Concrete cost by project type (2026)
National average ranges, installed. Local concrete delivery and labor rates create big regional swings.
| Project |
Cost per sq ft |
Typical project total |
Notes |
| Driveway (basic) | $6–$12 | $3,000–$7,200 | 600 sq ft, 4″ thick |
| Driveway (decorative) | $10–$25 | $6,000–$15,000 | Stamped, colored, or exposed agg |
| Patio (basic) | $6–$10 | $1,800–$3,000 | 300 sq ft, 4″ thick |
| Patio (stamped) | $10–$20 | $3,000–$6,000 | Decorative, multiple color/pattern |
| Foundation slab | $5–$10 | $5,000–$15,000 | Includes rebar, vapor barrier |
| Sidewalk / walkway | $6–$10 | $500–$1,500 | Per 100 sq ft section |
| Garage floor | $5–$8 | $2,500–$4,500 | 2-car typical, 500 sq ft |
Concrete prices per cubic yard
Ready-mix concrete delivered runs $130–$200 per cubic yard nationally, with regional swings of $100–$250+. One cubic yard covers 81 sq ft at 4 inches thick or 54 sq ft at 6 inches. Delivery typically requires a 1-yard minimum order; many suppliers add a $50–$200 short-load fee for orders under 8 yards.
Material is typically 30–40% of total project cost. Labor is 50–60% (forming, finishing, curing). The remaining 10–15% covers reinforcement (rebar/mesh), excavation, base prep, and any sealers.
Concrete driveway cost in detail
A standard 600 sq ft (20′ x 30′) concrete driveway runs $3,600 to $7,200 installed for plain gray concrete at 4 inches thick. Options that add cost:
- 6-inch thick (heavier vehicles): +25–35% material cost
- Stamped/colored finish: +$4–$15 per sq ft
- Removal of old driveway: $1.50–$3 per sq ft
- Excavation/grading: $500–$2,500
- Drainage adjustments: $300–$1,500
- Sealing (recommended every 2–3 years): $0.20–$0.50 per sq ft
Concrete cost factors
Square footage
Larger projects often have lower per-sq-ft cost (mobilization fixed costs spread across more area).
Thickness
4″ for sidewalks/light traffic. 5″–6″ for driveways. 8″+ for heavy vehicles.
Reinforcement
Rebar runs $0.30–$0.80/sq ft; wire mesh is cheaper at $0.20–$0.40/sq ft. Skipping reinforcement is risky for driveways.
Decorative finish
Stamped: +$5–$15/sq ft. Colored: +$2–$5/sq ft. Exposed aggregate: +$3–$8/sq ft.
Excavation needed
Removing existing concrete: $1.50–$3/sq ft. Removing dirt/regrading: $1–$2/sq ft. Disposal fees vary widely.
Permit + inspection
$50–$300 in most cities. Required for new driveways tying to public roads, and for slabs over 100 sq ft in some jurisdictions.
Concrete cost by city
Local concrete pricing benchmarks across major US metros.
New York, NY
Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
Houston, TX
Phoenix, AZ
Dallas, TX
Atlanta, GA
Miami, FL
Charlotte, NC
Tampa, FL
Austin, TX
San Antonio, TX
Jacksonville, FL
Columbus, OH
Indianapolis, IN
Denver, CO
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
Nashville, TN
Raleigh, NC
Philadelphia, PA
Boston, MA
Minneapolis, MN
Sacramento, CA
Frequently asked questions about concrete cost
How much does a concrete driveway cost?
A standard 20′ x 30′ (600 sq ft) plain gray concrete driveway costs $3,600–$7,200 installed at 4 inches thick. Stamped or decorative finishes run $6,000–$15,000. Removal of an existing driveway adds $1.50–$3 per sq ft.
How much is concrete per cubic yard?
Ready-mix concrete runs $130–$200 per cubic yard delivered, with regional variation of $100–$250+. One yard covers 81 sq ft at 4 inches thick. Most suppliers charge a short-load fee ($50–$200) on orders under 8 yards.
Is stamped concrete worth the extra cost?
Stamped concrete costs 50–100% more than plain concrete but creates a high-end look at lower cost than pavers, brick, or natural stone. Best ROI is on patios and walkways where the look adds visible curb appeal. Driveways: only worth it if you plan to stay 10+ years.
How long does concrete take to cure?
Concrete is typically walkable in 24–48 hours, drivable in 7 days, and reaches full strength at 28 days. Cold weather slows curing significantly. Avoid pouring when temps will drop below 40°F or rise above 90°F for the first 7 days for best results.
Do I need a permit for concrete work?
Most cities require permits for: new driveways tying to public roads, slabs over 100 sq ft, foundation work, and any structural concrete. Repair patches and small walkways usually don’t need permits. Permits run $50–$300. Always check with your local building department first.
