Kitchen

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Kitchen Countertops?

Replacing kitchen countertops is one of the most transformative ways to refresh your kitchen—and it’s also one of the most common upgrades in a remodel. But let’s talk numbers. How much does it actually cost to replace kitchen countertops? Well, like many things in design, the answer depends on a few key factors: the material you choose, the size of your kitchen, and whether you’re adding elements like waterfall edges or matching backsplashes.

If you’ve been following along with us, you know we love incorporating statement-making details like waterfall countertops. We’ve also experimented with using the same countertop material for the backsplash, which creates a sleek, cohesive look. While these options can elevate your kitchen’s style, they do come with added costs.

The Cost of Countertop Materials

The material you choose plays the biggest role in determining how much you’ll spend. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options and their price ranges:

  • Butcher Block: $40–$100 per square foot. Adds warmth and character but requires regular maintenance.
  • Quartz: $50–$150 per square foot. A popular choice in our own home, quartz offers durability and a variety of color options.
  • Granite: $40–$200 per square foot. Natural and stunning, but prices can climb depending on the slab.
  • Marble: $75–$250 per square foot. Timeless and luxurious, though it’s more prone to scratches and stains.
  • Soapstone: $70–$120 per square foot. Understated and durable but leans more niche.

These costs typically include the material itself and basic fabrication and installation. However, the grade of the material (low, mid, or high-end) also affects pricing. You can find budget-friendly quartz, but that high-end Cambria slab you’ve been eyeing will cost significantly more. Henry and I try and budget somewhere in the middle to get allow for a little higher end design, but still not breaking the bank.

The Size of Your Kitchen

The size of your kitchen directly impacts how much material you’ll need, and that drives up the cost. Most countertop installers will quote you per square foot, so a small galley kitchen will cost less than a sprawling open-concept space with an oversized island.

The average kitchen countertop is around 30–50 square feet. If you have a large kitchen island or extended countertops, like we do in many of our designs, that number can climb quickly.

Added Costs in Replacing Kitchen Countertops: Waterfall & Backsplashes

Some upgrades are worth splurging on, and we’ve found that both waterfall countertops and using countertop material for a backsplash can be game-changers for the overall look of your kitchen.

  • Waterfall Countertops: This design element continues the countertop material down the sides of an island or counter, creating a seamless, high-end look. Adding a waterfall edge typically increases the total cost by $1,000–$3,000, depending on the material and size of the feature.
  • Matching Backsplash: Using the same countertop material for your backsplash gives your kitchen a polished and cohesive feel, but it can add $20–$50 per square foot to your budget. Keep in mind, though, that if you’re opting for a natural stone like granite or marble, you’ll need to purchase additional slabs, which can get pricey.

Other Considerations in Cost of Replacing Kitchen Countertops

When budgeting for new countertops, don’t forget to account for the less exciting—but necessary—costs:

  • Removal of old countertops: Typically $50–$100 per hour for labor.
  • Cutouts for sinks and cooktops: Around $100–$300 per cutout, depending on the complexity.
  • Sealing or finishing (if required): Natural stone countertops often need sealing, which costs around $1–$2 per square foot. This can sometimes be added in with installation cost or can be done by you using proper sealer.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your kitchen countertops is a big investment, but it’s one that can completely transform your space and boost your home’s value. Whether you’re keeping it simple with quartz or going all-in with a waterfall edge and matching backsplash, it’s all about balancing your budget with your vision.

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