Quick Answer: A per square foot price is a shortcut for pricing the cabinets, usually measured on the face area of the units. It does not tell you the board, finish, hardware, countertop or appliances. Two companies can quote the same rate and give very different kitchens. Use the rate only as a starting point, then ask for an itemised quote that names every material. Key Facts: Companies price a kitchen per square foot, per running foot or unit by unit. A rate rarely covers