Marble is a timeless flooring option that will add value and sophistication to any space, especially kitchens and bathrooms. Installing marble flooring costs, on average, $17.50 to $32 per square foot, including materials and labor.
The total costs can vary depending on several factors, such as the marble’s type and pattern. However, marble flooring costs between $3,500 and $6,400 to install in a 200-square-foot area.
In this pricing guide, we’ve gathered data from big metropolitan areas and small towns across the U.S., so you can get a better estimate of how much installing this luxury flooring material will cost you.
Cost by Location
Marble flooring costs can vary depending on several factors, including location and demand. Marble is sourced from quarries in states like Texas, Indiana, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, and Georgia, but its luxurious appeal makes it a popular choice for high-end finishes in every state.
However, imported marble from countries like China, India, and Italy often comes with higher costs due to transportation fees. Additionally, prices tend to be higher in metropolitan areas compared to rural areas due to the higher living costs.
The table below shows the price of marble flooring in various cities across the country:
| City | Cost per Square Foot (Including Materials and Labor) |
| Northeast U.S. | |
| Pawtucket, RI | $17.50 – $32 |
| New York, NY | $22 – $41.50 |
| Southeast U.S. | |
| Dothan, AL | $15 – $27 |
| Atlanta, GA | $16 – $29 |
| Orlando, FL | $16 – $29 |
| Midwest U.S. | |
| South Bend, IN | $18.50 – $34 |
| Chicago, IL | $19 – $35 |
| Northwest U.S. | |
| Corvallis, OR | $17 – $31.50 |
| Seattle, WA | $18.50 – $34 |
| Southwest U.S. | |
| Houston, TX | $16 – $28.50 |
| Roswell, NM | $16 – $29 |
| San Diego, CA | $17 – $31.50 |
Cost by Type
When shopping, you’ll have to choose between several different types of marble flooring. They come in various colors and patterns, making them a good choice if you want your floors to match other architectural details in your house.
Carrara is one of the most common types of marble and also the most budget-friendly. On the other hand, Emperador and Onyx are considered luxurious types and usually have a limited supply, which puts them at a higher price end.
The most common types of marble are:
| Marble Type | Cost per Square Foot (Including Materials and Labor) |
| Carrara | $5.50 – $15 |
| Crema Marfil | $10 – $19.50 |
| Calacatta | $13.50 – $29 |
| Breccia | $13.50 – $39 |
| Emperador | $14.50 – $34 |
| Onyx | $19.50 – $60 |
- Carrara: A type of white marble with gray veining, which may be thin or pronounced. It’s beautiful and versatile and can be polished to look even more elegant. It can stain or rust when exposed to water.
- Crema Marfil: This marble has a creamy beige color that may include yellow, cinnamon, or white veins. The stone can also be used as a backsplash, wall tiles, and countertops.
- Calacatta: This type of marble resembles Carrara. However, Calacatta has a darker veining, which may be gray or gold. Therefore, they can be called Calacatta White or Calacatta Gold, depending on the predominant vein color. It will not hold up well in high-traffic areas.
- Breccia: If you’re looking for a dramatic look that stands out, Breccia marble may be your choice. It usually has a mix of colors, with shades varying from brown, black, green, gold, or red. This marble is usually not widely available.
- Emperador: This stone is prized for its rich, dark color and intricate veining. It is a versatile marble used in various applications, including outdoors. However, it is very porous and can stain if not sealed properly.
- Onyx: Known for its unique and translucent appearance, which can create a mesmerizing effect. As a result, it is a popular choice for luxury interiors, and it’s not as difficult to install as other marble types because it is lightweight. However, it is also porous.
Cost Estimator by Area Size
The square footage of the area can significantly influence the cost of marble flooring installation. A larger size typically requires more materials and labor, increasing overall cost.
On average, marble tiles and slabs cost between $17.50 and $32 per square foot, with materials and labor included.
You can use the table below to estimate the costs for marble installation based on the area size:
| Project Size | Average Overall Cost |
| 50 sq. ft. | $875 – $1,600 |
| 100 sq. ft. | $1,750 – $3,200 |
| 200 sq. ft. | $3,500 – $6,400 |
| 300 sq. ft. | $5,250 – $9,600 |
| 400 sq. ft. | $7,000 – $12,800 |
| 500 sq. ft. | $8,750 – $16,000 |
Cost of Labor
Professional flooring contractors usually charge between $3.50 and $11.50 per square foot to install marble. The costs can vary depending on the complexity of installation, marble tile size, and specific project requirements.
For example, suppose you need diagonal installation. In that case, labor costs will be higher because it is a more complex process requiring more cutting, skills, and expertise. The same goes for large tiles, which are heavier and more challenging to install.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Installing marble flooring yourself is possible if you are handy or have experience installing other types of tile, as the process is very similar. However, if you don’t have the necessary equipment at home, it may not be worth the effort and cost to purchase or rent it.
The materials and equipment to install marble flooring DIY range between $353 and $433. This price does not include the marble tiles and the cost of installing subfloors, which ranges between $2 and $3 per square foot if you DIY. This estimate could be even lower if you already have some of the equipment. The bulk of your expenses will be either renting or buying a wet saw.
Still, it is essential to note that the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, and it might be better to hire a professional to avoid mistakes.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
The cost range for marble flooring installation varies greatly. As such, you need to look at other cost factors when estimating your final cost:
Color
One of the great things about marble is its wide range of colors and patterns. From classic white marble to more exotic colors like red, yellow, green, and black, there is marble tile flooring to suit any design aesthetic.
White marble is the most popular and therefore tends to be less expensive than other colors. Rarer colors like red and black will cost more per square foot.
| Marble Color | Average Cost per Square Foot (Materials Only) |
| White | $3 – $10 |
| Green | $5 – $20 |
| Red | $12 – $53 |
| Black | $15 – $48 |
Grade
Marble can be classified into four grades: A, B, C, and D. The classification is based on the marble’s quality and color consistency. Grade A marble is the highest quality, most consistent in color, and more durable than other stones. This makes them more expensive than other grades.
However, a grade D classification for marble does not necessarily mean that the marble has poor quality. This rating can be based only on color consistency, not necessarily on the overall quality of the marble. A grade D marble may have variations in color and finish, but it can still be a durable and functional option.
As such, marble rated from B to D has a different color consistency than higher grades, but it can still be a great option for budget-conscious projects and places where color variations are an asset.
Pattern
There are several patterns you can choose for your marble floor design. Straight sets are the most common and cost-effective, so they don’t typically cost more to install. However, installing marble in patterns like herringbone, diamond, and mosaic requires more skill, as they involve cutting and placing the tiles in a specific configuration.
Installing marble in those patterns may increase labor costs by 10% to 25%.
In addition, more complex patterns may also require more tiles than a straight set installation, increasing the project’s cost. For example, a diamond pattern requires more cuts than a straight set, which means more waste and, therefore, more materials.
Marble Slabs
Marble slabs are large and flat marble pieces typically used for countertops and accent walls. They are cut to a specific size and thickness and can be used as a single piece, eliminating the need for seams and creating a sleek and seamless appearance.
Marble slabs are more expensive than marble tiles, as they are more difficult to source and transport. They cost between $11.50 and $46.50 per square foot.
Finish
Marble finishes refer to the surface texture and appearance of the stone. A polished finish is characterized by a high shine and smooth surface created by grinding and buffing the marble.
Other types of finishes include honed, which is more subdued and matte, and tumbled, created by tumbling the marble with small stones to give it a more aged look. Polished marble is the most popular one and the least expensive.
Here are the most common marble finishes:
- Polished
- Honed
- Tumbled
- Chiseled
- Brushed
- Flamed
- Sandblasted
Subfloor Replacement
The subfloor is the layer that will give your marble flooring stability and support. It is usually made of plywood or concrete, and its goal is to provide a smooth and level surface for the flooring materials.
It’s essential to have sturdy subfloors when installing marble flooring because marble is a heavy and dense material. A weak or uneven subfloor can cause the marble tiles to crack or become loose over time, resulting in costly repairs.
Replacing the subfloor costs between $2 and $7 per square foot.
Maintenance
Marble is porous, which means that it can absorb liquids and stains, making it more susceptible to damage over time. To prevent this, it’s essential to seal marble every year so it keeps looking its best.
Sealing marble flooring typically costs $0.75 to $2.25 per square foot.
FAQ
How Long Do Marble Floors Last?
With proper maintenance, marble floors can last up to 25 years or more. One of the most critical steps in maintaining marble floors is to have them sealed yearly.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid using abrasive or acidic cleaning products on the marble, as these can damage the surface and cause discoloration or dulling of the finish over time.
Do Marble Floors Increase Home Value?
Marble floors can add value to a home, as natural stones are considered luxurious and high-end. In addition, they are durable and can last for many years, which can be a selling point for potential buyers. Homeowners can expect to gain back about 50% to 70% of their investment.
Your ROI, however, may vary based on where you live and how buyers perceive its level of upkeep. For example, tile and stone are more valued in warmer climates, but some homeowners may not want to seal them or may want a material that is less susceptible to stains.
Does a Marble Floor Crack Easily?
Marble floors do not crack easily, provided they are of good quality (preferably Grade A). However, it can be susceptible to cracking under extreme circumstances, such as when a heavy object strikes it. Also, when subfloors are not entirely level, this can lead to cracking over time.
Renovate Your Home with Polished Elegance
The natural beauty of marble adds a timeless and classic look that can enhance the aesthetic of any room. While it’s a premium investment, its ability to boost property value makes it a worthwhile choice for many homeowners, so why not consider it for your home renovation? Home Gnome connects you to the best flooring installers near you.
Costs in this article are derived from national and local sources and are accurate at the time of reporting and writing.
See Related:
- Hardwood Flooring Cost Guide
- Slate Flooring Cost Guide
- Marmoleum Flooring Cost Guide
- Linoleum Flooring Cost Guide
- Laminate Flooring Cost Guide
- Cork Flooring Cost Guide
Main Image Credit: Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, NPS / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
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