How much does a kitchen island cost?
How much does a kitchen island cost?
$3,000 – $6,000 average cost to add a custom kitchen island
$800 – $2,500 average cost of a prefab kitchen island
Kitchen island cost
The average cost to install a kitchen island is $800 to $2,500 for a prefab model or $3,000 to $6,000 to build a custom island, depending on the size, style, material, and features. A large custom kitchen island with a sink, dishwasher, or range can cost up to $10,000 installed.
| Type | Average cost installed | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Prefab rolling cart island (DIY assembly) |
$100 – $800 |
|
| Prefab stationary island | $800 – $2,500 |
|
| Custom kitchen island | $3,000 – $6,000+ |
|
Average cost to install a kitchen island
The following table shows the average cost to add a custom kitchen island.
| National Average Cost | $4,500 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $10,000 |
| Average Range | $3,000 to $6,000 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Custom kitchen island cost estimator
The biggest factors affecting the cost to build a kitchen island are the size, materials, and features. A simple island with standard cabinets and no built-in fixtures or appliances costs the least to install. A large custom island with a sink, oven, and range hood above costs the most.
| Features | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Cabinets | $500 – $1,200 per linear foot |
| Countertops | $50 – $150 per square foot |
| Cooktop | $500 – $1,600 |
| Oven with cooktop | $700 – $1,600 |
| Range hood | $600 – $1,700 |
| Sink | $380 – $1,400 |
| Faucet | $120 – $250 |
| Garbage disposal | $200 – $500 |
| Dishwasher | $600 – $1,700 |
| Lighting | $100 – $300 per light |
| Electrical outlet | $150 – $350 each |
| Electrical wiring | $7 – $10 per linear foot |
| New plumbing | $450 – $1,800 |
Other cost factors include:
Labor costs – A general contractor costs $50 to $150 per hour. A general contractor will supervise the project, hire subcontractors, and coordinate each aspect of the job.
Lighting – The cost to install pendant lights over the island is $100 to $300 per light. Recessed lighting costs $125 to $300 per light with installation.
Seating – Bar stools and counter stools cost $30 to $100 each on average, depending on the style.
Accessories – Optional accessories like a hanging pot rack, built-in wine rack or wine fridge, mixer lift, or slide-out shelving increase the total cost.
Replacement vs. new installation – Adding a new kitchen island typically costs more than replacing an existing one. Budget $200 to $500 for the cost of kitchen demolition if removing an old kitchen island.
Permits – A kitchen remodel permit costs $50 to $500+, depending on your location. Installing a custom kitchen island typically requires a permit. Adding a prefab island doesn't require a permit unless the island will permanently attach to the floor.
Cost of kitchen island cabinets
The cost of kitchen island cabinets is $150 to $1,200 per linear foot installed, depending on the material and whether they are stock, semi-custom, or custom:
Stock cabinets cost $100 to $400 per linear foot installed. These prefab units are the most budget-friendly option but come in limited sizes, styles, and materials.
Semi-custom cabinets cost $150 to $700 per linear foot installed and come in a wider variety of styles and finishes with more customization options than stock cabinets.
Custom cabinets cost $500 to $1,200 per linear foot installed. Contractors design and build them to fit your kitchen's unique layout with your choice of styles and materials.
To save money, ask the builder to use stock or semi-custom cabinets for the island. Even a custom kitchen island can incorporate stock cabinets.
Kitchen island countertops cost
Kitchen island countertops cost $50 to $150 per square foot installed on average, depending on the material. The cost of countertops for an average-sized island is $1,100 to $3,300 with installation.
Waterfall countertops that extend down the ends of the island add $500 to $2,000 per end, including materials and installation.
| Countertop material type | Average cost per square foot installed | Average total cost (22 SF island) |
|---|---|---|
| Quartz countertops cost | $50 – $200 | $1,100 – $4,400 |
| Granite countertops cost | $80 – $150 | $1,750 – $3,300 |
| Marble countertops cost | $40 – $150 | $900 – $3,300 |
| Corian countertops cost | $50 – $150 | $1,100 – $3,300 |
| Butcher block countertops cost | $50 – $150 | $1,100 – $3,300 |
| Laminate countertops cost | $20 – $80 | $450 – $1,750 |
| Caesarstone countertops cost | $50 – $100 | $1,100 – $2,200 |
| Concrete countertops cost | $50 – $150 | $1,100 – $3,300 |
| Epoxy countertops cost | $50 – $150 | $1,100 – $3,300 |
| Formica countertops cost | $20 – $60 | $450 – $1,300 |
| Labradorite countertops cost | $200 – $300+ | $450 – $6,600 |
| Onyx countertops cost | $50 – $200 | $1,100 – $4,400 |
| Porcelain countertops cost | $50 – $120 | $1,100 – $2,650 |
| Quartzite countertops cost | $65 – $150 | $1,400 – $3,300 |
| Recycled glass countertops cost | $60 – $250 | $1,300 – $5,500 |
| Soapstone countertops cost | $60 – $130 | $1,300 – $2,850 |
| Slate countertops cost | $50 – $100 | $1,100 – $2,200 |
| Stainless steel countertops cost | $80 – $200 | $1,750 – $4,400 |
Cost to install kitchen island with a sink and dishwasher
Installing a sink or dishwasher in your new kitchen island involves these additional costs:
Kitchen sink installation costs $380 to $1,400, depending on the style.
Kitchen faucet installation costs $120 to $250.
Dishwasher installation costs $600 to $1,700, depending on the brand, model, and features.
Installing a garbage disposal costs $200 to $500.
The cost to install plumbing pipes for a new sink or dishwasher is $450 to $1,800. Plumbers charge $45 to $150 per hour on average.
Adding an oven and range to kitchen island
A kitchen island oven and range costs $700 to $1,600 for the unit with installation. An island cooktop requires ventilation directly above it unless it has a built-in downdraft vent. Range hood installation costs $650 to $2,100, including the required ductwork and new electrical outlet.
The cost to run a gas line to the new island is $15 to $50+ per linear foot.
Adding a new air duct above an island costs $200 to $900 or more.
| Appliance | Total cost installed* |
|---|---|
| Oven / range | $700 – $1,600 |
| Cooktop only | $500 – $1,600 |
| Island range hood | $600 – $1,700 |
*Prices excluding new electrical outlets, wiring, gas line, or vent ducts.
Electrical costs
Adding a kitchen island with an oven, cooktop, dishwasher, or electrical outlets will require an electrician to run new wiring:
Electricians charge $50 to $140 per hour.
The cost to run electrical wiring is $7 to $10 per linear foot.
The cost to install a GFCI outlet is $150 to $350. Outlets along kitchen counters must be GFCI protected to prevent fatal electrical shocks.
According to National Electric Code (NEC), a kitchen island larger than 24"x12" must have at least one electrical outlet. Islands larger than 9 square feet require two or more outlets, depending on the size.
Kitchen island FAQs
Does a kitchen island add value?
A custom kitchen island typically adds value to a home and is among the top features desired by buyers. Large kitchen islands provide more counter space, extra storage, and seating. However, a kitchen island is only appealing when sized correctly to make the kitchen more functional.
A custom kitchen island adds more value than a prefabricated island.
Is it cheaper to build a kitchen island or buy one?
Buying a prefab kitchen island is typically cheaper than building a custom island. However, prefab islands come in limited sizes and materials that don't suit every kitchen shape or style.
How big should a kitchen island be?
The average size of a kitchen island is 80" x 40". A custom kitchen island can be any size that suits your kitchen but should follow these general guidelines:
A kitchen island not used for dining is 36 inches tall, the same height as other kitchen countertops.
An island used for dining should be 42 inches tall to accommodate seating.
The island should be at least 2 feet deep.
Leave at least 36" to 42" or more of space around the island.
Who builds kitchen islands?
Building a custom kitchen island can require the expertise of several pros, including:
General contractor
Carpenter or cabinet maker
Countertop installer
Plumber
Electrician
Getting kitchen island quotes
Follow these guidelines when hiring a kitchen island contractor near you:
Look for contractors who specialize in kitchen remodels.
Get at least 3 estimates featuring similar materials to compare.
Select licensed, insured, bonded companies that have been in business for 5+ years.
Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Get a detailed written estimate, contract, and warranty before work begins.
Avoid making a large upfront deposit.
Questions to ask kitchen island contractors
Ask these important questions before hiring a contractor to build your kitchen island:
What experience do you have in building kitchen islands?
Can I see a portfolio of your previous work?
What cabinet and countertop materials can I choose from?
Do you subcontract plumbers and electricians for adding attached sinks and outlets?
When can you start the project?
How long will the project take?
Will the project require a permit, and will you obtain it?
Do you guarantee your work?