Cost of New Cabinets and Countertops: What to Budget Together
Cost of new cabinets and countertops: price them as one project but understand their separate drivers: cabinets depend on construction level, count and finish, while countertops depend on the stone tier and square footage. Plan for extras on both sides, such as accessories, edges, backsplash and tear-out, and line up the payments with each stage of the work.
Summary
- Cabinets and countertops have different cost drivers.
- Countertops: stone tier and square footage; cabinets: level, count and finish.
- Save on stone tier or cabinet finish, not on installation.
- Payments follow each stage of the work.
What Drives Each Side of the Budget
| Cabinets | Countertops |
|---|---|
| Stock, semi-custom or custom | Stone tier, from Classic Granite at $29.95/sq ft installed |
| Number and size of cabinets | Total square footage, including island and backsplash |
| Door style and finish | Edge profile beyond flat polished |
| Accessories and hardware | Waterfall sides and special cuts |
| Assembly and installation | Tear-out of the old top |
Where to Save, and Where Not To
Good Places to Save
- Choose a stone in a lower tier for the perimeter and a statement slab only on the island.
- Pick a simple door style with a quality finish.
- Keep the sink and range where they are to avoid plumbing and electrical changes.
Places Not to Cut Corners
- Cabinet installation: level boxes are what keep stone seams tight.
- Island support: a large overhang needs proper brackets.
- Templating: the stone must be measured on installed cabinets.
How Payments Fall When You Do Both
At Cornerstone, cabinets are paid 50% at approval, 30% at delivery and 20% at completion; countertops are paid 50% to start and 50% at completion. Payments match stages you can see. In a package, each part keeps its own schedule.
The Order That Keeps the Budget on Track
Cabinets first, then the countertop template on the installed cabinets, then installation 7 business days later. Our guide on cabinets or countertops first explains why, and our guide on cabinets and countertops from the same company compares one team with two. See one team for cabinets and countertops, or browse our countertop buying guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I budget cabinets and countertops together?
Yes. Their sizes depend on each other, and one plan avoids surprises.
Which costs more, cabinets or countertops?
It depends on the cabinet level and the stone tier. Your quote shows both lines.
Can I save by keeping my cabinets?
Yes, if they are solid and level. Then only the countertop is replaced.
Is installation included?
Yes for both: we install the cabinets and the countertops.
How do I get a combined quote?
Book a free measurement; we quote cabinets and countertops together.
