Cost guide
How much does concrete cost?
Ready-mix concrete runs about $150–$200 per cubic yard delivered. For a 4-inch slab that's roughly $1.85–$2.47 per square foot in materials. Here's how that changes with thickness, bag size and the extras most projects need.
By the EstimateCement team ·
Per square foot
Material cost per square foot, by thickness.
| Slab thickness | Ready-mix | 80 lb bags |
|---|---|---|
| 4″ | $1.85–$2.47 / sq ft | ~$5.00 / sq ft |
| 5″ | $2.31–$3.09 / sq ft | ~$6.25 / sq ft |
| 6″ | $2.78–$3.70 / sq ft | ~$7.50 / sq ft |
Concrete only, before waste. National-average planning figures, not quotes. Your supplier's price is what counts.
Per bag
Bagged concrete, by bag size.
| Bag | Typical price | Per cubic foot | Per cubic yard |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40 lb | $6.00 | $20.00 | $540 |
| 60 lb | $7.50 | $16.67 | $450 |
| 80 lb | $9.00 | $15.00 | $405 |
Bigger bags cost less per cubic foot. The 40 lb size costs the most per yard but is the easiest to carry and mix. See how many bags make a yard.
Worked budget
A 12 × 20 ft patio, 4 inches thick.
| Material | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Ready-mix concrete, 3.26 yd³ (incl. 10% waste) | $489–$652 |
| Gravel base, 4″ deep, 2.96 yd³ | $133–$193 |
| Rebar, 18 × 20 ft bars at 18″ centers | $216 |
| Materials total | $838–$1,060 |
Price your own project with the patio calculator (concrete and gravel base) and the rebar calculator.
The rest of the bill
Costs the per-yard price doesn't include.
- Short-load and delivery fees. These apply on orders below the plant's minimum, often a few yards.
- Pump or conveyor. You need one when the truck can't reach the pour, such as a backyard behind the house.
- Forms and stakes. 2×4 or 2×6 lumber around the perimeter, plus stakes and screws.
- Reinforcement. Rebar or wire mesh, chairs to hold it up, and tie wire.
- Finishing and curing. Tool rental (bull float, edger, groover), curing compound or sealer.
- Labor. A contractor's installed price covers crew, base prep, forming, finishing and overhead, and it's usually a multiple of the material cost. Get at least three written quotes.
FAQ
Common questions
How much does a yard of concrete cost?
Ready-mix typically runs about $150–$200 per cubic yard delivered, before short-load fees, pumping or weekend surcharges. Prices vary by region and mix strength, so call two or three local plants for a quote.
How much does concrete cost per square foot?
For materials only, a 4-inch slab is about $1.85–$2.47 per sq ft with ready-mix, or about $5.00 per sq ft with 80 lb bags. A contractor's installed price is much higher, because it includes labor, forms, base prep, finishing and overhead.
Is it cheaper to mix concrete yourself?
Not per yard. Bagged mix works out to about $405 per yard in 80 lb bags, versus $150–$200 for ready-mix. Bags only save money on small pours, where a truck's minimum order and short-load fee would cost more.
What is a short-load fee?
Many ready-mix suppliers charge a flat extra fee when an order is below their minimum load, often a few cubic yards. On a small order it can double the effective price per yard, so ask about it when you call for a quote.
Price your project