When you remodel a kitchen, your countertop is one of the biggest design and budget decisions you’ll make. It affects the look, function, durability, and overall feel of your space — and the price can vary widely depending on the material and installation.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about kitchen countertop costs. You’ll learn how each countertop material is priced, what labour and installation really include, which extra features can raise your total, and how to plan a smart, realistic budget before you start your project.
Typical Cost Ranges by Material
| Material | Typical Cost (per sq ft, installed) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $20 – $60 | Most budget-friendly, light, less heat/scratch resistant. |
| Tile | $30 – $60 | Flexible designs, grout lines need regular cleaning. |
| Wood / Butcher Block | $50 – $150 | Warm, natural look; needs sealing or oiling over time. |
| Solid Surface (e.g., Corian) | $60 – $130 | Seamless options; moderate heat resistance. |
| Quartz | $90 – $200 | Non-porous, low-maintenance, very popular mid-high tier. |
| Granite | $80 – $225 | Natural stone, strong heat resistance; needs sealing. |
| Marble & Specialty Stones | $100 – $250+ | High-end look; more maintenance and care required. |
Laminate Countertops
Laminate is one of the most budget-friendly options, typically costing $20–$60 per square foot installed. It’s lightweight and easy to install, but it’s less resilient to heat and scratches than stone options.
Tile Countertops
Tile countertops generally range from $30–$60 per square foot installed. They offer design flexibility with many patterns and colours, though grout lines require maintenance and may trap food over time.
Wood / Butcher Block Countertops
Wood or butcher block surfaces cost about $50–$150 per square foot installed, depending on the species and finish. They bring warmth and character but need regular sealing or oiling to stay in good condition.
Solid Surface (Engineered) Countertops
Materials like Corian fall into the mid-range category, typically $60–$130 per square foot installed. These surfaces feature seamless design options and integrated sinks, but they aren’t as heat-resistant as stone.
Quartz (Engineered Stone) Countertops
Quartz slabs cost around $90–$200 per square foot installed, depending on brand, colour, and complexity. Because they are non-porous and low-maintenance, quartz remains a popular mid-to-high budget choice.
Granite (Natural Stone) Countertops
Granite counters range from $80–$225 per square foot installed, with wide variation due to slab rarity and design details. They offer a premium natural look and strong heat resistance, but need periodic sealing.
Marble & Specialty Stones
Luxury stones such as marble or quartzite can cost $100–$250+ per square foot installed. These materials deliver high elegance and uniqueness, but usually require more maintenance and are less forgiving with daily use.
Key Factors That Impact Cost
Understanding what drives countertop pricing helps you plan a realistic budget and avoid surprises during installation. Several elements can change the final cost, even if you’ve already chosen a material.
- Size and square footage
Larger kitchens or layouts with long runs, islands, or waterfalls naturally increase the total cost because more material and labour are required. - Material choice and slab quality
Engineered quartz, premium granite, and specialty stones cost more due to durability, rarity, and design options. Higher-grade slabs with unique patterns also raise the price. - Labour, installation complexity, and edge treatments
Custom edges, seam work, sink cut-outs, and precise fitting increase labour time. Complex layouts or tight spaces also add to installation costs. - Removal of old surfaces, cut-outs, and site conditions
Taking out existing countertops, preparing the base cabinets, or installing outdoors can raise expenses. Extra cut-outs (sinks, cooktops, pop-up outlets) also add to the final bill.
Budgeting & Hidden Costs to Watch For
Smart budgeting helps you stay on track during a kitchen remodel, especially when countertop costs vary widely. Here are the key items to factor in early:
Material upgrades — Premium colours, thicker slabs, and specialty edges can raise your final price quickly.
Installation fees — Complex cuts, seams, or tight spaces may require extra labour.
Old countertop removal — Hauling away existing surfaces often comes with an added charge.
Sink and cooktop cut-outs — Each cut requires precision work and increases labour time.
Backsplash integration — Matching or full-height backsplashes add material and installation cost.
Support and reinforcement — Heavy materials like granite or concrete may need cabinet bracing.
Delivery and onsite conditions — Stairs, limited access, and outdoor installs may add handling fees.
How to Estimate Your Budget
Planning your budget begins with a few simple steps:
Measure your countertop area in square feet to estimate the base material cost.
Choose your material tier (budget, mid-range, or premium) and compare price ranges.
Add installation labour, typically charged per square foot or by project complexity.
Account for extras like backsplashes, edge profiles, cut-outs, and sealing.
Include a 10–15% buffer for unexpected adjustments, slab upgrades, or final fit corrections.
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Ready to Plan Your Countertop Project?
If you’re comparing materials, estimating costs, or planning a full kitchen remodel, our team is here to help. We can guide you through pricing, durability, design choices, and what fits your home best.
Contact us today for personalised advice, accurate quotes, and expert support from start to finish.