Wondering how much do kitchen countertops cost? On an average, price of kitchen countertops range between $1,865 to $4,362. The cost largely depends on several factors such as countertop material, size, edging and corner treatments amongst many.
How Much Do Kitchen Countertops Cost Based on Material?
Your expenses can be significantly influenced by the type of countertop material you opt for. You have the choice of selecting a cost-effective alternative such as laminate countertops, with prices ranging from $8 to $27 per square foot. On the other end of the spectrum, you might opt for the timeless opulence of marble, which can cost anywhere from $15 to $190 per square foot. Between these extremes, there are additional options like wood, Corian, stainless steel, and granite. Your decision on the countertop material will not only alter the aesthetics of your kitchen but also have a substantial impact on the overall expense of your kitchen remodel.
| Countertop Type | Description | Cost per Square Foot |
| Granite | Durable and diverse in texture and color | $10–$140 |
| Soapstone | Limited colors, mainly dark gray or black with a blue or green tint | $20–$70 |
| Marble | Slightly less durable than granite but still durable; color options include stark white, jet black, red, and gold | $15–$190 |
| Slate | Stain-resistant, kid-friendly | $30–$90 |
| Limestone | Neutral hues | $10–$70 |
| Travertine | Darker with veins | $11–$35 |
| Quartz | Engineered, durable, and low-maintenance | $15–$70 |
| Quartzite | Porous; needs regular sealing | $55–$75 |
| Corian | Colorful, nonporous, not moisture-resistant | $20–$75 |
| Acrylic | Budget-friendly and resembles natural stone | $13–$30 |
| Laminate | Affordable but prone to damage | $8–$27 |
| Ceramic | Delicate and best for light use | $1–$15 |
| Porcelain | Delicate and best for light use | $3–$28 |
| Concrete | Many different stains and glazes; prone to cracking and chips but sealant can help prevent them | $50–$100 |
Factors Influencing Cost of Kitchen Countertops
Size
To ascertain the budget required for your countertop installation, it’s essential to begin by determining the dimensions of your countertops. Generally, kitchen countertops have a depth of 25½ inches, while kitchen islands can vary from 24 inches to 48 inches in depth. On average, countertops encompass an area of 30 square feet. However, your countertops might deviate from this norm, necessitating precise measurements for an accurate cost estimate.
Indoor vs Outdoor Countertops
While indoor countertops typically span about 30 square feet, outdoor counterparts usually cover an area of 12 to 20 square feet. These statistics hold particular significance when establishing the budget for your outdoor kitchen’s countertops. Depending on the materials you select, the installation of outdoor countertops could potentially come at a more economical cost compared to indoor options.
It’s important to note that the range of materials available for outdoor countertops is somewhat limited. Optimal choices for outdoor installations encompass granite, quartz, soapstone, and concrete.
Geographical Considerations
The expense associated with countertops can be influenced by your geographical location, potentially resulting in costs either above or below the average. For instance, if you reside in an urban setting, your countertop project might entail higher expenses compared to living in a rural area, owing to increased costs of goods and services.
Strategies for Cutting Countertop Costs
Countertop expenses can make a significant dent in your budget, prompting you to seek ways to economize on this endeavor. Explore these practical budgeting pointers for optimal outcomes.
Comparison Shopping
One of the simplest methods to potentially reduce costs is by conducting thorough research and obtaining multiple price estimates. While cost is a factor, it’s advisable not to base your choice solely on pricing. When deciding on a contractor for countertop replacement, consider factors like testimonials from other homeowners and the company’s qualifications.
Evaluate Material Grades
Savings can be achieved by examining the various grades of available materials. For instance, if granite countertops are your preference, opting for a lower grade might lead to a more budget-friendly option.
Opt for Economical Materials
Should your project exceed your budget during the planning phase, consider the possibility of selecting budget-friendly materials like laminate.
By implementing these strategies, you can take proactive steps towards managing the costs associated with your countertop project.
Cost of Kitchen Countertop Installation
Now that we have gone through the cost of kitchen countertops, here’s what you can expect when installing them and various factors influencing the total cost.
Edges and Corner Enhancements
The selection of diverse countertop edges and corner treatments not only adds aesthetic appeal but also offers practical benefits. Here are the most prevalent options to choose from.
| Edge/Corner Treatment | Description | Cost per Linear Foot |
| Bevel | 45-degree angles along the top of the counter | $10–$15 |
| Dupont | Curved quarter round-cut at the bottom and sharp, 90-degree cut at the top | $20–$40 |
| Full Bullnose | Rounded top and bottom | $10–$15 |
| Half Bullnose | Rounded top and square bottom | $10–$15 |
| Mitered | Two pieces of the countertop are cut at 45-degree angles and joined together | $20–$25 |
| Ogee | 90-degree edge on the bottom with S-shaped cut at the top | $20–$25 |
Labor
Given the labor-intensive nature of countertop installation, which demands specialized skills, collaborating with a general contractor can constitute 10% to 20% of your overall project expenditure. This estimate can fluctuate based on your countertop materials and specific custom requirements, such as incorporating edges and cutouts. Contractor fees usually range from $300 to $500 per day, supplemented by an additional $150 to $250 per day for extra crew members.
Removal and Disposal of Existing Countertops
The standard flat-rate charge for removing a kitchen countertop falls within the range of $50 to $300, contingent on the countertop’s size and any intricate factors, such as plumbing adjustments. This cost may not encompass the disposal fee, typically amounting to approximately $20 to $25.
Sink Cutouts and Installation
If your countertop installation package doesn’t include sink cutouts, anticipate an additional cost of $100. Additionally, allocate an extra $210 to $650 for the installation of the kitchen sink.
Cooktop Cutouts and Installation
A complete kitchen countertop includes provision for a cooktop. Cutouts for a cooktop are priced at $110, while the installation of the cooktop ranges from $70 to $155. Be sure to allocate funds for essential electrical and faucet cutouts.
Electrical Cutouts
For kitchens with wall-mounted outlets or switches necessitating adjustments to the countertop material, electrical cutouts are imperative. Accomplishing this task requires skilled countertop professionals and specialized tools, potentially leading to increased expenses in your countertop replacement endeavor.
Faucet Cutouts
Crafting openings for sinks and faucets in the countertop involves faucet cutouts. This intricate procedure demands precise measurements and adjustments for a seamless fit. The intricacy of the process and the choice of sink and faucet can influence installation costs. For instance, double-basin sinks necessitate larger cutouts than standard sinks, consequently raising the cutout installation cost.
Countertop Refinishing
Opting for countertop restoration or refinishing carries a price tag ranging from $300 to $500, with an average of $400. The process involves cleaning, sanding, applying a base coat, and sealing the countertop.
Patterns and Custom Designs
Incorporating patterns or customized designs into your countertop comes with added costs. The specific price depends on the intricacy of the chosen pattern. A professional countertop installer can provide a precise estimate to bring your creative vision to fruition.
Plumbing Considerations
Engaging a plumber typically incurs charges of $45 to $200 per hour. Depending on your project’s scope, you might need to disconnect and later reconnect plumbing fixtures such as sinks and possibly dishwashers to accommodate the new countertop. This process demands skilled plumbers to ensure proper disconnection, reconnection, and potential adjustments to adapt to changes in countertop thickness or layout. Plumbing complexity varies based on your kitchen’s configuration and countertop type, necessitating a budget for potential plumbing expenses alongside countertop material and installation costs.
Electrical Work
Countertop installation may require electrical work, especially for new installations or if you’re adding modern amenities like pop-up outlets. Electrician fees generally range from $50 to $100 per hour.
Backsplash Integration
Whether you’re installing a new countertop or updating an existing one, choosing a complementary backsplash is crucial for achieving a cohesive kitchen design. Backsplash installation costs range from $600 to $1,300, contingent on materials and dimensions.
End Splash
An end splash serves as an extension of the countertop along its lateral edges, concealing irregularities or gaps between the countertop and adjacent walls.
Garbage Disposal
The cost of a garbage disposal unit falls within the range of $150 to $950. This unit connects to your drainpipe and dishwasher hose, facilitating convenient waste disposal. If an electrical outlet and switch are absent for the garbage disposal, the services of an electrician will be required.
