Quartz countertops cost guide: Factors, pricing, and ways to save

Quartz counters are one of the most popular choices for homeowners. They are nonporous, scratch-resistant, and easy to maintain.

If you’re thinking of installing quartz countertops in your home, you’ll want to understand the costs involved, from slab selection to color and finish. 

Keep reading as we break down the quartz countertops cost and explain the factors that affect the price for installation, as well as how to save money without sacrificing quality.

Key takeaways

• Average cost: Quartz countertops typically cost $3,000–$7,500 installed, with premium or large kitchens exceeding $10,000–$12,000+.
  
  
• Cost per square foot: Expect $50–$200 per sq ft installed, depending on grade, brand, and customization.
  
  
• By kitchen size: Small kitchens run $1,500–$6,000, medium $2,000–$8,000, and large $3,000–$12,000+.
  
  
• Biggest savings tip: Choose standard slab thickness, neutral colors, and simple edges — and compare multiple installer quotes.

What is the average quartz countertop cost?

Most homeowners report spending around $3,000 to $7,500 for a standard kitchen installation, though premium or large-scale projects can exceed $10,000–$12,000+. Quartz countertops typically cost between $50 and $200 per square foot installed, depending on the material quality, brand, and installation complexity. 

To give you a better idea, a kitchen island of 10 square feet with a standard kitchen counter depth of 25 inches costs between $500 and $2,000, depending on the quality of quartz and any added custom features.  

In a small kitchen with about 30 square feet of countertop space, costs range from $1,500 to $6,000. A medium-sized kitchen with roughly 40 square feet may cost between $2,000 and $8,000, and for a 60 square feet large kitchen, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $12,000+.

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Quartz countertops cost per square foot

The cost of quartz countertops ranges from $50 to $200 per square foot, depending on the quality of the material, the brand name, and the level of customization involved. For instance, premium brands like Caesarstone or Cambria often sit at the higher end of this range, while less-established or builder-grade options stay closer to the bottom.

The price range usually covers more than just the raw slab. It generally includes fabrication, basic edge treatments, and installation, making it easier to compare quotes between providers. However, specialty edges, cutouts, or backsplashes are usually extra.

As with most things, the cost of quartz often reflects its quality. While the higher end of the price range ($150–$200 per sq ft) tends to offer greater durability, richer colors, and more realistic stone patterns, the lower end can still be appealing if you’re working with a tighter budget. That said, it’s essential to know what to expect when considering low-cost quartz countertops.

Low-cost or builder-grade quartz countertops (around $50–$70 per sq ft) are usually thinner slabs, available in solid colors with little to no veining, and may show some surface imperfections. These options can work well in laundry rooms, rental properties, or quick home flips, but may not hold up as well in a high-traffic kitchen where durability and design are a priority.

Calculating the cost of quartz countertops

Want to estimate your quartz countertop project before calling installers? Here’s a simple way to calculate the cost:

How to calculate the total cost of quartz countertops

1. Measure your countertop area. Standard kitchens run from ~30 sq ft (small) to 60+ sq ft (large).
   
   
2. Find your price per square foot. Quartz averages $50–$200 per sq ft installed, depending on grade and brand.
   
   
3. Add for cutouts and extras. Sink cutouts add $150–$500, faucet/cooktop holes add $30–$60 each, and decorative edges run +$15–$60 per linear foot.
   
   
4. Factor in prep/removal. Removing old countertops and reinforcing cabinets can add $200–$500.
   
   
5. Include delivery/handling. Slabs weigh 500–1,200 lbs, with fees around $150–$300.
   
   
6. Consider upgrades. Backsplashes ($50–$200 per sq ft), premium finishes (+$10–$30 per sq ft), and brand upgrades (+$30–$70 per sq ft) all increase cost. Take a look at the “What affects the cost of quartz countertops?” section below for a full list of costs.
   
   

For example, your calculations might look something like: 

What affects the cost of quartz countertops?

The price of quartz countertops depends on a mix of material, design, and labor factors. Here are the key cost drivers. 

Size and layout

The bigger the kitchen, the more quartz you’ll need — and the higher the price. Layout also matters: kitchens with multiple corners, a center island, or unique shapes are more labor-intensive, raising fabrication and installation costs.

Number of slabs required

A standard quartz slab measures about 120 inches by 55 inches. Needing more than one slab increases material and labor costs, especially if there are seams to match.

Quality and grade

Builder-grade quartz costs around $50–$70 per square foot. These thinner slabs are typically plain in color. Premium or designer-grade quartz can reach $150–$200 per square foot, offering richer colors, more natural stone patterns, and greater durability.

Brand name

High-end brands like Cambria, Caesarstone, and Silestone generally start around $80–$150 per square foot. These brands come with extended warranties and exclusive designs. Generic or newer brands often cost closer to $50–$70 per square foot.

Finish and color 

A standard polished finish is included in most quotes. Specialty finishes (honed, suede, matte) add about $10–$30 per square foot. As for color, plain whites and neutrals are more affordable, while veined or marble-look quartz can add $20–$60 per square foot. 

Edge treatments 

Simple square or eased edges are usually included. Decorative profiles such as ogee, double bullnose, or Dupont add $10–$60 per linear foot.

Delivery and handling

Each quartz slab can weigh 500–1,200 pounds. Delivery and handling fees usually fall between $150–$300, depending on distance, accessibility, and number of slabs.

Installation costs and preparation

On average, the labor cost to install a quartz countertop ranges from $25 to $60 per square foot, depending on your location, the complexity of the layout, the installer’s experience, and any additional features. Some professionals may also charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $50 to $120 per hour.

One of the most common add-ons during installation is cutouts. These are necessary for sinks, faucets, cooktops, and electrical outlets. A sink cutout is the most labor-intensive and costs between $200 and $500 per cut. Each faucet or cooktop hole adds around $30–$60. If electrical outlets or other special cutouts are required, additional fees may apply.

In some cases, the existing kitchen cabinets may need repair, reinforcement, and leveling before the new countertop is installed. This is especially true if the quartz is thick and heavy, which can result in $200–$600 being added to your final bill. Failure to do so may lead to cracking, warping, or even caving over time due to uneven stress.

If you’re replacing old countertops, there’s also the cost of removing them and disconnecting plumbing. The cost to remove plumbing and old countertops generally ranges from $250 to $600, depending on the material being removed.

Lastly, if you want a matching backsplash made of quartz, that will incur an additional cost. The price to install a quartz backsplash typically ranges from $50 to $200 per square foot, depending on the slab thickness, finish, and the height of the installation. For a full-height quartz backsplash, total costs can range from $600 to $4,500, depending on the size of your kitchen and the level of customization.

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DIY vs. professional quartz installation

At first glance, installing quartz counters yourself may seem like a smart way to save labor costs, but it comes with significant risks, challenges, and hidden fees that can easily outweigh the benefits.

One of the biggest concerns is safety, as quartz slabs are extremely heavy. Without proper lifting equipment and experience, trying to move and position a slab can easily lead to a strained back or muscle damage. Even with help, maneuvering a large, rigid piece of quartz through doorways, corners, and tight spaces is a significant challenge that professionals are trained to handle.

Beyond the physical demands, there's the matter of skill and precision. One wrong cut or poorly measured angle can ruin an expensive slab, which costs thousands of dollars to replace. Additionally, the process of cutting quartz to fit your kitchen layout requires highly specialized tools, which are expensive to rent or purchase. 

A more practical and cost-effective approach is to focus your efforts on preparing your home for the installation: clear the kitchen, remove items from cabinets, disconnect plumbing fixtures, and ensure the area is clean and accessible.

Quartz countertop lifespan and long-term value

Quartz isn’t just a stylish choice — it’s also a smart long-term investment. When properly cared for, quartz countertops typically last 25–50 years, easily outliving cheaper materials like laminate (10–15 years) and competing well with natural stone like granite.

Unlike granite or marble, quartz doesn’t require annual sealing, which reduces long-term maintenance costs. It also resists stains, scratches, and bacteria, meaning fewer repairs or replacements over time. While the upfront cost of quartz is higher, its long lifespan and low upkeep make it one of the most cost-effective countertop options over decades of use.

Alternatives to quartz countertops (including costs) 

While quartz is one of the most popular countertop choices, it’s not the only option. Depending on your budget, style preferences, and maintenance expectations, you may want to consider alternatives like granite, marble, butcher block, or laminate. Each material comes with its own pros, cons, and price range.

Let’s take a look at the cost of common countertop alternatives compared to their average lifespan:

Granite countertops

Granite remains a classic alternative to quartz. It’s heat-resistant and each slab has a one-of-a-kind look, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want natural beauty. Costs typically range from $40–$100 per square foot installed. The trade-off is maintenance: granite needs periodic sealing to prevent stains, and lighter colors can show etching more easily than quartz.

Marble countertops

Marble is the high-drama choice. Its veining is unmatched, but so are its vulnerabilities — it scratches, chips, and etches more easily than quartz or granite. Installed prices average $50–$150 per square foot, with premium slabs running higher. Homeowners often reserve marble for smaller accent areas (like an island) rather than the whole kitchen.

Butcher block countertops

Butcher block offers warmth and a rustic feel at a moderate price of $40–$100 per square foot installed. It’s great for a cozy kitchen, but it requires far more upkeep than quartz. Frequent oiling is necessary to prevent drying or cracking, and water damage can be a real concern if spills aren’t wiped quickly.

Laminate countertops

Laminate is the budget pick, costing just $20–$50 per square foot installed. It’s available in endless colors and patterns, but it won’t match quartz in durability or longevity. Laminate can chip, peel, or scorch with heat — so while it’s wallet-friendly upfront, it often needs replacing after 10–15 years.

Solid surface countertops (Corian)

Solid surface counters, like Corian, sit between laminate and quartz in both price and performance. They run about $50–$120 per square foot installed. These surfaces are nonporous and repairable (scratches can be buffed out), but they aren’t as heat-resistant as quartz. Homeowners like them for a seamless look with integrated sinks.

Concrete countertops

Concrete has a bold, modern aesthetic and is fully customizable in shape and color. Installed costs range from $70–$150 per square foot, making it competitive with quartz at the mid-to-high end. The downside: Concrete is heavy, requires sealing, and can develop hairline cracks over time. It’s stylish, but higher maintenance than quartz.

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Ways to save on quartz countertop costs

Quartz countertops are a costly project. However, you can save some money without sacrificing quality.

• Choose simpler styles, solid colors, and standard eased or squared edges, as intricate patterns and custom edge profiles can drive up costs. 
• Opt for a more budget-friendly tile backsplash instead of using quartz. 
• Choose a standard slab thickness of 2cm, as thicker slabs cost more in materials and installation.
• Compare prices from multiple countertop installers and inquire about leftover pieces from larger jobs, which are often sold at a discounted rate.

Wrapping up on quartz countertops

Quartz kitchen countertops remain a top choice for homeowners seeking the perfect balance of style, durability, and resale value. Unlike granite or marble, quartz resists stains and scratches, doesn’t harbor bacteria, and doesn’t need sealing. It also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, including options that look like marble or granite. On top of that, quartz countertops can enhance your home’s resale value, as many buyers view them as a premium feature that adds appeal and a modern style to the kitchen.

Quartz countertop costs FAQs 

How much should you budget for quartz countertops?
Budget $3,000–$7,500 for an average kitchen. Small spaces may be $1,500–$3,000, while large or premium projects can exceed $10,000–$12,000.

Is quartz cheaper than granite?
Granite usually runs $40–$100 per sq ft installed, though rare slabs can hit $150+. Quartz costs $50–$200 per sq ft, so pricing often overlaps. Quartz offers more consistency in look and warranties, while granite’s cost varies more by slab quality.

What are the negatives of quartz countertops?
Quartz isn’t heat-proof, so hot pans can cause cracks or scorch marks. It’s heavy, requires sturdy cabinets, and luxury brands can be expensive.

What is the typical lifespan of quartz?
With proper care, quartz lasts 25–50 years. It resists scratches, stains, and bacteria, and many brands offer 10–15+ year warranties.

What is quartz countertop price per square foot?
Installed quartz costs $50–$200 per sq ft. Builder-grade starts at $50–$70, mid-range averages $70–$120, and designer slabs reach $150–$200+.

Is quartz countertop worth the money?
Yes. Quartz is durable, low-maintenance, resists stains and scratches, and boosts resale value. It’s considered a premium, long-term upgrade.

Can you put a hot pan on quartz countertop?
No. Heat above 300°F (150°C) can damage resin in quartz. Always use trivets or hot pads under pans, baking trays, or appliances.

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