How Much Do Soapstone Countertops Cost?

Soapstone countertops typically cost between $2,100 and $7,200, with a national average of $2,850. For materials and installation combined, expect to pay $70 to $120 per square foot. A standard kitchen with 30 square feet of counter space ranges from $2,100 to $3,600. The final price depends mainly on the slab quality, color choice, edge style, and installation complexity.

While high-end projects can reach $9,000, budget-conscious homeowners can find options starting around $1,600. This guide breaks down all costs to help you plan your soapstone countertop project.

Average Soapstone Countertop Costs in 2025

Understanding soapstone countertop pricing is essential for planning your kitchen renovation. As a natural stone that’s extremely durable and heat resistant, soapstone offers unique benefits that justify its cost. The total cost varies based on several key factors, including material quality, installation requirements, and regional pricing differences.

Cost Per Square Foot Breakdown

Soapstone counters typically range from $70 to $120 per square foot installed. This price includes both materials and professional installation. For an average-sized kitchen of 30 square feet, expect to pay between $2,100 and $3,600. These costs reflect the stone’s natural beauty and antimicrobial properties.

Cost Breakdown by Project Size:

• Small Kitchen (20 sq ft): $1,400-$2,400
• Medium Kitchen (30 sq ft): $2,100-$3,600
• Large Kitchen (50 sq ft): $3,500-$6,000

Material Quality and Price Ranges

Soapstone comes in various grades that affect its cost. High-quality architectural soapstone with subtle veining and artistic patterns commands premium prices. The stone’s composition, which includes talc and other minerals, influences its durability and price.

Material Quality Price Ranges:

• Standard Grade: $50-$70 per sq ft
• Premium Grade: $70-$90 per sq ft
• Artistic Grade: $90-$120 per sq ft

Installation Costs by Region

Professional installation costs vary by location, with urban areas typically charging more. Installation includes surface preparation, stone cutting, and finishing. The process requires expertise as soapstone is naturally non-porous and needs proper care during installation.

What Affects Soapstone Countertop Pricing?

The cost of soapstone countertops depends on various factors beyond basic square footage. Understanding these elements helps you make informed decisions and potentially save money while still achieving the desired results.

Color and Pattern Options

Soapstone darkens naturally over time, developing a rich patina that many homeowners desire. Colors range from light gray to dark stone variations, with some showing distinctive veining patterns. While standard colors are priced similarly, unique patterns may cost more.

Color Options and Costs:

• Basic Gray: $50-$70 per sq ft
• Veined Patterns: $70-$90 per sq ft
• Premium Colors: $90-$120 per sq ft

Edge Style Choices

Edge profiles affect both aesthetics and cost. Simple eased edges are typically included in base pricing, while more elaborate options add to the total cost. Common choices include:

Edge Style Pricing:

• Standard Eased: Included
• Bullnose: $10-$12 per linear foot
• Custom Carved Grooves: $20-$25 per linear foot

Thickness and Size Impact

Thicker slabs and larger pieces require more material and labor, increasing costs. Standard thickness is 1.25 inches, but some designs may require thicker slabs for specific applications like dry bars or kitchen countertops.

Location in Your Home

Installation location affects pricing due to accessibility and complexity. Kitchen installations often cost more than bathrooms due to size and required cutouts for sinks, cooktop installation, and other fixtures.

Installation Complexity

Complex installations involving multiple seams, corners, or special cutouts increase labor costs. Factors like supporting cabinet modifications or unique angles require additional time and expertise, affecting the final installation cost.

This comprehensive breakdown helps explain why soapstone countertops, while priced similarly to materials like quartz or granite, can vary significantly in total cost based on specific project requirements and choices.

Hidden Costs When Installing Soapstone Countertops

When planning to buy soapstone countertops, several additional costs often surprise homeowners. These hidden expenses can significantly impact your total cost beyond the basic square foot installed price. Understanding these extras helps create a more accurate budget for your kitchen countertops project.

Old Countertop Removal Fees

Removing existing countertops requires professional labor and proper disposal. Contractors typically charge $200-$500 for removal, depending on the material and complexity. The process must be handled carefully to avoid damaging cabinets or surrounding surfaces.

Hidden Costs Breakdown:

• Removal Labor: $150-$300
• Disposal Fees: $50-$200
• Cabinet Repairs: $100-$400
• Plumbing Disconnection: $100-$250
• Electrical Work: $75-$200

Sink and Appliance Cutout Costs

Creating cutouts for sinks, cooktop installation, and other fixtures requires precise measurements and skilled labor. Each cutout affects the stone’s structural integrity and needs proper support. These modifications require careful attention to prevent developing scratches or cracks.

Extra Support Requirements

Soapstone is extremely durable but heavier than many other countertop materials. Additional cabinet reinforcement may be necessary, especially for installations including a dry bar or extended overhangs. This natural stone requires proper care during installation to ensure long-term stability.

Backsplash Installation

Adding a matching soapstone backsplash increases both material and labor costs. The backsplash must be carefully measured and installed to maintain the natural beauty of the stone while ensuring proper sealing against moisture.

Delivery and Transportation

Transportation of soapstone requires special handling due to its soft feel and weight. Delivery fees vary by distance and accessibility, with additional charges for difficult-to-reach locations.

Price Comparison: Soapstone vs Other Counter Materials

Understanding how soapstone costs compare to other countertop materials helps make an informed decision. While soapstone darkens and develops a natural patina over time, other materials offer different benefits and price points.

Natural Stone Options

Traditional natural stone options like granite and marble are priced similarly to soapstone. These materials require sealing and different maintenance routines compared to naturally non-porous soapstone.

Counter Material Comparison:

• Soapstone: $70-$120 per sq ft
• Granite: $50-$200 per sq ft
• Marble: $40-$100 per sq ft
• Quartzite: $60-$150 per sq ft

Engineered Stone Alternatives

Quartz countertops offer consistent patterns and low maintenance benefits. While priced similarly to soapstone, they lack the natural patina and heat resistance that allows you to place hot pots directly on soapstone surfaces.

Budget-Friendly Choices

More affordable options exist for budget-conscious homeowners. These materials may not offer the same antimicrobial properties or ability to withstand daily wear as soapstone, but they can provide acceptable durability at lower price points.

Each material has distinct characteristics affecting long-term value:

• Soapstone: Can last decades with minimal maintenance using mineral oil and warm water cleaning
• Granite: Requires periodic sealing but resists abrasive cleaners
• Quartz: Never needs sealing but can be damaged by excessive heat
• Marble: Beautiful but more susceptible to staining and scratching
• Laminate: Most affordable but shortest lifespan

These comparisons help highlight soapstone’s unique position in the market as a durable, heat-resistant option that develops character over time through its natural darkening process.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

When investing in soapstone countertops, understanding the long-term financial impact helps make an informed decision. While the initial cost of soapstone may be priced similarly to other natural stone options, its durability and low maintenance requirements often make it more economical over time.

Maintenance Expenses

Soapstone counters require minimal ongoing maintenance compared to other countertop materials. Regular care involves applying mineral oil to enhance the natural patina and darkening process. Unlike granite or marble that require sealing, soapstone is naturally non-porous and stain resistant.

Long-Term Maintenance Costs:

• Mineral Oil: $8-$15 per bottle annually
• Soft Cloth: $5-$10 annually
• Basic Cleaning Supplies: $20-$30 annually
• Professional Deep Clean: $100-$200 (optional)

Repair Costs

Minor scratches in soapstone can be easily sanded out using fine grit sandpaper, making repairs relatively inexpensive. The soft feel of the stone means it may develop scratches, but these surface imperfections can typically be addressed without professional help.

Common repair expenses include:

• DIY scratch repair kit: $25-$50
• Professional minor repair: $100-$300
• Major crack repair: $200-$500
• Edge repair: $150-$400

Lifespan and Durability

Soapstone is extremely durable and can withstand daily wear for decades. Its heat resistance allows you to place hot pots and pans directly on the surface without damage. The stone’s ability to withstand abrasive cleaners and its antimicrobial properties contribute to its longevity.

Ways to Save Money on Soapstone Countertops

While soapstone cost can be substantial, several strategies can help reduce the total cost without compromising quality. Smart planning and timing can lead to significant savings on your kitchen countertops project.

Best Time to Buy

Seasonal variations affect stone countertops pricing. Winter months often see lower installation costs as demand decreases. Many suppliers offer discounts during slow periods or end-of-year sales.

Money-Saving Timeline:

• Winter Installation: 10-15% savings
• End of Quarter: 5-10% savings
• Holiday Sales: Up to 20% savings
• Off-Peak Season: 5-15% savings

DIY vs Professional Installation

While professional installation is recommended for most situations, some homeowners with experience handling natural stone may consider DIY installation. However, the stone’s soft feel and weight make it challenging to work with.

Negotiating with Contractors

When getting quotes for installing soapstone countertops, understanding the scope of work helps negotiate better prices. Discuss aspects like cooktop installation, carved grooves, and eased edges upfront to avoid other costs later.

Material Selection Tips

Choosing standard slab sizes and common colors can reduce costs significantly. While artistic soapstone with subtle veining patterns may be appealing, simpler options often perform just as well in terms of durability and function.

Selection factors affecting cost:

• Standard vs custom sizes
• Basic vs complex edge profiles
• Regular vs premium colors
• Stock vs special order materials
• Single slab vs multiple piece installation

This approach to material selection can help create beautiful kitchen countertops or a dry bar surface while maintaining a reasonable budget. Remember that even basic soapstone options offer excellent heat resistance and develop an attractive natural patina over time through the darkening process.