What Is the Cost of Laminate Countertops in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Laminate countertops are a budget-friendly option for homeowners, ranging from $841 to $1,738 for a complete installation, with an average cost of $1,244. These costs reflect the total installation, not just the material per square foot. Key factors influencing the price include the size of your countertops, the laminate quality, and your location. 

At an average of $35 per square foot, laminate is an affordable alternative to other countertop materials. Hiring a professional for installation ensures your project stays on track and your countertops are securely installed for long-lasting results.

Laminate Countertop Cost Factors

Laminate countertop prices depend on factors like the type of laminate you choose, the shape and size of the installation area, and whether additional labor is required to remove old countertops.

Type of Laminate

Contrary to popular belief, laminate countertops aren't just plastic; they're composed of multiple layers of paper topped with a protective melamine resin. This construction makes them lightweight, affordable, and easy to install. Laminate countertops can mimic the appearance of pricier materials like wood, marble, or granite, offering a sleek and modern look without the hefty price tag.

In addition to the variety of patterns, colors, and edging options, different types of laminate countertops include different surface coatings to add function and durability. Standard or horizontal-grade laminate countertops cost between $10 and $18 per square foot. An antimicrobial finish will cost between $15 and $35 per square foot, while a high-durability finish costs between $20 and $55 per square foot.

Countertop Size and Complexity

The length and width of your countertops impact the price of the material and the time it takes to install them. If your kitchen has a complex design, such as many corners or turns, you'll pay more in labor for your countertop replacement costs since it'll take more time to cut and install the laminate.

For a full installation, you can expect to pay an average of $35 per square foot. Standard-grade materials run between $10 and $18 per square foot, with premium finishes and additional edge detailing increasing the price. 

Labor Costs

Professional installation costs range from $30 to $40 per hour or may be offered on a flat rate of $400 to $800. A complete installation—including removal and disposal of existing countertops—can cost between $700 and $1,300 for an average project.

Removing Old Countertops

If your existing countertops need to be removed, this costs $30 to $40 per hour (often taking about one hour for an average kitchen). Some professionals may charge $20 to $34 per countertop, or include removal as part of a flat rate of $400 to $800.

Edge Options

While the standard laminate countertop features a sharp-cornered square edge, homeowners have various edge design options, each affecting the overall cost.

Enhancements and Improvements

You can choose several other enhancement and improvement projects while installing new laminate countertops. The average cost for a professionally installed backsplash is between $600 and $1,300 ($15–$40 per square foot), depending on the material and installation specifics, which you can add at the same time as your countertops to update the look of your entire room at once. The price of a backsplash varies depending on material and size.

Most countertops include a sink cutout, though you must purchase the sink separately. On average, sink installation costs range from $215 to $625. Additionally, the sink fixture itself can vary widely in price—from $150 up to $3,000—depending on the style and features selected.

Pros and Cons of Laminate Countertops

Consider the following pros and cons to determine if laminate countertops are the right choice for your home.

Pros 

• Affordable material and installation costs compared to other countertop options

• Simple installation that can be done as a DIY with the right experience

• Low maintenance with no required sealing or special cleaners

• Able to resist scratches, scuffs, and bacteria

Cons 

• Crack easily, especially around the edges

• Can warp and bubble on the surface when exposed to excess moisture

• Lacks the depth and authentic appearance of natural wood or stone

• Don't add to your home's resale value

• Not eco-friendly and can't be recycled

• Shorter life span than other countertop materials

Budgeting for Laminate Countertop Installation

While laminate countertops are more affordable than granite or concrete, they still represent a significant investment. Here are several ways to reduce your costs:

• Opt for prefabricated countertop sections to save on custom cutting expenses.

• Remove your old countertop yourself to save a few hundred dollars on professional countertop removal costs.

• Compare costs and features among different laminate brands to find the best value per square foot.

• Reduce costs further by choosing simpler edging (or sticking with the standard square edge that comes with your countertop).

DIY vs. Hiring a Laminate Countertop Installer 

Installing laminate countertops isn’t recommended as a DIY job. Professional laminate countertop installers have the expertise to make precise measurements to ensure the perfect size and shape. They also have the knowledge to make expert recommendations on what’s best for your particular situation and budget. Hiring a professional countertop installer ensures a proper installation that will last for years to come.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.