Replacing your kitchen countertops is one of the most transformative upgrades you can make in your home. In Maryland, costs can vary widely based on kitchen size, material, and installation complexity. This guide will help you understand current pricing, what influences costs, and how to budget for your project in 2025.
At Cornerstone Remodeling, we don’t offer standalone countertop replacement services. Instead, we partner with homeowners who are ready to reimagine their entire kitchen through a full remodel. That said, this guide can still be a valuable resource as you begin budgeting for your renovation—helping you understand how countertop costs fit into the bigger picture alongside flooring, cabinetry, appliances, and other key design elements.
Average Price Ranges by Kitchen Size
In Maryland, the total cost of replacing countertops in a typical kitchen falls within the following ranges:
- Small kitchens (under 35 sq. ft.): $1,850 to $5,500
- Large kitchens (65+ sq. ft.): $9,750 to $15,000 or more
For an average-sized kitchen, total costs typically range from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your choice of material and project complexity. These estimates include materials, labor, and standard installation.
Kitchen Countertop Costs by Material
Material selection has a major impact on pricing. Below is a breakdown of average installed costs per square foot for popular countertop materials in Maryland:
| Material | Price Range (per sq. ft., installed) |
| Tile | $18 – $23 (not recommended) |
| Laminate | $46 – $55 (not recommended) |
| Wood/Butcher Block | $51 – $61 |
| Corian (Solid Surface) | $64 – $75 |
| Recycled Glass | $86 – $118 |
| Quartz | $91 – $116 |
| Stainless Steel | $102 – $153 |
| Concrete | $111 – $128 |
| Granite | $108 – $120 |
| Marble | $147 – $167 |
All pricing reflects average Maryland rates and includes both material and installation.
Granite and Quartz: Popular Mid-to-High-End Options
Granite: Standard granite selections cost between $35–$65 per square foot for basic patterns and colors. However, exotic or imported slabs can exceed $100 per square foot, especially with custom edge finishes and veining.
Quartz: Known for its durability and modern look, quartz countertops in Maryland typically cost $91–$116 per square foot installed, although prices can range from $50 to $150 depending on brand and style.
For most mid-size kitchens using granite or quartz, expect total project costs to fall between $3,000 and $6,000.
What Drives Countertop Cost?
Several key factors influence the final price of your kitchen countertop replacement:
Size of Countertop Area
The total square footage of your countertop has a direct impact on material and labor costs. Larger kitchens not only require more slab material but also increase the amount of fabrication and installation time needed. For example, a 30 sq. ft. countertop might only need a single slab, while a 70+ sq. ft. kitchen may require multiple slabs with additional seams, cuts, and support structures. Island countertops also tend to be wider, requiring oversized or specialty slabs, which further adds to the cost.
Material Type and Grade
Not all countertop materials are priced equally — and even within a material category, there are different quality levels. Natural stones like granite and marble range in price depending on color rarity, veining patterns, and origin. Exotic granite from Brazil or marble from Italy costs significantly more than domestically quarried standard slabs. Engineered surfaces like quartz also vary by brand, with premium options from companies like Cambria or Caesarstone priced higher due to durability, color consistency, and warranty coverage. Eco-friendly or custom finishes, like recycled glass or polished concrete, often come at a premium.
Edge Profiles
Edge design plays a subtle but important role in the look and cost of your countertops. Standard edges like straight (eased) or beveled are usually included in the base price. However, more decorative edges — such as ogee, bullnose, waterfall, or double-thickness edges — require additional fabrication time and specialized equipment. These upgrades can increase the overall cost per linear foot and are particularly noticeable in kitchens with long runs of exposed countertop.
Custom Cutouts
Sinks, cooktops, and faucets require precise cutouts in the countertop material. Each cutout involves measurement, templating, and labor-intensive cutting using specialized tools. Undermount sinks, in particular, often require polishing of the exposed stone edge inside the cutout, which adds further time and cost. Features like integrated drainboards or custom shapes for bar sinks and prep areas increase both fabrication complexity and price.
Backsplash Integration
Including a 4-inch matching backsplash with your countertop not only enhances the aesthetic but also protects your walls from moisture and stains. This addition requires extra material and careful installation. For homeowners choosing a full-height backsplash that extends to the upper cabinets, costs can rise significantly depending on the material used and wall area covered. Coordinating seams and visual flow in materials like marble or quartz also adds complexity.
Labor Rates
Labor is often a hidden variable in countertop pricing. In Maryland, labor rates vary significantly by region. For instance, areas like Baltimore, Bethesda, or Annapolis often have higher labor costs due to demand, experience level of contractors, and business overhead. Rural areas may offer lower labor costs but with fewer high-end fabricators. Complex installations, such as curved islands or multi-level countertops, also demand more skilled labor, which affects the final price.
Budget Scenarios: What to Expect
Here’s a general pricing guide based on kitchen size and material selection:
- Budget Projects: Laminate or tile counters in small kitchens can be done for under $2,000.
- Mid-Range Projects: Most natural stone or solid surface materials (granite, quartz, Corian) in a standard kitchen cost $3,000–$6,000.
- High-End Projects: Luxury materials like marble, exotic granite, or stainless steel in a large kitchen can exceed $10,000, especially with custom features.
Getting the Best Value
To ensure a cost-effective and high-quality installation:
- Measure accurately: Know your kitchen’s square footage to get precise material estimates.
- Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary by thousands depending on installer and material supplier.
- Check for warranties: Some countertop materials come with long-term warranties that add value.
- Consider offcuts or remnants: If you’re doing a small space like a kitchen island or bathroom vanity, leftover stone from larger projects may be discounted.
Final Thoughts
Replacing your kitchen countertops is just one piece of the puzzle when planning a full kitchen remodel—and it’s a decision that can significantly impact both the look and functionality of your space. Understanding the cost range—from budget-friendly surfaces to premium materials—can help you allocate your remodeling budget wisely. At Cornerstone Remodeling, we guide you through these decisions as part of a comprehensive design-build process, ensuring your new countertops, cabinetry, flooring, and appliances all work together beautifully. If you’re ready to reimagine your entire kitchen, schedule a free consultation with our award-winning team to start planning a transformation that’s tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
