Short answer
A plain concrete patio costs about $5 to $8 per square foot installed. Simple decorative work runs $8–$11, custom designs $11–$18, and elaborate designs $18 or more. A typical 288 sq ft patio averages about $3,200, and most patios fall between $1,440 and $5,200.
| Plain design | $5–$8 per sq ft[1] |
|---|---|
| Simple design (one color or technique) | $8–$11 per sq ft[1] |
| Custom design | $11–$18 per sq ft[1] |
| Elaborate design | $18+ per sq ft[1] |
| Typical 288 sq ft patio | about $3,200 (≈ $11 per sq ft)[1] |
| Typical range | $1,440–$5,200[1] |
| 20 × 20 ft patio (400 sq ft) | $3,200–$7,200[1] |
| Stamped concrete | $10–$20+ per sq ft[2] |
Concrete patio cost per square foot
ConcreteNetwork's 2026 figures: plain design $5–$8 per square foot, simple design $8–$11, custom $11–$18, and elaborate $18 or more. The typical 288 sq ft patio averages about $11 per square foot, or around $3,200.
What drives patio cost
ConcreteNetwork prices patios by design level. A plain broom finish is cheapest. Adding color, a contrasting border, saw-cut patterns or stamping moves you up a tier. The rest depends on the site:
- Size: larger patios cost less per square foot, but small pours still pay minimum delivery and labor charges.
- Site prep: removing an old patio, grading a slope, or adding gravel base and drainage.
- Access: if the truck can't reach the backyard, the contractor may need a pump or wheelbarrows.
- Finish: broom, exposed aggregate, colored, or stamped.
Patio vs. slab
A patio is a slab with finish work. For a plain slab under a shed, hot tub or garage, see theconcrete slab cost guide. To estimate how much concrete your patio needs, use theconcrete calculator.
Get local patio quotes
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a 12×12 concrete patio cost?
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A 12 × 12 ft patio is 144 sq ft. At $5–$8 per sq ft for a plain design that's about $720–$1,150. Small jobs often cost more per square foot because of minimum charges for delivery and crew time.
Is a concrete patio cheaper than pavers?
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Usually, yes. Plain and simple concrete patios run $5–$11 per sq ft, while pavers cost about $10–$23 per sq ft because each one is placed by hand.
Does a concrete patio need a permit?
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Many ground-level patios don't, but rules vary by city and county, and drainage, setbacks or a roof over the patio can trigger one. Ask your contractor or check with your local permit office before you pour.
Sources
- [1]ConcreteNetwork.com, Concrete Patio Cost (updated January 20, 2026)
- [2]ConcreteNetwork.com, Stamped Concrete Cost (reviewed January 26, 2026)
- [3]Homewyse, Cost to Install Cement Slab (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.