Introduction: Butcher Block vs. Granite—Which Wins Your Wallet?
When it comes to picking a countertop, cost is often the first thing on your mind. So, if you’re asking, “Is butcher block cheaper than granite?” you’re in the right place. Both materials bring something special to the table—butcher block with its warm, rustic vibe and granite with its sleek, natural elegance. But which one keeps more cash in your pocket?
At The Countertop Store, located at 14844 Ingram Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117, we’ve helped countless homeowners weigh these options. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, compare the two head-to-head, and give you the tools to decide what’s best for your space and budget. Let’s dive into the numbers and find out if butcher block really is cheaper than granite!
When remodeling a kitchen, countertops are one of the biggest decisions homeowners face. They set the tone for the space, influence functionality, and impact home value. If you’re considering a new countertop, you might be debating between butcher block and granite.
One of the most common questions we hear at The Countertop Store is:
Is butcher block cheaper than granite?
The short answer: Yes. Butcher block generally costs $20-$60 per square foot installed, while granite costs $40-$100 per square foot installed. However, cost is just one factor. Each material has pros and cons when it comes to durability, maintenance, installation, and long-term value.
In this guide, we’ll break down cost comparisons, benefits, drawbacks, and money-saving tips to help you choose the best countertop for your home and budget.
The Cost Breakdown: Butcher Block vs. Granite
Understanding the price of materials and installation is the first step in deciding which countertop fits your budget.
Butcher Block Costs
- Price Range: $20-$60 per square foot (installed)
- Cost Breakdown:
- Basic Wood (Maple, Oak): $20-$40 per sq. ft. – Affordable, durable, widely available
- Premium Wood (Walnut, Cherry): $40-$60 per sq. ft. – Richer tones, denser wood
- Installation: $10-$20 per sq. ft. if hiring a professional
- Total Cost Example:
- A 40-square-foot kitchen could cost $800-$2,400 total
Granite Costs
- Price Range: $40-$100 per square foot (installed)
- Cost Breakdown:
- Basic Granite (Common Colors): $40-$60 per sq. ft. – Simple patterns, smaller slabs
- Premium Granite (Exotic Stones): $80-$100+ per sq. ft. – Rare colors, bold veining
- Installation: $20-$40 per sq. ft. – Heavier material requires professional labor
- Total Cost Example:
- A 40-square-foot kitchen could cost $1,600-$4,000 total
Quick Answer:
Yes, butcher block is cheaper than granite—often by $20-$40 per square foot. But cost isn’t the only factor to consider.
Why Is Butcher Block Cheaper Than Granite?
The cost difference between butcher block and granite is driven by four key factors:
1. Material Sourcing
- Butcher Block: Uses renewable wood like maple, oak, or walnut. No quarrying is needed—just cut, glue, and finish.
- Granite: Is mined from quarries, often shipped internationally, and cut into slabs—a labor-intensive process that drives up costs.
2. Manufacturing Process
- Butcher Block: Made by gluing together strips of wood. Mass production keeps costs low.
- Granite: Requires heavy machinery to extract, cut, and polish each unique slab, adding to the expense.
3. Installation Complexity
- Butcher Block: Lightweight, DIY-friendly—can be cut with basic tools and secured with bolts.
- Granite: Heavy, brittle, and requires professional installation—cutting, leveling, and sealing all add to labor costs.
4. Market Demand
- Butcher Block: A niche choice for rustic or budget-conscious homes.
- Granite: A status symbol that drives up demand and price, making it a premium option.
Beyond Cost: Comparing Butcher Block and Granite
Cost isn’t everything. You also need to consider durability, maintenance, and aesthetics when choosing between butcher block and granite.
Butcher Block: Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Warm, natural aesthetic—ideal for farmhouse, cottage, or traditional kitchens
✔ Easy to sand out scratches and dents
✔ Food-safe surface—can be used for chopping if properly sealed
✔ DIY-friendly—simple to install and refinish
Cons:
✖ Needs regular oiling every 6-12 months ($10-$20 per treatment)
✖ Prone to water damage if not properly sealed
✖ Less heat-resistant—hot pans can scorch the surface
Granite: Pros and Cons
Pros:
✔ Beautiful natural patterns—each slab is unique
✔ Extremely durable—resists scratches, heat, and stains
✔ Adds home value—buyers love granite’s premium look
✔ Low maintenance—only needs annual sealing ($50-$100 per year)
Cons:
✖ Can chip or crack if hit hard
✖ Requires professional installation
✖ Cold, hard surface—less inviting than wood
Verdict: Butcher block wins on cost and warmth. Granite wins on durability and luxury appeal.
Real-World Scenarios: Which Is Cheaper for You?
Small Vanity (10 sq. ft.)
- Butcher Block: $200-$600 (DIY install possible)
- Granite: $400-$1,000 (pro install likely)
- Winner: Butcher block—half the cost for a small space.
Medium Kitchen (40 sq. ft.)
- Butcher Block: $800-$2,400
- Granite: $1,600-$4,000
- Winner: Butcher block—saves $800-$1,600.
Large Island + Perimeter (60 sq. ft.)
- Butcher Block: $1,200-$3,600
- Granite: $2,400-$6,000
- Winner: Butcher block—still cheaper, but the savings gap narrows on larger projects.
How to Save on Either Option
Butcher Block Savings Tips
✔ Buy Pre-Made Slabs – Stores like IKEA sell affordable slabs for $20-$30 per sq. ft.
✔ DIY Finishing – Sand and seal the wood yourself to save $10-$20 per sq. ft.
✔ Check Local Lumber Yards – They sometimes sell butcher block for under $20 per sq. ft.
Granite Savings Tips
✔ Shop Remnants – Leftover slabs cost $10-$30 per sq. ft. – visit us at 14844 Ingram Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117.
✔ Choose Basic Colors – Stick to common granite shades ($40-$60 per sq. ft.) instead of rare patterns.
✔ Bundle Installation – Negotiate material + labor together for savings. Call 501-658-6511 for quotes.
Final Verdict: Butcher Block or Granite?
So, is butcher block cheaper than granite? Yes—by $20-$40 per square foot.
If you want an affordable, cozy, DIY-friendly countertop, butcher block is the best choice. But if you need long-lasting durability and resale value, granite is worth the extra cost.
Still unsure?
Visit The Countertop Store at 14844 Ingram Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117, call 501-658-6511, or check thecountertopstore.co for expert advice.
