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Home Updated June 2026

Concrete Patio Cost Calculator

Calculate 2026 concrete patio costs by square footage and finish type — plain, stamped, exposed aggregate, colored, or stained — with old surface removal pricing.

National avg: $2,800
Range: $1,200 – $8,000
Used by 16,540 people

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What Affects the Cost?

1. Concrete Finish Types & Costs

Plain/broom-finish: $6–$10/sqft — most affordable, slip-resistant texture, great for functional patios. Stamped concrete: $12–$22/sqft — mimics stone, brick, or wood patterns; premium look at moderate cost. Exposed aggregate: $9–$15/sqft — textured surface with pebble/gravel exposed; slip-resistant. Colored concrete: $8–$14/sqft — integral pigment added to mix. Acid-stained: $8–$13/sqft — marbled effect, stained after pour.

2. Concrete vs. Pavers vs. Wood Deck

Concrete ($6–$22/sqft): 25–50yr lifespan, minimal maintenance, sealing every 2–3yrs, can crack. Pavers ($12–$25/sqft): 30–50yr lifespan, individual pieces easily replaced, higher upfront cost, weed growth in joints. Wood deck ($15–$35/sqft): warmer underfoot, easier DIY, requires staining every 2–3yrs, 15–25yr lifespan. For a 300 sqft patio: concrete=$1,800–$6,600; pavers=$3,600–$7,500; wood deck=$4,500–$10,500.

3. Permitting and Drainage

Most municipalities require permits for patios over 200 sqft or attached to the house. Permit cost: $100–$500 depending on location. Drainage is critical — without proper slope (minimum 1/8 inch per foot away from house), water pools against your foundation. Add a French drain ($500–$1,500) for areas with poor natural drainage. Improper drainage is the #1 cause of concrete patio failure.

2026 Cost Reference Table

Type / Option Typical Cost Range
Plain concrete patio (300 sqft) $1,800 – $3,000
Stamped concrete patio (300 sqft) $3,600 – $6,600
Exposed aggregate (300 sqft) $2,700 – $4,500
Colored/stained concrete (300 sqft) $2,400 – $4,200
Old surface removal $500 – $2,000
Concrete resurfacing (over existing) $3 – $7/sqft

Frequently Asked Questions

Stamped concrete patios cost $12–$22/sqft installed, or $3,600–$6,600 for a typical 300 sqft patio. This is 2–3x the cost of plain concrete but 30–50% less than real stone or brick pavers while achieving a similar decorative look. Stamped concrete requires sealing every 2–3 years ($150–$400) to maintain appearance and prevent fading.

Concrete patios cost $6–$22/sqft; wood decks cost $15–$35/sqft for the same footprint. Concrete is generally cheaper for ground-level installations. Wood decks make more sense for elevated installations (sloped yards) and offer a warmer, more natural look. Long-term: concrete requires less maintenance than wood but can't be easily modified like a deck.

A properly installed and sealed concrete patio lasts 25–50 years. Key factors affecting longevity: base preparation (4–6 inches of compacted gravel), reinforcement (rebar or fiber mesh), proper drainage, and sealing every 2–3 years. In freeze-thaw climates, use air-entrained concrete and avoid deicing salts which cause spalling.

Get Free Concrete Patio Quotes

Concrete patio pricing varies 30–50% between contractors. Compare 3+ quotes before hiring.

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Tips Before You Start

  • ✓ Stamped concrete mimics pavers at 30–50% lower cost — best value for decorative patios
  • ✓ Seal your concrete patio every 2–3 years ($50–$150 DIY) to prevent cracking and staining
  • ✓ Reinforced concrete (rebar or fiber mesh) costs $1–$2/sqft more but prevents cracking
  • ✓ Adding a drain system ($500–$1,500) is worth it for patios prone to standing water
  • ✓ Fall and winter installations save 10–20% as contractors have more availability

Cost by State — 2026

Based on national average pricing adjusted for local labor and material costs.