How Much Do Granite Countertops Cost? [2026 Data]

Average Cost of Granite Countertops

While you can complete small granite countertop installation projects for under $500, most projects range from $2,000 to $4,000, with an average price of $3,250. That said, if you choose high-end granite for a large counter, the cost can exceed $9,000.

Granite Countertop Cost by Square Foot 

On average, a granite countertop slab costs between $40 and $60 per square foot. You’ll pay the most for a large kitchen island, and prices will be lowest for a bar top or small counter.

Here are estimated granite countertop costs based on square footage:

Cost by Granite Material

At $40 to $60 per square foot, granite costs less than some countertop materials (such as marble and stainless steel), but it's more expensive than others (like certain types of quartz and slate). Note, however, that granite can climb to $100 per square foot, depending on the type and quality you choose.

Here’s how granite prices compare with other countertop materials: 

Cost by Type of Granite

Costs vary widely depending on granite type, from as low as $30 per square foot for Ubatuba to upward of $100 per square foot for Blue Louise. Common granite types are easier to source and therefore less expensive than rare granite types.

Here’s what you might pay for different types of granite:

Additional Granite Countertop Cost Factors

When hiring a local granite countertop installer, your estimate will likely break down into two sections: the square footage of materials and an hourly rate for labor. Here are the primary factors that influence the cost of a granite countertop.

• Labor: $35 per square foot

• Removal and disposal of old countertop: $4–$7 per square foot

• Color and rarity: $10 per square foot extra when choosing darker granite countertops over lighter granite countertops

• Honed finish: $10–$20 more per square foot 

• Leathered finish: $15–$25 more per square foot 

• Style of countertop edges: $10–$40 per linear foot for upgraded edges, such as rounded edge or French cove 

• Slab delivery: $150–$200, if not included in labor fees

• Sink cut-out: $100

• Sink installation: $420

• Cooktop cut-out: $200 each

• Plumbing alterations: $350–$2,000

• Caulking over granite seams: $1.25–$4 per linear foot

• Painting over granite seams: $6–$15 per square foot

• Granite sealing: $100 or more

• Warranty: $300+

How to Save on the Cost of Granite Countertops

Granite installation quickly gets expensive, especially with more high-end types of granite, but there are cost-cutting options. 

• Choose a less expensive type of granite, such as St. Cecilia or Ubatuba, to potentially save 25% to 40% over higher-end options.

• Pick up your granite in-store to save on delivery, which often costs $150 to $200.

• Go for granite tiles ($5 to $15 per square foot) over slabs ($40 to $100 per square foot).

• Choose thinner granite, which will save material costs ($40 to $60 per square foot).

• DIY old countertop removal for a savings of $4 to $7 per square foot, but note that it might be heavy.

Is Granite a Popular Countertop Material?

Are you wondering about the most common countertop materials? Based on the responses of 8,100 Angi customers, 44.6% of homeowners prefer granite, while 29.3% opt for quartz. Granite is valued for its natural beauty and heat resistance, while quartz is prized for its durability, low maintenance, and wide range of color options.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

It’s usually best to hire a local granite countertop installation pro, especially if you want a seamless finish. That said, you might be able to DIY in some cases, which will save about $35 to $85 per hour on labor costs. This equates to around $1,500 total for the project. 

Here’s when you should hire a pro:

• You want a large slab of uninterrupted granite on your counter. Slabs run several hundred pounds, and they can crack or shatter if mishandled

• You’re unsure how to do the job. Incorrect granite countertop sealing, grouting, or leveling can cost you more in repairs—and they likely won’t result in a flawless finish.  

• You want a warranty that covers defects and installation issues, safeguarding your investment in the long run.

• Your countertop layout involves complex cuts.

• You need to dispose of existing heavy countertops.

• The installation requires fitting around sinks, appliances, or backsplashes.

You might DIY in the following situations:

• You’re working with granite tile and modular pieces.

• You have prior experience with similar projects.

• You can get specialized equipment for cutting, sanding, and sealing.

• The project is small, such as a bathroom vanity or a small kitchen island.

• You’re willing to accept an end result that’s not flawless.

• You have help available to assist with lifting and positioning materials safely.

Whether you choose DIY or hire a pro, we recommend hiring a professional fabricator to properly measure and cut your granite pieces.