cabinets offer a natural and warm look. However, they are pricey, ranging from $800 to $2,000 or more based on the wood quality.


• Polyurethane: This provides a moisture-resistant and glossy finish, typically costing $1,000+. They are durable and offer a sophisticated appearance.

How Size and Type Affect the Cost

Cabinet type and size also determine the cost. The bigger the cabinet, the higher the price, as it requires more material and a longer installation time. You will pay more for a double vanity compared to a single unit. The cabinet size and type you select influence both material and installation fees.

• Wall-hung cabinets: Mounted on the wall, these create a modern, floating appearance. Costs range from $400 to $2,000. They also require additional support during installation.


• Freestanding cabinets: These are installed on the floor. They are simpler to install and start at about $300. High-end units may run as high as $1,500.


• Double vanities: These feature two sinks and additional counter space. Prices range from around $800 to over $2,000.


• Custom Cabinets: For a seamless look, a custom cabinet is made to your specific bathroom dimensions. However, keep in mind they start at around $1,500. Since the price can go much higher depending on the complexity of the design and materials, they aren't exactly a budget-friendly choice.

Why Cabinet Style and Finish Matter

The cabinet design also affects the overall cost. Flat-panel designs are simple and cheaper. More elaborate styles, such as Shaker or raised-panel designs, are more expensive because they require additional craftsmanship. The finish you choose also contributes to the cost. High-gloss finishes are trendy but more expensive. Matte finishes can create an understated elegance, while designs resembling wood grain provide texture and visual interest.

Additional Cabinet Features

There are extras that will make your cabinets even more functional and beautiful, but they will add to the expense.

• Soft-Close Drawers and Hinges: These offer a quiet sophistication and smooth operation, whether you are opening or closing a drawer or door. They also extend the lifespan of your cabinets. Usually, this feature adds $50–$200 to your overall cost.


• Integrated lighting: This is stylish and enhances visibility, but expect to pay more for the lighting installation.


• Installed power outlets: Having electrical outlets installed inside the cabinet provides convenience but adds to the cost of installation.

Hardware and Extra Costs

Although it sounds like a small detail, the hardware you select affects both cabinet function and the total price. Soft-close drawers and hinges, for instance, provide a quiet, smooth experience. However, this small touch can add anywhere from $50 to $200 to the cost, depending on your cabinet size. Other features, such as built-in lighting or power outlets within cabinets, drive the cost higher but are convenient and fashionable.

Installation Costs You Should Expect

Installation fees differ based on complexity. A simple installation is less expensive, while a complicated one requires more effort and materials.

• Simple installation: Premade cabinet installation can cost anywhere from $100 to $200.


• Wall mounted: These require additional effort and time. Fees can range from $200 to $400.


• Custom cabinetry installation: Custom installations can cost up to $500 or more based on the amount of work required.

Labour costs can vary between $50 and $100 per hour. This also depends on your location and the experience level of your installer.

Custom vs. Prefabricated Cabinets

Prefabricated cabinets are cheaper because they are produced in standard sizes and designs. They are simple to install and come in many price ranges. Custom cabinets are designed to fit your space perfectly. They offer more flexibility regarding design, materials, and layout. However, they are more expensive and take longer to construct. If you have a unique bathroom layout or need a specific look, custom cabinets are worth the investment.

Types of Bathroom Vanities and Prices

Vanities are available in various styles, sizes, and prices. Some individuals prefer plain, white vanities for a minimalist and utilitarian appearance. Others desire their vanity to be the centre of attention, opting for a more ornate design. Most contemporary vanities feature cupboards and drawers. You can get large vanities that accommodate double sinks or smaller units for compact bathrooms.

Budget vanities start from about $350, while luxury vanities range from $2,000 and above. A 900mm wall-hung vanity with concealed handles costs about $467. A 750mm floor-standing vanity is about $849. A 1500mm double bowl vanity is around $999. A 1200mm wall-hung vanity with a built-in ceramic basin costs approximately $1,360.

Costs for Vanity Installation

Vanity installation typically averages around $1,500. Labour costs vary depending on the size and type of work. Swapping out a vanity for a new one will almost always cost less than custom-fitting an entirely new unit. Variables come into play, such as assembling the cabinets, connecting the plumbing, installing the sinks and faucets, wall-mounting the cabinets, and fitting the countertops.

Keep in mind that most mass-produced vanities come without faucets; you must purchase them separately. Simple faucets cost about $70. Upmarket faucets may reach $900 or more. Finishes like nickel and brass are more expensive than regular chrome. Brushed or matte finishes also incur additional costs.

Cost of Bathroom Countertops

Countertops are another significant cost. Materials vary in price and durability. Laminate countertops are among the cheapest, costing $110 to $430 per square meter, while acrylic ranges from around $140 to $320 per square meter. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are at the lower end of the price scale, ranging from $75 to $215 per square meter, while granite tiles range from $55 to $160 per square meter. Granite slabs can cost up to $1,075 per square meter, while quartz costs between $540 and $2,150 per square meter.

Concrete countertops, which offer a unique industrial style, are priced between $700 and $1,450 per square meter. Cultured marble typically costs around $700 per square meter, while Corian surfaces can range from $215 to $800 per square meter. Stone-composite countertops, known for their durability, cost $800 to $1,290 per square meter.

Each material has pros and cons regarding durability, maintenance, and installation complexity. Natural stones and some engineered stones are generally luxurious and long-lasting but can be significantly more expensive. On the other hand, affordable options such as laminate or ceramic tile complement minor bathroom makeovers well. Choose according to how your budget complements your style preference.

Other Costs You Need to Consider For Bathroom Improvements

You should also factor in additional expenses such as the removal of the old vanity, backsplash installation, plumbing, floor adjustments, and sink replacement. One of the higher expenses is the dismantling of the existing vanity, which normally costs between $1,240 and $5,380 per unit, based on size and material. Installing a backsplash adds style as well as protection, costing $215 to $3,200 per square meter depending on tile type and design complexity.

Plumbing adjustments are usually necessary when installing new sinks or vanities, costing $430 to $2,150, particularly if layout changes are required. Sink replacement is another expense to consider, with average sinks ranging from $430 to $860, while high-end sinks can cost over $1,000.

Floor repairs may be necessary if the new vanity's size affects the existing flooring, costing between $540 and $1,080. Custom vanities offer a more personal touch and range in price from $540 to $3,000, with installation costing $215–$1,075. These are extras that should be included in your estimated costs for the renovation.

DIY Installation vs Hiring a Pro

You can save on costs by installing a premade vanity yourself. For a DIY job, you will need to invest in some basic tools: a pipe wrench, screwdriver, tape measure, utility knife, and shims. These supplies will add up to anywhere from $50 to $200. However, DIY is only feasible if you have experience. Hiring plumbing services might help prevent leakages or water damage later on.

If you decide to build a vanity yourself, you will need other tools such as a router, table saw, mitre saw, wood, and plywood. This costs more and takes more time. Carpentry is involved, and measurements must be precise. If you pay a professional to do it, be prepared to spend as much as $2,800 or more based on complexity.

How to Save on Bathroom Cabinet Installation

There are numerous ways to save on your bathroom cabinet installation.

• Select a vanity that matches your current plumbing and layout to avoid unnecessary renovation costs.


• Refurbish your existing vanity rather than replacing it.


• A new paint job and a new countertop can completely transform it.


• Prefabricated cabinets cost less than custom-made ones.


• You can also perform minor tasks, such as assembling the cabinet yourself, while leaving the plumbing to a professional.

Final Thoughts

New bathroom cabinets can have a dramatic effect on both appearance and functionality. The cost varies with material, size, type, finish, hardware, labour, and add-ons. You can pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars based on your choices.

Budget planning, comparing quotes for bathroom cabinets, and selecting the right features will help you get the best value for your money. Whether you opt for prefabricated or custom cabinets, quality materials and professional installation guarantee long-term satisfaction.