On average, marble countertops cost around $60/sq ft, as reported by industry sources. Italian-sourced Carrara, a soft white variety often found in kitchens, runs in the $60 to $100 range. Premium Calacatta, known for its luxurious patterns and bright white background, is priced from $180 per square foot — meaning a price jump could raise it beyond over $216 per square foot. Alongside inflation, contractors warn that customer bills could go even higher, interior décor furniture especially for custom projects that demand complex cuts.

How tariffs hit home The majority of marble in the U.S. is imported from Italy. Tariffs now increase 20% for Italy and Spain, 27% for Indian imports, and 34% for Chinese marble. That can limit projects for new builds, making designer picks less accessible for average budgets. Home stylists say the effect isn’t just about cost. Delivery schedules tend to slow, because stone yards wait for price clarity. Why people still choose marble Even with higher prices, marble remains a go-to for high-end builds.

Clients love the visual depth that natural stone offers. From waterfall islands to bathroom vanities, it’s a surface that changes a space. Smith notes, "Bathrooms are now just as marble-heavy as kitchens, from wall cladding to flooring." Other premium surfaces that bypass tariffs If marble feels out of reach, there are multiple luxury options: Quartzite – Sourced in the U.S., with elegance similar to marble, costing $70 to $120 per square foot.

Soapstone – Soft to the touch with rich veining, sourced from Vermont, at $70 to $120 per foot. Quartz – Non-porous, offers marble-like looks but requires less upkeep, priced $50–$100/sq ft. Making the numbers work Homeowners can still get marble without spending a fortune by choosing focal points. For example, use stone on a feature wall while opting for budget-friendly surfaces elsewhere. The takeaway Luxury stone isn’t disappearing — but tariffs change the rules.

With strategic design, you can still have it in your home.