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There are several ways to save money and keep costs down when building an outdoor kitchen. Building on an existing patio can reduce the cost of a new foundation, especially if it's close to the house. You can also save on utility line installation by opting out of a sink and using a built-in propane or charcoal grill. If you have the skills, tackling parts of the project yourself—like building or finishing cabinets, installing fixtures, and constructing seating—can lead to significant savings. Reusing appliances you already have is another great way to cut costs. Finally, consider starting small with just the essential components and adding more features over time as your budget allows.

Custom cabinets made from solid wood are the most durable, lasting 20 to 50 years with proper maintenance. In comparison, prefabricated cabinets have a lifespan nearly half as long. The longevity of any cabinet depends on factors like upkeep, the amount of heat and moisture in the home, and general wear and tear. Popular hardwood options for long-lasting cabinets include oak, cherry, maple, walnut, and hickory. While these materials are a worthwhile investment for those planning to stay in their home for decades, their durability comes at a higher price compared to alternatives like furniture board, laminate, and plywood. The average cost for solid wood cabinets ranges from $100 to $1,200 per linear foot.

Using a shim or another type of self-leveling feet on the bottom edge of your cabinet bases will help to level them out if you’re installing them on a less-than-level surface. To make this process easier, you can add your shims before attaching the bases to your cabinets while they’re still light and easy to move around.

While having an assistant to help ensure safety and to lend a hand is desirable, if someone isn't around to assist, you can install kitchen cabinets on your own. Normal kitchen cabinet installation starts with the upper wall cabinets. If you're working on your own, consider installing the bases first and building a temporary support structure on top of them to help you install the uppers.