Outdoor Concrete Costs
Average cost of concrete:
$6 - $15 per square foot
Last Updated: July 7, 2024
6 min read
The Price Palette:
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Price of New Outdoor Concrete: $6 - $15+ per square foot
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Cheapest Concrete Finish: Broom Finish ($6 - $8/sq ft)
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Most Expensive Concrete Finish: Stamped Concrete ($12+/sq ft)
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Average ROI of Concrete Installation: 50-75%
In This Article
How Much Does New Concrete Cost?
On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $3,600 and $9,000 for a complete concrete installation. The cost of new concrete varies widely based on several factors, including the concrete type, the size of the area, and your location.
Concrete Cost Factors
Concrete Type:
Different types of concrete have varying price points.
Project Size:
The larger the area that needs new concrete, the more expensive the project will be.
Location of Project:
Labor and material costs can vary significantly by region.
Site Preparation:
Grading and removing existing materials can add to the overall cost.
Complexity of Design:
Intricate patterns and finishes can increase costs. Straight driveways and walkways may be more affordable than projects with curves and angles.
Price by Concrete Type
Understanding the cost differences between concrete types can help you choose the best option for your budget and aesthetic preferences. The most popular concrete types by price in the United States:
Broom Finish Concrete:
$6 - $8 per square foot
Exposed Aggregate Concrete:
$8 - $12 per square foot
Stamped Concrete:
$12 - $18 per square foot
Polished Concrete:
$10 - $15 per square foot
Colored Concrete:
$8 - $14 per square foot
Cheapest Concrete Finish
Broom finish concrete is often the most cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $6 to $8 per square foot installed. It is durable, low-maintenance, and offers a simple yet effective finish for driveways and walkways. Exposed aggregate concrete, costing about $8 to $12 per square foot, is another affordable option that provides a unique texture and appearance.
Most Expensive Concrete Finish
Stamped and polished concrete are among the most expensive options, typically ranging from $10 to $18 per square foot installed. These finishes offer unmatched aesthetic appeal and customization but come with a higher price tag. Colored concrete, depending on the complexity and style, can also be expensive, costing between $8 and $14 per square foot.
First Time Buyer Tip
If you're a first-time homeowner, consider opting for broom finish or exposed aggregate concrete to balance cost and durability. Both finishes offer a good return on investment and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for those new to homeownership.
Average Outdoor Concrete Costs by State (U.S.)
The cost of outdoor concrete can vary significantly across different states. For example:
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California: $8 - $18 per square foot
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Texas: $7 - $16 per square foot
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Florida: $6 - $15 per square foot
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New York: $9 - $20 per square foot
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Illinois: $8 - $17 per square foot
These estimates include material and labor costs but can fluctuate based on local economic conditions and demand.
Concrete Installation vs. Concrete Repair
Deciding between installing new concrete and repairing your existing surfaces depends on the extent of the damage and the age of the concrete. Minor damage, such as small cracks or surface imperfections, can often be repaired at a fraction of the cost of new installation. However, if your concrete is old, extensively damaged, or uneven, new installation may be more cost-effective in the long run.
Ways to Pay for Concrete Installation
Several financing options are available for outdoor concrete installation:
Home Equity Loans: Use the equity in your home to finance the project.
Personal Loans: Unsecured loans can cover the costs but may have higher interest rates.
Credit Cards: Best for smaller projects; watch out for high-interest rates.
Contractor Financing: Some contractors offer payment plans or financing options.
How to Save Money on Concrete
Here are some tips to reduce your concrete installation costs:
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Get Multiple Quotes: Compare prices from several concrete contractors before starting your project.
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Choose Affordable Finishes: Opt for broom or exposed aggregate finishes over more expensive options.
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Time Your Project: Off-peak seasons can sometimes offer lower labor costs.
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DIY: If you're handy, consider doing part of the work yourself, like site preparation.
Other Considerations and Costs
When planning for new concrete, also consider these additional costs:
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Permits: Some areas require permits for concrete work. Most contractors will acquire permits for you, but you should budget for this cost in case they don’t. Most residential construction permits cost less than a few hundred dollars.
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Maintenance: Different finishes have varying maintenance needs; factor this into your long-term budget. Set aside cash every year for concrete repairs and maintenance. You likely won’t need to clean or repair your concrete every year, but when a big repair comes up you’ll be prepared.
Related Cost Guides
Concrete Cost Breakdown
When budgeting for new concrete, it’s important to remember you will be paying for more than the concrete itself. You’ll be responsible for all material and labor costs. Below is a breakdown of the items associated with concrete installation (prices vary based on the project details and scope).
Materials
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Concrete: $6-$18 per square foot
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Rebar: $0.50 - $1 per linear foot
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Formwork: $1 - $2 per linear foot
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Sealant: $1 - $3 per linear foot
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Dumpster Rental: $300 - $600 per week
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Site Cleanup Supplies: $50 - $150
Labor
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Site Preparation: $1 - $3 per square foot
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Concrete Removal: $1 - $2 per square foot
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Concrete Installation: $3 - $10 per square foot
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Site Cleanup & Material Disposal: $0.50 - $2 per square foot
