Generally speaking where countertops are concerned, there are three levels of granite to choose from, ranging from low grade to high grade. The grade is determined by colors, veins, pitting, markings, thickness and the amount of soft materials it comprises, as well as the granite’s country of origin. These grades range in price from $40 to $200 per square foot, with installation adding another $15 to $45 per square foot.

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Understanding the different grades of granite and their respective price ranges will help you better budget for your countertop project. Read on for a breakdown of the individual costs of the three grades of granite.

Level 1: $40 to $70 Per Square Foot

• Considered entry level, or “commercial” or “builder’s grade”
• Often pre-fabricated and found mostly in apartments, prefab models or even furniture
• Tends to be thinner, usually about three-eighths of an inch thick
• May require plywood backing for additional strength
• More simple design and contains more standard colors
• Typically imported from China and found at granite liquidators or big box stores

Level 2: $80-$110 Per Square Foot

• Considered mid-grade
• Thicker than Level 1, measuring three-quarters of an inch, on average
• Colors and designs tend to be more unique than what you would find in Level 1 granite
• Tends to be imported from India or Brazil

Level 3: $140-$200 Per Square Foot

• Considered high-grade granite, with some granite companies going up to Levels 6 or 7
• Tends to be rarer in appearance and source, and can have more uncommon colors as well as veins and patterns
• Average thickness of at least three-quarters of an inch
• Tend to contain a noticeable amounts of both hard and soft materials
• Generally imported from Brazil or India

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