How Much Does Concrete Work Cost in 2026? (Driveways, Patios, Slabs)
Concrete cost guide: driveways, patios, sidewalks, stamped concrete, and repairs. Cost per square foot, project estimates, and what to expect from your contractor.
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Concrete is one of the most durable and versatile building materials. Whether you're pouring a new driveway, patio, or sidewalk, here's what concrete work costs in 2026.
Average Concrete Costs
| Project | Cost per Sq Ft | Typical Project |
|---|---|---|
| Basic slab (4") | $6 - $10 | $2,400 - $4,000 (400 sq ft) |
| Driveway | $7 - $12 | $3,500 - $7,200 (600 sq ft) |
| Patio | $8 - $15 | $2,400 - $4,500 (300 sq ft) |
| Sidewalk | $6 - $12 | $600 - $1,800 (100 sq ft) |
| Stamped concrete | $12 - $20 | $3,600 - $6,000 (300 sq ft) |
| Stained concrete | $4 - $8 (over existing) | $1,200 - $2,400 (300 sq ft) |
| Concrete sealing | $1 - $3 | $400 - $1,200 (400 sq ft) |
What Affects Concrete Pricing
Thickness. Standard residential slabs are 4 inches. Driveways and areas with vehicle traffic should be 5-6 inches, which adds 25-50% to material costs.
Reinforcement. Wire mesh ($0.50/sq ft) or rebar ($1-2/sq ft) is recommended for driveways and any slab over 4 inches. This prevents cracking.
Demolition. Removing old concrete costs $3-8 per square foot. A 600 sq ft driveway tear-out runs $1,800-$4,800.
Grade and prep. If the ground needs significant grading, compaction, or gravel base work, add $1-3 per square foot.
Finish type. Broom finish (standard) is included in base pricing. Stamped, exposed aggregate, or colored concrete adds $4-10 per square foot.
Stamped Concrete: Worth the Premium?
Stamped concrete mimics the look of brick, stone, or tile at 30-50% of the cost of actual pavers. At $12-20 per square foot installed, it's a popular upgrade for patios and pool decks.
Pros: Beautiful appearance, lower maintenance than pavers, no shifting or weeds.
Cons: Can crack (less forgiving than pavers), may need resealing every 2-3 years, repairs are harder to match.
Getting Concrete Estimates
Concrete work is priced by the project, not hourly. A good quote includes:
- Demolition and removal (if applicable)
- Grading and base preparation
- Forming and reinforcement
- Pour and finish
- Curing time requirements
- Sealing (recommended but sometimes extra)
Contractors on thecontractor.app generate concrete quotes with all these line items automatically, making it easy to compare bids.
Bottom Line
Basic concrete costs $6-12 per square foot installed. A standard driveway runs $3,500-$7,200. Stamped or decorative finishes add $4-10/sq ft. Always get the subgrade prepped properly — the most common concrete failures come from poor base preparation, not the concrete itself.