How Do You Calculate the Cost of a Concrete Driveway?

Calculating the cost of a concrete driveway involves a few key variables. Whether you're planning a new installation or budgeting for a replacement, understanding these factors can help you estimate accurately and avoid unexpected expenses.

1. Measure the Driveway Area (Square Footage)

Start by calculating the total square footage:

Length (ft) × Width (ft) = Total Area (sq ft)

Example: A driveway that is 40 feet long and 12 feet wide:40 × 12 = 480 square feet

2. Determine the Concrete Thickness

Standard concrete driveways are typically:

• 4 inches thick for passenger vehicles

• 5–6 inches thick for heavier loads

Convert thickness to feet:

• 4 inches = 0.33 ft

• 6 inches = 0.5 ft

3. Calculate Concrete Volume (Cubic Yards)

To calculate how much concrete you need:

Square Footage × Thickness (in feet) ÷ 27 = Cubic Yards

Example: 480 sq ft × 0.33 ft ÷ 27 = 5.87 cubic yards

4. Concrete Cost per Cubic Yard

Concrete prices vary, but average between $125–$170 per cubic yard (as of 2025).

Estimated Concrete Cost: 5.87 cu yd × $150 = $880.50

5. Add Labor and Additional Costs

Concrete driveway installation includes:

• Labor: $3–$10 per sq ft

• Formwork, grading, reinforcement (rebar or mesh): $1–$4 per sq ft

• Finishing (broom, stamped, colored): $2–$8 per sq ft (optional)

Estimated Total Installation Cost Range: $8–$18 per sq ft

For a 480 sq ft driveway:

• Low-end: 480 × $8 = $3,840

• High-end: 480 × $18 = $8,640

6. Total Cost Summary

Category	Estimated Cost
Concrete (5.87 cu yd)	~$880
Labor + Materials	$3,000–$7,800
Total Cost	$3,800–$8,600

Key Cost Factors to Consider

• Driveway size & shape

• Concrete thickness

• Type of finish (basic, stamped, stained)

• Local labor rates

• Permit fees (if required)

Quick Cost Calculator (Rule of Thumb)

Driveway Size (sq ft) × $8–$18 = Estimated Total Cost

Works for most standard residential concrete driveways.

Conclusion

To calculate the cost of a concrete driveway:

1. Measure the square footage

2. Determine the thickness

3. Calculate the volume of concrete

4. Multiply by the cost per yard

5. Add labor and finishing costs

Use these steps to get an accurate estimate and make informed budgeting decisions. For exact pricing, contact local contractors with your driveway specs.