How much does a concrete driveway cost?
The cost of a concrete driveway is going to depend on three factors: (1) the size of your driveway, (2) the location of your driveway, (3) any non-standard features you choose to use. For the most part, base concrete prices are somewhere between $5 – 10 per square foot for a fully installed driveway. That price can go up dramatically if your driveway is curved or has to negotiate around landscaping features. If you choose to go for something more styling such as stained or stamped concrete, that price can easily double due to the increased number of raw materials and the increased amount of manual labor. Most people really like the look stamped concrete can give you because it can be set up to mimic cobblestones, bricks, slate, or just about any other surface you can imagine. Unfortunately, that customization comes at an increased amount of labor and increased costs. My advice would be to use a concrete cost calculator to get a rough idea, look online for some inspiration to figure out exactly what you want and then call up local contractors to get price quotes.
If you fall in love with a stamped concrete design and cannot afford it, I’d recommend laying down something temporary, such as a gravel driveway, and saving the money for what you really want. Stamped concrete can do an amazing job of tying together your house and its landscaping, so if you really love one look, save your money. A driveway can be a huge investment in your home.
Whatever your budget, it’s likely decorative concrete can be a part of your plan. Use the table below to weigh various options for decorative concrete that will fit in your budget. Note that costs shown will vary depending on the size of your project, and the cost for materials and labor in your local area. BASIC $6 to $10 per square foot An eye-catching, economical upgrade to plain gray concrete, enhanced by one coloring method or decorative technique. Example: Integral or surface-applied color MID-RANGE $10 to $15 per square foot More elaborate decorative effects incorporating contrasts in color and pattern. Example: Engraved concrete ADVANCED $15 and up per square foot The ultimate decorative concrete surface—an artistic blend of techniques, patterns and coloring mediums, often incorporating hand-applied detailing. Example: Intricate decorative scoring (with multiple patterns and stain colors).
