What does kitchen cabinet replacement typically cost in New Brunswick?

Kitchen cabinet replacement in New Brunswick typically runs $5,000–$25,000+ depending on kitchen size, cabinet quality, and whether you're doing a straight swap or a full layout redesign.

Here's how the numbers break down in the NB market:

Stock cabinets (big-box store brands like IKEA, Home Depot, or Rona) for an average 10×10 kitchen run $1,500–$4,000 for materials alone. Add professional installation and you're looking at $3,500–$8,000 all-in. These are your most budget-friendly option and work well if your layout stays the same.

Semi-custom cabinets from regional suppliers hit the $8,000–$15,000 range installed — you get more finish options, better box construction, and sizes that fit your space properly rather than relying on filler strips. Several NB cabinet shops in the Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John areas offer this tier and can turn around orders faster than national manufacturers.

Full custom cabinetry — solid wood, dovetail joinery, local millwork — starts around $15,000 and can climb well past $30,000 for a larger kitchen with specialty finishes, pull-out organizers, and integrated lighting.

A few things that move the needle significantly on price: whether you're keeping the same footprint (cheaper) versus moving plumbing or electrical for a new island or relocated sink (adds $1,500–$4,000+ in trade costs), the ceiling height if you're going floor-to-ceiling, and the number of specialty pieces like corner units, pantry towers, or appliance garages.

Don't forget the associated costs that catch homeowners off guard. If your countertops are staying, you'll need to confirm the new cabinet heights match — standard is 34.5" to the top of the box before countertop. New countertops typically add $2,000–$6,000 depending on material (laminate vs. quartz vs. granite). Backsplash tile, new hardware, and under-cabinet lighting can add another $500–$2,500. If your kitchen is in an older home — common in Fredericton's older neighbourhoods or Saint John's South End — unlevel floors and out-of-square walls often require shimming and scribing that adds labour time.

Permit-wise, cabinet replacement is generally cosmetic and doesn't require a building permit on its own. However, if you're moving the sink (plumbing permit required, licensed plumber through TIS) or adding pot lights or new circuits (electrical wiring permit through NB Power, licensed electrician required), those trades need to be properly permitted before work begins.

The NB market is roughly 20–25% more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver pricing, but skilled cabinetmakers and experienced kitchen installers are in demand — especially in smaller centres. Getting quotes from two or three contractors is worthwhile, and lead times for semi-custom and custom cabinets can run 8–16 weeks, so plan accordingly if you're working toward a specific timeline.

Browse kitchen and renovation contractors in the New Brunswick Construction Network directory to find local professionals who can walk through your space and give you an accurate quote.