the kitchen is probably the most expensive room in the house ( which is why it pays to remodel the kitchen/bathroom before selling a home! ) and unless you are "h*me depot" inclined , it's going to cost.
depending how long you plan on living in this residence ( 7.4 years average ) determines the type of "material" ( if it's a rental go cheap! , there going to tear it up anyways! ) to use , there is a difference between "formica" & "forever"

sincerely ~ ..."seabee! , we build! , we fight! , we party all night!"... :goof: