Countertop Cost per Square Foot: Starting at $29.95 Installed, and What Changes the Price
Countertop cost per square foot depends first on the stone tier, then on how many square feet you need and on the extras around them: shaped edges, special cutouts, backsplash, waterfall sides and tear-out of the old top. At Cornerstone, starting prices per square foot installed are $29.95 for Classic Granite, $58.95 for Semi-Exotic and $119.95 for Super Exotic, with Semi-Precious on request. Your quote names the exact slab and price.
Summary
- The stone tier sets the starting price per square foot.
- Measure every piece, including islands, overhangs and backsplash.
- Edges, waterfalls, backsplash and tear-out change the total.
- Compare quotes by what they include, not just the price per foot.
Starting Prices per Square Foot at Cornerstone
Every slab in our yard belongs to one of four tiers. Rarer colors and bolder movement sit in the higher tiers.
| Tier | Starting price | What it usually covers |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Granite | $29.95 | Durable, widely available granite colors |
| Semi-Exotic | $58.95 | Slabs with more movement or less common colors |
| Super Exotic | $119.95 | Rare, dramatic slabs |
| Semi-Precious | Call for pricing | Agate and other semi-precious surfaces |
These starting prices include the slab, templating, cutting, a flat polished edge, installation and setting your kitchen sink. Full detail: prices per square foot.
How Square Footage Is Measured
Measure each piece in inches, multiply length by depth and divide by 144. Add the pieces together. Remember three areas people often forget:
- Island overhangs for seating
- A full-height backsplash, measured the same way
- Waterfall sides, which add the island's depth times its height
Six Factors That Change the Price
Two kitchens with the same square footage can have very different totals. These are the reasons.
1. The Stone Tier
The single biggest factor. Moving from one tier to the next changes every square foot.
2. Edge Profile
A flat polished edge is included. Bullnose, bevel, chiseled and ogee edges take more shop time and are priced separately.
3. Cutouts
The kitchen sink is included. Extra cutouts, such as a cooktop or a second sink, add fabrication work.
4. Special Work
Waterfall sides and mitered edges add stone and careful shop time.
5. Backsplash
A 4-inch strip adds little; a full-height stone wall adds real square footage.
6. Tear-Out
Removing and hauling away the old top is quoted as its own line.
Comparing Price per Square Foot Between Companies
A low price per square foot can hide extras. Before comparing, check that both quotes include the same things. Our guide on how to compare countertop quotes lists every line to check, and our guide on countertop deposit covers payment terms.
More planning help is in our countertop buying guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do countertops cost per square foot?
At Cornerstone, from $29.95 for Classic Granite up to $119.95 for Super Exotic, installed. Semi-Precious is priced on request.
Is installation included in the price per square foot?
Yes, along with templating, cutting, a flat polished edge and setting the kitchen sink.
Does the backsplash count as square footage?
Yes. A stone backsplash is measured and priced like countertop.
Why do two granites cost different amounts?
They sit in different tiers based on rarity and look.
Is tear-out included?
No. It appears as a separate line on your quote.
