Quartz countertops have become an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodels in recent years. With their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, it’s easy to see why. But before taking the plunge into a quartz countertop installation, one of the biggest factors homeowners have to consider is the cost. So what exactly is the average price of quartz countertops? Let’s take a closer look.

An Introduction to Quartz Countertops

Before diving into specifics on pricing, it helps to have a basic understanding of what quartz countertops are and what makes them different from other countertop materials.

Quartz countertops, also known as engineered stone countertops, are made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resin and pigments. The quartz content usually makes up 90% or more of the material. It is blended together, molded, and then hardened into slabs that can be cut to size for installation.

The key benefits of quartz countertops include:

Durability – Quartz is an extremely hard material that resists scratches, stains, heat, and damage. It does not require sealing.
Low maintenance – Since it resists stains and etching, quartz requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone.
Appearance – Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns that mimic looks of natural stone and concrete. The style options are nearly endless.
Consistency – Because it is engineered and factory-produced, quartz has a very consistent appearance without natural variation.
Hygienic – Quartz does not absorb moisture easily, limiting bacteria growth.

Quartz offers an excellent balance of beauty, durability, and practicality. But how much does this designer countertop material cost on average?

What Impacts the Price of Quartz Counters?

Many factors come into play when determining the total price of quartz countertops for your kitchen or bath. Here are some of the key considerations:

Selected Slab Style

Color/Pattern – Simple solid color slabs are often the most affordable options. Multi-colored engineered patterns are popular but come at a higher cost. Unique veined or flecked options can increase the price.
Thickness – Standard thickness is 3/4″. Thicker 1 1/4″ slabs are available for a more substantial look and feel but add cost.
Grade/Quality – Higher-end designer brands and rare stone styles command more per square foot. Commercial quality is often less expensive than premium residential.
Edge Styling – Standard eased or bevelled edges are typically included. More intricate ogee, bullnose, or waterfall edges add labor and expense.
Backsplashes – Integrated full-height backsplashes require more slab materials increasing costs.

Installation Factors

Cutouts – The more complicated the cabinetry design, the more difficult the installation. More cutouts, seams, overhangs, and backsplashes drive up labor time and price.
Demo/Disposal – Removal and disposal of old countertops incur additional fees if not handled by the homeowner.
Adjacent Areas – Islands, additional bathrooms, and other non-contiguous areas require more slab purchase and installation time.
Special Features – Features like undermount sinks and integrated cooktops need precision cutting by experienced installers, adding cost.

Market Conditions

Location – Pricing can vary regionally based on local installer rates and wholesale slab availability. Sought-after colors may have longer lead times.
Seasonal Demand – Spring and Summer tend to be the busiest season driving up lead times. Less popular colors may be discounted at other times of year.
Size of Project – Economies of scale apply. Larger projects with more material yield better per square foot pricing from vendors. Small jobs can cost more overall.

What is the Average Price for a Quartz Countertop Installation?

Taking all of the above factors into account, most quartz countertops installed by a professional will range from $80 to $140 per square foot on average. This includes materials, necessary demolition/disposal, delivery, fabrication, installation labor, and simple edge/backsplash treatments.

Here is how that price range typically breaks down:

Quartz slab material: $50 – $80 per square foot
Demolition and disposal: $3 – $6 per square foot
Fabrication: $15 – $25 per square foot
Installation: $10 – $20 per square foot
Miscellaneous (adhesives, fasteners, etc): $2 – $4 per square foot

Total average cost: $80 – $140 per square foot

So for a moderately complex 30 square foot countertop installation, you can expect to pay between $2,400 and $4,200 for professional quartz countertop installation.

This falls right in line with Consumer Reports data that found the average professional quartz installation costs around $80 per square foot, for a total of $2,500 for the average kitchen.

Cost Breakdown by Quality Tier

Quartz countertops span a wide range of quality levels and price points. Here is a breakdown of cost tiers that reflects the differences in slab grades, exclusivity, brand reputation, and overall quality:

Entry-level (Good): $55 – $85 per square foot

This tier encompasses basic commercial quality quartz products that are readily available. The color and pattern options are limited but still attractive. Budget shoppers can find quality countertops at competitive pricing.

Mid-range (Better): $85 – $125 per square foot

The medium tier offers more unique colors, patterns, and stylistic slab designs from major quartz manufacturers. There are more interesting veining and texture options in this range. Durability remains excellent.

High-end (Best): $125 – $175 per square foot

Top designer brands of quartz with more premium aesthetics and exclusive looks fall into this tier. There are intricate patterns, rare stone appearances, and high visual impact. These come with a luxury price tag.

Ultra premium (Unique): $175+ per square foot

This stratosphere includes quartz options using semi-precious metals, intricate artisan techniques, and designer branding. Exotic, one-of-a-kind slab looks with premium brand value. Generally bespoke commissions for luxury homes.

Cost Comparison to Other Countertop Materials

How does the cost of quartz stack up against other popular countertop materials on the market today? Here is a general comparison:

Laminate countertops – $20 – $50 per square foot (very budget friendly)
Wood countertops – $50 – $100 per square foot (warm, eco-friendly option)
Tile countertops – $40 – $100 per square foot (timeless classic look)
Granite countertops – $80 – $150 per square foot (natural stone appeal)
Marble countertops – $70 – $200 per square foot (elegant veining but less durable)
Quartz countertops – $80 – $140 per square foot (optimal balance of form and function)
Concrete countertops – $100 – $200 per square foot (striking and contemporary)
Stainless steel countertops – $100 – $200 per square foot (modern and sleek)

So quartz falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum – more affordable than some premium natural stone or concrete options, but pricier than entry-level materials like laminate. Many homeowners find it strikes the best balance between cost and value.

Factors That Can Increase Your Quartz Price

While the averages above cover standard quartz installations, there are some selections and customizations that can increase your overall investment:

Oversized pieces needed for wide spans or integrated sinks/cooktops
Special structural enhancements like corbels or thicker edges
Unique designer colors only available on special order
Exotic styles using semi-precious metals or imported materials
Intense custom edgework like artistic ogees or laminated edges
Large-scale projects exceeding 100+ square feet overall
Remote location from fabricators driving up shipping
Rush orders needed for quick delivery and install
Upgraded lighting, outlets, warming drawers and other integrated features

Being aware of these add-ons that may not be included in initial quotes can help you budget and set realistic expectations.

Tips for Lowering Your Overall Cost

For homeowners looking to cut costs where possible, there are a few tips that can potentially lower your total quartz countertop expenditure:

Opt for a neutral solid color rather than bold patterns which tend to be pricier.
Select a commercial quality material rather than premium residential if the aesthetic meets your needs.
Use standard 1/8″ backsplashes or do without backsplashes rather than full-height options.
Install square edges instead of intricate ogee/bullnose edges when possible.
Limit overhangs, seams, cutouts and ease of installation as much as able.
Keep runs contiguous rather than multiple separate sections.
Purchase only what is needed for the space vs. overbuying slabs.
Choose an experienced local installer you can easily work with.
Provide old countertop removal/disposal yourself rather than paying for it.
Consider DIY for prep work like plumbing disconnections to reduce labor fees.

Being flexible on material grade, edge profiles, backsplashes and simplicity of design can yield notable cost decreases in many cases. An experienced installer can also help guide cost-saving decisions.

FAQs

Does thickness impact the price of quartz?

Yes, thicker quartz slabs are more expensive, as more material is used. Most quartz is 3/4″ thick. Options like 1 1/4” or 1 1/2” slabs add cost but offer enhanced visual mass.

Is a quartz backsplash needed?

Backsplashes are optional. Adding even a standard 4” backsplash will increase cost per linear foot. Full height backsplashes are most expensive. If budget conscious, countertops without a backsplash are still functional.

Does color choice affect the price?

Yes. More complex patterns, unique color mixes, and specialty styles imported from Europe or Asia can range $10-20 more per square foot than common solid colors and standard styles.

Is quartz cheaper than natural stone?

In most cases, yes. Materials like granite and marble often range from $80 – $200 per square foot. Quartz starts around $80 per square foot on average but has a lower upper limit around $140.

Is white quartz more affordable than colored options?

Often white or very light solid colors are among the most budget friendly options, along with basic gray and beige. However, various vendors offer sales or discounts on remainder slabs which sometimes makes a colored option the most economical choice.

Should I install quartz myself?

Quartz requires precise professional fabrication and installation. Attempting DIY risks cracks, damage, uneven seams and safety hazards. Hire a reputable pro even if costs are higher.

The Bottom Line

As one of today’s most popular countertop materials, quartz offers homeowners an unparalleled blend of aesthetics, performance, and value. While not the cheapest option, its durable low-maintenance appeal and wide style selection makes it a worthwhile investment for most kitchens and bathrooms.

Carefully compare materials, shop for competitive installer pricing, and look for ways to simplify your design to maximize quartz’s return. With reasonable diligence, most homeowners can find quartz countertops in their budget range to reap the benefits of this designer surface for years to come.

Conclusion

The average cost of quartz countertops ranges from $80 to $140 per square foot installed. Exact pricing depends on the quality of the selected slabs, complexity of installation, and local market conditions. With appropriate planning and design choices, quartz can be a smart upgrade that adds beauty and durability to the heart of your home. Doing research and understanding the factors that influence cost allows homeowners to budget wisely for this attractive and functional countertop material.

What’s the Average Price of Quartz Countertops? A Detailed Overview