How Much Does It Cost to Build a Closet in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Homeowners spend an average of $2,000 on custom closet installations, with most projects ranging between $1,500 and $2,500. Whether you're adding simple shelving to an existing space or constructing a brand-new walk-in closet, the costs will vary based on size, design complexity, materials, and labor. Investing in a custom closet enhances storage efficiency and can increase your home's value.

Closet Installation Cost Factors

In addition to choosing the standard type of closet, you'll make other key decisions around storage, renovation details, and who to hire for each part of the design. 

Size

Expect to pay between $20 and $100 per square foot to build a custom closet, depending on materials and design complexity. Note that this cost is for building a new closet space. Adding custom shelving or organizers to an existing closet typically costs less, as you can use pre-made kits to transform your current storage into a more functional space.

Labor

Labor costs for custom closet installation typically range from $35 to $200 per hour, depending on the complexity of the work. Tasks like repairing drywall or installing organizers require skilled professionals, while simpler jobs, such as assembling a premade wardrobe, can be handled by a general handyperson at similar rates. According to Andy Kilborn, owner of Andy's Handyman Service, “If you have the time and tools, organizing your closet can be a fulfilling DIY project. For more complex installations, it's wise to hire a professional to ensure the job is done right.”

Storage

Beyond hanging space, consider enhancing your closet's functionality with accessories and storage options ranging from $45 to $2,500. Common additions include shoe racks, which are affordable and efficient for organizing footwear, and built-in closet organizers that provide a customized storage solution for clothes, accessories, and more. Investing in the right storage not only maximizes space but also adds convenience to your daily routine.

Accessories and Decor

Elevate your closet by incorporating accessories and décor that reflect your personal style. Adding elements like seating, mirrors, and specialized lighting can transform the space into a luxurious dressing area. Consider additions like painting, which can freshen up the space for $2 to $6 per square foot, and lighting fixtures, where ambient or task lighting can be installed for $100 to $250 per fixture. An interior designer can assist you in selecting the perfect details to make your closet both functional and stylish.

Other Closet Building Tasks

For significant modifications like removing load-bearing walls or relocating electrical wiring and HVAC ducts, it's crucial to hire licensed professionals. Here are some common costs to consider:

• Installing or replacing HVAC ductwork costs $10–$20 per linear foot.

• New wiring costs about $6–$8 per square foot.

• Interior designers charge between $50 and $200 an hour, or about $200–$2,000 a room.

• Installing a new door costs an average of $150–$300, depending on the door material and structure.

Permits

Remember to factor in the cost of building permits for large projects like closet installation. On average, building permits cost between $100 and $450.

Custom Closet Cost by Type

Building a custom closet that seamlessly integrates with your home's layout can enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Depending on your space and needs, there are several types of closets to choose from.

Cost to Build a Walk-in Closet

Walk-in closets are a dream if you're looking to prep for the day in a bit more space. Yet again, the price of a walk-in closet comes down to whether you're constructing it from scratch by removing a wall or redesigning an existing room. Final costs range anywhere from $750 to $3,500. In addition to larger construction costs, walk-in closets have space for vanities, wall mirrors, and storage islands. Designers also typically spend more time on overhead or cabinet lighting.

Reach-in Closet Installation Cost

If you go the more traditional route, reach-in closets cost between $250 and $1,500. Price factors include whether the closet existed in the first place, the type of door you choose, and adding built-in storage. And while lighting is less of a factor, designers typically still add small overhead task lighting.

Built-in Shelving

When you don't have the option to significantly alter your home, built-in shelving offers a sleek storage solution attached directly to your walls. Depending on materials, finish, and configuration, a typical installation costs between $75 and $500+.

DIY vs. Hire a Closet Installation Pro

While DIY projects can be fulfilling, hiring a professional for custom closet installation ensures safety and quality. Professionals can assess if your walls can support shelves, rods, and wall-mounted organizers, preventing potential damage. However, there are tasks you can handle yourself to save on costs, such as preassembling closet organizers before installation, adding a personal touch with a fresh coat of paint, and installing freestanding lighting to enhance ambiance without complex wiring. Enhance your storage space by connecting with a professional custom closet installer or local handyperson.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.