The Short Answer
The short answer is: granite is generally cheaper than quartz for countertops. On average, granite countertops cost $40-100 per square foot installed. Quartz countertops range from $80-150 per square foot installed. So while there is some overlap in price ranges, quartz consistently costs more.
The Long Answer: Factors That Impact Cost
However, the costs of both granite and quartz can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:
Stone Type and Color
For granite, more exotic, rare or imported varieties tend to cost more. For example, white granite is generally one of the more expensive options due to its popularity. Standard colors like black, brown and green granite are typically cheaper.
With quartz, the brand, pattern, finish and color options impact the price. Some manufacturers like Caesarstone and Silestone tend to cost more than generic quartz. Unique quartz patterns and colors usually add cost compared to solid, consistent ones.
Material Grade
Natural stone like granite is graded based on quality. Higher grades have fewer imperfections and more consistent patterning, making the slabs more valuable. Lower granite grades have more variation but cost less.
Quartz is engineered, so it comes in just a few standardized grades. The lowest grade is suitable for flooring, while higher grades are made for countertops. There isn’t as much variation.
Supplier/Retailer
For both granite and quartz, prices can vary between suppliers, distributors and retailers. Specialty kitchen and bath showrooms may charge more for installation and custom fabrication. Big box home stores tend to offer more competitive overall pricing.
Fabrication & Installation
Fabrication is generally more complex for quartz compared to granite. Quartz is extremely hard, so it requires specialized tools. More cutting precision is required since quartz has uniform patterning. This specialized fabrication and installation results in higher labor costs for a quartz countertop.
Countertop Size/Layout
The total square footage of a countertop affects the final price. Bigger and more complex layouts require more time, effort and materials, increasing costs for both granite and quartz. However, quartz usually sees a bigger price jump for larger projects.
Edges & Other Options
Upgrades like decorative edges, integrated sinks and special cutouts add to the final cost. Quartz tends to have more edge profile and sink options compared to granite. Unique edges or built-in features make the fabrication process more intensive.
Average Cost to Install Granite vs. Quartz Countertops
Based on the above factors, here are some typical overall installed costs for granite vs. quartz:
- Granite
- Low end – $40 per sq. ft.
- Mid range – $50-70 per sq. ft.
- High end – $80-100 per sq. ft.
- Quartz
- Low end – $80 per sq. ft.
- Mid range – $100-120 per sq. ft.
- High end – $130-150 per sq. ft.
As you can see, there is considerable overlap in the price ranges, but quartz countertops virtually always cost more on average than granite.
Differences Beyond Just Cost
While granite may be cheaper on average, cost shouldn’t be the only consideration when choosing a countertop material. Here are some other key differences between granite and quartz:
- Appearance – Granite has natural variations and movement. Quartz has a more consistent, engineered look. Granite can be polished to a glossy or honed matte finish. Most quartz has a matte appearance.
- Durability – Quartz is harder and more resistant to scratches, heat and stains. Granite is still very durable but can chip or stain if not sealed properly.
- Maintenance – Quartz requires almost no maintenance, just occasional cleaning. Granite needs to be sealed every 1-2 years to prevent staining.
- Colors/Patterns – Granite comes in a wide range of natural patterns. Quartz patterns are more controlled and uniform. Both offer a large palette of colors.
- Sustainability – Granite is a natural stone, while quartz contains recycled materials. However, quartz fabrication creates less waste from the slabs.
The Bottom Line
When considering granite vs. quartz countertops strictly in terms of cost, granite is generally the more affordable option. However, quartz delivers benefits like extreme durability and low maintenance that justify the higher price for many homeowners.
The best value depends on your budget, design preferences and how you use your kitchen or bathroom. For a high-end luxurious look on a budget, granite is hard to beat. If you want worry-free durability with contemporary styling, quartz easily justifies the extra cost. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each material to make the smartest choice for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Granite vs. Quartz Costs
Is granite cheaper than quartz?
Yes, granite is generally cheaper than quartz when it comes to countertops. On average, granite costs $40-100 per square foot installed, while quartz ranges from $80-150 installed. Granite proves more budget-friendly overall.
Why is quartz more expensive than granite?
Quartz is more expensive than granite mainly due to the fabrication process. Quartz is engineered from raw materials for uniformity and requires specialized cutting tools. The labor-intensive fabrication and installation result in higher costs overall.
How much more expensive is quartz than granite?
On average, quartz countertops cost $30-50 more per square foot than granite. While prices overlap, quartz virtually always exceeds the cost of granite for the same project size and layout. The difference can really add up for larger kitchens.
Should I get quartz or granite if I have a limited budget?
If your budget is limited, granite is likely the better choice. While you can find inexpensive quartz options, you’ll have much more flexibility and value shopping for granite. Granite gives you natural beauty and style at a lower price point in most cases.
Is white granite more expensive than quartz?
White granite is one of the pricier natural stone options. But even high-end white granite often costs less per square foot than many quartz options. The white granite range is roughly $70-100 per square foot installed compared to $100-150 for white quartz.
Can quartz be cheaper than some granite?
It’s possible to find inexpensive quartz that costs less than premium granite options. Especially for smaller projects, low-end quartz around $80 per square foot can compete with high-end granite at $100 per square foot. But quartz is almost always more than standard granite.
Is installation more for quartz vs. granite?
Yes, installation and fabrication labor is typically more expensive for quartz compared to granite countertops. Quartz requires specialized tools and precision cutting that drive up installation costs. Granite is easier to work with, so installation cost differences can be significant.
Conclusion
When deciding between granite and quartz countertops, cost is a key consideration for many homeowners. Due to the lower material and fabrication costs, granite consistently averages $30-50 less per square foot installed compared to quartz. However, both materials have their own pros and cons to weigh. If budget is your main concern, granite offers outstanding natural beauty and value. But quartz delivers on sturdiness and practically that can make the higher prices worthwhile. Carefully balance the cost versus benefits of granite and quartz to make the perfect choice for your home.