Short answer
Ready-mix concrete costs about $160 to $195 or more per cubic yard as material. Installed, plain flatwork such as patios and driveways typically costs $5 to $8 per square foot, a basic slab with forms and reinforcement about $10.63–$13.00, and decorative or stamped work $8 to $21+.
| Ready-mix, per cubic yard | $160–$195+[1] |
|---|---|
| Plain driveway, installed | $5–$8 per sq ft[2] |
| Plain patio, installed | $5–$8 per sq ft[3] |
| Basic slab, installed (Sept 2026) | $10.63–$13.00 per sq ft[5] |
| Stamped concrete | $10–$20+ per sq ft[4] |
| Decorative driveway | $8–$21+ per sq ft[2] |
Cost guides by project
- Concrete driveway cost: $5–$8 per sq ft plain, $3,200–$13,000 total.
- Concrete patio cost: $5–$18+ per sq ft, about $3,200 for 288 sq ft.
- Concrete slab cost: $10.63–$13.00 per sq ft basic installed.
- Stamped concrete cost: $10–$20+ per sq ft.
Estimate your own project
Use the concrete calculator to convert your dimensions into cubic yards, bags, and an installed cost range. Then request quotes. Licensed contractors can price your actual site.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a yard of concrete cost?
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Nationally, $160–$195 or more per cubic yard for ready-mix, with a 2025 average of $179.95 according to ConcreteNetwork. Delivery and short-load fees can add to small orders.
What is the cost of concrete per square foot?
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For plain installed flatwork, about $5–$8 per square foot. Basic slabs with forms and reinforcement run about $10.63–$13.00, and decorative finishes $8–$21 or more.
Why do quotes vary so much?
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Labor, site preparation, access and finish matter more than the concrete itself. Two quotes are only comparable if they cover the same square footage, thickness, base, reinforcement, finish and removal.
Sources
- [1]ConcreteNetwork.com, Concrete Prices (updated July 14, 2026)
- [2]ConcreteNetwork.com, How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost? (updated January 13, 2026)
- [3]ConcreteNetwork.com, Concrete Patio Cost (updated January 20, 2026)
- [4]ConcreteNetwork.com, Stamped Concrete Cost (reviewed January 26, 2026)
- [5]Homewyse, Cost to Install Cement Slab (September 2026 figures)
- [6]Homewyse, Cost to Install Concrete Driveway (September 2026 figures)
Prices are national ranges published by the sources above, not quotes. Your price depends on size, access, site preparation and local labor rates. The only way to know is to compare written quotes.