Get at least 5 different contractors in to give you the lowdown.

Are they personally doing the work, or do they just sell the job?? Interview the guy setting the tile!!!

Go with gut feelings and not the cheapest price, as the price may be all over the place between the 5 diffesrent contractors. Value is not measured in price alone.

References!!! Check them out.

There is no such thing as a "one price fits all" installation labor rate. Nor is there such a thing as "the going rate"

organic_dude-- if you want a top notch tile contractor, email me, and I'll give you contact info. These guys aren't cheap, but they're some of the best.