don't waste your $$ on granite if you are thinking of plastic laminate for a backsplash. Maybe consider a less expensive counter top material and then purchase a simple subway tile for backsplash.

What less expensive countertop material is as sturdy, low maintenance and appealing as granite?

My mother has the same simple (not busy) Formica on her counters and backsplash. It is an older look, but I do like it in my mother's house. I would not combine it with granite.

The only inexpensive durable countertop material is HP laminate. Almost everything else is expensive. I've used flooring materials on counters for a low budget artistic solution but "formica" is the go to material for a rental. Post-formed laminate top are always improving and there is no reason not to use laminate as a splash.

I guess I'll have to get samples of some to see how it will look with granite or quartz. The rental is in a high-rent area so I'm reluctant to use formica as a countertop but if it looks good, I'll use it or some other laminate as a backsplash. Is HP laminate a brand you like?

Sorry sara, HP stands for high pressure and it's the generic name for Formica. There are lots of similar surfaces out there and they only differ in pattern and texture. There are literally thousands of choices. That said, I don't think I'd mix stone and laminate especially in a high rent situation. There are lots of inexpensive tile choices and installation can be quite straightforward. Since it's the last thing to go in, lots of my clients do it themselves or hire a handyman.

If this isn't your typical apartment rental, Put in an inexpensive granite like Uba Tuba or venetian Gold, and just do a plain subway tile backslash. If it's a plain jane apartment, cheap box store laminate slabs that have the attached backslash would be the best choice. Mixing granite and laminate is just weird.

The apartment is kind of plain jane currently. We want it to be a bit more special so it appeals to the tenant we want. Venetian Gold is a good suggestion since the cabinets are old-timey oak. I also like a muted or solid light color quartz. Granite seems to be less expensive than quartz these days.

All your suggestions and thoughts are really helpful. Thank you! they are all welcomed