How Much Does a Custom Closet Cost?

The cost to design a custom closet includes everything from adding shelving to an existing room to moving load-bearing walls to create new storage space. Overall, custom closets cost between $1,080 and $3,222 on average, with small customizations costing as little as about $250 and large installations ranging over $20,000. The majority of standard closet design projects cost an average of $2,135 depending on size, construction details, and the details of your dream closet.

Custom Closet Cost Per Foot

If you calculate the cost of all closet construction projects by the size of the space, you'll pay about $15 to $30 per square foot.

The per-square-foot costs are not to be confused with the cost of adding custom wall- or floor-mount shelving to the inside of an existing closet. Closet organizers either come in pre-made kits of shelving units and can turn an old closet of auxiliary space into a useful storage area.

Wall-Mount

Wall-mount closet organizers are popular both for their space-saving design and cost-effectiveness. You'll pay between $140 and $240 per linear foot for wall-mounted closet organizers. Higher-priced models include more areas to hang clothing, store accessories, and display shoes, while the lower price range offers a simpler design.

Floor-Mount

Floor-mount closet organizers cost a bit more, ranging from $200 to $330 per linear foot simply because of their larger size. These organizers act similarly to built-in wardrobes but fit specifically in your given closet area. As above, the price range will depend on shelves, hanging areas, drawers, mirrors, and other storage accessories.

New Custom Closet Prices by Type

Custom closet storage should blend in with your home's layout. If you have the space to build a reach-in or walk-in closet from scratch, expect your estimate to include building permits, drywall removal, and adjustments to wiring and HVAC vents.

Many homeowners also choose the very cost-effective option of turning an existing room or storage space into a more versatile closet. In this case, you may only pay for adding things like shelves, hanging rods, and any other storage containers you choose.

In either case, the three standard types of closets below come with their own average price ranges.

Cost to Build a Walk-in Closet

Walk-in closets are a dream if you're looking to prep for the day in a bit more space. Yet again, the price of a walk-in closet comes down to whether you're constructing it from scratch by removing a wall or redesigning an existing room. Final costs range anywhere from $750 to $5,000. In addition to larger construction costs, walk-in closets have space for vanities, wall mirrors, and storage islands. Designers also typically spend more time on overhead or cabinet lighting.

Reach-in Closet Installation Cost

If you go the more traditional route, reach-in closets cost between $500 and $2,500. Price factors include whether the closet existed in the first place, the type of door you choose, and adding built-in storage. And while lighting is less of a factor, designers typically still add small overhead task lighting.

Built-in Wardrobe Costs

When you don't have the option to significantly alter your home, a built-in wardrobe provides sleek storage attached to the surface of your wall. A large unit will cost between $1,500 and $6,000 depending on its size, finish, and shelving details.

Closet Installation Cost Factors

In addition to choosing the standard type of closet, you'll make countless decisions around storage, renovation details, and who to hire for each part of the design.

Labor

General contractors charge an average of $60 to $90 an hour for tasks like repairing drywall or installing custom closet organizers. You can also call in a general handyperson for $60 to $65 an hour if you have a simpler task like building a premade wardrobe.

“If you have the time and tools, closet organization can be a good DIY option,” says Andy Kilborn, Angi Expert Review Board member and owner of Andy's Handyman Service in Des Moines, IA. “However, if you have a more complex project, consider hiring a pro to tackle your project.”

Rods and Hooks

Even simple closets include hanging rods and extra hooks for clothing, bags, and additional storage containers. Hanging rods cost between $50 to $75 for materials and labor while hooks cost about $5 to $35. 

Storage

If you plan to store items in your closet beyond hanging clothing, opt for anything from simple shoe racks to built-in closet organizers. Here are some common options and their price ranges.

Accessories and Decor

Beyond storage, closets offer another space to explore your personal design style. Changing areas, seating, and lighting all change the ambiance of the space. Interior designers can help you choose details that make your space unique, including:

• Wall or standing mirror: $100–$300

• Closet seating and furniture: $500–$1,500

• Paint the room: $2–$6 per square foot

• Custom lighting: $50–$2,000

Other Factors

If you need to remove a load-bearing wall, electrical wiring, or HVAC ventwork, it's important to hire a professional for the job. You can also move the project along by calling in an interior designer. Common contractor costs include:

• Installing or replacing HVAC ductwork costs $10–$20 per linear foot.

• New wiring costs about $0.20 per linear foot and $40–$100 an hour for an electrician.

• Interior designers charge between $50 and $200 an hour, or about $200–$2,000 a room.

• Installing a new door costs an average of $400–$1,100, depending on the door material and structure.

Keep in mind that you may also have to request and pay for local construction permits for large projects like closet installation. Building permits cost between $400 to $2,200 on average.

Closet Remodel and Renovation Cost

It's important to differentiate between major closet renovation costs and simple remodels or redecorations. Renovation includes the cost to remove drywall, add a door, and install all storage, shelving, and accessories. Subtract the cost of construction if you only choose to add a closet organizer, individual rods and shelves, and decor.

DIY vs. Hire a Closet Installation Pro

Even if you're handy with a screw gun, we recommend calling a professional for custom closet installation. Contractors can tell you if your walls are strong enough to bear the wear of your chosen shelves, rods, and organizers, particularly if they are mounted on the wall. 

That being said, there are parts of the project easier to DIY. Constructing closet organizers before you attach them to the walls can save you money on a handyperson. You can also tackle painting the closet, hanging the door, and adding freestanding lighting yourself.

FAQs

How much does closet organization cost?

Installing a closet organizer costs between $700 and $2,600 when you include the materials and labor of a local handyperson. You can also skip the DIY design phase by working with a local professional organizer for an average of $500. These experts can help make your space much easier to navigate and maintain while explaining your closet design options before installation.

What’s the difference between a closet and a wardrobe?

A closet refers to a storage area set within an existing wall. A wardrobe, on the other hand, sits on the outside of a wall while providing the same amount of space as a reach-in closet.

Do built-in closets add value?

Well-designed built-in closets add value to a home when they do not replace a more valuable space. For example, if you turn a small bedroom, home office, or large pantry into a walk-in closet, it could decrease its value in the long run.

How much do California Closets cost?

As one of the more well-known names in the closet organization business, the cost of a California Closet starts at about $1,000 and ranges up to $11,000 or more depending on its size. The mid-range models range between $3,000 and $5,000.

How much does Closets by Design cost?

Reach out to a Closets by Design representative for a specific estimate of their organizational units. On average, however, they cost slightly more than California Closets, but also offer a range of sizes and customizations.