The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Kitchen Countertops

Selecting countertops for your kitchen is one of the most exhilarating parts of any renovation project. Just like flooring and cabinetry, the choice of a countertop isn’t just about aesthetics; it involves a mix of durability, maintenance, and of course, the ability to boost your home’s value. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best options available, their prices, features, and what to consider for your kitchen.

Quartz

Cost: $70 to $120 per square foot installed

Quartz is often hailed as the countertop king when it comes to resale value. Why? It offers the luxurious appearance of natural stone but is far more durable and requires minimal maintenance. Charlie Lankston, executive editor for Realtor.com, notes that homeowners love its aesthetic flexibility. Available in a wide array of colors, quartz countertops can complement nearly any kitchen design.

Interior designer Sarah Cole swears by quartz for its versatility. “Its nonporous surface resists stains and eliminates the extra care required with natural stone,” she explains. For a timeless look, she recommends a warmer white quartz with minimal veining—perfect for both modern and traditional kitchens.

Quartzite

Cost: $65 to $150 per square foot installed

Though quartz and quartzite sound similar, the two are fundamentally different. Quartz is engineered, while quartzite is a natural stone that originates from sandstone and is enhanced through heat. The result? A stunning, marble-like veining paired with impressive strength. “We’re big fans of quartzite,” says designer Ashley Bongo. “Its durability makes it ideal for bustling kitchens, and its beautiful patterns are incredibly forgiving.”

While quartzite does require sealing, its natural beauty and robustness make it a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a touch of sophistication to their kitchens.

Granite

Cost: $60 to $100 per square foot installed

Granite remains a classic choice that resonates well with potential buyers. Each slab holds its own unique variations, ensuring that every kitchen feels one-of-a-kind. Lankston emphasizes that this natural material exudes timeless appeal, making it compatible with nearly any design style.

Designer Dee Elms opts for Jet Mist Granite in many of her projects due to its durability against stains and heat. This makes it particularly suitable for high-traffic areas where family members and guests frequently gather.

Marble

Cost: $100 to $200 per square foot installed

Marble is synonymous with luxury. Instantly elevating the elegance of any kitchen, it’s a material that demands attention. However, it does come with higher maintenance. “If you want to add a sophisticated flair to your kitchen, marble is a compelling option,” says Lankston.

A light grey Carrara marble with subtle patterns can introduce a modern aesthetic while embracing a ‘wabi-sabi’ energy. Designer Sarah Scales mentions that while marble may be more vulnerable to wear and tear, natural stones tend to age gracefully, leaving their mark as they evolve over time.

Butcher Block

Cost: $40 to $70 per square foot installed

One of the most cost-effective options, butcher block countertops combine charm with functionality. They bring warmth and character—qualities that today’s buyers cherish, especially in farmhouse and Scandinavian-inspired homes. Lankston notes, “This affordable option allows for a durable surface without breaking the bank.”

While butcher block requires regular sealing and maintenance, the ability to sand and refinish the surface makes it highly practical for those willing to embrace its charm. Mattye Dewhirst, an interior designer, suggests that this natural material can adapt beautifully to the kitchen’s evolving needs.

Convergence of Factors

When shopping for kitchen countertops, it’s essential to consider several factors: the look and feel of the material, its resistance to wear and tear, and how much maintenance it will require. All these elements play a significant role in enhancing not only the functionality of your kitchen but also its resale value.

Choosing the right countertop can transform your kitchen space, making it not just functional but also inviting and stylish. Whether you lean towards modern quartz, luxurious marble, classic granite, or warm butcher block, each option presents unique benefits tailored to different lifestyles and preferences.