Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, aesthetics, and reasonable cost. When pricing quartz countertops, most homeowners want to know – how much does installed quartz countertop cost per square foot? Here’s what you need to know about quartz countertop costs.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a hard, non-porous surface.
Compared to natural stone like granite and marble, quartz offers superior durability and resistance to stains, scratches, heat, and water. The resins allow quartz to come in a wide variety of colors and patterns that mimic the look of natural stone.
Factors That Impact Quartz Countertop Cost per Square Foot
Several factors go into determining the total installed price per square foot of quartz countertops:
Quartz Slab Price
The biggest factor is the price of the quartz slab material itself. Prices range from $50 per square foot on the low end, up to $100+ per square foot for premium designer brands like Caesarstone. The grade, quality, pattern, and color all impact the base price. Unique designs and limited-run colors tend to cost more.
Edge Profiles
The edge of the countertop – the front facing lip – comes in different edge profiles and thicknesses. Simple bevelled edges are the most affordable. More complex edges like triple waterfall lips cost more for the additional fabrication time and material waste.
Installation Costs
Fabrication of the slabs and professional installation will account for 50-60% of your total countertop investment. Complex job sites, special cutouts, and extra installation steps will drive up labor costs.
Brand
Higher end brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone range $70-$100 per square foot. Value brands like MSI and Avonite start around $50 per square foot.
Thickness
Standard quartz thickness is 3cm (1.25″). Going up to 2cm (0.75″) adds cost but provides more depth and structure.
Tile vs. Full Slabs
Quartz tiles cost less due to easier fabrication, but have more visible seams. Full slabs have a more seamless, high-end look.
Color and Finish
Unusual colors and unique finishes like a leather texture or sparkly flecks will increase the price over basic solid colors and matte finishes.
Location
Pricing fluctuates across the country. Expect to pay more for quartz countertops installed in New York City than rural Iowa.
Average Quartz Countertop Prices Nationwide
Now that you know the factors that influence installed quartz prices, what does quartz countertops cost per square foot on average?
- Low end: $50 per square foot
- Mid-range: $70 per square foot
- High end: $100 per square foot
According to most sources, the average installed cost of quartz countertops across the country falls between $70-$80 per square foot. This assumes mid-grade quartz material, standard edging, and professional fabrication and installation. The total price will increase with higher grades of quartz.
Cost of Quartz Countertops by Location
Where you live also significantly impacts how much quartz countertops cost installed per square foot. Here are sample prices for major US cities:
- New York, NY: $80-$120 per square foot
- Los Angeles, CA: $70-$100 per square foot
- Chicago, IL: $55-$75 per square foot
- Houston, TX: $50-$70 per square foot
- Phoenix, AZ: $50-$75 per square foot
- Atlanta, GA: $50-$80 per square foot
- Miami, FL: $60-$90 per square foot
Labor, demand, and material transportation all contribute to geographic differences in installed quartz pricing.
Cost of Other Popular Countertop Materials
To get a full picture, it helps to compare quartz pricing to other common countertop options:
- Granite: $60-$100 per square foot installed
- Marble: $70-$150 per square foot installed
- Soapstone: $70-$100 per square foot installed
- Laminate: $20-$50 per square foot installed
- Butcher block: $30-$70 per square foot installed
- Concrete: $50-$100 per square foot installed
- Tile: $10-$30 per square foot installed
- Stainless steel: $100-$200 per square foot installed
Quartz delivers an attractive, durable surface for a reasonable mid-range price in comparison.
Quartz Countertop Cost Calculator
To estimate your total investment for quartz countertops, measure the total square footage needed and multiply by your estimated cost per square foot:
Total square feet of countertop x Cost per square foot of quartz = Total estimated cost
For example, for 30 square feet of countertop at $75 per square foot, your estimated installation cost would be:
30 sq ft x $75 per sq ft = $2,250
Be sure to get an itemized quote from multiple fabricators before selecting one to ensure the best deal.
Is Quartz Worth the Investment?
At $70-$100 per square foot installed, quartz is a mid-range priced material that offers many advantages:
Pros of Quartz:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant surface
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists stains, heat, and water damage
- Wide variety of colors, finishes, and patterns
- Does not need periodic sealing
- Hygienic and non-porous
Cons of Quartz:
- Higher cost than laminate or tile
- Requires professional fabrication and installation
- Can develop cracks or chips from impact
- Limited high-end exotic looks compared to natural stone
- Needs re-polishing to repair scratches
For most homeowners, quartz offers the best combination of aesthetics, affordability, and low maintenance. The durability and longevity make it well worth the moderate investment compared to cheaper countertop materials. With proper care, quartz countertops will retain their beauty for many years before needing replacement.
How to Get the Best Deal on Quartz Countertops
Here are tips to get the lowest price per square foot on your quartz countertop project:
- Shop for slab materials on the low end of the price scale
- Select a simplified edge profile like a standard bevel
- Avoid exotic colors or designs to keep material costs down
- Request a discount if providing your own measurements
- Get quotes from at least 3 fabricators to compare
- Choose a quality low-cost installer if possible
- Opt for quartz tiles instead of a full slab for smaller surfaces
- Consider DIY installation if you have experience
With smart shopping, it’s possible to invest in quartz countertops for $50 per square foot or less.
FAQ about Quartz Countertop Pricing
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the cost of quartz countertops:
How much does a basic white quartz countertop cost?
A basic 3cm white quartz countertop starts around $50 per square foot for materials. With fabrication and installation, expect to pay $70-$90 per square foot.
What is the most affordable quartz brand?
MSI, Avonite, and Viatera are quality budget-friendly quartz brands priced below $50 per square foot. Even lower prices can be found direct from slab importers.
Is it cheaper to tile a countertop instead of using a quartz slab?
In most cases large format quartz tiles end up costing about the same after fabrication and installation. Plus tiles have more visible seams. Full slabs typically look best.
Can I install a quartz countertop myself?
DIY installation is possible but challenging. Miscutting the slabs or inadequate seam joining can lead to early cracks and damage. Hiring a pro ensures proper fabrication and installation.
How thick of a quartz countertop should I get?
3cm (1.25″) slabs are the most common thickness and suitable for most applications. Go with 2cm thickness for solid structure on floors or heavy use surfaces.
Does quartz price include installation?
Quartz pricing is typically broken out separately for materials, fabrication, and installation. Be sure to account for all three to understand the true installed cost per square foot.
The Bottom Line
When budgeting for new quartz countertops, plan around $70-$80 per square foot installed for mid-grade quartz. Premium materials, complex fabrication, and location in a HCOL area can drive costs up to $100-$120 per square foot installed. Careful shopping and simple design choices can potentially lower your investment to around $50 per square foot.
With a durable and low maintenance surface, stunning aesthetics, and reasonable cost, quartz offers fantastic value for money compared to other natural stone and laminate options. Investing in quality quartz countertops will enhance your home’s functionality and beauty for decades to come.