The typical concrete patio is approximately 288 sq ft and costs an average of $2,800 (about $10 per sq ft); depending on a variety of factors, your cost will likely fall between $1,440 and $5,100 ($5-$15 per sq ft).
How Much Does a Concrete Patio Cost?
The best way to determine the cost of your project is to get quotes from concrete patio contractors near you. But, you can use the ranges below as a starting point when figuring out your budget.
Plain Design
$5-$7 per square foot
No decorative finishes or colors.
Simple Design
$7-$10 per square foot
May include one coloring method or decorative technique.
Custom Design
$10-$15 per square foot
May include two or three colors or a contrasting border.
Elaborate Design
$15+ per square foot
May include borders, sawcut designs, and hand-applied coloring techniques.
Need to know how much concrete you need for a patio? Use our free concrete calculator.
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Concrete Patio
- Patio size
Typically the price per square foot goes down as the patio gets bigger. Alternatively, for small patios, some contractors charge a minimum total rather than a per square foot price. - Property condition
If you need grading, demolition or other site work, the price will go up. Also, if your property can’t be accessed with the necessary equipment, requiring a pump or additional labor, costs will rise. - Complexity of design
Adding texture, color, borders or other design features will add up. A basic shape with straight edges is easier to form, while curves are more complex and more expensive. - New patio vs existing patio
If you are looking to install a new patio, it will cost an estimated $5 - $15 per sq ft, and sometimes more. If you have an existing patio and are looking to refresh the look, or have repairs made to any damage, you may not have to start over. The costs of patio resurfacing are less than that of replacement, ranging between $3 and $10 per square foot.
Tip: Since the cost of your patio can vary with the size of the surface and the detail of your design, it is important to find a contractor that will give you the best result for the best price. You can find a patio contractor by using the Concrete Network directory. View portfolio pictures, contact contractors directly, and even request free estimates.
Concrete Patio Calculator
*Calculated using: Plain - $6 per square foot; Simple - $8 per square foot; Custom - $12.50 per square foot; Elaborate - $18 per square foot.
Compare Costs for Small, Medium and Large Patios
Use the following chart to see average prices for patios of different sizes:
| Patio Dimensions (feet) | Square Feet | Average Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMALL | 12x12 | 144 | $1,730 |
| MEDIUM | 10x20 | 200 | $2,150 |
| LARGE | 20x20 | 400 | $3,650 |
A 20-foot by 20-foot concrete patio runs between $2,000 to $6,000, including labor and materials. Adding decorative finishes and colors could make the price even higher. But on larger projects many contractors will offer a better price per square foot.
What Patio Finishes are Most Affordable?
The cost of your concrete patio also depends on the finish you choose. The most affordable option is a broom finish, which adds subtle texture to the surface. A step up is an exposed aggregate patio, more decorative yet still reasonably priced. For a bit more investment, a stained concrete patio can add rich color while remaining a cost-effective choice. However, if you have a larger budget, stamped concrete patios, the most expensive option, offer a highly decorative and customizable look.
Concrete Patio Cost vs. Other Paving Materials
A concrete patio costs less than patios made of stone, brick, or tile. This is because patios made of natural materials are usually higher priced and require more intensive labor to install.
Some concrete contractors estimate that stamped concrete costs one-third less than the cost of other materials. The lower price tag combined with the wide array of patterns and colors available are some of the main draws of choosing a concrete patio.
Is it cheaper to build a deck?
Concrete is not the only option for your patio, but it may be the most cost-efficient. Decorative concrete on your patio can mimic the look and feel of many other surfaces such as pavers and wood decking.
Related: Deck vs. Patio - 7 Differences to Consider
A wood deck can cost $15 to $35 per square foot. This cost is related to labor, the materials chosen (composite, pressure treated, hardwood), and the amount of detail involved in the design. Although a wood deck can give you an attractive finished product, it can be an expensive option when compared to the features offered with a concrete patio.
What is cheaper poured concrete or pavers?
Concrete pavers are individually placed bricks that can provide a variety of designs and colors. Because of the nature of the labor involved and the cost of materials, a patio made from pavers can cost an estimated $4 - $20 per square foot, depending on the size and detail of the design.
Choosing a plain concrete patio will most definitely save you money when compared to pavers. However, as you add upgrades, like stamping and coloring, the prices become more comparable.
Is a DIY Patio a Good Way to Save Money?
Completing your concrete project as a DIY can save you money initially. But in order to get the best results, it is recommended that you hire a concrete contractor to complete your patio. A contractor is most likely to complete your project on time, minimize any mistakes, and produce the finished look you desire.
Find out whether or not you should pour your own patio in this article. If you have any questions about stamping your patio, perhaps this Q&A will help answer them for you.
Patio Design Resources
Outdoor Patio Design Videos: Design ideas and tips for outdoor living areas.
Comparison Chart: Stamped Concrete versus Other Paving Materials
Comparing Costs: Stamped Concrete Cost