They can be, but not always, especially when installation costs are separated.
Many homeowners assume custom cabinets are automatically out of budget, but the true cost difference often comes from bundled services like full-service installation and prolonged design back-and-forth. When cabinets are custom-designed and fabricated, then installed by a contractor or handyman, the price gap narrows significantly.
This approach gives homeowners access to custom fit and quality without paying for services they may not need, making custom cabinets far more attainable.