Cost to Extend Driveway – Expand and Widen Insights [2025 Data] 

The cost to extend a driveway is $1,900 on average, with the total price ranging between $800 and $3,000, depending on factors such as the shape of the extension, its dimensions, and the materials used. 

In the graphic below, you can see the price range for driveway extensions.

You can see these details and the price range for driveway extension in the table below as well.

Cost Category	Cost Description
Low-end	$800
Average	$1,900
High-end	$3,000

To help you get the best bang for your buck, we’ve analyzed all the elements that can influence the final extending driveway cost, so you’re not caught off guard when the project is completed.

Let’s dive into the details.

Key Takeaways

• The average cost of expanding a driveway is $1,900, with the price ranging from $800 to $3000 depending on factors.
• The most important factor affecting the cost to extend or widen the driveway is the material (asphalt, gravel, pavers, concrete, etc.).
• Other factors affecting the cost of expanding the driveway are the extension dimension, shape of the extension, location, and yard condition.

How Much Does It Cost to Widen or Extend a Driveway?

On average, widening or extending a new driveway costs $7.50 per square foot, with the total price ranging from $2.50 to $12.50 per square foot.

The chart below shows the average cost to extend or widen a driveway per square foot.

You can view the cost category of driveway extension in table form below as well.

Cost Category	Cost per Square Foot
Low-end	$2,5
Average	$7,5
High-end	$12,5

You can expand your driveway in two ways: by increasing its length or its width. Yet the principles, factors, and prices are the same for both methods.

Nevertheless, the average cost to expand a driveway can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

• Driveway dimensions
• Location
• Required preparation work
• Driveway shape
• Materials used for paving

To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to review a detailed site plan. This will help you determine the appropriate dimensions for your extension, the most practical shape, and the best-suited materials.

Since materials significantly impact the price—including both their cost and the labor required for installation—it’s important to outline your budget and the purpose of your extension.

Additionally, consider factors such as soil type, climate conditions, and the expected traffic load when selecting a material. 

These considerations will also help you determine whether to use the same material or opt for a different one.

Driveway Extension Cost by Material

For a driveway extension, you will most likely choose between gravel, concrete, brick, paver blocks, and asphalt (or blacktop), as these materials are the most common and practical for driveways. 

The material cost usually determines the dimensions and shape of the extension. 

It can also determine whether you’ll use the same material as your existing driveway or replace the entire driveway with another material.

Replacing the entire driveway is often an option when the current driveway is old, making it difficult to match the same material without creating a noticeable ‘old and new’ contrast.

If you opt for this, make sure to thoroughly consider all the additional elements that will contribute to the overall cost to pave a driveway, as replacing an entire driveway is a more complicated project than simply extending it.

Here’s a chart showing the average prices for driveway extensions per square foot for different materials.

This information about the average material price per square foot is displayed in a table below as well.

Material	Price per Square Foot
Asphalt	$2.5 – $5
Concrete	$4 – $16
Gravel	$4 – $5
Brick	$10 – $15
Pavers	$15 – $30

Nevertheless, let’s examine the cost of each material separately.

Cost to Extend Driveway with Asphalt

The current price of asphalt per ton (2025) is between $100 and $200. Together with the labor price, the standard thickness of 4 inches of asphalt (or blacktop) extension will cost around $2.5 to $5 per square foot.

Cost to Extend Driveway with Concrete

Depending on the concrete mix (cement:sand: coarse aggregate ratio), the cost of a concrete driveway extension typically revolves around $10 per square foot. The price includes reinforcement for the concrete and labor costs. 

Cost to Extend Driveway with Gravel

This material is the most affordable option, costing between $4 and $5 per square foot. Different gravel types offer the advantage of easy DIY installation and finishing work. 

However, if you live on a slope, delivery and installation costs for gravel extensions will be higher due to the need for subgrade stabilization and compaction work.

Cost to Extend Driveway with Brick

Usually, the cost of a brick driveway ranges around $10 to $15 per square foot, depending on the demand for material at the time and whether you choose used or new bricks.

Cost to Extend Driveway with Pavers

In most cases, paver extensions are the most expensive option, with prices ranging from $15 to $30 per square foot, including paver installation.

Cost to Expand Driveway – Additional Influencing Factors

Besides material and extension thickness, there are additional factors that can influence the cost to expand a driveway.

It’s important to consider these elements to avoid any surprises in the final project cost.

Here are the most common factors to keep in mind:

Location

The location of your property can impact the cost of widening or extending your driveway. Hard-to-reach locations, such as mountainous or rural areas, often incur higher delivery costs. 

Additionally, the cost of living in your area affects the price; the higher the cost of living, the higher the cost to extend a driveway (materials and labor rates are higher).

Dimensions

The dimensions of your driveway extension depend on the project’s purpose. Generally, larger dimensions mean higher costs. 

However, small projects still involve all the steps of larger ones and may have higher concrete costs due to short load fees, so don’t be surprised if the final price is substantial.

Extension Shape

The shape of your extension will usually depend on the size and shape of your current driveway or front garden. Deviating from a standard driveway shape (straight vs. curved) increases driveway extension costs as it requires more labor. 

Adding edging and borders, complex layouts, and decorative elements is more expensive than creating straight lines, squares, and rectangles.

Yard Condition

If your yard is flat and only requires the excavation of sod and dirt, the impact on the final cost of extending or widening the driveway will be minimal. 

However, the cost can significantly increase if more preparation work and landscaping adjustments are needed, such as:

• Removal of existing landscaping (trees, bushes, and stumps)
• Extensive grading
• Installation of retaining walls

In such cases, be sure to factor in disposal fees as an additional expense.

Reducing Extending Driveway Cost – Getting a Permit

To avoid unnecessary expenses in the form of penalties or fees, check in advance whether you need a permit for your driveway extension project.

Obtaining a driveway permit ensures that the work is done according to local building codes and meets all safety and regulatory standards.

In some locations, a permit is required in situations when:

• The extension meets or intersects a public road 
• Drainage systems are necessary 
• You live in an area prone to erosion

Therefore, to determine if you need a permit, check with your local municipality.

If a permit is required, the first step is obtaining a site plan that shows where the extension will be and how it relates to other structures and features on your property and in the surrounding area.

Remember, paying for permit fees is far less expensive than facing potential penalties, stop-work orders, or orders to demolish your project.

To avoid overpaying and delays in site plan production, you can order a site plan for permits from our team of professionals within 24 hours by ordering it online.

A proper site plan for a driveway extension should encompass the following elements:

1. Be drawn to scale
2. Indicate the distance from the proposed driveway to the property boundaries
3. Include the hard surface setback
4. Provide the dimensions of the sidewall
5. Incorporate a sidewalk if necessary

You can further reduce driveway extension and widening costs if you:

• Keep the Existing Driveway: Restore and integrate with existing driveway with a matching or complementary surface (you can even color new concrete to avoid the ‘new-old’ contrast). This saves labor, waste disposal costs, and materials, potentially cutting your quote in half.
• DIY Preparation Work: Try to do as much preparation work as possible yourself, such as base preparation, site clearing, and digging out dirt.
• Negotiate with Contractors: If the contractor’s quote is too high, discuss ways to reduce costs. Additionally, try to take advantage of seasonal pricing.
• Cheaper Material Options: Consider using materials like pressed or imprinted concrete, which mimic more expensive surfaces and are quicker and easier to install, reducing labor costs. You can also consider using recycled or second-hand pavers.
• Sectional Installation: If you have a large area to surface, consider completing it in sections to spread out the cost.

Now that you’ve grasped how to cut expenses, let’s see all the positive and negative aspects of extending a driveway.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Driveway Extension

Extending the driveway has numerous advantages but several disadvantages as well. 

Advantages of Driveway Extension:

• More Parking Space: Provides additional parking and reduces carrying distances for heavy items.
• Increases Home Value: Enhances property appearance and can increase home value by 5% to 10%.
• Less Maintenance: Reduces lawn care needs and creates recreational space.
• Easier Maneuvering: Simplifies property access and moving large items.

Disadvantages of Driveway Extension: Driveway extension can be a good investment, but it has limitations:

• HOA Restrictions: HOA permit and approval are required; petitioning may be necessary.
• Maintenance Needs: Gravel additions due to compaction issues, regular sealant, and coatings are necessary.

FAQs

What Is a Good Size Driveway?

A good-sized driveway has a standard width of 10 to 12 feet. A driveway narrower than 10 feet may cause challenges for drivers, even those with smaller vehicles.

Does Widening a Driveway Increase Home Value?

Yes, widening the driveway increases home value. A wide driveway can attract more buyers, potentially leading to higher offers.

How to Extend a Driveway for Cheap?

To extend the driveway for cheap, the best option is to install plain, unstabilized gravel yourself. However, remember that it is the most affordable option for extending your driveway for a reason, as it won’t hold up well over time.

How to Extend a Driveway Without Concrete?

To extend a driveway without using concrete, you can opt for alternatives like bricks, pavers, asphalt, or gravel. Choose the best alternative based on how you plan to use the extended area.

What is the Best Material for a Driveway Extension?

The best material for a driveway extension depends on its intended use. For most common purposes, concrete may be the best choice due to its low maintenance and durability. This feature makes the cost to extend a driveway with concrete completely justified.

Expand Your Driveway and Narrow Your Costs

Analyzing all the factors influencing the cost to expand or widen a driveway mentioned in this article, will help you thoroughly plan your budget and maximize your investment.

To start, order a site plan for permits, evaluate what you can build, and assess how it will enhance both the practical and aesthetic value of your property. 

Ensure that your plan aligns with your budget.With the right preparation and cost estimates, constructing your driveway extension can proceed smoothly without breaking the bank.