Buyers typically pay for professional hole drilling in granite countertops based on hole diameter, number of holes, edge considerations, and installation complexity. The main cost drivers are labor time, tooling wear, and potential repair work if the slab is damaged. This guide provides clear cost ranges and practical pricing to help budgets estimate the project.

Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.

Overview Of Costs

The price to drill a hole in a granite countertop ranges from about $100 to $600 per hole, depending on diameter, depth, and finishing requirements. For a single 2″ hole, typical projects fall in the $100–$260 range if no extra work is needed. When multiple holes or larger diameters are required, the total can climb toward $520 or more. In some cases, a basic cut-in with edge cleanup adds modestly to the price. The per-hole cost often decreases slightly with additional holes due to shared setup time.

Cost Breakdown

The following table summarizes cost components and typical ranges for drilling one or more holes in a granite countertop. The values assume standard kitchen granite, mid-grade tooling, and no structural access issues.

What Drives Price

Hole diameter and depth are primary price levers, with larger openings requiring longer drilling times and specialized bits. The number of holes matters: more holes increase setup and machine time, even if each hole is small. Granite hardness, thickness, and the presence of embedded features (sinks, vents) further influence tool wear and risk. A pre-drill plan and jigging can reduce mistakes, but adds upfront labor costs. Access to the countertop (island vs. wall run) can alter travel time and crew requirements.

Regional Price Differences

Prices can vary by region due to labor markets and travel. In the Northeast major metro areas, expect the higher end of ranges when travel and schedule tightness apply. In the Midwest and Southeast, prices may be closer to the average. Rural areas often see lower hourly rates but may incur higher travel charges. Regional delta examples: Urban +15–25%, Suburban +5–15%, Rural -5–10%.

Labor, Hours & Rates

Labor typically accounts for the largest portion of the cost. A standard drill-and-clean job might require 1–2 hours for a single hole with proper jigging, and 2–4 hours for multiple holes or complex edge work. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> Typical hourly rates range from $75 to $150, depending on the region and shop, with edge finishing sometimes billed as a separate line item.

Regional Price Differences

Three regional snapshots help frame expected variance:

• Urban Coastal: higher demand and travel costs push per-hole costs toward the $150–$260 range for a 2″ hole on a single hole, and higher for multi-hole jobs.
• Suburban Midwest: mid-range, often $120–$220 per hole depending on hole size and access.
• Rural West: occasional savings, with many jobs in the $100–$180 bracket for basic drilling.

Real-World Pricing Examples

Three scenario cards illustrate typical project outcomes with concrete numbers. Assuming standard 3/4″ to 1″ thick granite, access is straightforward, and edges require minimal finish.