Countertop Installation Cost
New countertops transform a kitchen for a fraction of a full remodel. Granite, quartz, and marble each have different price points and maintenance requirements. Know the real costs before you pick your slab.
National Average
Typical range: $2,000 – $5,000
Based on national contractor surveys and RS Means data. Updated 2026-05-25.
Hire a Professional
Typical range: $2,000 – $5,000
Materials
$1,400
Labor
$1,750
Other
$350
Includes materials, labor, overhead, and profit. Prices vary by region.
The Right Tools Make All the Difference
Whether you hire a pro or DIY, having the right tools on hand saves time and money. Here's what countertop installation actually requires.
What Affects the Cost of Countertop Installation?
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Material (quartz, granite, marble) | Can affect total by 10-30% |
| Kitchen size | Can affect total by 10-30% |
| Edge profiles | Can affect total by 10-30% |
| Removal of old countertops | Can affect total by 10-30% |
Project Details
Time to Complete
1-2 days
DIY Possible?
No
Permits Required?
No
Why You Shouldn't DIY This
No — hire a licensed professional.
Countertop Installation requires specialized skills, tools, and often permits. A botched job can cause water damage, structural issues, or safety hazards — costing far more to fix than doing it right the first time. Get 3 quotes from licensed contractors.
See the tools you need →Going the DIY route? Start with the right tools.
Most homeowners who try DIY countertop installation without proper tools end up hiring a contractor anyway — after wasting a weekend. These are the tools contractors actually use.
Cost by City
| City | Est. Low | Est. High | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $2,700 | $6,750 | $4,725 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $2,600 | $6,500 | $4,550 |
| Chicago, IL | $2,200 | $5,500 | $3,850 |
| Houston, TX | $1,900 | $4,750 | $3,325 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $1,900 | $4,750 | $3,325 |
See all 20 cities for complete regional pricing.
Shop the Tools Professionals Use
Same quality tools contractors use, delivered to your door.
Browse Tools on Amazon →Related Services
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does countertop installation cost?
The national average for countertop installation is $3,500 per kitchen, with a typical range of $2,000 to $5,000. Prices vary by city, contractor, and project complexity.
Can I do countertop installation myself?
No, this requires professional expertise. Always hire a licensed, insured contractor.
How long does countertop installation take?
Typical timeline: 1-2 days. This varies based on project size, weather (for exterior work), and contractor availability.
Disclaimer
Cost estimates are based on national averages and regional cost adjustment factors. Actual prices vary by contractor, scope, and local market conditions. Always get multiple quotes before hiring. Product links are affiliate links — we earn a commission at no cost to you.