Concrete Patio
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.
How Much Does a Concrete Patio Cost to Build?
Installing a new concrete patio is a great way to add more outdoor living space and boost property value. A concrete patio costs between $1,760 and $4,812 to build, with a national average of $3,274.
By Brie Greenhalgh and Evelyn Auer | Updated Aug 2, 2023 11:31 AM
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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.
A pro can make it a reality. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.
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.
A pro can make it a reality. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.
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.
A pro can make it a reality. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.
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.
| Addition | Cost (Labor and Materials) |
| Concrete walkway | $1,800 |
| Outdoor kitchen | $2,000 |
| Pergola | $2,100 to $5,600 |
| Resealing concrete | $1,500 per 1,000 square feet |
| Retractable awnings | $400 to $7,100 |
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.
| Patio Type | Cost (Labor and Materials) |
| Aggregate | $2 to $3 per square foot |
| Broom-finished | No additional cost |
| Concrete slab | $5 to $12 per square foot |
| Decorative stencil masking | $2,000 to $4,500 |
| Painted | $500 to $3,000 |
| Polished | $1,600 to $3,900 |
| Stamped | $2,800 to $6,500 |
| Stained | $3,000 to $18,500 |
| Trowel finish | $4 to $7 per square foot |
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.
A pro can make it a reality. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.
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.
A pro can make it a reality. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.
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.
A pro can make it a reality. Get free, no-commitment estimates from experts near you.
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.
Concrete Patio
A patio is an essential element in today’s backyards. Concrete is the most popular patio material in the country. With many decorative finishes, concrete patios attract homeowners who want an outdoor surface with unlimited design potential (see concrete patio ideas). When compared to wood decks, pavers and natural stone, a concrete patio is also more durable and requires less maintenance.
Concrete Patio Photos Browse hundreds of patio pictures from across the country to get ideas for your own decorative treatment.
Concrete Patio Cost How much does a concrete patio cost? Find out average costs and what design features contribute to the price.
Stamped Concrete Patios Discover tips and design ideas for using stamps to add texture to a concrete patio.
Concrete Patio Ideas Research concrete textures and colors, decide which patio size is right for you, and more.
Stained Concrete Patios Get tips and design options for using concrete stains to transform your patio.
Small Backyard Patios Get design ideas and tips to give small patios greater appeal and functionality with concrete.
Here, we offer tips for designing and sizing a concrete patio, give you an overview of the various concrete patio finish options, and tell you about ways you can accessorize and enhance your patio. For people with existing concrete patios, we also tell you about ways to give your old patio a decorative makeover by resurfacing, staining or engraving.
IS A CONCRETE PATIO A GOOD CHOICE FOR MY BACKYARD?
Here are four reasons to pick concrete for your patio:
Create an outdoor entertaining zone
In addition to serving as a gathering zone for lounging and entertaining, concrete patios allow homeowners to seamlessly blend interior and exterior living spaces. They are the perfect decorative flooring surface for outdoor kitchens and living rooms, complete with cozy seating areas, fireplaces and water features.
Concrete Patios – Color Choices and Tips
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Customize with color and pattern
What’s more, this outdoor floor offers unlimited design options. When enhanced by stains and integral colors, concrete patios can be color coordinated to match a home’s exterior or landscape. They can also be stamped or engraved in patterns that mimic other popular paving materials, such as brick, flagstone, slate and tile.
Save money without sacrificing style
As an investment, concrete patios typically cost less than patios made of brick or natural stone because they are less labor-intensive to install. The lower price tag combined with the wide array of patterns and colors available make concrete an economical choice for most budgets. Plus, concrete is easily formed into any shape to accommodate backyard space restrictions.
See a more detailed breakdown of concrete patio cost.
Enjoy a durable, low-maintenance surface
Upgrading your backyard with a decorative concrete patio is also an investment that will provide many years of enjoyment while improving the look of your landscape. Concrete is easy to maintain and can stand up to the harshest of weather conditions. Unlike paving stones, you won’t have joints between units where grass and weeds can sprout. And unlike wood, concrete won’t warp, rot or require periodic staining.
PROS and CONS OF A CONCRETE PATIO
Until wood decks became so trendy a decade or so ago, most patios were made of hard materials like concrete, brick or stone. Today, many homeowners who installed those wood decks need to replace them because of rotting or warped wood, or because they are simply fed up with the hassle of staining and sealing them every few years. Patios made of concrete or concrete pavers are making a big comeback as homeowners now realize all the benefits they were missing out on by installing wood or wood-composite decking. Here are some of the reasons why people are making the switch:
Versatility
Thanks to the design versatility of concrete, your patio will never look just like your neighbor’s. And with recent advances in coloring techniques and stamping tools, patios made of poured-in-place concrete are more versatile than ever before. Concrete is easily formed into any shape, allowing you to accommodate backyard space restrictions or incorporate attractive curves. With the use of stains and other coloring methods, you can also achieve just about any hue imaginable, whether you want to match the stone facade of your house or blend in with the natural landscape.
You can also choose from a vast array of pattern and design options, including stamped patterns, stenciling, engraving, exposed aggregate and more (see Concrete Patio Finishes). While many concrete patios are designed to complement the outdoor landscape, some homeowners choose a concrete patio style that complements their indoor living space to create a surface that blends in seamlessly with the interior decor. Concrete can also be made to resemble other popular patio materials, including brick, natural stone and even wood.
Concreations, LLC in Millersburg, IN
Durability
In addition to concrete’s versatility, concrete is highly durable and can stand up to the wide range of weather conditions found across the country. In fact, many concrete contractors in colder climates take special measures to ensure the durability of the concrete patios they produce.
Bill Guthro of Distinctive Concrete in Rowley, Mass., says stamped concrete will last longer than any other type of masonry installation. “We use a lot of steel and rebar in a 2-foot grid that controls cracking. We also apply many coats of sealer,” he says. In addition, they use a proprietary high-strength concrete mix that reaches compressive strengths of 4000 psi and includes reinforcing fibers.
Easier Maintenance
When compared with individual masonry paving units and natural stone, concrete is easier to maintain because it’s a solid surface. Unlike paving stones, you won’t have sand-filled joints between units where grass and weeds can sprout. In addition, individual pavers can settle unevenly, creating dangerous tripping hazards.
When compared with wood, a concrete patio saves you the labor of staining and resealing year after year, and it’s invulnerable to termite infestation, wood rot and splintering. (See Concrete Patio Maintenance Is a Breeze).
Environmentally Friendly
Installing a concrete patio rather than a wood deck saves lumber and eliminates the need for regular maintenance with solvent-based wood stains and sealers (see Green Building With Concrete).
Better Value
Concrete can be stamped, engraved, stenciled or textured to resemble pricier stone or brick pavers, and often at a fraction of the cost, especially when you factor in the labor savings. The aesthetic appeal and durability of decorative concrete will also boost the resale value of your home. (See Concrete Patio Costs).
MAKE YOUR PATIO A BACKYARD DESTINATION
In addition to being a great patio material, concrete can also be used to maximize your entire backyard space. The goal is to create destinations in the garden and connect them with welcoming pathways. Use focal points, seat walls, fountains, ponds, arbors, fireplaces, fire pits, and fragrant plantings to create interest at different locations and draw guests out into the yard space.
Learn about how to add seating in an outdoor room, seat wall construction tips, design considerations, and more.
Learn how you can add a dramatic yet economical focal point with artificial rocks and water feature construction.
Learn about the design criteria for outdoor fireplaces, types of fireplaces, placement, and seating considerations.
Learn about the basic fire pit designs, construction techniques, and how to incorporate them into your yard.
Learn how to design with concrete to create appealing outdoor kitchen retreats.
Learn how to cmplement your natural surroundings with a concrete bench, table or stool.
Learn about what makes precast concrete perfect for producing decorative columns, balustrades, arches and more.
LANDSCAPING AROUND A CONCRETE PATIO
Pergolas are a great, economical way to add a shade structure to your patio. For denser shade, consider growing vines that will cover the area.
Here are some landscape tips to balance with hardscape:
Adding shade to your patio
Think broadly when it comes to shade covers:
- Trees are idyllic with their natural shade, but they can take many years to mature and provide that needed shade.
- Pergolas are a great option with which you can grow vines to create denser shade.
- Fabric sail shades are available, along with the typical wood or aluminum covered patio construction.
Use planter beds to break up pathways and soften hardscape edges.
Tips for using greenery to balance with hardscape
- To avoid the feel of overdoing the hardscape, use grass and groundcovers to break up pathways between patios.
- Place flowerbeds between structures (like homes and walls) and patio areas.
- Even narrow 24-inch wide planter-beds will help soften edges and give the yard a more inviting, garden-like feel.