A kitchen island costs an average of $4,800
A kitchen island costs $4,800 on average, with a range from $900 and $6,500.
Prices vary depending on island shape and type, built-in features like sinks or appliances, and labor.
Prefabricated islands are more affordable, while custom-built options can exceed $10,000.
Adding appliances, plumbing, or electrical work will increase the overall cost and require professional expertise to install.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
A kitchen island costs $4,800 on average, with a normal range of $900 and $6,500, though low-cost rolling carts can start at $100, while high-end custom islands can exceed $10,000. Costs vary based on type, shape, features like countertops and cabinets, and labor. Careful budgeting and working with a professional can help you design and install the perfect kitchen island that fits your needs and stays within your budget.
There are several types of kitchen islands to choose from, and each has its own price range. Here are the options for island types and the average costs for each. The total cost varies according to the size of the island, the materials used, and whether it has electricity and running water.
Island Type | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Rolling cart | $100–$900 |
Prefab stationary | $900–$5,000 |
Custom | $3,000–$10,000 |
Base cabinets with countertop | $350–$4,000 |
Prefab kitchen islands are a budget-friendly option if you're looking to enhance your kitchen without a hefty price tag. Rolling carts are the most affordable choice, ranging from $100 to $900, and are perfect for small spaces or if you need something mobile. More permanent prefabricated stationary islands cost between $900 and $5,000, offering additional storage and workspace without the expense of a custom build.
Custom-built kitchen islands offer endless possibilities to create the perfect centerpiece for your kitchen. They can be tailored to your specific needs, preferences, and existing kitchen design. Custom models start at $3,000 and can exceed $10,000, depending on size and features.
Adding appliances, plumbing, or electrical work will increase the cost, especially since you'll need to hire professionals like plumbers and electricians. Features like additional cabinetry, waterfall countertops, or a breakfast bar can also add to the total price.
Kitchen islands are also available in a wide variety of styles, each with its own price range and suitable uses.
Island Style | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Rolling card | $100–$900 |
Rectangular | $500–$2,000 |
L-shaped | $1,000–$7,500 |
U-shaped | $2,000–$10,000 |
Galley | $500–$6,000 |
Rolling cart islands are a great budget-friendly option if you want extra workspace and storage without committing to a permanent fixture. Prices start at $100 and go up to $900 for larger models. These portable islands usually have cabinets, drawers, or open shelving, and they work well for small kitchens or renters since you can move them easily or take them with you when you move.
Rectangular kitchen islands integrate nicely with almost any kitchen design. If you have an open floor plan, a rectangular island works well to divide the space without needing a wall. These islands cost $500 to $2,000, depending on the size and features. Many rectangular options allow for sinks, seating, and cooktops. You'll find rectangular kitchen islands in many different sizes and materials at various price points.
L-shaped kitchen islands provide plenty of versatility, thanks to increased counter space and storage, though they may not fit into every kitchen design. These kitchen islands are more costly than other options, at $1,000 to $7,500. You'll most likely find them outfitted with cooktops, sinks, dishwashers, and extra room for seating. Like most island types, L-shaped models are available in many sizes and materials to match many medium or large-sized kitchens.
If you have a large kitchen and need plenty of space for cooking, storage, and seating, you might consider installing a U-shaped island. These models offer many features and cost between $2,000 and $10,000. They provide enough room for seating around the edges, multiple sinks, and a cooktop or two. Most U-shaped kitchen islands are custom-built, require plenty of space, and are great for kitchens with large and open floor plans.
As the name suggests, galley kitchen islands are a great fit for galley-style kitchens, as they are long and rectangular. Galley islands cost between $500 and $6,000, depending on the size and materials used.
Hiring a kitchen designer costs from $4,300 to $30,000. It's a great idea if the island is part of a larger kitchen remodeling project. Dedicated kitchen designers make the most of your available space, helping create a kitchen that meets your needs while fitting in with your home's design plans.
Adding fixtures like plumbing and appliances will increase this range by $6,000 to $10,000 or more for your kitchen installation costs, especially since you’ll need a local plumber and local electrician to help you get it done right.
You’ll need a plumbing pro to install attached sinks and dishwashers. Hiring a plumber costs $45 to $200 per hour, depending on the type of job and your location, with some plumbers charging a flat fee for certain projects.
Some fixtures require electricity for use. Hiring an electrician costs $165 to $535 per hour, although they charge flat fees for certain projects. Installing or replacing GFCI outlets costs $150 to $400 on average, and additional wiring costs $7 to $12 per linear foot.
Whether you go prefab or custom, adding on appliances and fixtures dramatically increases the price of a kitchen island. Some popular features include dishwashers, cabinets, sinks, and countertops. Here are some common add-ons that impact the price.
Feature | Average Cost Range |
---|---|
Sink | $400–$1,500 |
Dishwasher | $700–$2,000 |
Oven and range | $700–$2,000 |
Cabinets | $100–$1,300 per linear foot |
Countertops | $20–$350 per square foot |
The cost of countertops varies greatly depending on the countertop material and finish you choose. Waterfall islands that give the appearance of being manufactured from a single stone add at least $1,000 to the overall price, as this type requires a computer-controlled laser cutter.
Simple projects like setting up a prefabricated rolling cart or stationary island without plumbing or electrical work can be suitable for DIY. However, for more complex installations involving plumbing, electrical wiring, or custom designs, hiring a professional kitchen remodeler is a smart choice. Professionals have the expertise to handle intricate kitchen installations safely, obtain necessary permits, and ensure everything meets local building codes. While hiring a kitchen remodeling pro adds to the upfront cost, it can save you money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes and ensuring a high-quality result.
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Deciding whether to buy or build a kitchen island depends on your budget and needs. A custom island is probably the best choice if you want features like a built-in sink or electrical outlets. If you're looking for basic functionality and want to save money, a prefabricated unit might be the way to go. Think about your design goals, how you'll use the island, and what fits best in your kitchen and budget.
Yes, if you plan to have appliances like a cooktop or need electrical outlets on your island, you'll need proper gas or electric lines. You'll also need to consider ventilation options like a range hood. There are different styles to choose from, such as chimney-style hoods that hang from the ceiling or downdraft extractors built into the island. Each option has its pros and cons, so think about what works best for your kitchen design. Be sure to consult a professional to ensure everything is installed safely and correctly.
You might need a permit to install a kitchen island, depending on your project. Simple installations without plumbing or electrical work usually don't require one. However, if you're adding new plumbing or electrical lines, you'll likely need a permit. Check with your local building department or ask your contractor to find out what's required in your area. Depending on the scope of your project, permit costs can range from $460 to $2,900, but getting the proper permits ensures your project meets safety codes.