The average cost to install a dry bar in a home ranges from $6,691 to $12,013, and the cost for a wet bar ranges from $9,934 to $15,999.
Our pricing guide is based on averages obtained from our survey on installation costs of cabinets, countertops, electronic appliances, and electrical & plumbing features across the U.S., including rural, metros, and metropolitan cities. Your specific cost will depend on the materials and features you choose.
Cost by Location
Factors such as local demand, material availability, and the complexity of the installation affect the price in some locations.
Urban areas have higher labor costs, and rural regions have lower labor charges. Depending on where you live, you may pay low or high for the total cost of home bar installation.
The table below provides an overview of the costs of installing a home bar in different regions across the country:
| Location | Cost to Setup a Home Bar ( including labor cost + material) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| New York, NY | $11,094 – $18,828 |
| Pawtucket, RI | $9,287 – $15,912 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Atlanta, GA | $8,616 – $14,873 |
| Dothan, AL | $8,372 – $14,500 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| Chicago, IL | $9,701 – $16,556 |
| South Bend, IN | $8,975 – $15,437 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Seattle, WA | $10,353 – $17,567 |
| Corvallis, OR | $9,070 – $15,574 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| San Diego, CA | $9,257 – $15,870 |
| Roswell, NM | $8,617 – $14,873 |
Cost to Install Cabinets
Cabinets in a home bar provide organized storage for liquor bottles, glassware, bar tools, and mixers. They keep everything readily accessible and make your home bar clean and tidy. Plus, they add a polished look to your space.
The table below shows the cost per foot for different cabinet materials.
| Material | Cost per one linear foot of cabinet (including labor cost + materials) |
| Particle Board | $120 – $166 |
| Plywood | $144 – $219 |
| MDF | $138 – $186 |
| Laminate | $185 – $252 |
| Hickory | $216 – $327 |
| Maple | $226 – $341 |
| Cherry | $229 – $356 |
| Walnut | $268 – $404 |
For a more detailed breakdown of each cabinet material and its cost, you can find material-specific pricing guides here:
Cost to Install Countertops
The countertop offers space to prepare and serve drinks. Think of it as a bar counter where you can place stools around and enjoy drinks with family and friends.
Below is the pricing information for popular materials based on 2 square feet of countertop.
| Material | Cost per two square foot of countertop (including labor cost + materials) |
| Laminate | $171 – $387 |
| Wood | $187 – $407 |
| Granite | $262 – $443 |
| Marble | $275 – $461 |
Alternatives to Cabinets and Countertops
A bar cart or freestanding bar could be a great alternative if you prefer not to have separate countertops or cabinets.
Cost of Bar Cart: $44 – $434
Cost of Freestanding Bar: $176 – $1417 & a handyman charges $50 – $95 per hour to assemble your furniture.
Cost to Install Electronic Appliances
Appliances make your home bar more functional. A refrigerator helps keep your drinks at the perfect temperature for serving. You can choose between a regular refrigerator or a built-in one, depending on your space and style preferences.
Here are the costs for the appliances and their installation:
- Refrigerator: $1471 – $3064
- Built-in Refrigerator: $3667 – $7871
A dishwasher can also be very helpful in keeping glasses and dishes clean so they’re always ready for your next round. If you’d rather wash by hand to clean utensils and glasses, a sink can save you some costs.
- Dishwasher: $908 – $1679
Cost to Install Electrical Features
Electrical features add convenience and ambiance to your home bar. Sound system and proper lighting enhance the overall atmosphere of your bar area.
Below are the electrical installation costs, including appliance and labor.
| Electric Feature | Cost of each feature (including feature cost + installation cost) |
| Ceiling Speaker | $251 – $452 |
| Electric Outlet | $305 – $370 |
| Lighting Fixture | $404 – $596 |
| Under Cabinet Lighting | $547 – $692 |
Tip: Install a dimmer switch to adjust the light intensity and set the mood in your home bar.
Cost to Install Plumbing Features
If you’re building a dry bar, these plumbing features won’t add to your budget. However, if you prefer an ice maker, it will be an added cost.
Below are the cost of plumbing features, including appliance and labor.
| Plumbing Feature | Cost of each feature (including feature cost + installation cost) |
| Sink | $485 – $585 |
| Sink Drain | $274 – $331 |
| Ice Maker | $505 – $612 |
| Faucet | $471 – $778 |
Other Home Bar Essentials
By adding a few bar essentials, you can bring the vibe of a pub into your home. Below are some items to include to complete your perfect setup. Incorporating these add-ons will enhance your home bar’s overall feel.
- Bottle Opener: $6 – $12
- Jigger: $6 – $31
- Wall Decor: $8 – $38
- Glass Set (Set of 6): $20 – $50
- Bar Stool (one piece): $35 – $119
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Building a home bar yourself can save money if you have carpentry, assembly, plumbing, and electrical skills. You only need to purchase the required materials and appliances and install them on your own. But if something goes wrong, you need to pay more to fix the mistakes.
Hiring a professional removes the stress. You pay for their expertise, but it ensures the job is done right and can save you money by avoiding costly errors.
Main Photo Credit: ImageFlow / Adobe Stock Free / License
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