Driveway Cost Calculator
Estimate the installed cost of an asphalt, concrete, gravel, paver, or stamped concrete driveway. Enter the size, base, edging, and region for a realistic range.
Updated November 2026 · U.S. pricing
Estimated installed cost
$0 – $0
| Driveway and installation | — |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty base | — |
| Curb edging | — |
| Old driveway removal | — |
| Total | — |
Typical range for professional installation. Not included: drainage corrections, retaining walls, culverts, permits, and utility relocation.
How this driveway estimate works
The calculator starts with an installed cost per square foot for the surface material, including excavation, a compacted base, grading, and labor. Heavy-duty base, edging, and removal of an old driveway are priced separately.
Driveways are priced by the square foot, so length and width drive the total. A 12-foot-wide driveway is the practical minimum for most cars; 14–16 feet is more comfortable, and 20 feet or more is common where vehicles park side by side.
Driveway cost per square foot
| Material | Installed per sq ft | Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravel | $2–$5 | 5–10 years with replenishing | Cheapest; needs grading and weed control |
| Asphalt | $4–$8 | 20–30 years | Cheapest paved option; reseal every 2–3 years |
| Concrete | $6–$12 | 30–50 years | Durable and low maintenance; can crack |
| Stamped concrete | $10–$18 | 25–35 years | Decorative finishes; resealing recommended |
| Pavers | $10–$20 | 25–50 years | High-end look; individual pavers are repairable |
Includes standard base and labor. Heavy-duty base, edging, and old-driveway removal are extra.
Driveway cost by size
| Size | Gravel | Asphalt | Concrete | Pavers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 × 40 ft (480 sq ft) | $960–$2,400 | $1,920–$3,840 | $2,880–$5,760 | $4,800–$9,600 |
| 12 × 60 ft (720 sq ft) | $1,440–$3,600 | $2,880–$5,760 | $4,320–$8,640 | $7,200–$14,400 |
| 16 × 40 ft (640 sq ft) | $1,280–$3,200 | $2,560–$5,120 | $3,840–$7,680 | $6,400–$12,800 |
| 20 × 50 ft (1,000 sq ft) | $2,000–$5,000 | $4,000–$8,000 | $6,000–$12,000 | $10,000–$20,000 |
What is included in an installed price
- Removing grass, topsoil, or the old surface
- Excavating and grading to the required depth
- Compacted gravel base, typically 4–8 inches
- Forming and edging where required
- Placing, compacting, and finishing the surface
- Cleanup and site restoration
Base depth and drainage matter more than surface material. A driveway built over soft soil or with no positive drainage will fail early, regardless of whether it is asphalt, concrete, or pavers.
Add-ons that change the price
- Heavy-duty base: +$1–$3 per sq ft for thicker gravel and stabilization.
- Concrete curb edging: $3–$6 per linear foot.
- Old driveway removal: $2–$5 per sq ft, including hauling.
- Drainage: drain tile, culverts, and French drains vary widely; budget $1,000–$5,000 when needed.
- Asphalt sealing: $0.20–$0.50 per sq ft every 2–3 years.
Asphalt vs. concrete: which costs less over time
Asphalt costs roughly half as much as concrete upfront, but it needs resealing every 2–3 years and resurfacing after 15–20 years. Concrete costs more initially but typically needs less routine maintenance. Over 30 years, the two can come close in total cost; the better choice depends on climate, soil, and how long you plan to stay.
| Factor | Asphalt | Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Lower | Higher |
| Routine maintenance | Seal every 2–3 years | Minimal; seal optional |
| Repairs | Patches are visible but easy | Patches are visible; cracks can widen |
| Best climate | Mild to moderate | Hot and cold, with proper joints |
Permits and drainage
Many areas require a permit for a new driveway, widening, or a new curb cut, especially where the driveway meets a public street. Stormwater rules may limit how much of the lot can be paved. Check with the local public works or building department before excavation, and keep the driveway clear of utility easements.
Driveway cost FAQ
How much does a 12×40 driveway cost?
A 480-square-foot driveway costs about $1,920–$3,840 in asphalt, $2,880–$5,760 in concrete, $4,800–$9,600 in pavers, or $960–$2,400 in gravel, installed. Removal and edging add to those ranges.
What is the cheapest driveway material?
Gravel is the cheapest at $2–$5 per square foot installed, but it needs periodic replenishment and grading. Asphalt is the cheapest paved option at $4–$8 per square foot.
How long does a driveway last?
Gravel lasts 5–10 years with replenishment, asphalt 20–30 years with sealing, concrete 30–50 years, and pavers 25–50 years when the base is properly built.
Do I need a permit to replace a driveway?
Often yes, especially if the footprint, curb cut, or drainage changes. Some cities allow like-for-like replacement without a permit. Call the local building or public works department before scheduling work.
When can I drive on a new driveway?
Asphalt is usually ready for foot traffic the same day and vehicles after 24–72 hours; curing continues for months. Concrete typically needs 24–48 hours before walking and about 7 days before vehicles, depending on mix and weather.