How Much Does a Concrete Patio Cost to Build?

Highlights

• The typical range for concrete patio costs is $1,760 to $4,812, with a national average of $3,274.
• Patio size, shape, design, labor, permits, geographic location, site preparation, accessibility, and materials can all affect how much a homeowner pays for a concrete patio.
• Concrete patios are a popular choice for being easily customizable, durable, low maintenance, and inexpensive. They can also increase a home’s value.
• Homeowners may be able to do some site preparation for their concrete patio themselves, but this is generally a project that is best left to an experienced professional.

Outdoor living spaces are essential for enjoying pleasant evenings and family barbecues. Building a concrete patio allows homeowners to designate an attractive gathering area in their backyards. Concrete is a classic choice that has a lower up-front cost than other patio materials like paving stones. If the idea of a plain concrete pad isn’t appealing to a homeowner, they can opt for a stained patio or have unique designs stamped into the concrete so the patio can become the yard’s centerpiece. According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, concrete patio costs range from $1,760 to $4,812 with $3,274 as a national average. This includes ground preparation, materials, and installation. The size and complexity of the patio are some of the biggest influences on concrete patio costs; homeowners can review this guide to learn how much they can expect to spend on a new patio.

Factors in Calculating Concrete Patio Cost

Concrete patio costs aren’t set in stone. Contractors will have a range of quotes since labor, materials, and permits vary by region. The patio size, shape, and design also affect the cost since a complex design requires extra materials. Homeowners can consider the following primary factors when planning a concrete patio budget.

Patio Size and Shape 

The average concrete patio cost per square foot is $4 to $7 if the patio is a plain square or rectangle shape. Basic shapes without colors or customization are the easiest to construct, so adding any other shapes or design elements will drive the price higher. Curved shapes will increase the price since forming and pouring concrete in round shapes is more complex than it would be within straight lines. Any custom designs or complex color patterns could increase the price per square foot to as high as $30.

Patio Design

While most patios function just fine as a rectangular slab just off the backyard door, some homeowners want to design a pergola or build a second-level deck above the patio. A contractor will need to make sure the patio is strong enough to withstand the extra weight in these cases. Extra materials and labor will cost more. If the patio is being built around an inground pool, the contractor will need to work closely with the pool builder to ensure it meets the exact specifications so there aren’t any odd gaps or improperly leveled areas. Adding built-in concrete benches, fountains, or walls also increases the cost since laborers will need to construct forms to build the extra features. Each option is customized, so it’s worthwhile for homeowners to talk with a local contractor to get an accurate quote.

Labor and Permits

Homeowners can expect to pay $50 to $75 per hour on labor costs alone in most cases. This comes out to approximately $5 to $15 per square foot for most patios. Fortunately, those labor costs are well worth it since contractors have all the special tools needed to pour a durable concrete pad. While most concrete patios don’t require a permit, it’s still a good idea for homeowners to check with the local municipality and the homeowners association, if applicable. If permits are required, the average cost is usually $50 to $300.

Geographic Location 

The area where a homeowner lives greatly affects the price they pay for construction projects. Urban areas tend to have higher costs of living and labor rates. Rural areas may charge extra for travel fees or hard-to-get materials. Homeowners will always want to get quotes from multiple contractors in their area to find the best price for the backyard project. They may also want to consider getting started on the budgeting process with a concrete patio cost calculator to get an initial cost estimate for their specific location.

Site Preparation

A terraced property that needs to be leveled for a patio will cost more due to the heavy equipment required to grade and smooth the ground. Site preparation typically costs between $1,000 and $3,200. If it’s impossible to access the yard due to a narrow fence line, homeowners may have to consider removing sections of the fence to get the equipment in. For homes with a walk-out basement, that equipment will have to remove a significant amount of dirt, then grade the remaining property to meet drainage requirements. These kinds of jobs are best done during new construction since they can be challenging to complete after building.

Accessibility

Constructing a small patio won’t require access to significant equipment since laborers can use small concrete mixers to access the site. For a patio measuring several hundred square feet, the contractor will need at least an 8-foot-wide gate access to bring a truck to the back. If that’s not possible, laborers will have to wheel concrete to the backyard in batches—a slower, more expensive process. Depending on the site, a concrete truck could pipe the concrete over the house, but this happens mostly with much larger projects, such as for an inground pool and patio.

Materials Used

Concrete costs per yard are much lower than most other patio materials available. For a simple 10-foot by 10-foot concrete patio, costs could total as little as $600. Homeowners comparing a deck versus a patio will note that a concrete patio is cheaper than most wooden decks. A concrete paver patio is another option that some homeowners choose, but it can be much more expensive than a concrete slab. If a homeowner likes the look of a stone patio but not the price, they can ask the contractor about stamping the concrete instead.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Beyond the most common factors that affect the baseline cost of concrete patios, there are extra features that can be added to enhance the patio. These customizations can make the patio feel like the perfect outdoor space, so homeowners may want to ask their contractor about the cost of these concrete patio upgrades.

Poured Concrete vs. Pavers

Pavers make for a unique patio that can enhance a home’s appearance by carrying sophisticated stonework into the backyard. Homeowners can choose between paving stones or bricks for this patio style. The average paver patio cost is $8 to $25 per square foot, depending on the kind of stone that is chosen. When it comes to the cost of pavers versus concrete, the concrete patio is the less expensive option since pouring a concrete patio costs only $4 to $7 per square foot for a plain concrete slab.

Old Concrete Removal

If the new patio will be replacing an old slab, the previous patio will need to be demolished first. This can cost $550 to $1,700, which includes both breaking up the concrete and hauling away and disposing of the old materials.

Finish

As mentioned, most concrete patios are plain gray slabs of concrete that come at a low-cost option. But concrete can be brushed, painted, stenciled, engraved, or even pebbled with an aggregate finish for a unique, custom look. These finishes can cost between $1 to $15 extra per square foot. Homeowners also have the option to spruce up the patio by choosing a finish that mimics more expensive patio materials. Stamping designs into the concrete ($2,800 to $6,500) or staining the concrete ($3,000 to $18,500) are the two most popular finish options.

Enhancements and Additions

For authentic outdoor living, homeowners can opt to build an outdoor living room or kitchen on the patio. These patios are usually at least 8 feet by 10 feet to accommodate a kitchen and dining area but can be even larger if a homeowner wants more seating capacity and a fire pit. Outdoor kitchens cost around $2,000 including the structure, countertops, and patio surface. Other enhancements include awnings or walkways, which can vary in price depending on the size or square footage.

Types of Concrete Patios

Concrete patios all have the same base material, but it’s usually possible to choose from several finishes to customize the look and feel of the patio. The average cost of a concrete patio remains relatively low with most of the finishes available.

Aggregate 

An aggregate concrete patio is a unique option with a raw design that has plenty of traction against slipping. Homeowners get to choose their favorite kind of small pebbles to be added to the concrete mix. These pebbles will remain on the surface as the concrete cures, then get sealed over to make the surface durable and rugged. This style of finish only costs an additional $2 to $3 per square foot.

Broom-Finished

Anyone who has washed off a concrete patio and nearly slipped on the surface knows how important a little extra texture is. A smooth concrete surface provides little traction when wet, so if the patio is near a pool or in a wet climate, it may be better to have a broom finish. This technique uses a special broom to make small grooves in the concrete that make it more slip resistant. A broom finish is often free of cost as it is considered a part of the installation process.

Concrete Slab

A traditional concrete slab costs much less than most other concrete patio options. A simple poured concrete patio costs between $5 and $12 per square foot since the design isn’t complex and no extra finish is included. A concrete slab is just as durable and long-lasting as any concrete patio with a specialized finish.

Decorative Stencil Masking

For those who love the more artistic style of stenciled designs, a decorative stencil finish could be an option to consider. Stenciling designs into the concrete patio means having a truly unique masterpiece to enjoy. Homeowners will want to work with their contractor to determine the designs, colors, depths, and more for an average installation cost of $2,000 to $4,500.

Painted

Painted concrete is another option to stylize an outdoor patio. For $500 to $3,000, almost any color can be painted on the patio. Homeowners can work with their contractor to pick a UV-resistant paint, and paint a border, fun designs, or the entire patio. The only drawback to painting concrete is that the paint may get scratched or peel off over time. Sealing the patio can help extend the life of a painted patio, but the paint may need to be reapplied occasionally.

Polished

Polished concrete may not be suitable for all outdoor spaces as its smooth surface makes it a slipping hazard when wet. However, for covered patios, pergolas, or areas with rugs or mats, a polished concrete patio can be an attractive option. A polished concrete floor costs between $1,600 to $3,900.

Stamped

For those who don’t mind the gray color but prefer a little more texture and style, stamping the concrete might be the best choice. Concrete contractors have numerous designs to choose from, from flagstone and brick to wooden planks. This option provides the appearance of the desired material, with the durability of concrete. The cost of a stamped concrete patio averages $2,800 to $6,500.

Stained

Installing a stained concrete patio is a great option for those who love colorful, earthy textures. Stained concrete patio cost options vary based on the amount of texturing and the number of colors used to create the custom finish. Homeowners can expect to pay $3,000 to $18,500 for stained concrete. It’s the most popular option among homeowners who choose to upgrade their finish.

Trowel Finish

Homeowners who prefer a smooth concrete patio may opt for a hand-troweled finish. This is exactly what it sounds like—after the concrete is poured, it is smoothed over with a trowel to eliminate any texture or imperfections. Trowel finishes cost $4 to $7 per square foot.

Benefits of Choosing to Install a Concrete Patio

There are so many ways for homeowners to spend their hard-earned money. It’s worthwhile for them to choose things that will bring lifestyle improvements and even a return on investment. Fortunately, it’s possible to get all of that and more when choosing to install a new concrete patio.

High Level of Customization 

Compared to other outdoor living spaces, one could argue that concrete patios have more customization choices than other options. A concrete slab can be dressed up to look like wood, stones, marble, and more. Concrete can also be formed into nearly any shape to create a customized look. Just a few possibilities include building extra steps, ramps, built-in benches or planters; setting the foundation for a pergola or deck; and much more. The options are nearly endless with concrete patios.

Durability 

Concrete patio costs are almost second to none in terms of enduring value over time. A well-built concrete patio can last up to 50 years and only requires occasional upkeep or resealing to keep the surface in good shape. This is more than double the lifespan of a wooden deck.

Low Maintenance 

While some outdoor patios or decks require significant yearly maintenance, all that is needed to keep a concrete patio in great shape is a simple power wash. It’s a fast and easy way to keep the patio free of dirt and keep the finish looking great. Depending on any customization or special finishes, the patio may need to be resealed every few years to keep the paint or texture protected. The cost of concrete cleaning and sealing services is $1,500 on average, or homeowners may opt to do this job themselves.

Inexpensive Option

Installing a concrete patio is an inexpensive way to improve an outdoor living space. It’s even possible to expand an existing concrete pad to a larger pad without too much hassle. Though a concrete patio won’t get as high of a return on investment as other options, homeowners can expect an ROI (return on investment) of 30 to 60 percent on concrete patio costs.

Increased Property Value 

Outdoor living spaces are often used as a way to unwind from a stressful day. Homeowners can step into their backyard and enjoy an evening breeze while grilling burgers on the patio. Houses with outdoor concrete patios tend to sell at a higher price than houses without an outdoor space. Patios raise the property value of a home even for those who intend to stay in their house for years.

Concrete Patio Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

When upgrading an outdoor living space, a concrete patio seems like a simple construction task. There are more complexities than it may seem, however, which is why it’s a task that’s best left to a pro. Making a mistake during a DIY concrete patio installation can mean extra costs for future repairs or even total replacement. If the patio isn’t level when it’s poured, rainwater could collect near the foundation of the house and cause a much more serious problem down the road, such as structural damage to the home’s foundation. A patio also needs to be built thick enough or strong enough to withstand any heavy objects it could hold, such as a stone kitchen or a second-level deck. These are structural elements that a concrete contractor can carefully plan and execute better than the average homeowner.

Homeowners who are itching to do some work on their own can always remove any sod or landscaping to make space for the patio and save on labor costs in the long run. But in the end, the advantage of using a pro is that they’ll have all the special equipment needed to complete the job promptly. Their knowledge will help them work through any challenges that could arise during the project. Concrete can be a demanding material, so if it is going to be stamped or stained, homeowners can rest assured that the contractor can time the finished work perfectly to achieve the desired result.

How to Save Money on Concrete Patio Cost

Because concrete is highly customizable, homeowners who are looking to realize their concrete patio ideas on a budget can typically find plenty of options that are still within their target price range. High-end customization will always increase costs, but there are still ways to save money on a concrete patio installation.

• Build to budget. Know ahead of time what your maximum budget is, then build to fit within that.
• Stay small. A patio doesn’t have to take up the whole backyard. Choose the size that meets your needs and budget.
• Choose the location carefully. Any area that requires sloping, grading, or tree removal will cost more to prepare for installation.
• DIY site preparation. If you can complete site preparation tasks on your own, save on labor costs by doing them ahead of time. This includes removing fence paneling if large equipment needs to access the backyard.
• Choose the right finish. Decide on a finish that works within your budget yet still offers some customization.
• Preplan and execute. If you’re doing new-home construction, sometimes a new concrete driveway costs can be reduced if it is installed at the same time as the concrete patio since the equipment is already there.
• Price shop. Always ask for quotes from more than one contractor to find the most reputable contractor who can do the job for a reasonable price.

Questions to Ask About Concrete Patio Installation

Homeowners will want to make sure they ask the contractor to come to the property to evaluate the location where the patio will go. This will help them understand any special considerations or make recommendations tailored to the property. When discussing concrete patio costs with a contractor, homeowners can ask them any of the following questions to make sure they’re the right contractor for the project.

• How much experience do you have with concrete patios?
• Do you have a portfolio of work I can look at?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Do you complete the work on your own or subcontract out?
• Can I review a line item contract before proceeding?
• What challenges do you see for my project?
• Will we need heavy equipment to prepare the site? How much extra will that cost?
• How long will my project take?
• How much will it cost to add plumbing and electrical to do an outdoor kitchen?
• Are you experienced at stamping, staining, or engraving concrete patios?
• How much will a stained or stamped concrete patio cost?
• How long will the stain last on my patio?
• How soon can I use my concrete patio after it’s finished?
• What kind of maintenance will it require?
• Do you warranty or guarantee your work?

FAQs

Hiring a qualified concrete patio contractor is a good investment to ensure the project goes smoothly. It’s a good idea for homeowners to ask plenty of questions to make sure the contractor is capable of completing the project and to avoid miscommunication. The more information that can be gathered about concrete patio costs, the better. Below are a few of the more frequently asked questions and their answers.

Q. What size should I make my concrete patio? 

The short answer is the size that works for your property, your entertaining needs, and your budget. A patio can be as small as 10 feet by 10 feet or as large as 30 feet by 30 feet. If you’re not sure about the best size for your backyard, consult with a pro. They can check your property to offer their suggestion about the average patio size for similar backyards as yours while considering any construction challenges.

Q. Can I pour my own concrete patio?

It is possible to pour your own concrete patio, but be advised that this is not an easy one-day task—nor is it recommended for a person to do it independently. If the ground isn’t properly prepared or the concrete isn’t thick enough, the concrete pad could buckle and crack, forcing an expensive replacement much sooner than expected. Concrete also needs to be mixed continuously and adequately; otherwise, it will begin to cure before you’re ready.

Q. How long will my concrete patio last?

A good concrete patio that’s kept clean and sealed should last up to 50 years.

Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, HomeGuide, LawnStarter