Granite vs. Quartz Countertop Costs in DC, MD & VA
Compare granite vs. quartz countertop costs, material levels, MSI quartz groups, and starting packages. See what affects your final quote before choosing a countertop.
Granite System · Chantilly showroom · Serving Washington DC, Maryland & Northern Virginia
Countertop starting prices
Granite starts at $45/ft² and MSI Q Quartz starts at $50/ft². These are starting references for standard projects; your written estimate confirms the selected material and scope.
Granite · Level 1
Natural variation and individual slab character. Levels 2–5 offer additional color and pattern options.
Quartz · Group 0
A practical starting point for quartz. Compare available colors and higher groups before selecting your design.
Cambria, Silestone & more
Premium brands and designer colors are priced by the specific selection, availability, and fabrication requirements.
Granite rates by level
Starting rates per square foot. Confirm your chosen color’s level before ordering.
| Material level | Starting rate / ft² |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | $45 |
| Level 2 | $50 |
| Level 3 | $55 |
| Level 4 | $60 |
| Level 5 | $65 |
MSI quartz starting groups
Starting rates per square foot. Higher quartz groups are quoted by color.
| Color group | Starting rate / ft² |
|---|---|
| Group 0 | $50 |
| Group 1 | $57.50 |
| Group 2 | $64.99 |
Final pricing depends on measured area, slab selection, cutouts, edges, backsplash, removal, and site conditions. Package offers have their own area limits and eligible colors.
Granite starting package
Up to 25 ft² · Select eligible colors
Quartz starting package
Up to 25 ft² · Eight select Group 0 colors
What about a 40 ft² countertop?
At the starting rates, 40 ft² × $45 = $1,800 for Level 1 granite; 40 ft² × $50 = $2,000 for Group 0 quartz. These examples exclude any additional project charges and are separate from package offers.
Find a color to compare
Use a specific color or package selection when requesting your estimate.
Browse natural stone by level.
View granite collection →
Compare quartz colors and price groups.
View quartz collection →
Explore designer brands and patterns.
Explore premium options →
Eight select Group 0 colors, from $1,249. Sparkling White shown.
View eligible colors →
What changes the final price?
A useful comparison includes the same material tier, layout, and installation scope.
Material & color
Granite level, quartz group, supplier availability, and premium brands affect the rate.
Layout & slab use
Large islands, L-shapes, seams, and waterfall panels can change fabrication requirements.
Cutouts
Confirm sink and faucet openings. Cooktops and additional openings may change the quote.
Edge profile
Compare the same edge profile. Decorative and laminated edges can add cost.
Backsplash
A short backsplash and a full-height slab backsplash have different material requirements.
Removal & access
Include existing countertop removal, disposal, stairs, and site conditions when comparing quotes.
Granite or quartz: which fits your project?
Start with the look you prefer, then compare care needs and the quote for your actual layout.
| Compare | Granite | Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Starting rate | $45/ft² · Level 1 | $50/ft² · Group 0 |
| Appearance | Natural slab variation and unique movement | More consistent patterns, including marble-look designs |
| Routine care | Sealing needs depend on the selected stone | No routine sealing; follow the brand’s care guide |
| Best next step | View the actual slab before confirming your selection | Compare a sample and full-slab image of the selected color |
Compare what is included
Ask for an itemized scope so you can compare estimates fairly.
- Measurements, fabrication & installation: confirm all three stages.
- Sink, cutouts & edge: check the sink model, openings, and edge profile.
- Backsplash, removal & disposal: confirm the included area and removal scope.
- Plumbing & additional work: ask whether disconnect, reconnect, and other services are included.
Bring your project details
A few details make the estimate more useful from the start.
- Approximate countertop dimensions or a simple sketch.
- Photos of the kitchen or bathroom and existing countertops.
- Your preferred colors, sink details, and backsplash plan.
- Property location and any stairs or access limitations.
Explore colors before deciding
Photos help narrow your choices. Visit the Chantilly showroom to compare samples, edge profiles, and options for your kitchen or bathroom.
Manufacturer resources: MSI Q Quartz · Cambria · Silestone
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do granite countertops cost in the DMV area?
Granite System’s granite rates are $45 per square foot for Level 1, $50 for Level 2, $55 for Level 3, $60 for Level 4, and $65 for Level 5. Your final quote depends on measurements, material availability, fabrication details, and included scope.
How much do quartz countertops cost in DC, Maryland, and Virginia?
MSI Q Quartz starts at $50 per square foot for Group 0. Group 1 is $57.50 and Group 2 is $64.99. Higher groups and premium brands are quoted according to the selected color and project details.
Is granite cheaper than quartz?
At the entry level, granite is often slightly cheaper. However, premium granite can also become expensive, so the final comparison depends on the exact material and project details.
What increases countertop price the most?
Material tier, large islands, waterfall panels, multiple cutouts, full-height backsplash work, difficult removals, and premium edge profiles are common cost drivers.
How can I get accurate granite and quartz countertop pricing in DC MD VA?
Send your measurements, photos, preferred material, sink details, and backsplash plan through Granite System’s estimate form. A real quote should reflect your actual layout and selected material.
Get a quote for your actual layout
Send your measurements, photos, and favorite colors. We’ll help you compare options for a project in Washington DC, Maryland, or Northern Virginia.
4 Comments.
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