How Much Do Soapstone Countertops Cost in 2025?

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

Homeowners spend between $2,100 and $7,200 on soapstone countertops, including materials and installation. The total price depends on their size, location, edging style, drainboards, and labor rates. Soapstone countertops bring a unique, natural beauty to kitchens and bathrooms, combining rustic charm with modern elegance. If you're considering this durable and stylish option for your home, this guide will help you understand the costs and importance of hiring a professional countertop installer.

What Is Soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural stone known for its smooth, silky feel. It's primarily composed of talc, giving it that signature softness. But don't be fooled by its texture–soapstone is incredibly durable and denser than materials like slate or marble. This density makes it non-porous and resistant to bacteria, making soapstone countertops an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms where cleanliness is key.

There are two types of soapstone: artistic and architectural. Artistic soapstone has a higher talc content (up to 80%) and is softer, often used for sculptures and carvings. Architectural soapstone contains less talc (50% to 70%). This version is harder and ideal for countertops as it’s durable enough for daily use while retaining that classic soapstone beauty.

Soapstone Countertop Cost Factors

When installing new countertops, there are many cost factors to consider, including labor rates, the countertop size and location, edging styles, and drainboard installation. 

Labor

When you hire a countertop professional to install your soapstone countertops, labor costs range from $550 to $750, or about $10 to $40 per square foot. Most installations take two to four days to complete. For example, installing a 30-square-foot countertop costs between $2,100 and $3,600, including materials and labor. Remember that special features like backsplashes and custom cut-outs may add to the price.

Size

Soapstone countertops cost anywhere from $70 to $120 per square foot. A standard 30-square-foot soapstone countertop costs about $2,100 to $3,600, not including installation.

Location

Where you install your soapstone countertops affects the total price due to the size and labor required. You’ll pay $2,100 to $7,200 to install soapstone countertops in the kitchen. For the bathroom, costs range from $280 to $1,800.

Edging Style

Installing standard-edge soapstone counters won't affect your project cost. However, if you opt for custom or non-standard edging, you'll see an increase in the price per square foot.

Drainboards

Because soapstone shapes easily, you can add additional features around your sink. One of the most popular choices is an integrated drainboard, which drains water from washed dishes into the sink.

The least expensive drainboard option is a flat style. Higher-priced options include raised or recessed grooves, and the most costly option is a custom design.

There are three basic types of drainboards:

• Traditional: A series of grooves cut deeper as they get closer to the sink. The water runs along these grooves and goes into the sink.

• British: A smooth, recessed area with a small lip. The recessed area slopes toward the sink.

• European: Similar to the British style in that it’s smooth, not grooved. However, there is no lip—it’s more like a ramp with a slight slope.

DIY vs. Hiring a Soapstone Countertop Pro

While soapstone is relatively easy to cut with a circular saw, installing countertops can be challenging, requiring experience and muscle to handle the heavy slabs. For most homeowners, hiring a professional countertop installer is the best way to ensure the job is done right. Professional installers have the necessary tools and expertise to handle every aspect of the installation. You can expect to pay between $2,100 and $3,600 for professional installation, which includes setup, cleaning, sanding, materials, and labor.

Reach out to a local countertop pro to get started on your project today.

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. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the 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.