Granite and quartz countertops are popular choices for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects due to their beauty, durability, and variety of options. However, they come at different price points. So how much do quartz and granite countertops cost? Here is a detailed overview of quartz and granite countertop pricing.
What Factors Impact the Cost of Quartz and Granite Countertops?
Several factors impact the cost of quartz and granite countertops, including:
Material Type
- Quartz countertops are engineered from about 90% ground quartz combined with resins and pigments. They are typically more affordable than natural stone.
- Granite countertops are made from natural stone that is mined and cut into slabs. Granite is generally more expensive than quartz.
Stone Color and Pattern
- More unique granite patterns and colors like blues, greens, and blacks cost more than common colors like tans and grays.
- Quartz has consistent speckled patterns. Rare slabs with bold veining cost more.
Stone Thickness and Edge Styles
- Thicker countertops (2+ inches) are more robust than thin 1-inch options. Thicker stone costs more.
- Decorative edges like ogee, bevel, and dupont add cost over standard eased/pencil edges.
Installation Factors
- Complex designs, intricate cuts, seams, and extra shaping/polishing during installation adds labor costs.
- Professionally machined, fabricated, and installed countertops cost more than DIY kits.
Local Market Conditions
- Prices vary regionally based on stone availability, labor costs, and market demand.
- Costs may be higher in areas far from manufacturing and distribution hubs.
What Does Granite Countertop Installation Typically Cost?
On average, expect to pay $40-$100 per square foot installed for granite countertops, including materials, fabrication, and professional installation. Here is a breakdown:
- Granite Material: $15-$70 per square foot for slabs. Unique imported stones are most expensive. Domestic granite in common colors like Uba Tuba or New Caledonia run $25-$50 per square foot.
- Fabrication: $15-$30 per square foot for cutting, shaping, and edging. Complex seaming and edgework costs more.
- Installation: $10-$25 per square foot for transportation, sink/stove cutouts, securing to cabinetry, cleaning, and sealing.
So for a 10 x 10 kitchen with 40 square feet of counters, a mid-range granite install would be around $4,000 total – $1,000 for materials, $1,200 for fabrication, $1,000 for installation.
High-end granite with exotic patterns, thick edges, and intricate fabrication can run $70-$100 per square foot installed. For that same 40 square foot kitchen, the total cost could surpass $8,000+.
On the lower end, budget granite like Baltic Brown or Uba Tuba in a basic layout with simple edges may run as little as $40-$60 per square foot installed, making the total cost for a 40 square foot kitchen approximately $2,500-$3,000.
What Does Quartz Countertop Installation Typically Cost?
Expect to pay $70-$150 per square foot installed for quartz countertops. The breakdown:
- Quartz Material: $50-$100 per square foot for slabs. Unusual styles with bold veining run higher. Mainstream speckled quartz costs $50-$80 per square foot.
- Fabrication: $15-$30 per square foot. Intricate seaming and edgework is most expensive.
- Installation: $10-$25 per square foot for cutouts, securing, cleanup.
For a medium grade quartz install in a 40 square foot kitchen, expect to spend around $5,500 total – $3,000 for materials, $1,200 for fabrication, $1,000 for installation.
On the high end, designer quartz slabs or intricate fabrication can push costs to $120-$150 per square foot installed. That makes the total cost $9,000+ for a 40 square foot kitchen.
Budget quartz counters can be as little as $70-$90 per square foot installed. At that price point, the 40 square foot kitchen example would run about $3,500-$4,500 overall.
Price Comparison: Granite vs Quartz Countertops
In general, quartz countertops run 50-100% higher than granite. There is some overlap, but you can expect to pay more for quartz on average.
However, granite has greater high-end pricing potential. Unique exotic granites can cost upwards of $200 per square foot installed. The most expensive quartzes top out around $150 per square foot installed.
Here is a general price comparison:
| Material | Low End Price Installed | Mid Range Price Installed | High End Price Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granite | $40 – $60 per sq.ft | $60 – $80 per sq.ft | $80 – $100+ per sq.ft |
| Quartz | $70 – $90 per sq.ft | $100 – $120 per sq.ft | $120 – $150 per sq.ft |
So while there is overlap in the lower price ranges, you will generally get more value from granite at the low end and quartz at the high end when it comes to price per square foot.
Cost Saving Tips for Granite and Quartz Countertops
Here are some ways to get the look of granite or quartz countertops on a budget:
- Shop clearance slabs and remnant pieces for deals.
- Choose neutral granite colors like Uba Tuba that are widely available.
- Select a basic edge style like eased or pencil edge.
- Install countertops yourself using a DIY kit to save on labor.
- Opt for standard thickness of 1 1⁄4 inches instead of 2+ inch options.
- Get quotes from several local fabricators/installers and compare prices.
- Time the project for winter or fall when demand is lower.
- Consider alternative materials like marble or butcher block if on a tight budget.
Popular Granite & Quartz Colors & Patterns
Granite and quartz offer hundreds of color and pattern options. Here are some of the most popular styles:
Quartz Patterns
- Taj Mahal – Speckled white with gray veining
- Calacatta Michelangelo – White background with smoky gray veining
- Carrara – White with subtle gray marbling
- London Gray – Dark charcoal gray with white flecks
Granite Colors
- Uba Tuba – Greenish-black with white and green flecks
- New Caledonia – Light gray with silver mica flecks
- Giallo Ornamentale – Warm golden yellow with rich veining
- Azul Platino – Deep blue with streams of quartz
These are just a few examples. Visit stone suppliers to view all available options. Consider your cabinetry, flooring, and decor style when selecting materials.
Are Quartz or Granite Countertops Better?
There is no definitively “better” option between quartz vs granite. Each has pros and cons:
Quartz Pros
- More consistent coloring and patterns
- Stain, scratch, and heat resistant
- Easier maintenance without annual sealing
- Antimicrobial
Granite Pros
- Greater variety of unique patterns
- Can be repaired vs. replaced if damaged
- Natural material with prestige/value
- Unmatched high-end aesthetics
Both offer durability and style. Choose quartz for low maintenance, modern consistency or granite for prestigious natural stone aesthetics.
Alternative Countertop Materials to Consider
Beyond natural stone, here are some other countertop materials that provide attractive options on a budget:
- Butcher Block – Warm wood look for $40-$100 per square foot installed
- Stainless Steel – Sleek industrial vibe for $100-$250 per square foot
- Laminate – Retro classics for $20-$50 per square foot
- Tile – Customizable patterns for $10-$50 per square foot
- Concrete – Cool industrial loft style for $100-$150 per square foot
FAQ
How much does it cost to install granite countertops per linear foot?
Granite countertops cost $40-$100 per square foot installed. To estimate cost per linear foot, multiply by the depth. For example, a 25 linear foot run of counters that is 2 feet deep would be 50 square feet. At $60 per square foot installed, the 25 linear feet of granite would cost approximately $3,000.
How thick should granite counters be?
Standard granite thickness is 1 1⁄4 inches. 3cm (1 1⁄4 inch) provides adequate strength for most homes. Go with 2-3cm (3⁄4 – 1 1⁄4 inch) thickness for islands or other high stress areas. 2+ inch granite is ideal for heavy usage.
What is the most popular granite color?
Uba Tuba granite is currently the most popular. It has a greenish-black background with white and green veining that complements most cabinets and floors. It works in everything from traditional to modern kitchens.
Is Caesarstone the same as quartz?
Caesarstone is a popular brand of engineered quartz countertops. Other leading brands include Cambria, Silestone, and DuPont Zodiaq. They are all made from roughly 90% ground quartz but have slight formula variations.
Is quartz better than granite in kitchens?
Quartz resists stains, scratches, and heat better than granite. But granite offers more uniqueness. For busy kitchens prone to damage, quartz is the more durable choice. If seeking natural beauty, go for granite. Ultimately best choice depends on your priorities.
How much does it cost to install new countertops per square foot?
Average installed costs per square foot:
- Quartz: $70-$150
- Granite: $40-$100
- Laminate: $20-$50
- Butcher Block: $40-$100
- Concrete: $100-$150
- Tile: $10-$50
- Stainless: $100-$250
Exact costs vary by material, thickness, edge treatments, cutouts needed, and local labor rates.
Conclusion
When budgeting a kitchen or bath remodel, expect to invest $40-$150 per square foot installed for granite or quartz countertops. Quartz generally costs 50-100% more than granite. Unique high-end granite can run over $200 per square foot, while even designer quartz maxes out around $150 per square foot.
Carefully measure your space to estimate the square footage required. Look at material costs from local suppliers to estimate what stone types fit your budget. Get quotes from multiple fabricators and installers to compare project prices. With some smart planning and shopping around, you can find beautiful and durable granite or quartz countertops to transform your space within almost any budget range.