How Much Do Granite Countertops Cost?

Average National Cost
? All cost data throughout this article are collected using the RSMeans construction materials database.
Learn More

$2,400–$5,000

Find costs near you.

Updated On

April 8, 2025

Why You Can Trust Us

Today’s Homeowner exists to help you maintain or improve your home safely and effectively. We uphold strict editorial standards and carefully vet the advice and resources referenced in our articles. Click below to learn more about our review process and how we earn money.

Learn More

Granite countertops cost most homeowners between $2,400 and $5,000, depending on the size of the kitchen and the type of granite you choose. Smaller kitchens with 10 feet of counter space can expect costs around $2,400, while larger kitchens with up to 18 feet of counters can push past $5,000 for higher-end finishes and edge treatments.

The biggest factor in price is the amount of granite you need, followed by the stone’s quality, thickness, and finish. Standard polished slabs are the most common but honed and leathered finishes will increase the price. Decorative edge profiles, like ogee or waterfall edges, can also add hundreds to the final bill.

Granite is one of the most popular and durable kitchen countertop materials, known for its heat resistance, longevity, and natural beauty. But it’s also heavy, expensive to cut, and difficult to install without professional tools and experience. That’s why most homeowners hire a licensed pro to handle the job.

In this guide, we’ll break down total costs by size, finish, and edge style, explain what really drives up the price, and help you decide whether granite is worth the investment for your kitchen remodel.

Advertisement
Get Kitchen Remodeling Estimates in Just 30 Seconds
Match with a Countertop expert to help you with installation.
Please enter valid zip
Get Free Estimates

How Much Does It Cost to Install Granite Countertops?

On average, professionally installed granite countertops cost $3,600, with most projects falling between $2,400 and $5,000. The total depends on how much counter space you have, the quality and thickness of the stone, and any extras like special finishes or edge styles.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Kitchen SizeTotal Cost (Installed)
Small (10 linear feet)$2,400–$2,800
Average (14 linear feet)$3,400–$3,900
Large (18 linear feet)$4,400–$5,000+

Most granite counters are around 25.5 inches deep to provide a slight overhang. This depth affects the per-foot pricing, which ranges from $245 to $275 depending on the finish and edge details.


What Factors Affect the Granite Countertop Costs?

Granite pricing isn’t just about size. Here’s what else drives the total cost:

Stone Thickness

  • 1.25-inch slabs (standard for kitchens) are stronger and more durable.
  • 0.75-inch slabs are about 20% cheaper but better suited for bathrooms or laundry rooms.

If your kitchen granite costs $3,600 at standard thickness, switching to a thinner slab could drop the price to around $2,880.

Granite Quality

Granite comes in four levels: basic, mid-range, high-end, and premium. The cost per linear foot rises with rarity, color vibrancy, and overall quality.

QualityPrice per FootTotal Cost (14 feet)
Basic$80$2,800
Mid-range$120$3,400
High-end$160$3,900
Premium$220$5,000+
Today’s Homeowner Tip

Common colors like black, brown, and white are cheaper. Rare blue or green slabs from Brazil or Italy cost more and may need special orders.

Finish Options

Photo of stone countertop samples in varying styles and colors.
Credit: Canva

Polished granite is the standard, but you can upgrade to matte or textured finishes:

FinishCost Increase (14 feet)Total Installed
Polished$0$3,600
Honed (matte)+$420$4,020
Leathered+$700$4,300

Edge Treatments

Edge profiles affect both appearance and price. Standard eased edges are included, but decorative options add to your total.

Edge StyleAdd-On Cost (14 feet)Total Cost
Eased (Standard)$0$3,600
Beveled+$140$3,740
Bullnose+$210$3,810
Ogee+$280$3,880
Double Ogee+$560$4,160

Want to keep costs down? Stick with standard polished granite, eased edges, and 1.25-inch thickness. Skip the extras unless you’re going for a custom look.


Costs of Granite Countertops by Size

On average, a granite countertop with a 25.5-inch depth and 14-foot width (25.5” D x 14’ W) costs $3,591 for materials and professional installation. Any changes to the depth or width will affect the price. You’ll typically see granite slabs priced by the linear foot, although installers may quote them out in square feet.

Cost of Granite Countertops by Size
SizeMaterial PriceTotal Granite Countertop Installation Cost
24” D x 10’ W$1,870$2,445
25.5” D x 10’ W$1,990$2,565
28” D x 10’ W$2,180$2,755
24” D x 14’ W$2,618$3,423
25.5” D x 14’ W$2,786$3,591
28” D x 14’ W$3,052$3,857
24” D x 18’ W$3,366$4,401
25.5” D x 18’ W$3,582$4,617
28” D x 18’ W$3,924$4,959

An average size kitchen has 30 square feet of counter space. This equals a depth of 25.5 inches and a width of about 14 feet. Smaller kitchens may only need 10 feet of granite, while larger designs with a kitchen island may need 18 feet.

The price of each linear foot of granite depends on its depth. On average, it’s $256.50 per linear foot for 25.5-inch-deep kitchen counters. The per unit price varies slightly for pieces with a depth of 24 or 28 inches.


Costs of Granite Countertops by Thickness

Granite countertops usually come in two sizes when it comes to thickness: 1.25 inches and 0.75 inches. The 0.75-inch slabs are about 20% less expensive than 1.25-inch-thick granite. If a 1.25-inch-thick countertop costs $3,591, it’ll be about $2,872 to install a 0.75-inch-thick piece of similar size and quality.

Most installers recommend putting 1.25-inch granite in kitchens. The 0.75-inch pieces work better for laundry room and bathroom countertops that don’t need as much durability and strength.


Costs of Granite Countertops by Quality

Granite countertop slabs are $80 to over $220 per linear foot or $140 on average. Homeowners can expect to pay $1,960 for a mid-range to high-end countertop. Additional materials, labor costs, and equipment are extra.

Cost of Granite Countertops by Quality
QualityPrice per Linear FootCountertop Material CostTotal Granite Countertop Installation Cost
Basic$80$1,120$2,775
Mid-range$120$1,680$3,335
High-end$160$2,240$3,895
Premium$220$2,800$4,985

Quality Levels

Granite quality typically centers around its color and pattern, imperfections, origins, and overall availability. Many dealers grade granite from levels 1 to 3+, with three plus being the highest quality premium stone.

  • Basic (Level 1): $80 per linear foot
    • Common granite colors and patterns
    • Visible fissures
    • Easily accessible
    • Examples: Uba Tuba, Tan Brown, and Santa Cecilia
  • Mid-range (Level 2): $120 per linear foot
    • Interesting patterns that feature standard colors
    • Minimal defects
    • Widely available
    • Examples: New Venetian Gold, Giallo Fiorito, and Luna Pearl
  • High-end (Level 3): $160 per linear foot
    • Vivid colors in dynamic patterns
    • Little to no flaws
    • Hard to source
    • Examples: Black Galaxy, Labradorite, and Desert Dream
  • Premium (Level 3+): $200 per linear foot
    • Rare colors and patterns
    • Zero flaws
    • Limited availability
    • Examples: Van Gogh, Blue Bahia, and Lava Jewel

When looking at different types of granite, you’ll quickly see that vivid blue, green, and gold hues cost more than neutral tones. And top-tier granite from Brazil, Italy, and India has a higher price than basic slabs from China. Beyond that, flawless slabs go for a lot more than ones with visible veins, fissures, or surface imperfections.


Costs of Granite Countertops by Finish

You’ll pay $3,591 for a standard polished slab of granite. If you’d like it honed, it’s about $30 per linear foot more, for a total of $4,011 installed. A leathered finish increases the price by around $50 per linear foot, pushing the total to $4,291.

Cost of Granite Countertops by Finish
Finish TypePrice per Linear FootAmount Added to the PriceTotal Granite Countertop Installation Cost
Polished$0 (comes standard)$0$3,591
Honed$30$420$4,011
Leathered$50$700$4,291

All granite slabs come with a glossy polished finish standard. The high gloss darkens the base hue and helps the accent colors stand out in the light.

If you don’t like the shine, you can have the surface honed to create a satin or matte finish. This softens all the hues to create a more cohesive pattern. 

For an even more dynamic surface, consider a matte leathered finish. The rippled texture adds interest to the overall design, giving your kitchen an original, unique look. 


Costs of Granite Countertops by Edge Treatment

Edge treatments add $5 to $40 per linear foot to the total price. Eased countertop edges are the most affordable at $5 per linear foot. On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find the double ogee edge, which costs around $40 per linear foot.

Cost of Granite Countertops by Edge Treatment
Edge TreatmentPrice per Linear FootAmount Added to the PriceTotal Granite Countertop Installation Cost
Eased $5$70$3,661
Beveled $10$140$3,731
Bullnose$15$210$3,801
Ogee $20$280$3,871
Dupont$25$350$3,941
Waterfall $30$420$4,011
French Cove$35$490$4,081
Double Ogee $40 $560$4,151

Most new countertops come with a simple straight edge, creating a clean, classic look. However, if you’d like a more personalized touch, you have many edge treatment options to consider.

Types of Edge Treatments

  • Eased ($5 per linear foot): Also known as the softened square look, eased edges have lightly rounded square edges that improve safety and reduce the risk of chipping.
  • Beveled ($10 per linear foot): Bevel edges are cut at a 45-degree angle to add immense visual interest to the counter design.
  • Bullnose ($15 per linear foot): A bullnose edge profile creates a perfectly rounded edge that’s stylish and comfortable to lean against.
  • Ogee ($20 per linear foot): Ogee edges have an elegant S-curve for a touch of luxury and refinement.
  • Dupont ($25 per linear foot): The Dupont edge has a sharp 90-degree cut at the top, leading to a rounded edge for the best of both worlds.
  • Waterfall ($30 per linear foot): With the waterfall edge, you get a cascade of three rounded edges that adds a sleek and modern touch.
  • French Cove ($35 per linear foot): The French cove edge design is a classic look that’s both rustic and elegant.
  • Double Ogee ($40 per linear foot): The double ogee edge pairs two curves that turn your granite countertops into a true statement piece.

Edge treatments don’t just look nice, either. Finishing the edges helps protect the countertop from chips, cracks, and other damage. The softer edges also elevate the comfort and safety of your kitchen.

Advertisement
Get Kitchen Remodeling Estimates in Just 30 Seconds
Match with a Countertop expert to help you with installation.
Please enter valid zip
Get Free Estimates

What Else Affects the Cost of Installing Granite Countertops?

Additional features can add up to $1,000 to the total cost of installing granite countertops in your kitchen. Here’s a look at the items you may want to add to your quote.

Cutouts

Cutouts are $100 to $300, depending on whether you need a hole for your sink, cooktop, or both. A sink cutout is $100, while a cooktop cutout is about $200. Installers will usually have the manufacturer create the cutouts, but it’s also possible to do them onsite.

Backsplashes

A 4-inch-tall backsplash that matches your stone countertop is about $15 per linear foot. At that price, you’ll pay $210 for the backsplash alone, though this is a fairly small backsplash. Larger backsplashes will cost a lot more, and installation and additional materials, like construction adhesive and caulk, cost extra as well.

Support Brackets

Support brackets are about $50 each or more, depending on their design. Expect to pay $400 total for eight brackets if you need them along the full length of your counter. However, you’ll only need support brackets if your countertop overhang is more than 10 inches.

Sealant Application

Sealing granite costs between $200 and $350 when done by a professional. You can do it yourself for around $100. When you first get granite counters, your installer should apply the sealer for no extra charge.


Professional Vs. DIY Granite Countertop Installation

Even if you’re handy at DIYing, I strongly recommend that you hire a professional to complete your granite countertop installation. Installation requires special tools, precise leveling, and secure anchoring to ensure lasting results.

Even more importantly, granite is ultra-heavy yet surprisingly fragile and rather hard to work with, even if you have a friend to help out. It’s also the most expensive part of the project, so if you break it, the replacement could take a big chunk out of your kitchen renovation budget.

How To Hire a Granite Countertop Installer

nstalling granite is not a DIY job. Hiring a qualified pro ensures the stone is safely handled, properly cut, and securely installed.

Here’s how to find a good one:

  1. Get 3+ quotes from local countertop specialists.
  2. Ask for photos of past granite installs — check seams, cuts, and edge finishes.
  3. Verify licensing and insurance. Granite is heavy and breakable — make sure you’re covered.
  4. Check reviews or ask for referrals. See what past clients say about quality and reliability.
  5. Review the contract. It should clearly outline materials, finish, edge style, timeline, and payment terms.
Today’s Homeowner Tip

Don’t just go with the cheapest bid. A bad install can ruin expensive stone — and cost even more to fix.


So, Are Granite Countertops Worth It?

Granite countertops are absolutely worth the investment for most homeowners. While the average cost lands around $3,600, granite adds long-term value to your kitchen and typically offers a return on investment between 60% and 80%. If you’re remodeling your entire kitchen, that ROI can climb to 90% or more.

Beyond financial value, granite is one of the most durable and low-maintenance materials available. It holds up to heat, resists scratches, and when sealed properly, it’s protected from stains and moisture. With routine care — such as resealing the surface once a year and cleaning with mild soap — granite can easily last over 30 years.

If you’re planning to stay in your home or want to boost resale value with a high-end finish, granite is a smart, long-lasting choice that balances beauty with function.

Advertisement
Get Kitchen Remodeling Estimates in Just 30 Seconds
Match with a Countertop expert to help you with installation.
Please enter valid zip
Get Free Estimates

FAQs About Granite Countertops

Which is cheaper, quartz or granite countertops?

Quartz is usually cheaper than granite, especially when comparing entry-level materials. On average, quartz costs $140 to $258 per linear foot, while granite ranges from $244.50 to $275.50. However, pricing can flip for high-end options. Quartz is also easier to install and requires less maintenance, which can save money on sealing and repairs down the line. If you’re working with a tight budget and want a low-maintenance surface, quartz is a smart alternative.

What is the cheapest countertop material?

The most budget-friendly countertop materials are laminate and tile. Laminate costs $40 to $130 per linear foot, while granite tile or porcelain can cost as little as $30 to $40 per foot. These options are ideal for DIYers or budget remodels but don’t offer the same durability or resale value as solid granite or quartz. If you’re set on natural stone but need to cut costs, granite tile is a good compromise — it gives you the granite look at a fraction of the price.

Are granite countertops a good investment?

Yes — granite countertops typically offer a 60% to 80% return on investment, and up to 90% if installed as part of a full kitchen remodel. Beyond resale value, granite is prized for its durability, heat resistance, and timeless look. With proper care, a granite countertop can last 30 years or more. If you’re remodeling a kitchen in a mid-to-high-end home, granite is often a smart long-term choice that boosts both function and value.

Is it difficult to care for a granite countertop?

Not at all. Granite is easy to maintain with a little routine care. Just clean it with mild dish soap and a soft cloth — avoid harsh chemicals. You’ll need to reseal the surface once a year to protect it from stains and moisture. Most installers seal it initially, and you can either hire a pro (about $200–$350) or do it yourself with a $25 bottle of granite sealer. If you’re consistent with cleaning and sealing, your countertops will stay in great shape for decades.

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Marie Abendroth

Marie Abendroth

Full Bio

Full Bio

Marie Abendroth is a former home improvement professional who now focuses on writing articles that help people care for their homes like a boss. Her maintenance must-dos, DIY tricks, and other insider info promise to help make your home the envy of the neighborhood. Whenever she gets a free moment, she loves frolicking with her farm dogs, playing with RC cars, and relaxing in the garden.
avatar for Andrew Dunn

Andrew Dunn

Senior Editor

Full Bio

Full Bio

Andrew Dunn is a veteran journalist with more than 15 years of experience reporting and editing for local and national publications, including The Charlotte Observer and Business North Carolina magazine. His work has been recognized numerous times by the N.C. Press Association and the Society of American Business Editors and Writers. He is also a former general contractor with experience with cabinetry, finish carpentry and general home improvement and repair. Andrew earned a degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as well as a certificate in business journalism. He lives in Charlotte, N.C.