How Much Does a Custom Pantry Cost in 2025?
Building a custom pantry costs an average of $2,000
The average cost to build a custom pantry is $2,000, and most homeowners spend between $1,100 and $2,900.
High-end materials, customizations, and extra features increase the overall cost.
Hiring a professional to build your pantry ensures the space is code-compliant and the finishes are long-lasting.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average custom pantry costs between $1,100 and $2,900, with a national average of $2,000. Reach-in pantries cost between $250 and $1,500, while walk-in pantries range from $750 to $3,500. High-end materials like hardwood doors can increase your project's cost.
Custom Pantry Cost Factors
Several factors influence the cost of your new pantry, including size, materials, and pantry type. Larger walk-in pantries with high-end materials and custom features will cost more than basic reach-in pantries with standard shelving.
Size
On average, building a pantry costs $20 to $40 per square foot. Pantries that don’t require electricity or wall removal will be on the lower end, while more costly materials and finishes can reach $50 to $450 per linear foot.
Walls
The cost of installing a pantry depends on the project's complexity and materials. Removing a non-load-bearing wall costs between $300 and $1,000. Extending your pantry beyond existing walls can add $5,000 or more to your project as you're increasing your home's square footage.
Shelving
The cost of your shelving will depend on the size of your pantry and the materials you’re using. Pantry installation 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 need electricity in your pantry for light fixtures or outlets, you'll pay about $6 to $8 per square foot for wiring.
Permits
Most building in a house requires a permit, and the cost ranges from $400 to $2,200. Your pantry building pro will advise you on the permitting process and local code requirements.
Labor
The average labor cost for building a pantry is $20 per square foot. Customizations take longer to install and require more expertise, meaning your costs can increase if you have a complex design. Building a bump-out pantry will significantly increase labor costs since it involves adding to your home's structure.
Extra Features
Depending on how elaborate your design is, other features, such as a chilled wine rack or an insulated door, can elevate costs.
Pantry Cost by Type
There are three main types of panties you can build, each with its own cost range. This is the cost breakdown by pantry type.
| Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Reach-in | $250–$1,500 |
| Small walk-in | $750–$2,000 |
| Large walk-in | $2,000–$3,500 |
Reach-In
Reach-in pantries are smaller and the most affordable, costing between $250 and $1,500. Costs vary based on drywall finish and shelving type. Interestingly, professionals may charge more to hang drywall in a tight 9-square-foot space because maneuvering in small areas is more challenging.
Small Walk-In
A small walk-in pantry that’s 25 square feet costs $750 to $2,000, again depending on the number of shelves, type of shelving, and amenities you’re going to install.
Large Walk-In
Larger walk-in pantries, like a 100-square-foot layout, run an average of $2,000 to $3,500. The larger your pantry, the higher your material costs will be, as you’ll need more shelving, drywall, paint, and other interior finishes.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pantry Installation Pro
While building a simple pantry might seem achievable, hiring a professional ensures your pantry is constructed safely and meets all your specifications. Pros have the expertise to build sturdy walls and install shelving correctly. If you're adding features like lighting, a licensed electrician is essential to handle the wiring safely.
"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."
Connect with trusted local kitchen remodeling professionals to get started on your project and ensure quality results that you can enjoy for years to come.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pantries come in distinct types designed to meet various storage and functional needs, with each type offering unique benefits. Walk-in pantries provide ample space for storing food and kitchen essentials, while butler’s pantries offer a dedicated area for food preparation and storage separate from the main kitchen. Slide-out pantries integrate into existing cabinetry with adjustable shelving, maximizing space efficiency in compact areas, and reach-in pantries are built into the kitchen for easy access to everyday items.
To clearly understand the difference between a pantry and a scullery, it is important to note that a pantry is a dedicated space solely for food storage, organizing ingredients, canned goods, and other supplies. In contrast, a scullery is designed as a secondary kitchen area intended for food preparation and cleanup, often featuring appliances such as sinks, refrigerators, microwaves, and dishwashers, along with additional work surfaces.
The ideal temperature for panties to be kept is between 50°F and 70°F to preserve food quality and optimize freshness. This temperature range reduces spoilage and limits bacterial growth. Using a dehumidifier or your home's HVAC system can help maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels to keep your food fresh.
Pantry shelves should be at least 12 inches deep for easy access and organization of canned food and dried goods. Larger walk-in pantries can accommodate shelves between 15 and 18 inches deep to hold bigger appliances, packages, and cookware, helping you store bulkier items effectively while keeping your pantry organized.
Get our Angi-powered app
