Kitchen, Renovations

Cabinet Costs Vancouver: Stock vs Semi-Custom vs Custom (2026 Guide)

February 20, 2026
By matin@quayconstruction.ca

Understanding cabinet costs Vancouver homeowners face is essential before starting a renovation. Cabinets typically represent 30–40% of a total kitchen budget, making them one of the most influential cost drivers in any Kitchen renovation Vancouver project.

Choosing between stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinetry impacts not only pricing but also timeline, durability, resale value, and design flexibility.

What Affects Cabinet Costs in Vancouver?

Several local factors influence cabinet pricing:

Material and finish selection
Manufacturing method
Lead times and supply chain
Condo delivery logistics
Installation complexity
Permit or inspection requirements if layout changes

In Vancouver, moisture levels and seasonal humidity shifts also affect material performance, especially for MDF vs plywood construction.

Stock Cabinets in Vancouver

Stock cabinets are mass-produced in standard sizes and finishes.

Average Cost (Installed)

$150 – $350 per linear foot

Typical 10×10 kitchen: $8,000 – $14,000 installed

Pros

Lowest upfront cost
Fast availability
Suitable for cosmetic upgrades

Cons

Limited sizing flexibility
Fewer finish options
Lower material durability

Stock cabinetry works best when layout remains unchanged and budget constraints are tight.

Semi-Custom Cabinets in Vancouver

Semi-custom cabinetry offers modification within manufacturer limits.

Average Cost (Installed)

$350 – $650 per linear foot

Typical 10×10 kitchen: $14,000 – $24,000 installed

Pros

Expanded design options
Better material quality
More finish and hardware flexibility

Cons

Longer lead times
Higher installation complexity

Semi-custom cabinets strike a balance between affordability and design flexibility.

Custom Cabinets Vancouver Cost Breakdown

Fully custom cabinets are built to exact dimensions and specifications.

Average Cost (Installed)

$650 – $1,200+ per linear foot

Typical 10×10 kitchen: $24,000 – $45,000+

Pros

Maximum design flexibility
Superior material quality
Seamless fit for older Vancouver homes

Cons

Highest cost
Longest production time
Requires experienced installation

Custom cabinetry is often recommended for high-end homes, heritage properties, or when layout modifications require exact fit tolerances.

Pricing Comparison Table

Cabinet Type	Cost Per Linear Foot	10×10 Kitchen Estimate	Lead Time
Stock	$150–$350	$8k–$14k	2–4 weeks
Semi-Custom	$350–$650	$14k–$24k	4–8 weeks
Custom	$650–$1,200+	$24k–$45k+	6–12 weeks

Permit & Inspection Considerations

Cabinet replacement alone typically does not require permits. However, when cabinetry involves:

Moving plumbing
Relocating electrical
Altering ventilation
Removing walls

Permit applications may be required under City of Vancouver building permits regulations.

Links to add:

Structural modifications must comply with British Columbia Building Code requirements, particularly when cabinetry integrates structural beams or appliance ventilation systems.

Condo Cabinet Installations & Strata Rules

In condo buildings, cabinetry upgrades may require:

Strata approval
Elevator bookings
Insurance documentation
Work-hour compliance

Homeowners planning cabinetry within strata buildings should consult experienced condo renovation Vancouver specialists before ordering custom units.

Best Cabinet Option for Your Budget

Choosing the right cabinetry depends on:

Total renovation scope
Property value
Resale timeline
Design expectations
Moisture resistance needs

Homeowners investing in long-term value often integrate cabinetry planning within a full Kitchen renovation Vancouver strategy rather than treating it as an isolated upgrade.

Timeline Impact on Renovation Schedule

Cabinet type significantly affects overall renovation timing.

Stock cabinets may allow a project to complete in 6–8 weeks total.

Custom cabinetry can extend full renovation timelines to 10–16+ weeks, especially if permits and inspections are required.

For broader planning considerations, consult kitchen renovations Vancouver professionals to coordinate cabinet production with demolition and inspection scheduling.

FAQ – Cabinet Costs Vancouver

Are custom cabinets worth the extra cost?

For high-value homes and unique layouts, custom cabinetry often improves resale value and functionality.

Do cabinets require permits in Vancouver?

Not typically, unless plumbing, electrical, or structural systems are modified.

How much of a renovation budget goes to cabinets?

Typically 30–40% of total kitchen cost.

What cabinet type is best for condos?

Semi-custom or custom often works best due to irregular layouts.

How long do custom cabinets take?

Production typically requires 6–12 weeks.

Final Thoughts

Understanding cabinet costs Vancouver homeowners face helps prevent budget surprises and timeline delays. Stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets each serve different budget levels and property types.

The right decision depends on long-term goals, resale strategy, and how cabinetry integrates into your overall renovation plan.