How Much Do Limestone Countertops Cost? [2025 Data]
Limestone countertops cost $70 to $150 per square foot installed, with most homeowners paying between $3,500 and $5,200 on average. Prices vary by slab size, finish, and labor.
Limestone countertops offer a natural, elegant look for kitchens and baths.
The main limestone countertop cost factors include slab size, features, and labor rates.
Expect to pay between $70 and $150 per square foot for limestone countertops, including labor and materials.
Regular sealing and maintenance are required to protect limestone surfaces.
Professional installation costs $20 to $50 per square foot and ensures durability and maximizes home value.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.
Limestone countertops cost an average of $4,350, with most homeowners spending between $3,500 and $5,200 for installation on average. The price per square foot ranges from $70 to $150, depending on slab quality, finish, and labor. Limestone is priced by the square foot, making project size a major cost factor.
Homeowners choose limestone for its timeless beauty and unique texture. This guide will help you understand what impacts limestone countertops cost, so you can plan your project with confidence and avoid surprises along the way.
Size of Limestone Countertops
The size of your countertop is the most significant factor in determining limestone countertop costs. Since limestone is sold by the square foot, larger kitchens or bathrooms will naturally cost more. Most standard kitchens require between 40 and 60 square feet of countertop, while bathroom vanities may need only 10 to 20 square feet.
Slab thickness also plays a role. Thicker slabs, such as those measuring three centimeters instead of two centimeters, cost more due to increased material and weight.
Additionally, projects with many seams, corners, or irregular shapes may result in more waste and higher costs, especially if minimum order requirements apply. Larger projects sometimes qualify for lower per-square-foot pricing, especially when purchasing in bulk.
| Countertop Size (Sq. Ft.) | Description | Average Cost | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Small vanity | $1,100 | $700–$1,500 |
| 20 | Standard vanity | $2,200 | $1,400–$3,000 |
| 40 | Standard kitchen | $4,400 | $2,800–$6,000 |
| 60 | Large island/large kitchen | $6,600 | $4,200–$9,000 |
Cost by Location
Where you live has a noticeable impact on the cost of limestone countertops. In regions with higher labor rates, such as the Northeast and West Coast, installation costs per square foot can be significantly higher than in the Midwest or South. Material availability also matters; areas close to limestone quarries or distribution centers often see lower prices due to reduced transportation costs.
Urban homeowners may pay more due to higher demand and increased delivery fees, while rural areas may see higher transportation costs if suppliers are far away. Proximity to suppliers can reduce both delivery time and expense, so sourcing local is often beneficial.
Limestone Countertops Cost Factors
Several factors influence limestone countertop costs beyond just size and location. Let’s break down the specifics.
Labor
Installing limestone countertops requires skilled professionals, including stone fabricators, installers, and sometimes general contractors. Labor rates range from $35 to $75 per hour or $20 to $50 per square foot, depending on local market rates and project complexity. Minimum service fees or trip charges are common, especially for small jobs.
Labor costs rise with custom features like intricate edge profiles, multiple sink or appliance cutouts, and backsplashes. Complex installations or difficult site access can also increase labor time and price.
Labor often includes templating (measuring and creating a template), delivery, installation, finishing, and post-construction cleanup. If you need old countertops removed, expect additional fees for demolition and disposal.
Permits
Permits are occasionally required for major kitchen remodels or when structural changes are involved. Permit costs range from $50 to $300, depending on your municipality. Contractors often handle permitting, but it’s important to clarify responsibilities to avoid delays or fines. Skipping required permits can result in penalties or problems during future home sales.
Features
Custom edge profiles, such as bullnose, ogee, or beveled edges, add to limestone countertop costs. Expect to pay $10 to $40 per linear foot for these upgrades. Integrated sinks, drainboards, or custom cutouts for appliances and fixtures also increase fabrication time and price.
Backsplash installation is another cost consideration, adding $20 to $40 per square foot. Decorative inlays, unique finishes, or high-performance sealants can raise the total, as can lighting or under-cabinet features that require extra fabrication or coordination with electricians.
Additional Cost Factors
Project complexity matters—countertops with many seams, corners, or unusual shapes can increase both labor and waste. Accessibility issues, such as tight stairwells or upper-story installations, may require special equipment or extra labor.
Site preparation, including demolition of old surfaces, substrate leveling, or reinforcing cabinets to support the heavy stone, adds to the total. Delivery fees for oversized slabs, post-installation cleanup, and debris removal are other potential expenses. Design fees may apply for custom layouts, and some projects require inspections for code compliance or insurance purposes.
Additional Costs to Consider
When planning for limestone countertop costs, remember to factor in warranties, ongoing operating costs, regular maintenance, taxes, and insurance.
Warranties
Many installers and manufacturers offer warranties covering material defects or installation issues. Standard warranties are often included in the purchase price, but extended warranties or service plans may cost $100 to $500 extra. A solid warranty can help offset future repair costs and offers peace of mind.
Operating Costs
Limestone’s porosity means you’ll spend more time and resources on regular care. While the stone itself doesn’t use energy, you may need specialty cleaners or periodic professional maintenance. These recurring costs are worth considering in your long-term budget.
Maintenance
Limestone requires sealing at least once a year, sometimes twice in high-use areas. Professional sealing costs $150 to $500 per visit. Specialty cleaners and recommended maintenance products add another $50 to $100 per year.
Repairs for chips, cracks, or stains can range from $200 to $800, depending on severity. Compared to granite or quartz, limestone’s maintenance needs are higher due to its softer, more porous nature.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Average Cost per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Professional sealing | Yearly or biannually | $150–$500 |
| Specialty cleaners | As needed | $50–$100 |
| Minor repairs | As needed | $200–$800 |
Taxes
Sales tax applies to both materials and labor in many states, ranging from 4% to 10% of the total project cost. Some jurisdictions offer tax incentives or rebates for home improvement projects—check with your local tax office for eligibility.
Insurance
Homeowners insurance often covers damage to limestone countertops only if caused by a covered peril, such as fire or theft. Additional insurance may be needed for high-value stone installations. Most insurers require proof of professional installation for full coverage.
DIY Limestone Countertops vs. Hiring a Pro
Homeowners may consider DIY installation to save on limestone countertop costs, but it’s a challenging task with notable risks.
DIYers can save on labor, but must pay for materials, tool rentals or purchases, delivery, and disposal of old surfaces. Expect to spend $1,800 to $4,000 on materials and tools for a small project. However, improper installation can damage expensive slabs, void warranties, and lead to costly mistakes.
DIY installation requires advanced skills, heavy-duty tools (such as wet saws and grinders), and the ability to safely transport and maneuver heavy slabs. The process is physically demanding and time-consuming—often taking several days. For most homeowners, hiring a pro ensures quality, durability, and warranty protection.
| Installation Method | Average Material Cost | Average Labor Cost | Tools/Equipment | Total Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY | $1,500–$3,000 | $0 | $300–$1,000 | $1,800–$4,000 |
| Pro | $1,500–$3,500 | $1,000–$2,000 | Included | $2,500–$5,500 |
Limestone Countertops Replacement vs. Repair
Deciding whether to repair or replace limestone countertops depends on the type and extent of damage.
Common countertop repair issues include chips, cracks, stains, etching from acidic substances, or structural problems. Minor chips or stains can be repaired for $200 to $800, while severe cracks or widespread damage may require full replacement, which can cost $2,600 to $6,000 or more.
If repair costs exceed 50% of the price of new countertops, replacement is the better investment. Repairs may not fully restore the original look, which can affect resale value or aesthetics.
| Repair Type | Average Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chip repair | $200–$400 | Minor, localized damage |
| Crack repair | $400–$800 | Small, non-structural cracks |
| Stain removal | $250–$500 | Isolated, treatable stains |
| Full replacement | N/A | Multiple, severe issues |
Do Limestone Countertops Add Value to Your Home?
Limestone countertops can offer a solid return on investment (ROI), especially in kitchens and bathrooms. On average, you can expect an ROI of 50% to 70% from a quality limestone countertop installation. These surfaces enhance home value by improving aesthetics and buyer appeal, making your property more attractive to potential buyers.
Compared to granite or quartz, limestone’s ROI is similar, though slightly lower due to its higher maintenance needs. ROI depends on the quality of installation, alignment with current design trends, and local real estate demand. Beyond resale, homeowners benefit from improved durability, unique style, and a more functional, inviting space.
Tips to Reduce Costs While Installing Limestone Countertops
Consider these cost-saving strategies to make your limestone countertop project more budget-friendly:
Obtain multiple quotes from reputable local countertop installers.
Choose standard slab sizes and finishes to minimize waste and custom charges.
Opt for simpler edge profiles and fewer cutouts to lower fabrication costs.
Schedule installation during off-peak seasons for potential discounts.
Consider partial replacements or overlays instead of full slab replacement.
Maintain countertops properly to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement.
Source limestone locally to reduce transportation and delivery fees.
Reuse or repurpose existing cabinetry to save on site preparation costs.
How Angi Gets Its Cost Data
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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