If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in 2023, one of the biggest expenses will be the cost of your new countertops. With so many materials and options to choose from, it can be challenging to accurately budget for your project.
Countertop Material Costs
The type of material you select for your new countertops will have the biggest impact on your per square foot pricing. Here’s an overview of what you can expect to budget for some of today’s top options:
| Laminate | $20-50 per sq. ft. installed |
| Butcher Block | $30-100 per sq. ft. installed |
| Tile | $30-100 per sq. ft. installed |
| Quartz | $70-150 per sq. ft. installed |
| Marble | $80-250 per sq. ft. installed |
| Granite | $80-150 per sq. ft. installed |
| Recycled Glass | $100-200 per sq. ft. installed |
There can be variances within these ranges based on factors like the quality and thickness of the materials, as well as availability in your local area. For example, exotic natural stones like marble will fall at the higher end of the cost spectrum. Whereas value-oriented laminates and porcelain tiles will offer more budget-friendly options per square foot.
Edges and Corner Treatments
The edge and corner details you choose for your new kitchen countertops will also impact the installed per square foot pricing. Here’s what to expect:
- A standard eased edge is often included in the base price of your countertop material.
- Upgraded edges like beveled, ogee, or bullnose typically add $8-$20 per linear foot.
- Detailed or mitered corners can also drive up costs compared to a simple squared-off corner.
While your contractor can provide a quote for exactly how much edge upgrades will add to your project, expect to invest around an extra 20% or more if you want high-end edges versus a simple eased profile.
Countertop Size
In addition to the specifics of your design, the total size and square footage of your kitchen will also impact the overall investment for your new countertops. As a general rule of thumb:
- Small kitchens under 25 sq.ft. will cost $1,000 to $2,500 for new counters.
- Medium kitchens from 25 sq.ft. to 50 sq.ft. range from $2,500 to $5,000.
- Large kitchens over 50 sq.ft. run from $5,000 to $15,000+.
Again, the exact price will depend on your choice of materials and features. But in general, expect the overall investment to rise with increased square footage.
Installation, Removal, and Other Costs
When budgeting your project, be sure to factor in these additional expenses beyond just the countertop materials:
- Demo and disposal of old countertops – $50 to $150
- Reconnecting plumbing and electrical – $200 to $500
- Adding an undermount sink – $200 to $500 per sink
- Backsplash tile – $2 to $15 per sq.ft. installed
- Edge banding – $100 to $200 per linear foot
While optional, these finishing touches can take your kitchen remodel to the next level. Discuss your vision with the countertop installer to make sure your final quote reflects the complete project scope.
To recap, the main factors that will determine your per square foot investment for new kitchen countertops include:
- Countertop material
- Edge details
- Total size/square footage
- Installation requirements
- Availability of materials and labor
- Special fabrication needs
It’s not possible to give an exact cost per square foot for every kitchen. The typical range most homeowners can expect to invest is $50 to $200 per square foot for their new countertops. Carefully weigh your budget, needs, and style preferences to land on a solution that gives you the look you love at a smart price point.
