How Much Does Cabinet Painting / Refinishing Cost in San Francisco, CA?
San Francisco pricing is 55% above the national average. Updated for 2026.
Based on local labor rates, mediterranean climate conditions, and San Francisco's tech-finance-tourism economy.See our methodology
Cabinet Painting / Refinishing Pricing in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a high-cost market where cabinet painting / refinishing runs about 55% above the national average. The city's tech-finance-tourism economy supports higher wages, which translates to elevated contractor rates. With a population of 870K, competition among providers exists but demand keeps prices firm.
Local climate plays a direct role in cabinet painting / refinishing costs here. Fog and moisture create unique challenges for exterior maintenance; earthquake safety adds to all construction costs.
Market-specific factors matter in San Francisco: among the highest labor rates in the US; strict permit and inspection process adds weeks and cost to projects; rent costs for contractors get passed to consumers.
San Francisco has very strict permitting requirements. Budget an additional 5-15% for permits, inspections, and code compliance when planning your cabinet painting / refinishing project. Licensed contractors familiar with local codes can navigate this process efficiently.
San Francisco vs National Average
What Affects Cabinet Painting / Refinishing Cost in San Francisco?
Method
Professional spray painting: $2,000-$5,000. Professional brush/roll: $1,200-$3,500. DIY: $200-$600
Kitchen Size
Small kitchen (15-20 doors): $1,200-$2,500. Large (30+ doors): $2,500-$5,000
San Francisco Market Conditions
among the highest labor rates in the US; strict permit and inspection process adds weeks and cost to projects; rent costs for contractors get passed to consumers
Local Climate Impact
fog and moisture create unique challenges for exterior maintenance; earthquake safety adds to all construction costs
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Top-Rated Cabinet Painting / Refinishing Pros in San Francisco, CA
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Tips to Save on Cabinet Painting / Refinishing in San Francisco
- 1.Painting cabinets costs 80% less than replacing them
- 2.DIY is possible but professional results require spray equipment
- 3.Replace hardware for a complete fresh look at minimal cost
- 4.Keep the same layout and cabinet boxes — just update the finish
📈 Cabinet Painting / Refinishing in San Francisco Cost Trends (2020–2024)
Prices have increased +17.8% over the last 5 years
| Year | National Avg | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $3,685 | — |
| 2021 | $3,840 | +4.2% |
| 2022 | $4,090 | +6.5% |
| 2023 | $4,205 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $4,340 | +3.2% |
Based on national averages adjusted for annual inflation. Actual costs vary by location and project scope.
💬 What Did You Pay?
Real costs reported by homeowners for Cabinet Painting / Refinishing in San Francisco
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is cabinet painting worth it?
If cabinets are structurally sound, painting is one of the best kitchen ROI projects. You get a dramatic update for $2K-$4K vs $15K-$30K for new cabinets.
Why does cabinet painting / refinishing cost different in San Francisco than other cities?
San Francisco's costs reflect local labor rates driven by the tech-finance-tourism economy, mediterranean climate conditions that affect materials and scheduling, and very-strict permitting requirements. The expensive labor market also influences competitive pricing.
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