Planning guide · Kitchen · Updated November 2026
Quartz vs. granite countertops: cost, durability and care
For an average kitchen they cost about the same: Fixr puts installed quartz at $2,600 to $4,400 (average $3,500) [1] and installed granite at $2,500 to $5,000 (average $3,500 for about 30 sq ft) [2]. The real differences are heat, sun and upkeep.
Side by side
Totals come from Fixr's 2025–2026 guides, which assume an average-size kitchen (most have 30 to 40 sq ft of countertop) [1][2]. Edge style, backsplash, cutouts and slab grade move the price more than the material choice does.
| Quartz (engineered) | Granite (natural stone) | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost, average kitchen | $2,600 – $4,400, avg. $3,500 [1] | $2,500 – $5,000, avg. $3,500 [2] |
| Hot pans | Short exposure only; use a trivet [1][5][7][8] | Tolerates hot pans [3] |
| Sealing | Not needed [5] | Fabricators usually seal at install; resealing every 3–5 years is common advice, though many granites need little or none [2][4] |
| Stains and scratches | Stain resistant; scratch resistant, not scratch-proof [5] | Sealing adds stain resistance [4] |
| Direct sun / outdoors | Resin can yellow in UV; makers say not for outdoor use [1][6][7] | Light colors can fade in strong sun [3] |
| Look | Uniform color and pattern | Every slab is unique |
(Note: Prices are for reference only, not what your project will cost.)
Choose quartz if…
- You want no sealing and the most consistent color, especially in whites and light grays [5].
- The counter doesn't get direct afternoon sun; quartz makers warn that UV can change the color [1][7].
- You're fine always using a trivet; manufacturers say to keep hot pots off the surface [5][7][8].
Choose granite if…
- You set hot pans down while cooking; granite handles heat better [3].
- You want a one-of-a-kind natural slab and don't mind an occasional reseal [2][4].
- The kitchen gets strong sunlight; just know very light granites can fade over time [3].
Care basics
Quartz: no sealing needed; use cutting boards and trivets or hot pads, as Cambria, Silestone and Caesarstone all advise [5][7][8].
Granite: it's usually sealed when installed. Fixr suggests resealing every 3 to 5 years (more often for some light stones), and a DIY sealer runs about $20 [2]. The Natural Stone Institute notes that many granites don't strictly need sealing, so ask your fabricator about your specific slab [4].
Common questions
Is quartz or granite cheaper?
For an average kitchen they come out about even: Fixr's average is $3,500 installed for both [1][2]. Slab grade, edges and cutouts matter more than the material.
Related
- Countertop cost by material
- Kitchen remodel cost
- Backsplash cost
- Hiring a contractor in Georgia
- How long a remodel takes
- Bathroom water damage
Sources
- Fixr, Quartz Countertop Installation cost guide (updated January 29, 2026)
- Fixr, Granite Countertop Installation cost guide (updated January 31, 2025)
- Fixr, Quartz vs. Granite Countertops (January 9, 2025)
- Natural Stone Institute, Sealing Stone (accessed November 2026)
- Cambria, Product Care FAQ (accessed November 2026)
- Cambria, Product Specification Sheet (2026)
- Silestone (Cosentino), Care & Maintenance (accessed November 2026)
- Caesarstone US, Care & Maintenance (accessed November 2026)
This guide is general information, not legal, insurance or financial advice. How we research.
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