How much do stone steps cost?
How much do stone steps cost?
$300 – $900 average cost per step installed
$1,500 – $8,100 average total cost installed (5 – 9 steps)
Average cost to install stone steps
Stone steps cost $300 to $900 per step with installation or $1,500 to $8,100 total on average, depending on the staircase size and material. Granite is popular for steps since it is long-lasting, stain-resistant, and durable. Bluestone is another great option that can withstand heavy foot traffic and the elements.
| Staircase size | Average total cost installed |
|---|---|
| Small (2 – 4 steps) | $600 – $3,600 |
| Medium (5 – 9 steps) | $1,500 – $8,100 |
| Large (10 – 15 steps) | $3,000 – $13,500 |
Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
Natural stone step prices by type
Natural stone steps cost $6 to $25 per square foot for materials alone, depending on the stone. The best stone material depends on your taste and budget, but the stone needs to be durable enough to withstand the elements and heavy foot traffic.
| Stone type | Material price (per square foot)* |
|---|---|
| Bluestone | $6 – $14 |
| Flagstone | $6 – $15 |
| Granite | $10 – $15 |
| Limestone | $7 – $15 |
| Sandstone | $9 – $13 |
| Slate | $9 – $25 |
*Material prices only. Installation labor not included.
Granite steps cost
Granite steps cost $10 to $15 per square foot for materials alone. Granite is extremely durable and long-lasting but heavier and more expensive than many other stone options. However, it is a low-maintenance option that does not require regular sealing or polishing.
Bluestone steps cost
Bluestone steps cost $6 to $14 per square foot for the materials alone. The stone is popular for steps, patios, and other outdoor projects because it is affordable, durable, and beautiful.
Bluestone pavers cost $15 to $31 per square foot, including materials and installation for a total cost of around $1,700 to $2,500 for a medium-sized 10' x 10' bluestone paver patio.
Flagstone steps cost
Flagstone steps cost $6 to $15 per square foot for the materials alone. Flagstone is naturally resistant to staining and fading and comes in a variety of colors and textures to suit any landscape. Flagstone can be slippery when wet and should be sealed to make it more slip-resistant.
Flagstone pavers cost $15 to $32 per square foot installed. A flagstone patio costs $3,000 to $12,800 on average for a 200 to 400 SF outdoor dining and entertainment space.
Limestone steps cost
Limestone steps cost $7 to $15 per square foot for the stone alone. Limestone is a durable material that withstands the elements and is naturally non-slip, making it ideal for steps and other outdoor landscaping projects. Limestone comes in numerous textures, and colors, with dark-colored pavers fading more over time.
Limestone pavers cost $16 to $32 per square foot, including installation labor and supplies. A 200 to 400-square-foot limestone paver patio costs $3,200 to $12,800.
Stone step installation cost factors
The primary cost factors when installing stone steps are the stone material you select and the labor rates in your area. Stone steps cost $150 to $400 per step for materials alone, and labor costs add another $150 to $500 per step.
The more steps you want, the higher your material and labor costs. Installing wider steps is also more costly but allows people to walk side-by-side comfortably.
| Factor | Average cost per square foot | Average cost per step |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $6 – $25 | $150 – $400 |
| Labor & supplies | $9 – $17 | $150 – $500 |
| Total cost | $15 – $42 | $300 – $900 |
In addition to materials and labor, other common project costs include:
Excavation costs $2.50 to $15.00 per cubic yard or $100 to $300 per hour to hire an excavator and operator.
Land leveling or grading the yard costs $0.40 to $2.00 per square foot or $100 to $300 per hour to hire a grading company. The area must be properly leveled or graded for drainage before installation.
Gravel prices are $10 to $50 per ton for a stone base.
Sand costs $15 to $50 per cubic yard delivered for adding sand to the joints when dry-laying stones.
Removing and disposing of old stone steps can cost $100 to $300 or more, depending on the size and number of steps.
Labor cost to build stone slab steps
Labor rates for stone companies are $25 to $50 per hour. Some stone landscaping projects use additional labor such as landscape contractors, general contractors, or even a handyman.
Landscapers charge $50 to $100 per hour.
Landscape architects cost $100 to $250 per hour or 5% to 20% of construction costs.
Landscape designers charge $50 to $150 per hour.
General contractors charge $50 to $150 per hour or 10% to 20% of construction costs.
Handyman rates are $50 to $80 per hour.
Cost to add stone treads over concrete stairs
Adding stone treads over concrete stairs costs $10 to $60 per stair tread. The stone tread improves the curb appeal for concrete stairs that are otherwise in good shape.
Cost to install stepping stones
Stepping stones or a stone walkway costs $16 to $35 per square foot installed. Stepping stones are available in a variety of materials, colors, and sizes. Natural stones are beautiful, but some tend to absorb moisture, leading to slippery surfaces when wet.
Granite or bluestone steps cost vs. concrete steps
Concrete steps cost $100 to $350 per step for hollow, precast steps or $200 to $500 per step for custom-poured concrete steps, including labor and materials. Natural stone is more popular than concrete for garden landscapes because of its appearance.
| Material | Average cost installed |
|---|---|
| Natural stone | $300 – $800 per step |
| Concrete | $100 – $500 per step |
FAQs about stone steps
What is the best stone for steps and how much does it cost?
Granite is one of the best stones for steps because it is durable and resistant to wear and tear. Granite costs $19 to $32 per square foot installed and comes in a variety of colors and textures to match your home's exterior.
A more affordable option is bluestone which costs $15 to $31 per square foot installed. The blue-gray sandstone material is durable enough to withstand the elements and looks beautiful.
How long do stone steps last?
Stone steps can last for decades, depending on the material. Granite and marble are more durable than limestone, sandstone, and slate which are more prone to weathering and cracking. Heavily used steps wear down over time, and steps in cold or wet climates are more likely to crack or erode.
Can you build stone steps up a hill?
Yes, you can build stone steps up a hill with the right materials. Here are some suggestions for building stone steps up a hill:
Choose stones that are large enough to support your weight and uniform in shape and size.
Always start at the bottom of the hill and work your way up.
Evenly space the stones, adding a layer of gravel under each stone for easier leveling.
Are stone steps slippery?
Some stone materials like sandstone and slate are slippery when wet. Bluestone and concrete are safer options. Adding fine silica sand or anti-slip additives to a stone sealer reduces surface slickness.
Getting estimates from stone step builders near you
When getting estimates from stone step builders, be sure to consider the following:
Compare at least 3 estimates with a similar stone type for an accurate cost comparison.
Hire a licensed, bonded, and insured builder in business for 5+ years.
Look for an installer specializing in stone step installation.
Check reviews from past clients on HomeGuide and Google.
Review their online gallery or portfolio of past stone projects.
Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before beginning the project.
Never pay in full before the job is complete. Follow a payment plan instead.
Questions to ask
Always ask these important questions to select the right stone step builder for your project:
What experience do you have with installing natural stone steps?
Is your business licensed, bonded, and insured?
What is included in your estimate? Are there additional fees I should be aware of?
Which stone materials fit my budget?
How long will the installation take?
What prep work is required?
Does this project require a permit, and do you handle the permitting process?