Concrete Cost Calculator
Estimate total project cost including concrete, labor, rebar, forming, and finishing. Get a complete budget breakdown before calling a contractor.
Project Cost Estimator
// Cost Estimate
What Does Concrete Cost Per Yard?
Ready-mix concrete prices vary significantly by region, season, and mix specifications. Nationally, expect to pay between $120 and $180 per cubic yard for standard 3,000–4,000 PSI concrete in 2024. Specialty mixes — fiber-reinforced, air-entrained, or high-strength — cost 10–20% more.
| Region | Price Range / yd³ | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest | $120–$145 | Lowest regional prices |
| Southeast | $125–$155 | Moderate pricing |
| Northeast | $145–$185 | Higher delivery fees |
| Southwest | $135–$165 | Hot climate surcharges possible |
| West Coast | $155–$200 | Highest regional prices |
Short-load fees: Most ready-mix plants charge an extra $50–$200 if you order less than their minimum load (typically 5–7 cubic yards). Always factor this in for small projects.
Hidden Costs in Concrete Projects
Beyond concrete and labor, a realistic project budget should include: gravel base ($0.75–$1.50/sq ft), vapor barrier ($0.15–$0.25/sq ft for garage slabs), rebar or wire mesh ($0.50–$1.50/sq ft), form lumber ($0.75–$1.25/linear ft of perimeter), concrete sealer ($0.25–$0.75/sq ft), and permit fees ($50–$400 depending on municipality).
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a 20×20 concrete slab cost?A 20×20 slab (400 sq ft) at 4" thick professionally installed typically costs $2,400–$4,800 for a standard broom finish. Stamped or decorative finishes run $4,000–$8,000+. Materials only (concrete): roughly $700–$900 at current ready-mix prices.
- How much does concrete cost per square foot installed?Professionally installed concrete slabs run $5–$10 per square foot for standard finishes. Stamped concrete runs $8–$18 per square foot. These estimates include forming, pouring, finishing, and cleanup — not site preparation.
- Is it cheaper to pour your own concrete?Yes, significantly cheaper on the labor side — but concrete is physically demanding and unforgiving. Once poured, you have about 45–90 minutes to screed, float, and finish before it sets. For anything over 150 sq ft, most homeowners find hiring a crew is worth the cost to avoid a costly mistake.