How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pantry?

Average Cost to Build a Pantry

Pantry Prices

Walls

The cost of installing a pantry varies based on the complexity of the project and the materials you use. Removing a non-load-bearing wall costs between $300 and $1,000. If you’re adding onto the square footage of your house by extending your pantry outside the existing walls, expect to spend another $5,000 or more. Repairing the drywall tacks on another $300 to $800.

Shelving

The cost of your shelving will depend on the size of your pantry and the materials you’re using. Pros usually use materials like melamine and maple/birch plywood for shelving, and the cost runs around $400 to $750. These prices include labor and framing, mounting and custom fit.

Electrical

If you’re going to need electricity in your pantry, you can expect to pay about $6 to $8 per square foot for wiring.

Permits

Most building in a house requires a permit, and those range from $400 to $2,200.

Other

Depending on how elaborate your design is, other features such as a chilled wine rack or an insulated door can elevate costs between $10,000 and $20,000.

Pantry Installation Costs

Labor costs for pantry installation run around $50 to $450 per linear foot, depending on the type of shelving and how complicated your project is. If you’re looking to build a bumpout, your labor costs will jump significantly since you’re essentially building an addition.

Pantry Cost by Type

Reach-In

Given that reach-in pantries are smaller than walk-ins, this type of pantry usually costs the least. The price runs from $250 to $1,500 and varies depending on the drywall finish and type of shelving. Pros often charge more to hang drywall in a 3’ by 3’ space than a larger space since it’s more difficult to maneuver.

Small Walk-In

A small walk-in pantry that’s 5’ by 5’ ranges from $750 to $2,000, again depending on the number of shelves, type of shelving, and what amenities you’re going to install.

Large Walk-In

Larger walk-in pantries, like a 100-square-foot layout, run $2,000 to $3,500 on average.

Pantry Cost by Size

New pantries usually average in cost between $20 and $40 per square foot. You’ll pay the least if your installation doesn’t require knocking down any walls or installing new electrical. If you’re building into an existing space and have a larger budget, you may be able to put in more bells and whistles.

Pantry Cost Factors

The cost of installing your new pantry depends on a few factors. Size, materials, and type of pantry are the largest elements that will influence your budget. If you’re building a larger walk-in pantry made of more expensive materials and lots of custom elements, expect your costs to be on the high end of the spectrum versus a reach-in pantry with more basic shelving.

"When hiring a pro to install a pantry, be sure to get several bids,” says Andy Kilborn, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor. “Often, different pros will have different designs and pricing, and you can find a style and price that matches your needs."

DIY vs. Hire a Pro

Due to the fairly complex nature of the project, it’s best to hire a professional versus building a pantry yourself. A pro will ensure that walls are built properly to support weight and that all the shelving meets your specifications. If you’re installing electricity in your pantry, hiring a pro is imperative. Working on electrical elements comes with serious risks that can have dire consequences if everything is not done correctly.

FAQs

What are some types of pantries?

• Walk-in pantries are pretty self-explanatory, much like a walk-in closet for your kitchen. They are larger, so they tend to be in larger kitchens where space is available.

• Butler’s pantries were originally designed to allow food preparation and cleanup done out of view. They have extra countertop space and cabinet space and are a good option if you do a lot of entertaining and have the square footage to spare.

• Slide-out pantries consist of sliding shelves and rotating doors that are incorporated into the existing cabinets of a kitchen to provide more storage space.

• Reach-in pantries are built into your kitchen but are smaller than walk-in pantries so you can just “reach in” and grab whatever you need. If you’re short on space but need storage, these are a great choice.

What is the difference between a pantry and a scullery?

Butler’s pantries and sculleries were a popular design choice in Victorian and Colonial homes that had kitchen staff. They are both areas hidden away from the kitchen where food prep and cleanup can be done, but sculleries are basically a secondary kitchen and often have a sink, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and small appliances.

Should a pantry be ventilated?

The need for pantry ventilation depends on the type of climate you live in. Since pantries store food, they need ventilation to control moisture, odors, and heat. If you live in a hot, damp climate, installing good ventilation in your pantry is essential. An HVAC professional can install an exhaust fan or a jump vent, or you can use a ductless fan as a DIY option. If you’re building a bump out pantry, you might even consider putting a window in for ventilation.

What is the ideal temperature range in a pantry?

Pantries should be cool, dry, and dark, and you should aim to keep the temperature between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.