Custom Closet Cost Calculator: Costs by Size, Layout, and Materials

Want to quickly find out how much it will cost to design your closet? This custom closet cost calculator takes your dimensions, materials, hardware choices, and storage components to determine a rough estimate of your total price. Enter your details below to get started.

How this Closet Price Calculator Works

This calculator is designed to give you a realistic budget range that ranges from (low/typical/high) based on the variables that most closet companies use when they give an estimate. You need to enter the length of walls you’ll be building on, what materials you want to choose, and how many “upgrades”, like different amounts of drawers, fronts, accessories, and light fixtures, you plan on adding. The results are not a quote, but it’s a solid way to get a rough idea, compare options, and see what changes will do to the total cost of the project.

1) It estimates how much closet you’re building 

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The tool looks at the size of your closet and your layout shape (single wall, double wall, L-shape, U-shape) to determine the approximate linear feet of wall space used for shelving, hanging, and storage towers. More wall coverage means you have space for extra panels, shelves, and additional labor costs.

2) “System material” sets the base price

The system material is the biggest price driver because it sets the base cost per linear foot:

• Wire: lowest cost, fastest install, and the most “basic” look
• Laminate/Melamine: popular mid-range option, with a clean look, and good durability
• Paint-grade MDF: great for a built-in look when painted, but adds more finishing work
• Veneer/Hardwood: higher-end appearance and price tag
• Custom built-in (painted): highest cost tier due to fitting and additional finishing labor

3) Hardware tier scales the build (especially drawers)

Hardware is priced like a quality multiplier, with premium slides, soft-close hinges, and better pulls costing more and being common in higher-end closet systems.

• Basic: standard slides/pulls
• Standard: better quality, often soft-close
• Premium: higher-grade slides, hinges, and pulls (these are more noticeable on drawer-heavy designs)

4) Door fronts add cost per drawer/face

Door fronts are treated as a per-piece upgrade. The more drawers (or covered fronts) you add, the more this will add to the final cost:

• Open (none): $0 add-on
• Slab: lower-cost clean front
• Shaker: more detail, higher cost
• Glass inserts: the highest cost due to materials and detailing

5) Components and upgrades add to the total

This is where the total price can jump quickly, as these are more expensive upgrades:

• Drawer stacks (the biggest add-on after the base system)
• Shelving towers
• Shoe storage (these are angled racks/cubbies that cost more than flat shelves)
• Accessories (hamper pull-outs, valet rods, belt racks, jewelry drawers)
• Trim/fillers (optional) for a more built-in, and seamless look

6) Installation and complexity affect labor

If you choose pro install, labor is estimated using a combination of:

• a minimum “base” install cost, plus an amount that scales with your wall coverage, and the project’s complexity (some things that increase the cost are uneven walls, tight access, and more fitting work)
• DIY shows a much lower total because the cost of labor is reduced or removed.

7) Why do you see a low/typical/high range

Closet pricing can change a lot due to where you live, the brand, and the installer you choose. The range helps breakdown differences, like:

• stock vs semi-custom systems
• simpler vs more complex installs
• standard hardware vs premium hardware

Closet Design Tips You Can Use

When designing a closet system, it’s important that you consider how you’ll use the space to get the most out of it. Here are a few ways to maximize your storage capacity and create an efficient space.

1) Use double-hang wherever possible

Double-hang or two clothing rods stacked is one of the best ways to boost your closet’s capacity. Use double hang rods for shirts, jackets, pants, and kids’ clothing.

Rule of thumb:

• Short-hang zones are typically 40 to 42″ tall 
• Long-hang zones are typically 60 to 66″ tall

2) Put drawers where you’ll actually use them

Drawers are expensive, so you’ll want to place them strategically:

• Place them at waist height where they are easy to access.
• Use drawers for smaller items such as socks, underwear, gym clothes, and accessories.
• If the budget is tight, use a single drawer stack and more shelves instead.

3) Don’t waste prime wall space on deep shelves

Very deep shelves can turn into a catchall where junk accumulates. Here are the sizes to consider:

• 12″ deep shelves for folded clothes and bins
• 14 to 16″ for bulk storage

4) Put shoe storage on the shortest wall

Placing shoes works best where the depth won’t block any walking paths. Angled shoe racks look great, but go with simple shelves for the best value.

5) Plan around the “walkway” aisle first

A closet that feels tight is a daily annoyance. Here are some general comfort targets:

• A 24″ walkway is passable but may feel tight
• 30 to 36″ feels comfortable
• In U-shapes, the center clearance matters the most

6) Mix open and closed storage for a cleaner look

If you want it to feel high-end without maxing the budget, try this:

• Keep shelves/hanging mostly open
• Add a few closed front drawers or doors to hide visual clutter
• Consider matching bins for the top shelf above the rods for infrequently used items

7) Add lighting before you add more stuff

Even simple LED strip lighting can make the closet feel larger and have a more premium feel. If you’re not hardwiring, plug-in or battery-puck lights are a good, cheap option.

A quick way to lower the total price without getting fewer functions

If the estimate is higher than you want, try adjusting in this order:

• Reduce drawer count, as this is the largest upgrade cost
• Switch door fronts to open or slab
• Choose standard hardware instead of using premium options
• Keep shoe storage as basic shelves instead of angled ones
• Limit trim/fillers unless you desire a true built-in look

This calculator is for entertainment purposes only. Please use your due diligence before buying any products. Always get more than one quote when dealing with closet storage contractors so you get a price that is right for you and your budget.