Built-In refrigerators have a great look, but it doesn’t come cheap. The extra cooling issue with a built-in fridge, and need for exacting dimensions, contributes to this cost. But when comparing to freestanding refrigerators with similar features and specifications, it becomes clear there is a large “luxury” cost associated with these refrigerators.
Still, that’s not enough to scare everyone away. The look is so beautiful that this extra cost can be justified in many situations. KitchenAid’s line of built-in refrigerators is actually one of the less expensive that you’ll find. They come in stainless steel or custom panel looks. (You’re responsible for supplying the panels, which means you can match your kitchen cabinets perfectly.)
48 Inch Wide KitchenAid Built-In Refrigerators
42 Inch Wide KitchenAid Built-In Refrigerators
36 Inch Wide KitchenAid Built-In Refrigerators
I really wish I could afford one of these. Why do built-in refrigerator models have to be so much more expensive than similar ones that aren’t built-in?
I think it’s mostly to do with manufacturers taking advantage of the fact that there isn’t a lot of competition in this specific market. As more brands and models of built-in refrigerators become available the prices should come down. Given that these built-in refrigerators don’t need to have finished side panels, and often don’t even come with finished door panels (so you can install custom ones to match your cabinets), it may even be that someday they will cost less than their stand-alone counterparts. But for now they have that exclusivity cost.