Concrete Patio Cost Calculator 2026

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.

A 20x20 (400 sqft) concrete patio costs approximately: Plain concrete: $2,400–$5,200 ($6–$13/sqft). Broom-finished concrete: $2,800–$5,600. Stamped/decorative: $4,800–$8,800 ($12–$22/sqft). Exposed aggregate: $3,600–$6,400 ($9–$16/sqft). Most homes use the 200–400 sqft range. At national average pricing, a standard 400 sqft patio runs $4,000 total. Add $500–$1,500 for steps, $300–$800 for edging, and $200–$600 for sealing.

Most affordable patio options from cheapest to most expensive: (1) Gravel/crushed stone: $1–$3/sqft DIY — fastest and cheapest, good drainage. (2) Concrete pavers (DIY): $5–$10/sqft — labor intensive but no contractor needed. (3) Plain concrete slab: $6–$13/sqft — durable, low maintenance. (4) Poured concrete (decorative): $12–$22/sqft. (5) Natural stone: $20–$40+/sqft. For a budget patio under $1,000, a gravel or DIY paver patio on 200 sqft works well. For permanence without the highest cost, plain concrete is the best value.

Requirements vary by municipality, but generally: patios at ground level under 200 sqft often don't require permits. Patios over 200 sqft, elevated patios, or patios attached to the house may require a permit ($50–$200). Areas with strict zoning: setback requirements (10 feet from property line is common), impervious surface limits (affects storm drainage). Always check with your local building department before pouring — violations can result in mandatory removal or fines.

Residential concrete patios should be a minimum of 4 inches thick, with 6 inches recommended for areas that will bear vehicle traffic or heavy furniture. Thickness guidelines: 4 inches — standard foot traffic patio (walkways, seating areas). 4–6 inches with rebar — heavier use patios, hot tubs, large planters. 6 inches — driveways and areas that must support cars or trucks. The subbase is just as important as thickness: a 4-inch layer of compacted gravel beneath the concrete prevents settling and cracking. In freeze-thaw climates, use concrete with a minimum 4,000 PSI strength and air-entrainment additive ($0.50–$1/sqft more) to resist freeze-thaw damage.

Pouring a concrete patio takes 1–2 days for a standard project (site prep day 1, pour day 2). Curing timeline: 24–48 hours — light foot traffic allowed. 7 days — full foot traffic and light furniture safe to place. 28 days — full cure, heavy loads like hot tubs and vehicles safe. Do not seal or apply any surface treatment before 28 days of curing. In hot, sunny weather (above 90°F): cover with wet burlap or curing compound to prevent rapid moisture loss and cracking. In cold weather (below 50°F): concrete should not be poured — freezing before cure causes permanent structural damage. Best season for pours: late spring through early fall in most of the US.

Plain concrete is generally cheaper than pavers: $6–$13/sqft for a standard concrete slab vs. $15–$30/sqft for brick or concrete pavers (installed). Stamped concrete ($12–$22/sqft) is priced similarly to pavers but achieves a comparable look. Pavers have advantages: easier to repair (individual units are replaceable), better drainage, and they don't crack as readily as a solid slab. Long-term costs even out: concrete requires resurfacing or replacement at $3–$8/sqft every 20–30 years, while pavers can last 50+ years with occasional releveling and sand replacement. For a budget patio, plain concrete wins. For longevity and repairability, pavers are worth the premium.