Remodeling your kitchen? One of the biggest style—and budget—decisions you’ll make is your countertop material. At Crowley’s Granite & Quartz, we’ve helped thousands of Portland-area homeowners transform their kitchens with stunning stone surfaces. But before you pick the perfect slab, it’s essential to understand what influences countertop costs and how to plan your investment wisely.
This guide breaks down the real-world costs of popular countertop materials, how to compare options like granite vs. quartz, and how to avoid surprise expenses during your kitchen remodel.
What Affects the Cost of Kitchen Countertops?
Countertop pricing varies widely depending on material and project scope. Here are the top factors that shape your final price:
- Material Type: Natural stone (granite, quartzite, marble) and engineered stone (quartz) tend to cost more than laminate or tile but offer superior performance and longevity.
- Square Footage: Larger kitchens or complex layouts will naturally increase material and labor costs.
- Edge Profiles: While standard eased edges are budget-friendly, custom profiles like ogee or mitered waterfall edges add cost and craftsmanship.
- Cutouts & Finishing: Sinks, cooktops, and custom cutouts add time and labor. Undermount sinks and full-height backsplashes also affect pricing.
- Installation Complexity: Tight corners, large islands, or tricky access can raise labor costs.
- Portland Area Pricing: Regional factors—including material transportation and local labor rates—play a role. At Crowley’s, our transparent pricing includes material, fabrication, and expert installation.
Average Installed Cost by Countertop Material
Let’s take a closer look at installed price ranges for the most popular countertop materials based on projects we regularly complete across the Portland metro:
| Material | Installed Cost per Sq. Ft. | Durability | Maintenance | Design Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granite | $40 – $200+ | High | Moderate | Classic, upscale |
| Quartz | $50 – $160+ | High | Low | Sleek, modern |
| Quartzite | $80 – $200+ | Very High | Moderate | Natural elegance |
| Marble | $75 – $250+ | Medium | High | Soft, luxurious |
| Soapstone | $70 – $160+ | Medium | Low | Matte, organic feel |
| Porcelain | $100 – $180+ | High | Low | Sleek, contemporary |
Note: Prices are for full-service fabrication and installation. We do not install laminate, tile, or butcher block at Crowley’s, but we include them here for comparison.
Planning Your Kitchen Countertop Budget
A well-planned budget ensures you stay on track—and get the look you love. Here’s how we guide clients through the budgeting process:
Kitchen Countertop Budgeting Checklist
Before choosing materials, we recommend:
- Measure total square footage of countertop space (including island and any bar areas).
- Determine your total kitchen remodel budget, then allocate 10–20% for countertops.
- Request an in-home estimate (Crowley’s offers these for free in the Portland metro).
- Factor in extras like sink cutouts, backsplashes, edge details, or plumbing needs.
- Choose your stone slab early to secure availability and pricing.
- Ask about warranties and maintenance plans. At Crowley’s, we offer a 10-year warranty on our installation.
Real-World Example: Budget Breakdown for a 50 Sq. Ft. Kitchen
Let’s say you have 50 sq. ft. of countertop space. Here’s a sample breakdown for a Portland project:
| Material | Price per Sq. Ft. | Est. Total Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Granite | $90 | $4,500 | Includes sealing |
| Quartz | $100 | $5,000 | Low-maintenance |
| Quartzite | $140 | $7,000 | Premium natural look |
| Marble | $160 | $8,000 | For low-use kitchens |
Pro Tip: Opt for a statement island in quartzite and use a simpler perimeter material to balance budget and impact.
Cost-Saving Tips from Our Experts
At Crowley’s, we know every dollar counts. Here are smart ways our clients save without sacrificing quality:
- Use Remnant Stone: Great for vanities, bar tops, or laundry rooms.
- Stick to Standard Edges: You can always upgrade finishes later.
- Bundle Services: Ask about kitchen + bath packages.
- Plan Ahead: Avoid rush jobs that can increase labor costs.
Remnant Stone
Standard Edges
Bundle Services
Plan Ahead
Why Work with Crowley’s Granite & Quartz?
We’ve served over 5,000 homeowners in the Portland area with stunning, custom stone countertops. Our in-house team handles everything from design consultation to fabrication to expert installation—no middlemen, no surprises.
A dedicated project manager
Access to our on-site showroom
Precision templating and digital design
An installation warranty
Crowley
Written by Crowley’s Granite & Quartz
With over 20 years serving the Portland metro, Crowley’s Granite & Quartz is the region’s trusted source for premium stone countertops. We specialize in quartz, granite, marble, quartzite, porcelain, and more—offering complete design-to-installation service backed by unmatched craftsmanship and a 10-year warranty.