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Concrete Patio or Slab Cost

Concrete pricing is more than the pour itself. Excavation, compacted base, reinforcement, thickness, forms, drainage, truck access and surface finish all affect the total scope.

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PROJECTCOSTWISE PLANNING EXAMPLE

400 sq ft concrete patio or slab

$3,200–$6,000

Based on the estimator’s editable assumption of $8–$15 per sq ft before complexity adjustments. This is a planning example, not a contractor quote.

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How much does a concrete patio or slab cost?

Quick answer: with the current ProjectCostWise starting assumption, a 400 sq ft concrete project at standard complexity produces a $3,200–$6,000 planning range. Site prep, reinforcement and access can change the number. See the calculation method.

What affects concrete cost?

  • Excavation and removal of existing material
  • Stone base depth and compaction
  • Concrete thickness and reinforcement
  • Forms, edges, joints and slope
  • Truck or pump access to the placement area
  • Broom, stamped, colored or other decorative finish

Three scope levels

Lighter scope

Easy access, minimal excavation and a straightforward broom-finished slab can stay closer to the lower end.

Standard scope

Routine excavation, compacted base, reinforcement, forms and a standard finish represent a common middle scope.

Higher-complexity scope

Demolition, steep access, pumping, thickened edges, drainage work, steps and decorative finishes can push the cost higher.

How to compare concrete bids

Confirm slab thickness, base material, reinforcement, joint spacing, finish, drainage slope, demolition and cleanup. A lower bid may be using a thinner slab, less base prep or a different reinforcement approach.

Measure the slab before comparing prices

Sketch each rectangle separately and multiply length by width; add the areas for an irregular patio. For a 20 × 20 ft slab, the footprint is 400 sq ft. Ask each contractor to quote the same footprint, specified thickness and finish. The estimator's square-foot range is a starting assumption, not a concrete volume or materials takeoff. Changes in excavation depth, fill, reinforcement, drainage, access or decorative finish require a revised scope.

Concrete bid comparison worksheet

  • Ground work: Is removal of old paving, excavation, compacted base and disposal included?
  • Slab specification: What thickness, reinforcement, joints, finish and edge details are priced?
  • Water: How will the surface drain away from the house and where will runoff go?
  • Access and cleanup: Is pump service or hand-carry labor needed, and who restores the yard?
  • Timing: What curing and use restrictions does the contractor specify?

Enter each answer in the free bid comparison worksheet. If one quote omits base preparation or disposal, ask for the missing line item before comparing totals. Confirm local permits and site conditions with qualified local professionals.

Questions to ask contractors

  • What excavation and base preparation are included?
  • What slab thickness and reinforcement are specified?
  • How will drainage and slope be handled?
  • Is demolition and hauling included?
  • What curing and finishing process is included?
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Enter the project area and complexity to create a free planning range before comparing contractor bids.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a concrete patio cost?

ProjectCostWise currently uses an editable $8–$15 per-square-foot starting assumption before complexity adjustments.

What can increase the price?

Demolition, excavation, pumping, reinforcement, difficult access and decorative finishes are common cost drivers.

Is site preparation important?

Yes. A properly prepared base and drainage plan can be critical to long-term performance.