Cost Estimators · Concrete
Driveway Cost Per Sq Ft Calculator
Enter your driveway area and instantly compare concrete, asphalt, and paver installation costs per square foot.
Concrete, asphalt, and pavers have completely different cost profiles — and the cheapest upfront option isn't always the best long-term value. Asphalt costs less to install but needs resealing every 3–5 years. Concrete lasts 30+ years with minimal maintenance. Pavers cost the most but are repairable and add curb appeal. Use this calculator to compare the full cost picture before choosing a driveway material.
Enter an area above to see your estimate
Using national average: $3–$12/sq ft
Estimates are based on national averages and are for planning purposes only. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, and material choice.
Example: 600 sq ft driveway
Area
600
sq ft
Low Estimate
$1,800
@ $3/sq ft
High Estimate
$7,200
@ $12/sq ft
Based on national average rates of $3–$12/sq ft. Actual costs will vary by location and contractor.
How much does a driveway cost per square foot?
Asphalt driveways cost $3–$7 per sq ft installed — the most affordable option. Concrete driveways run $6–$12 per sq ft for a standard finish. Brick or concrete pavers cost $10–$25 per sq ft installed. Gravel driveways are the cheapest at $1–$3 per sq ft. Removal of an existing driveway adds $1–$3/sq ft depending on material. For patios and slab pours specifically, see our concrete slab cost per sq ft calculator.
Cost by project size
| Project size | Low estimate | High estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 200 sq ft (small apron) | $600 | $2,400 |
| 400 sq ft (single-car) | $1,200 | $4,800 |
| 600 sq ft (standard double) | $1,800 | $7,200 |
| 900 sq ft (large double) | $2,700 | $10,800 |
| 1,200 sq ft (long driveway) | $3,600 | $14,400 |
Approximate 2026 US national averages at $3–$12/sq ft installed. Actual costs vary by location, contractor, and project complexity.
What affects concrete cost per square foot?
Driveway material
Gravel costs $1–$3/sq ft. Asphalt costs $3–$7/sq ft. Concrete runs $6–$12/sq ft. Brick or concrete pavers cost $10–$25/sq ft. Material choice is the single biggest cost variable and determines long-term maintenance requirements.
Thickness & base
Asphalt driveways need a 6–8 inch compacted gravel base plus 2–3 inch asphalt layer. Concrete driveways need 4–6 inches of concrete over a 4-inch compacted sub-base. Thicker bases prevent settling and cracking — cutting corners here leads to early failure.
Existing driveway removal
Removing asphalt adds $1–$2/sq ft including hauling. Removing existing concrete adds $2–$4/sq ft. Getting the right quote requires a clear scope — always confirm whether the quote includes demo and disposal or just the new installation.
Grading & drainage
A driveway must slope at least 1–2% away from the house for drainage. Flat or reverse-slope sites need grading work — adding $500–$3,000 depending on the scope. Poor drainage leads to pooling water and accelerated pavement deterioration.
Decorative finishes
Plain broom-finish concrete is the baseline. Stamped concrete adds $5–$10/sq ft over standard. Exposed aggregate adds $2–$4/sq ft. Coloured concrete adds $2–$3/sq ft. These upgrades increase curb appeal but require periodic sealing to maintain appearance.
Local labour & material costs
Concrete and asphalt prices are driven by regional ready-mix and bitumen costs. Contractor labour rates also vary by 30–50% between rural areas and major metro markets. Always get 2–3 local quotes.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a concrete driveway cost per square foot?
A concrete driveway costs $6–$12 per sq ft installed for a standard broom-finish pour. Stamped or coloured concrete runs $10–$18/sq ft. For a standard 600 sq ft double driveway, expect $3,600–$7,200 for plain concrete or $6,000–$10,800 for decorative finishes.
Is concrete or asphalt cheaper for a driveway?
Asphalt is cheaper upfront at $3–$7/sq ft vs $6–$12 for concrete. However, asphalt requires resealing every 3–5 years ($0.15–$0.30/sq ft) and has a lifespan of 15–25 years. Concrete lasts 30–50 years with minimal maintenance. Over 30 years, costs are often comparable — concrete is typically better long-term value.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
A well-installed concrete driveway lasts 30–50 years. Freeze-thaw cycles, tree roots, and heavy vehicle loads accelerate deterioration. Using a quality sealer every 3–5 years and avoiding de-icing salts (which corrode the surface) significantly extend the lifespan.
How long does it take to install a driveway?
Preparation and forming take 1 day. The concrete pour itself takes a few hours. Curing requires 24–48 hours before foot traffic and 7 days before driving on it. The total project — demo, prep, pour, and cure — spans 5–10 days from start to full use.
Do I need a permit to replace a driveway?
In most jurisdictions, replacing a driveway in kind (same material, same footprint) does not require a permit. Widening or extending a driveway, or changing the material, often does. Check with your local municipality before starting work — some areas also require drainage plans for larger paved areas.