Quartz countertops are a top choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms, prized for their durability, non-porous surface, and design versatility. However, costs can vary significantly based on brand, quality, and installation complexity. Drawing on data from leading manufacturers like Caesarstone, Silestone, and Cambria, as well as industry reports from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and HomeAdvisor, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about quartz countertop pricing in 2023.

​1. Average Cost of Quartz Countertops

The total cost to install quartz countertops ranges from ​**$50to$200+ per square foot**, including materials and labor. For a standard 30-square-foot kitchen:

• ​Low-End: $1,500–$3,000
• ​Mid-Range: $3,000–$6,000
• ​High-End: $6,000–$12,000+

​Cost Breakdown:

• ​Material: $40–$150 per sq. ft.
• ​Installation: $10–$50 per sq. ft.
• ​Extras: Sink cutouts ($150–$400), edge detailing ($20–$100 per linear foot), removal of old counters ($50–$500).

​2. Factors Influencing Quartz Countertop Costs

​A. Material Quality and Brand

Quartz countertops are categorized into three tiers based on quality and brand reputation:

1. ​Economy Grade ($40–$60 per sq. ft.):
   • Brands: MSI Q Quartz, PentalQuartz.
   • Simple patterns, limited color options, thinner slabs (1.2–2 cm).
2. ​Mid-Grade ($60–$100 per sq. ft.):
   • Brands: Silestone, LG Viatera.
   • Realistic veining, scratch resistance, antimicrobial coatings.
3. ​Premium Grade ($100–$150+ per sq. ft.):
   • Brands: Cambria, Caesarstone, Dekton.
   • Bold designs (e.g., Cambria’s Brittanicca™), 3 cm thickness, lifetime warranties.

​B. Slab Thickness

• ​1.2 cm (0.47 inches): $40–$70 per sq. ft. (used for backsplashes or vertical surfaces).
• ​2 cm (0.75 inches): $50–$100 per sq. ft. (standard for countertops).
• ​3 cm (1.2 inches): $70–$150+ per sq. ft. (luxury option with enhanced durability).

​C. Color and Pattern Complexity

• ​Solid Colors: $50–$80 per sq. ft. (e.g., Caesarstone Pure White).
• ​Subtle Veining: $80–$120 per sq. ft. (e.g., Silestone Calacatta Gold).
• ​Bold Patterns: $120–$200+ per sq. ft. (e.g., Cambria Torquay).

​D. Edge Profiles

Edge detailing adds $20–$100 per linear foot:

• ​Straight Edge: $0–$10 (included in base price).
• ​Beveled or Bullnose: $15–$30.
• ​Ogee or Dupont: $50–$100.

​E. Geographic Location

Labor and material costs vary by region:

• ​Low-Cost Areas: Midwest U.S. ($50–$100 per sq. ft. installed).
• ​High-Cost Areas: Coastal California, New York ($100–$200+ per sq. ft. installed).

​3. Top Quartz Brands and Their Price Ranges

​4. Installation Costs

Professional installation typically adds ​**$500–$2,500** to the total cost:

• ​Basic Installation: $10–$30 per sq. ft. (straight layouts, no seams).
• ​Complex Installation: $30–$50 per sq. ft. (L-shaped kitchens, waterfall edges).
• ​Extras:
  • Sink cutouts: $150–$400.
  • Cooktop cutouts: $100–$300.
  • Seam placement: $100–$300 per seam.

​5. Hidden Costs to Consider

• ​Cabinet Reinforcement: Heavy quartz slabs (3 cm) may require plywood supports ($200–$1,000).
• ​Backsplash Installation: Matching quartz backsplashes cost $800–$2,000.
• ​Eco-Friendly Disposal: Removing old countertops adds $50–$150 (DIY) or $200–$500 (professional).

​6. Quartz vs. Other Materials: Cost Comparison

​7. How to Save Money on Quartz Countertops

1. ​Choose Prefabricated Slabs: Save 20–40% vs. custom-cut slabs.
2. ​Opt for Simple Edges: Straight edges cost $0vs.$1,000+ for ornate profiles.
3. ​Buy During Sales: Home Depot and Lowe’s offer 10–15% discounts on quartz during holiday weekends.
4. ​Reuse Existing Backsplash: Avoid $800–$2,000 in replacement costs.

​8. Long-Term Value and ROI

• ​Durability: Quartz countertops last 25–50 years with minimal maintenance.
• ​Resale Value: Recoup 60–80% of costs in home value (Zillow, 2023).
• ​Warranties: Most premium brands (e.g., Cambria) offer lifetime warranties.

​9. Case Study: Mid-Range Kitchen Remodel

Project Overview:

• ​Material: Silestone Calacatta Gold ($90 per sq. ft.).
• ​Size: 35 sq. ft. (L-shaped kitchen with island).
• ​Cost Breakdown:
  • Material: $90x35=$3,150
  • Installation: $1,500 (includes templating and sink cutout).
  • Ogee Edge Detailing: $800(20linearfeetx$40).
  • ​Total: $5,450

​10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is quartz cheaper than granite?
A: Quartz and granite cost similarly ($50–$200 per sq. ft.), but quartz requires no sealing, reducing long-term costs.

Q: Can I install quartz countertops myself?
A: Not recommended. Quartz slabs are heavy (20–30 lbs per sq. ft.) and require professional cutting/installation.

Q: How long does quartz installation take?
A: 1–3 days for templating, cutting, and installation.

Q: Does quartz fade in sunlight?
A: Yes. Prolonged UV exposure can discolor quartz. Use window film in sun-drenched kitchens.

​11. Conclusion

Quartz countertops offer a blend of luxury, durability, and low maintenance, making them a worthy investment for modern homes. While prices range from $50to$200+ per square foot, strategic choices like prefabricated slabs and simple edges can significantly reduce costs. Always work with certified installers and prioritize brands with robust warranties to ensure long-term satisfaction.