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Cost Guides / Pour a concrete patio

Concrete Patio Cost

Current US planning data places this project at $1,919–$5,393, with an average about $3,555. The broad working rate is $4–$30 per sq ft installed. Use these figures as market context—not a local quote.

ProjectMeter Editorial TeamUpdated · How we review

Concrete Calculator project reference
Project scope reference
Simple$4–$8 / sq ft

Accessible site, simple rectangle and basic finish.

Typical$8–$12 / sq ft

Standard residential slab with normal base preparation.

Decorative$12–$30+ / sq ft

Stamped or custom finish, difficult access or extensive preparation.

What a complete price should include

A useful estimate separates the base installation from preparation, removal and finishing. Check that every bid states the same scope before comparing totals.

  • Excavation and compacted base as specified
  • Forms, concrete placement and finishing
  • Control joints and curing steps
  • Normal cleanup and form removal

Cost drivers that change the quote

Site preparation

Drainage, grading, soil correction and access for trucks or pumps can outweigh the concrete itself. Current cost guidance places leveling and grading add-ons around $1,000 to $3,200.

Thickness and reinforcement

A common residential patio is about 3.5 to 4 inches thick, but soil, climate and planned structures can change the design. A roof or pergola may require separate footings rather than a thicker patio alone.

Finish and geometry

Broom and smooth finishes are usually simpler than stain, exposed aggregate, stencil or stamp work. Curves, steps, borders and multiple elevations add formwork and finishing time.

DIY versus professional installation

Small slabs still demand correct excavation, compaction, drainage, timing and finishing. Concrete cannot be paused after placement, so a professional crew is usually the safer choice for large pours, decorative finishes, poor access or any patio tied to structural footings.

Questions to put in the written quote

  • Finished dimensions, thickness and elevations
  • Base depth, reinforcement and joint plan
  • Concrete strength and finish sample
  • Excavation, spoil removal, access and curing responsibility

Frequently asked questions

How thick should a concrete patio be?

Many residential patios are about 3.5 to 4 inches, but local conditions, loads and code requirements can change the design.

Does the per-square-foot price include grading?

Not always. Significant excavation, drainage correction, fill or retaining work may be quoted separately.

Can a pergola sit directly on the patio slab?

Often structural posts need separate designed footings. Confirm the support plan before the patio is poured.

Sources and update basis

Prices vary by location, access and specification. Market-price references establish the planning range; official and industry technical references support the safety, measurement and scope guidance. Neither replaces a local written quote, product instructions or applicable code.