Finding affordable kitchen cabinets requires research and creativity. The key is knowing where to go and what to look for.

Browsing various stores and online shopping providers like Home Depot and Amazon will give you an idea of prices and what products are offered.

Keeping your eye out for sales and clearance events can help you stumble

on low prices for overstocked inventory or styles about to be discontinued.

Display models are also great, cheap findings because they are already put together and won't have much wear and tear.

If you choose to DIY your kitchen cabinets, you will be able to save a significant amount of money when it comes to labor and material costs.

But the cheapest cabinet hack of them all is buying ready-to-assemble or used cabinets. RTA cabinets are pre-cut and packaged to be ready for assembly.

You can find them in big box stores like The RTA Store, Home Depot, and Costco. If you're going this route, check that you're getting a quality product.

Low-quality RTA cabinets will have thin drawers or frames, which means they won't last long. Their finishes will also be sprayed instead of brushed on.

For used or reclaimed cabinets, check second-hand stores like Habitat ReStore and online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, Etsy, Buy Nothing, and Facebook Marketplace.

Finally, consider alternative materials or finishes to reduce costs. Instead of solid wood, opt for plywood or laminate which is durable and easy to maintain.