Kitchen unit prices in South Africa have not changed drastically in recent times, although inflation and raw material price hikes have impacted costs. This comprehensive guide explores the cost of kitchen units in South Africa, what drives pricing, available options, and budget tips for homeowners, renters, and contractors alike.
Designing or renovating a kitchen is one of the most rewarding but financially demanding home improvements. In South Africa, kitchen unit prices vary widely based on material, layout, customization, and region.
How Much Is Kitchen Unit In South Africa
Cost Overview: What South Africans Are Paying in 2025
The average cost of kitchen units in South Africa depends largely on size, finish, and whether the installation is DIY or professional. Here’s a breakdown:
Cost Per Linear Metre
Melamine/MDF Units: R4,000 – R6,000
Plywood or Veneered Units: R6,000 – R12,000
Solid Wood/High Gloss Units: R10,000 – R20,000+
Cost of Full Kitchen Installation
Entry-Level Kitchen (Flat-Pack): R30,000 – R70,000
Mid-Range Kitchen (Custom Wrap Finish): R85,000 – R130,000
High-End Kitchen (Stone Tops, Custom Units): R150,000 – R220,000
Ultra-Luxury (Bespoke Cabinetry, Imported Finishes): R320,000+
Prices fluctuate depending on region, brand, and contractor expertise. Cape Town and Johannesburg generally report higher installation costs than smaller towns.
Materials and Finishes: What You’re Paying For
The choice of material significantly affects kitchen unit pricing:
Melamine And MDF
These are the most affordable. Pre-laminated boards are easy to clean and widely available.
Pros: Affordable, many color options, widely stocked.
Cons: Less durable, prone to water damage over time.
Plywood and Veneer
A step above melamine in terms of longevity.
Pros: Lightweight, strong, good for custom jobs.
Cons: Pricier than melamine, requires finishing.
Solid Wood
Premium option with beautiful grain and long life.
Pros: High-end look, strong resale value.
Cons: Expensive, requires sealing and maintenance.
High Gloss And Spray Paint Finishes
Stylish and often seen in contemporary kitchens.
Pros: Modern aesthetic, customizable.
Cons: Fingerprints and scratches can be noticeable.
Custom Or Flat-Pack Units
Flat-Pack Units
Flat-pack kitchens are pre-cut, ready-to-assemble modules that are cheaper and quicker to install.
Pricing: R2,000 – R6,000 per cabinet
Best For: DIY renovations, landlords, budget-conscious buyers
Custom-Built Units
Custom kitchens are made to order by professional cabinetmakers or carpenters.
Pricing: R4,000 – R20,000 per metre
Best For: Homeowners looking for tailored layouts, unique materials, or non-standard spaces
Countertops and Additional Costs
Cabinetry is just one part of the total kitchen cost. Don’t forget countertops, hardware, backsplashes, and appliances.
Countertops
Laminate: R600 – R1,200/m
Granite: R1,200 – R3,000/m
Quartz/Engineered Stone: R2,000 – R4,000/m
Concrete/Custom: R2,500 – R5,000/m
Additional Costs
Plumbing and Electrical Work: R8,000 – R20,000
Tiling and Painting: R5,000 – R15,000
Appliances: R20,000 – R70,000 (oven, hob, fridge, extractor)
Installation Labor: R1,500 – R4,000/day depending on complexity
Regional Price Comparison
Here’s how kitchen unit prices compare across major South African cities:
| City | Basic (per metre) | Premium |
| Johannesburg | R4,000 | R15,000 – R20,000 |
| Pretoria | R3,800 | R12,000 – R18,000 |
| Durban | R4,500 | R14,000 – R18,000 |
| Cape Town | R5,500 | R16,000 – R22,000 |
| Port Elizabeth | R3,500 | R10,000 – R15,000 |
Prices also vary depending on suburb, access to suppliers, and distance from manufacturing hubs.
Kitchen Layout and Design Complexity
Design intricacy has a direct impact on price. More corners, islands, or built-in appliances mean more work and higher costs.
Basic Layout (Galley/Single Wall)
Lower cost, minimal cabinetry
Easy for DIY
L-Shaped/U-Shaped Layout
More storage
Ideal for mid-sized kitchens
Higher cost due to corner units and custom fitting
Open Plan with Island
Most expensive
Requires structural planning
Extra cabinetry, plumbing, and wiring
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
Budget Kitchen – Soweto, Gauteng
Kitchen Size: 5 linear metres
Materials: Flat-pack melamine units
Countertop: Laminate
Total Cost: R28,000 (DIY installation)
Mid-Range Kitchen – Durban North
Kitchen Size: 10 linear metres
Materials: Wrap-finished MDF, granite tops
Extras: Under-cabinet lighting, tiling
Total Cost: R120,000 (contractor-installed)
Luxury Kitchen – Camps Bay, Cape Town
Kitchen Size: 12 linear metres
Materials: Custom-built solid wood with quartz tops
Extras: Built-in appliances, soft-close hinges, motion-sensor lights
Total Cost: R350,000+
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating Budget:** Always add 10–20% buffer for surprises.
Not Checking Contractors’ References: Poor installation can ruin good materials.
Ignoring Plumbing and Electrical Layouts: Relocating services increases cost dramatically.
Choosing Cheap Hardware: Hinges and runners wear out quickly in high-use kitchens.
Skipping Professional Advice: Interior designers or kitchen planners can help optimize layout and avoid costly errors.
Budgeting Tips for South African Homeowners
Plan Your Layout in Advance: Minimize unnecessary corners or special fittings.
Compare Multiple Quotes: Get at least 3 quotes, with itemized breakdowns.
Buy During Promotions: Look out for Builders Warehouse, Leroy Merlin, and Chamberlain sales.
Use Local Materials: Imported products increase lead time and cost.
Consider Hybrid Installations: Combine flat-pack cabinets with custom countertops or splashbacks.
Market Trends In 2025
Modular Kitchens: More retailers are offering modular kits with integrated appliances.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Bamboo and recycled plastic boards are gaining popularity.
Smart Storage: Pull-out pantries, corner carousels, and soft-close drawers are now standard in mid-tier units.
Digital Planning Tools: Brands like Easylife Kitchens and HomeConcept offer virtual design tools to simulate layouts before you buy.
Online Shopping: Builders and Makro now allow full kitchen orders via e-commerce.
What Should You Expect to Pay?
In 2025, South African homeowners can expect to spend:
R30,000 – R70,000 for a basic kitchen
R85,000 – R130,000 for a mid-range kitchen
R150,000 – R300,000+ for a luxury kitchen
Closing
When it comes to kitchen equipment prices in South Africa, your final price will depend on materials, location, customization, and whether you hire professionals or take the DIY route. While the initial cost may seem steep, a well-planned kitchen improves home value and daily functionality.
Whether you’re revamping a rental, building your dream home, or upgrading an investment property, knowing what to expect with kitchen unit pricing will help you stay on budget and get the best return on investment.
For the best results, always consult professionals, research brands and materials, and compare quotes carefully before committing to a kitchen renovation in South Africa.