well, part of what you pay California Closets for, at least, is the design process -- they measure how many linear feet of rod you need for your actual clothes, how many shoes or ties, and come up with a design that incorporates all of it. beyond that, "a cabinet builder" isn't a standardized thing that can be compared -- will depend on skill, region, and all the rest. probably nobody can answer this question. a place like Easy Closets can offer a design or you can move elements around -- cheaper than CC, but depends on your knowing what you need pretty well.

Also check out the ELFA closet system at the Container Store. They will do a free design and price it out for you. Busy on weekends, so go during the week or call ahead and make an appointment.

And check out Ikea's PAX system if you're near an Ikea.

I was at IKEA a few weeks ago and saw the new system they have out which I personally like better than the PAX system. I will be looking into purchasing this system for my walk in closet, but I also think I will inquire at Ca. closets to see what the price difference is. I checked out the ELFA system but I was disappointed with the quality.

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S39251771/

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/categories/departments/bedroom/35769/

https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ikea-closets-custom-closet-look-251991

I've had good luck in my current home with the Elfa system from The Container Store. As someone else said, they do the design and will also install if you want that service. Good sales every few months.

OTOH, in my last house there was a standard reach-in closet with sliding doors in a teen's room. My handyman installed deep shelves in 1/2 of the closet and a rod, hooks and shoe rack in the other 1/2. I bought nice plastic bins of different sizes at The Container Store to hold jeans, tops, underwear, etc. Eliminated the need for a dresser. Worked out well and the cost was great.

It looks like The Container Store has a new closet design system which may be a step above elfa : https://www.containerstore.com/tcsclosets/index.htm

please do check out the new system from the container store and then call a closet company to see how reasonable a true professional is. Their knowledge is invaluable!

Interesting that HU- 515409752 resurrected a 2-year-old thread to post for the first time and provide links and a detailed description of a closet company.

I arrived here looking to compare a couple of the RTA manufacturers, and I don't like leaving negative reviews, but the after going to the link above for Modular Closets, I must say based on a very quick look at their cabinets, they are lacking in variety, selection, and inspiration. Very weak compared to their competitors.

Agree about Modular Closets. In addition they are only 14" deep. Still looking for an IKEA PAX equivalent since those are so hard to get now.