Is Quartz Cheaper Than Granite? A Surprising Price Comparison

Many homeowners start planning a remodel with one big question in mind: Is quartz cheaper than granite countertops? And if the answer is yes, how big is the difference? Most people assume one material must always be the budget-friendly option, but the truth is more nuanced. Pricing depends on far more than the stone itself, which is why comparing the two can feel confusing at first.

What really drives the cost isn’t the slab—it’s the installation, the fabrication details, the design choice, and even the color you fall in love with. That’s why so many homeowners worry about unexpected upcharges or complicated estimates. Nobody wants to choose a countertop only to find out later that the final bill doesn’t match the original number.

So when people ask if is quartz cheaper than granite countertops, what they’re actually searching for is transparency and reassurance that they’re getting a fair, predictable price.

This guide takes all the guesswork out of the comparison, explaining each cost factor in a simple, everyday way so you can feel confident, informed, and fully prepared before making your final choice.

Quartz Costs Explained

Before answering is quartz cheaper than granite countertops, you need a clear look at how quartz pricing actually works. Quartz isn’t priced only by the slab; several installation factors influence your final cost. One major element is the quartz countertop per square foot price, which varies based on the brand, color, and pattern complexity.

The Main Factors Behind Quartz Pricing

• Per-Square-Foot Cost: Standard quartz ranges from $55–$95, depending on the design. Premium brands like Cambria run higher.
• Installation Complexity: More seams, tight corners, or large islands increase cost.
• Thickness: A standard quartz countertop thickness of 2cm is cheaper, while 3cm adds durability—and cost.
• Brand Influence: Premium Cambria countertops pricing tends to be higher due to design exclusivity and performance.

Quartz stays fairly consistent across colors, making budgeting predictable.

Granite Costs Explained

Granite pricing is a little more unpredictable. When people ask is quartz cheaper than granite countertops, they’re often comparing basic quartz to basic granite. But granite has a much wider price spectrum based on rarity and country of origin.

Why Granite Pricing Swings So Much

• Entry-Level Slabs: Basic granite often starts lower than quartz.
• Exotic Materials: Rare colors can double or triple the price quickly.
• Sealing & Maintenance: Granite needs ongoing sealing, which adds to long-term costs.
• Fabrication Variability: Uneven natural patterns require extra labor to match seams.

While granite can be cheaper, high-end granite can easily exceed quartz.

Side-by-Side Comparison

To simplify the question is quartz cheaper than granite countertops, here’s a clear breakdown:

Feature	Quartz	Granite
Cost Range	Moderate to high	Low to very high
Maintenance	No sealing	Requires sealing
Durability	Nonporous, consistent	Natural variations, porous
Repairability	Easier	Harder
Price Stability	Consistent	Highly variable
Long-Term Cost	Lower	Higher

Both materials offer strong performance, but quartz wins in predictability.

When Quartz Is Cheaper

It surprises many homeowners, but sometimes the answer to is quartz cheaper than granite countertops is actually yes, especially in these common scenarios:

Quartz Wins When:

• You choose a common color that’s mass-produced
• Your kitchen is small, so slab waste is minimal
• You select a 2cm thickness, which keeps cost lower
• You need long-term low maintenance, saving money over time

A steady quartz countertop per square foot price makes estimating easier. And when you factor in the simplicity of a standard quartz countertop thickness, the savings can be noticeable.

When Granite Is Cheaper (And When It Isn’t)

Granite starts off looking like the budget-friendly choice, which is why so many people ask is quartz cheaper than granite countertops with so much confusion. But things change fast depending on the granite you pick.

Granite Is Cheaper When:

• You pick an entry-level stone
• You’re okay with more common colors
• You have straight runs with minimal seams

Granite Is NOT Cheaper When:

• You fall in love with an exotic slab
• You choose a rare color with high import costs
• Complex patterns require extra fabrication

Premium granite can cost more than quartz and require ongoing sealing.

Hidden Costs Homeowners Overlook

Even after researching is quartz cheaper than granite countertops, homeowners are often surprised by the “extras.” These affect both materials and can shift your final price.

Common Hidden Costs:

• Edge Profiles: Decorative or custom edges increase fabrication time and overall cost.
• Cutouts: Adding sink, faucet, or cooktop cutouts requires additional labor.
• Backsplash Choices: Full-height slab backsplashes raise both material and installation costs.
• Seams: More seams mean more precision work, which increases labor charges.
• Removal of Old Counters: Tear-out isn’t always included in standard estimates.
• Supports: Large overhangs need brackets or reinforcements that add to the final price.

These smaller costs add up quickly, which is why two similar quotes can differ so much.

Quartz vs. Granite: Real-World Examples

Let’s look at real scenarios that help answer is quartz cheaper than granite countertops more honestly.

Scenario 1: Small Galley Kitchen

• Quartz often wins because waste is minimal.
• Colors stay in the mid-range.
• Standard quartz countertop thickness keeps installation light.

Scenario 2: Large Custom Island

• Granite can get pricey due to slab size limits.
• Quartz offers more jumbo slabs at stable pricing.

Scenario 3: Unique, Bold Design

• Exotic granite skyrockets in price.
• Stable Cambria countertops pricing keeps quartz predictable.

These examples show why there’s no universal answer—context matters.

Your Clear Path to the Right Countertop Choice

When you look closely at every factor, the real answer to is quartz cheaper than granite countertops depends on your kitchen layout, color selection, and fabrication details. Either material can fall on the affordable or premium end—it all hinges on your specific choices. That’s why clear, straightforward pricing matters so much. You should feel informed, confident, and never blindsided by hidden costs. If you want honest guidance, accurate numbers, and a smooth, stress-free buying experience, contact us today for a transparent quote that helps you choose your perfect countertop with confidence.