How Much Does Slate Flooring Cost in 2025?

Slate flooring costs $11 to $18 per square foot, including materials and labor.

Slate flooring has natural beauty and durability, making it a timeless choice for any home. Slate tile installation costs an average of $11 to $18 per square foot, including materials and labor. 

With its resistance to cracks and scratches and its beautiful shades of gray, it’s no wonder that slate has become a popular choice. Costs vary, but most homeowners pay between $2,200 and $3,600 for a 200-square-foot bedroom, living room, kitchen, or bathroom.

In this article, we’ve compiled cost data from cities across the U.S., ranging from smaller towns to major metropolitan areas, to help you get a more accurate estimate.

Cost by Location

The cost of the materials for slate flooring does not vary significantly by location. However, labor costs can vary depending on where you live. In urban areas, the cost of living is generally higher, which is reflected in labor costs. In contrast, rural areas often experience lower labor costs due to a lower cost of living and less demand for services.

Slate flooring is particularly well-suited for hot and humid climates, thanks to its naturally cool surface and resistance to moisture. The table below offers a snapshot of the costs per square foot to install slate flooring across different cities and towns in the U.S.:

CityCost per Square Foot (Including Labor and Materials)
Northeast U.S.
Pawtucket, RI$11 – $18
New York, NY$14 – $22
Southeast U.S.
Dothan, AL$9.50 – $16
Atlanta, GA$10 – $16.50
Orlando, FL$10 – $16.50
Midwest U.S.
South Bend, IN$12 – $18.50
Chicago, IL$12 – $19
Northwest U.S.
Corvallis, OR$11 – $17.50
Seattle, WA$12 – $19
Southwest U.S.
Houston, TX$10 – $16.50
Roswell, NM$10 – $16.50
San Diego, CA$12 – $19

Cost by Type of Slate

The type of slate flooring can also impact the project’s overall cost. Tiles are more common and usually cheaper than slabs. However, the larger the tile, the more material is required, and this added material can increase the cost of quarrying, cutting, and transportation. 

Additionally, oversized tiles can be harder to work with, requiring more skill and experience during installation, which can also drive up labor costs. 

The same goes for thicker tiles or slabs. They will last longer and can withstand heavier foot traffic, hence why they’re often used in patios and walkways. Still, they cost more, and their added weight makes installation more difficult.

TypeAverage Cost per Square Foot (Materials and Labor)
Tiles$10 – $16
Slabs$15 – $40

Cost Estimator by Area Size

slate floor in a house
Photo Credit: Pxhere

The cost of slate flooring can vary greatly depending on the size of the area being covered. For smaller spaces, such as a bathroom or entryway, the cost will be on the lower end. However, prices will be significantly higher for larger areas, such as an entire living room or kitchen.

The costs below are estimated based on the project size, considering the average of $11 to $18 per square foot (materials and labor included):

Project Size Average Overall Cost 
50 sq. ft.$550 – $900
100 sq. ft.$1,100 – $1,800
200 sq. ft.$2,200 – $3,600
300 sq. ft.$3,300 – $5,400
400 sq. ft.$4,400 – $7,200
500 sq. ft. $5,500 – $9,000

Cost of Labor

Labor costs for installing slate typically range between $7 and $10 per square foot. However, these prices can vary depending on a few factors:

  • Regular-sized slate tiles will cost closer to the lower end to install. On the other hand, larger and thicker tiles will require more time and effort to install, resulting in higher labor costs.
  • If any extra steps are needed, like removing the old flooring or preparing the surface before installation, these can add to the overall cost.

Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost

Installing slate tiles can be a great DIY project for those with experience. However, it’s important to note that proper installation is crucial for the longevity of the tiles, and any mistakes can lead to more problems down the road. 

If you don’t have experience installing slate tiles, it may be best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly. However, if you decide to tackle the project yourself, you’ll spend between $284 and $364 on tools and materials (minus the flooring), with the bulk of these costs consisting of either buying or renting a wet saw.

Other Factors That Affect Cost

Besides the square footage and type, the following factors also impact the overall costs for slate tile installation:

Color

Gray and black slate tiles are the most common and readily available; therefore, they tend to be less expensive. 

If you’re interested in rare and unique colors such as gold, green, blue, purple, or red, you may have more difficulty finding them, and they will come at a higher cost. 

Subfloor Replacement

The subfloors for slate tiles should be able to withstand the weight of the tile and the foot traffic that will be placed on it. It should also be level to ensure a smooth and even installation, so if that’s not the case with your subfloor, consider replacing it for $2 to $8 per square foot.

To ensure the best results, installing slate also requires using a cement board as an underlayment because it is a heavy-duty, durable, and water-resistant material. There is also an option to use a waterproofing membrane that will prevent moisture from getting to your subfloors — though it will come at an additional cost.

FAQ

What are the Disadvantages of Slate?

Slate flooring is durable, long-lasting, and beautiful. Still, as with any other types of flooring, it also has some drawbacks:

  • Slate tiles are difficult to install.
  • You need to reapply the sealer for slate flooring every year.
  • Unlike other flooring materials, such as laminate, slate can be costly.
  • Slate scratches more easily than other natural stones like granite.
  • Slate flooring is a hard, cold surface and not comfortable to stand on.
  • These tiles are likely to break if something heavy is dropped on them.

Are Slate Floors Out of Style?

Slate floors are considered a classic and timeless option for flooring, so they’re never going “out of style.” However, like any design element, the popularity of slate floors can fluctuate depending on current design trends.

Is Slate Flooring Slippery When Wet?

Slate tile flooring is usually slip-resistant. However, slate tiles with a polished finish can be more slippery than other types of finishes. To reduce the risk of slips and falls, consider getting slate with a honed finish or different textured finishes. Additionally, placing rugs or mats in high-traffic areas can also help to increase traction.

Rock-Solid Value for Your Home 

While slate may be more costly than other types of flooring materials, the natural beauty and long lifespan of the tiles make it a worthwhile investment. However, while DIY installation is possible for experienced individuals, hiring a professional tile installer will ensure the longevity of your new flooring. 

Costs in this article are derived from national and local sources and are accurate at the time of reporting and writing.

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Main Image Credit: arayabandit / Adobe Stock Free / License

Maria Isabela Reis

Maria Isabela Reis is a creative writer and Ph.D. candidate in social psychology with a keen interest in home repairs and remodeling. While she's more comfortable with a pen than a power tool, Maria enjoys exploring the ways small renovations can make a big impact on a home's aesthetics.