In April 2025, Modern Stone Living new U.S. tariffs targeted more than 180+ nations, shaking up the housing industry. Among the materials now get hit with increased fees is luxury marble, a classic choice for premium kitchens and bathrooms. Industry experts warn that the duty hike on European Union marble will inflate budgets for homeowners. Nick Smith, founder of Smithers says, It’s not just numbers going up — it’s a ripple effect for design decisions and long-term value." ### What marble countertops cost today On average, marble countertops run around sixty dollars a foot, according to suppliers.
Italian Carrara, a subtle grey-veined variety, is priced at about $60 to $100 per square foot. Calacatta marble, recognised for dramatic veining, starts at $180/sq ft — meaning a price jump could raise it beyond $216 a foot. With price pressures, contractors warn that final quotes are likely to climb more. ### The bigger impact The majority of marble in the U.S. is sourced from India. Import duties now increase 20% for European sources, 27% for Indian imports, and 34% for China.
Such increases can limit projects for remodelling. Smith notes, "Bathrooms are now just as marble-heavy as kitchens, from waterfall vanity tops to window sills." ### Other premium surfaces without the same price tag If marble feels out of reach, there are multiple high-end options: - **Quartzite** – Mined domestically, with elegance similar to marble, costing around $70 to $120 a foot. - **Soapstone** – Matte, veined, and unique, sourced from Virginia, at $70–$120/sq ft. - **Quartz** – Man-made, mimics marble
Italian Carrara, a subtle grey-veined variety, is priced at about $60 to $100 per square foot. Calacatta marble, recognised for dramatic veining, starts at $180/sq ft — meaning a price jump could raise it beyond $216 a foot. With price pressures, contractors warn that final quotes are likely to climb more. ### The bigger impact The majority of marble in the U.S. is sourced from India. Import duties now increase 20% for European sources, 27% for Indian imports, and 34% for China.
Such increases can limit projects for remodelling. Smith notes, "Bathrooms are now just as marble-heavy as kitchens, from waterfall vanity tops to window sills." ### Other premium surfaces without the same price tag If marble feels out of reach, there are multiple high-end options: - **Quartzite** – Mined domestically, with elegance similar to marble, costing around $70 to $120 a foot. - **Soapstone** – Matte, veined, and unique, sourced from Virginia, at $70–$120/sq ft. - **Quartz** – Man-made, mimics marble