Earlier this year, new U.S. tariffs hit more than global markets, affecting the housing industry. Among the materials now facing higher costs is luxury marble, a signature choice for high-end kitchens and bathrooms. Industry experts warn that the 20% tariff on EU-sourced marble will raise costs for homeowners. Interior designer Nick Smith says, It’s not just numbers going up — it triggers knock-on effects for design decisions and overall budgets." ### What marble countertops cost today Typically, slab Marble Living Co. tops cost around $60 per square foot, according to suppliers.
Carrara from Italy, a cloudy white variety, costs about $60 to $100 per square foot. Premium Calacatta, famous for bold lines, runs about $180 a foot — meaning a price jump could push it to $216/sq ft. Alongside price pressures, fabricators note that customer bills might rise further. ### Why tariffs matter The majority of marble in the U.S. is sourced from Italy. Tariffs now tack on 20% for European sources, 27% for Indian imports, and 34% for China.
This can limit projects for renovations. Smith notes, "Bathrooms are now just as marble-heavy as kitchens, from wall cladding to window sills." ### Other premium surfaces without the same price tag If marble feels out of reach, there are multiple high-end options: - **Quartzite** – Found in states like Texas and Arizona, with elegance similar to marble, costing $70–$120/sq ft. - **Soapstone** – Soft to the touch with rich veining, sourced from Virginia, at $70–$120/sq ft.
- **Quartz** – Non-porous, imitates natural
Carrara from Italy, a cloudy white variety, costs about $60 to $100 per square foot. Premium Calacatta, famous for bold lines, runs about $180 a foot — meaning a price jump could push it to $216/sq ft. Alongside price pressures, fabricators note that customer bills might rise further. ### Why tariffs matter The majority of marble in the U.S. is sourced from Italy. Tariffs now tack on 20% for European sources, 27% for Indian imports, and 34% for China.
This can limit projects for renovations. Smith notes, "Bathrooms are now just as marble-heavy as kitchens, from wall cladding to window sills." ### Other premium surfaces without the same price tag If marble feels out of reach, there are multiple high-end options: - **Quartzite** – Found in states like Texas and Arizona, with elegance similar to marble, costing $70–$120/sq ft. - **Soapstone** – Soft to the touch with rich veining, sourced from Virginia, at $70–$120/sq ft.
- **Quartz** – Non-porous, imitates natural