Thinking about adding a kitchen island? You’re not alone—it’s one of the most popular upgrades people are considering for their kitchens nowadays. A kitchen island gives you more counter space, more storage, and a nice central spot to gather with family or guests. Some even use it to work in a nice home-office setting. Seriously, when you have a functional kitchen island, the opportunities are endless.
Now the question is… how much should you plan to spend on one. Let’s walk through what affects the cost and how you can budget for a kitchen island that fits your needs and your space.
Types of Kitchen Islands and Their Costs
There are a few different kinds of kitchen islands, and the one you choose will affect the price.
Pre-Assembled vs. Custom-Built
- Pre-Assembled Islands: These are ready-made and can be placed in your kitchen with little work. They’re usually less expensive, starting around $500 and going up to $2,000, depending on the size and quality.
- Custom-Built Islands: These are made just for your kitchen, with materials and features you choose. They fit better, last longer, and look amazing. Custom islands usually cost $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on what you want to add.
At KBR Kitchen&Bath, we specialize in custom kitchen islands that are built to match your kitchen perfectly. If you’re going for a quality, long-lasting solution, our experts are here to help.
Movable vs. Built-In
- Movable Islands: These are freestanding, often on wheels. They’re useful but usually don’t offer as much storage or feel as permanent. Prices range from $300 to $1,500.
- Built-In Islands: These are installed into your kitchen and often include things like sinks or outlets. They’re more permanent and start around $2,500 and up.
Key Factors That Affect Kitchen Island Cost
There are a few things that can change the final cost of your island.
Size and Materials
Bigger islands need more materials and more work to install, so naturally they cost more. And of course the materials you choose matter—a basic wood countertop will cost less than a high-end marble one.
Features and Appliances
Do you want a sink? A wine fridge? Extra drawers? All of these features are useful but will raise the total cost.
Installation and Labor
Paying for professional installation makes a big difference in quality. Labor can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on how complex the job is.
Our team handles everything from start to finish, and the only thing you have to worry about is choosing between a lot of marvelous options. You can take a quick look at our portfolio on our website or visit one of our three showrooms to take a closer look at kitchen island models. We are located in Fairfax, Bethesda and Manassas.
Cost of Common Kitchen Island Materials
Here are the average prices of some of the popular countertop materials:
| Material | Cost per Sq. Ft. |
| Laminate | $20 – $50 |
| Butcher Block | $35 – $100 |
| Granite | $60 – $150 |
| Quartz | $70 – $140 |
| Marble | $100 – $250 |
| Solid Wood | $80 – $200 |
Note: These are just for materials—the total cost will also include fabrication and installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a kitchen island worth the money?
A: Yes! A well-made island adds a lot of function and style to your kitchen, and it can even increase your home’s value.
Q: How long does it take to install a kitchen island?
A: It depends on the design and if you’re adding things like plumbing or electrical. Most installs take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Q: Can I choose the size and features of my island?
A: Absolutely. That’s one of the best parts of working with a custom cabinet company like KBR Kitchen&Bath. With years of experience behind us, we will help you design an island that fits your taste and lifestyle.
Q: What’s the first step?
A: Start with a chat. We’ll look at your space, talk about what you need, and help you come up with a plan that works for your home and your budget. It is possible to book a free consultation with us on our website, so don’t wait to take the first step in transforming your kitchen!
A kitchen island is more than just an extra counter—it can be the centerpiece of your kitchen. If you’re thinking about adding one, we’d love to help you design and build something beautiful, functional, and built to last.
P.S. If you want to learn more about kitchen islands, we have you covered. Take a look at our blog post ….
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