How much does a concrete project cost? Get detailed cost breakdowns for patios, driveways, sidewalks, garage floors, and foundations. Includes materials, labor, and finishing.
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Last updated March 2026 by our expert review team
Includes materials + labor with broom finish. Stamped/polished finishes add $3 to $8 per sq ft.
Hawkin
Certified Cost & Estimating Professional
AACE-certified estimator working with 20+ insulation companies including the two largest franchises in America.
See full profileEhsan Ghazanfari
Licensed Structural Engineer
FISE-certified structural engineer with 11+ years designing bridges, retaining walls, and foundations. MSc from Aalto University.
See full profileUpdated March 2026
How we verify our calculatorsGet at least 3 quotes from local contractors. Prices vary 30 to 50% between companies for the same project. Always check references and insurance.
Use our concrete slab calculator to estimate the exact cubic yards needed before requesting quotes. Knowing your volume prevents overcharging.
Broom finish is the best value. It costs almost nothing extra and provides excellent slip resistance for driveways, sidewalks, and pool decks.
Stamped concrete looks like stone or brick but costs 40 to 60% less than real pavers. Budget $8 to $18 per sq ft total for stamped work.
Pour in spring or fall when temperatures are between 50 and 80 degrees F. Hot summer pours cure too fast, cold winter pours risk freeze damage.
Foundation costs are 2 to 3 times higher than slabs because of deeper excavation, rebar requirements, and form work. Budget $13 to $23 per sq ft.
Enter project length, width, and thickness. Select a project type and finish style.
The calculator computes area and volume, then applies per-sq-ft cost rates for materials, labor, and finishing.
Get a detailed cost breakdown with material, labor, finish, and total cost ranges plus cost per square foot.
Formulas
Area = Length x Width
Total Cost = (Material $/sq ft + Labor $/sq ft) x Area + Finish Cost
Cubic Yards = (Area x Thickness in ft) / 27
How much does a concrete patio cost?
$7 to $13 per sq ft for a standard broom finish. A 200 sq ft patio runs $1,400 to $2,600. Stamped adds $8 per sq ft.
How much does a concrete driveway cost?
$9 to $16 per sq ft. A 600 sq ft (20x30) driveway costs $5,400 to $9,600. 6-inch thickness is standard for driveways.
Is stamped concrete worth it?
Stamped adds $8 to $18 per sq ft but mimics stone, brick, or slate at 40 to 60% less cost. It needs resealing every 2 to 3 years ($0.50/sq ft).
How much does concrete cost per cubic yard?
$125 to $150 for standard mix delivered. High-strength (4000+ PSI) costs $140 to $170. Short loads under 5 yards incur a $50 to $100 surcharge.
Does concrete or pavers cost more?
Concrete costs $7 to $16/sq ft installed. Pavers cost $10 to $25/sq ft. Concrete wins upfront, but pavers are easier to repair individually.
How thick should my concrete be?
4 inches for patios and walkways. 6 inches for driveways. 8 to 12 inches for foundations and heavy equipment pads.
What is the cheapest concrete finish?
Plain (steel trowel) is cheapest but slippery when wet. Broom finish adds $0.50/sq ft and gives safe traction. Both are far cheaper than stamped or polished.
How can I save money on a concrete project?
Do your own demolition and grading. Order the right amount (no short loads). Choose broom finish. Pour in the off-season (late fall) when contractors are less busy.
Material $360-600, labor $480-960, plus $60 for broom finish. A great weekend entertaining space.
Material $2,400-3,600, labor $3,000-6,000, plus $300 for broom finish. Standard two-car driveway.
Material $480-800, labor $640-1,120, plus $80 for broom finish. Front walkway from driveway to door.
Material $900-1,500, labor $1,200-2,400, plus $2,400 for stamped finish. Looks like natural stone at a fraction of the cost.
Not getting multiple quotes
Prices vary 30 to 50% between contractors for the same job. Always get at least 3 written quotes with detailed scope of work.
Choosing stamped without budgeting for maintenance
Stamped concrete needs resealing every 2 to 3 years at about $0.50/sq ft. Factor in long-term costs, not just the initial pour.
Skipping proper sub-base preparation
A bad base causes cracking and settlement within the first year. Proper excavation and 4 inches of compacted gravel are non-negotiable.
Pouring too thin for the application
A 4-inch driveway will crack under vehicle weight. Driveways need 6 inches minimum, foundations need 8 to 12 inches.
Forgetting permit costs
Most municipalities require permits for flatwork. Budget $50 to $200 for permits and factor in the 1 to 2 week wait time.
Important Disclaimer
These estimates are for planning purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, material availability, and project complexity. Always get at least 3 local quotes. This calculator does not replace professional advice.