I want to replace the formica/laminate type counter top I have in my kitchen but I can't afford granite. I don't want another laminate type top and was considering ceramic tile but would like peoples opinions and advice before going ahead with this. Or any other ideas would be appreciated too! This is actually a rent house that I am planning on buying in a few years but things change so I don't want to invest a ton of money just in case.. Any ideas?? Thanks!!

Tile is great and you can find it a lot of times on clearance at tile specialty stores and home improvement stores, just make sure they have enough of the tile for your project and enough so that you can have an oopsie supply. Granite tile is also available and looks almost as great as slab or solid countertops. If you have a Lowes or Home Depot in your area they offer great tutorials for installation. There are also other solid countertops available at a fair price that will look good but won't be as durable as solid stone. GOOD LUCK!!!

policegirl-
If this is a rental, maybe the landlord will contibute some money toward the replacement. Although tile is an inexpensive fix, it's a pain to clean! And eventhough you don't own it yet, it doesn't improve your resale values. Laying tile is labor-intensive, too.
Granite may be in your reach-there are different price points. We had a middle of the road price and did our kitchen w/out lifting a finger or breaking a sweat for around $2,400. Some places have marked-down prices on slabs they're trying to get rid of. Try going to a granite dealer that has slabs on site, direct, rather than these big box stores-you won't find any deals there.
Another great look is butcher block. It's not too price-you can find it on the web I'm sure and I know IKEA sells it.
Another cool look is stainless steel. I now it's not too expensive. Check metal shops in your area.
Of course, there are some really nice looking laminate out there. Pay a little extra to have a beveled edge. It's one of the cheapest and least labor intensive on your part.

Good luck!