Under-Cabinet Lighting Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of installing under-cabinet kitchen lighting based on linear footage, light type, and location.
A under-cabinet kitchen lighting installation costs $400 to $1,500, with a national average of $900. Use the calculator below to estimate your cost by size, quality tier, and location.
Last updated: March 25, 2026
Under-Cabinet Lighting Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of installing under-cabinet kitchen lighting based on linear footage, light type, and location.
Estimated Total
$700
Itemized Breakdown
This calculator provides estimates based on national averages adjusted for your region. Actual costs may vary significantly based on specific project conditions, contractor availability, material prices, and local market factors. Always get at least 3 quotes from licensed, insured contractors before starting your project.
Want the full picture?
Read our complete Under-Cabinet Kitchen Lighting Installation cost guide with material comparisons, contractor tips, savings strategies, and regional pricing data.
Quick Cost Reference
Cost by Tier
Plug-in LED strip lights or battery puck lights, minimal wiring, 6-8 linear feet of coverage
Hardwired LED strip or light bar system with dimmer switch, 12-16 linear feet, hidden wiring
Hardwired LED system with color temperature control, under and in-cabinet lighting, smart switch, 16-24 linear feet
How This Calculator Works
This under-cabinet lighting cost calculator estimates your total project cost from four inputs: project size, quality tier, the options you select, and your location. It combines material and labor rates for your chosen tier, adds typical permit costs, then applies a regional cost multiplier so the estimate reflects pricing in your state.
Estimates use 2026 cost data cross-referenced from multiple industry sources. Treat the result as a planning range, not a quote. Your final price depends on your specific scope, material choices, and local contractor availability, so collect at least three itemized bids before you set a budget.
What Affects Your Under-Cabinet Kitchen Lighting Installation Cost
Plug-In vs. Hardwired
$200 - $800Plug-in LED strips cost $50-$200 and take 30 minutes to install. Hardwired systems cost $400-$1,500 but hide all wires inside the wall and cabinets. Hardwiring adds $200-$800 in electrical labor but looks significantly cleaner and adds home value.
Linear Footage of Coverage
$15 - $40 per linear footMost kitchens need 10-20 linear feet of under-cabinet lighting. LED strips run $15-$25 per linear foot installed. LED light bars cost $25-$40 per linear foot installed. A small galley kitchen (8-10 ft) costs less than an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen (16-24 ft).
Lighting Type
$100 - $500LED tape/strip lights ($3-$8/ft for materials) are the most popular and provide even illumination. LED puck lights ($15-$40 each) create pools of light with darker spots between. LED light bars ($20-$60 each) offer a middle ground. Strips provide the most uniform look.
Controls and Dimming
$50 - $300A basic on/off switch adds $20-$50. A hardwired dimmer switch costs $50-$100. Smart switches with app and voice control run $80-$200. Color-temperature-adjustable systems (warm to cool white) add $100-$300 over fixed-color options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a under-cabinet kitchen lighting installation cost?
A under-cabinet kitchen lighting installation costs $400 to $1,500 for a typical project, with a national average of $900. Budget projects start around $200, and premium work can reach $2,500. Use the calculator above for an estimate matched to your size, quality tier, and state.
How does this under-cabinet kitchen lighting installation cost calculator work?
It combines 2026 material and labor rates for your selected quality tier, adds typical permit costs and any options you choose, then applies a cost multiplier for your state. Adjust the inputs to see your estimate update instantly.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes. This under-cabinet kitchen lighting installation cost calculator is free, requires no signup, and returns instant estimates.
Does the estimate include labor and permits?
Yes. Each estimate combines material and labor costs for your chosen quality tier plus typical permit fees. Your final price still depends on your specific scope and local contractor rates, so collect itemized quotes before budgeting.
How can I lower my under-cabinet kitchen lighting installation cost?
Install plug-in LED strip lights yourself for $50-$150 in materials - saves $300-$600 in electrician labor Buy LED strip kits from Amazon or home centers instead of custom lighting shops - same quality for 40-60% less
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