The cost to pave a driveway typically ranges from $3 to $15 per square foot.
This means total expenses can range from $2,500 to $6,600, with an average cost of about $4,500.
You can see these details in the chart below.
Below is a table showing the cost data.
| Cost Category | Cost Description |
| Low-end | $2,500 |
| Average | $4,500 |
| High-end | $6,600 |
Whether you’re paving for practical reasons or aesthetics, it’s important to choose an option that aligns with your structural, design, and financial criteria.
To save you time and effort, here’s a one-stop guide to everything you need to know about driveway paving costs.
Key Takeaways
- The average price to pave a driveway is $4,500, with primary factors affecting the cost including material type, site dimensions, labor costs, site preparation, and permits.
- The cheapest material for installing a driveway is gravel, while the most expensive is paver.
- Post-paving factors also affect the overall cost of paving a driveway and include elements like driveway maintenance, drainage setup, apron, and heater installation.
- To save money, consider preparing the terrain yourself, keeping the driveway design simple, obtaining an online site plan, and paving the driveway during the offseason.
What Are the Key Factors That Influence Pavement Driveway Costs?
Key factors that influence driveway pavement cost are materials, driveway dimensions, permits, site preparation, and labor costs.
Here’s a brief breakdown of each of them to answer the question, “How much does it cost to pave a driveway?”
Dimensions
By considering the planned dimensions (driveway length and width), you can estimate the average price for driveway paving by factoring in material and labor costs.
Interestingly, if your dimensions are not large, it might be more cost-effective to construct a new driveway rather than extend the existing one, as the cost of extending a driveway can be higher due to small load fees.
Nevertheless, to start calculating, measure the length and width of your driveway area and multiply these dimensions.
This step ensures a pretty accurate assessment tailored to your space requirements or vehicle capacity.
The chart below outlines pavement driveway costs for common driveway sizes.
The costs are also summarized in table form below.
| Driveway Size | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
| Single (10×20) | 1,600 | 5,000 |
| Single (12×24) | 2,300 | 7,200 |
| Double (20×20) | 3,200 | 10,000 |
| Double (24×24) | 4,610 | 14,400 |
| Triple (24×36) | 6,910 | 21,600 |
Site Preparation and Grading
Before selecting the right material, it’s crucial to prepare (excavate and grade) the area where your driveway will be installed.
This initial step typically costs between $1 and $8 per square foot.
Grading ensures the ground is flat, facilitates proper water drainage, and prepares the surface for the paving material.
Depending on your location, this phase of driveway paving may involve clearing rocks, trees, plants, and other obstacles, followed by the addition of compacted topsoil.
This phase often requires heavy machinery and subcontractor services, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost.
Also remember that paving a driveway on flat terrain is less costly than on an incline, and paving a straight driveway is more economical than a curved one.
To get an accurate view of the site and correctly calculate expenses, it’s best to acquire a meticulous site plan and share it with contractors to assess the terrain, its features, and its size.
Permits
Before beginning the work, check your local building codes to determine if you need a permit for your project. In most states, a driveway permit is required, especially if your driveway extends to the street.
The cost of a permit typically ranges from $50 to $600, depending on your municipality and the length of your driveway.
In some cases, the fee may be waived if the subdivision already has a paved apron skirt connecting to a public street.
Besides the driveway permit, since paving a driveway can affect the neighborhood, you will likely need to obtain an HOA permit and approval as well.
For both permits, a site plan for your project is necessary.
Fortunately, obtaining a detailed site plan for permits can be easy and quick, helping you start your project promptly and alleviating any concerns regarding permits.
Labor
Labor costs can vary significantly based on location (labor rates), but they consistently represent a substantial portion of the overall expense, sometimes accounting for up to 60% due to the labor-intensive nature of the process.
This typically involves the use of specialized equipment such as concrete mixers, plate compactors, rollers, skid steers, and dump trucks.
Factors like driveway shape, special design choices, and the materials used also influence installation costs, which can range from $5 to $15 per square foot.
For smaller projects, companies can charge hourly, typically between $25 and $60. Yet, some companies have a minimum charge regardless of space, depending on various factors, so make sure to first check it out.
Lastly, remember that investing in experienced laborers is advisable, as a driveway is a long-term investment.
Materials
The remaining 50% of the driveway paving price is allocated to materials.
The type of material chosen is one of the key cost factors that significantly influence the overall cost, appearance, and functionality of the future driveway.
When selecting materials, it’s important to consider factors such as long-term costs, maintenance requirements, and the types of vehicles that will be parked on the driveway.
In the United States, the most common choices include:
- Blacktop
- Asphalt
- Concrete
- Gravel
- Pavers
Now, let’s explore the brief features and cost of each material individually.
Driveway Costs by Material Type
As mentioned earlier, the choice of material type depends on various factors, with cost being one of the primary considerations when deciding which one to use for your driveway.
Here’s a breakdown to help you pick the option that fits your budget and needs.
Blacktop Prices for Driveways
On average, a blacktop driveway costs $3 to $7 per square foot. With installation, the price goes from $7 to $13 per square foot.
Below is a chart displaying the total cost of a blacktop driveway.
| Driveway Size | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
| 1-Car | 570 | 1900 |
| 2-Car | 1800 | 7500 |
Many people often confuse blacktop with asphalt, although they are distinct materials.
Blacktop is durable, flexible, and generally more aesthetically pleasing than asphalt. It is commonly used for driveways due to its attractive appearance.
However, if your driveway needs to support heavier loads, asphalt is a better choice as it can bear more weight and offers a thicker, more robust surface.
Driveways Asphalt Cost
The average price of asphalt per square foot is $1 to $3, with an additional $12 to $17 per square foot for labor to install an asphalt driveway.
The chart below illustrates the total cost for the entire asphalt driveway.
Here is a table representing the cost information.
| Driveway Size | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
| 1-Car | 1,300 | 4,000 |
| 2-Car | 6,600 | 11,500 |
Asphalt or blacktop (a version with a slightly higher mixture of stone), is one of the most commonly used materials for driveways, especially in the northern regions, due to its ability to handle significant temperature variations better than concrete.
The blacktop driveway holds up well and is easy to lay on.
Although asphalt material is more durable than most others, with a lifespan of 15-25 years (depending on soil type, asphalt grade, climate, etc.), it requires proper maintenance and resurfacing every few years to remain compact (more on that later).
Concrete Paving Cost per Square Foot
The cost of concrete paving can range from $4 to $8 per square foot.
The chart below shows the total cost for the entire driveway.
The cost data is also laid out in table form.
| Driveway Size | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
| 1-Car | 800 | 1,150 |
| 2-Car | 1,600 | 4,600 |
Unlike asphalt, concrete (reinforced) is a durable and low-maintenance material that can last more than 50 years.
Concrete driveways are also more affordable compared to asphalt (blacktop). It is a popular choice among homeowners due to its low maintenance requirements and ability to withstand heavy traffic loads.
The advantage of concrete is its customization options, including colors, stamped patterns, borders, and custom finishes, all of which can enhance a home’s curb appeal.
However, it’s not as resistant to cold temperatures, making it a better option for states with warmer climates.
Gravel Prices
The average cost of gravel ranges between $1 and $3 per square foot.
However, since gravel is not resistant to heavy rain, you may need to consider the cost of installing subgrade stabilizers, which ranges from $3 to $7 per square foot in addition to the basic material cost.
The chart below displays the overall cost for the complete driveway.
This information is also arranged in a tabular format below.
| Driveway Size | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
| 1-Car | 200 | 2,900 |
| 2-Car | 400 | 5,760 |
Nevertheless, gravel is ideal for long, winding driveways in warm climates.
Pavers Cost
As a high-end and durable material, pavers can cost between $1 and $30 per square foot for the material alone, depending on the size, shape, and style.
The chart below presents the full cost for the entire driveway (factoring material only).
The information is organized in a table format as well.
| Driveway Size | Lowest Price ($) | Highest Price ($) |
| 1-Car | 200 | 8,640 |
| 2-Car | 400 | 17,280 |
Reclaimed bricks are the least expensive, ranging from $1 to $25 per square foot while paving stones can cost between $7 and $30 per square foot.
Pavers also require more labor and additional terrain preparation, including a layer of bedding or crushed stone, which can increase the driveway’s paving price by several thousand dollars.
They are durable materials that can last over 50 years and can be customized in various ways to match the home’s exterior.
What Is the Cheapest Material for Driveway?
The cheapest material for a driveway is gravel.
Gravel driveways are low-maintenance and can last over 100 years, making them the most economical driveway option available.
This durability and cost-effectiveness make gravel the preferred material for driveways in rural areas, where driveways tend to be quite long.
If you need a temporary driveway, want to avoid the hassle of pouring extra concrete, or are on a tight budget, a gravel driveway is an excellent choice.
When comparing the costs of gravel driveways vs. asphalt driveways, which are the second most affordable option, you’ll find that you could build two high-end gravel driveways for the price of one high-end asphalt driveway.
Post-Paving Factors Affecting the Final Price to Pave a Driveway
As with any project, there are expenses that aren’t part of the initial plan and often surface once you think the project is over, regardless of the driveway type.
These may include finishing works or specific features chosen to enhance the driveway, both aesthetically and functionally.
Here are the most common additional costs, which can increase the initial paved driveway cost by up to 20%.
Maintenance Cost
When considering the total price to pave a driveway, it’s essential to include maintenance costs.
Factors like UV rays, snow, ice, and rain can deteriorate the quality and durability of a driveway over time, especially those made of concrete, pavers, or blacktop material.
To prevent this and prolong the lifespan of the driveway, a fresh coat of sealant should be applied every few years.
The cost of the seal coating for the usual materials is:
- Asphalt – every 3-5 years, $2 – $7 per square foot
- Concrete – every 2-3 years, $1 – $2 per square foot
Repairing minor cracks in your driveway is relatively inexpensive, at less than $0.20 per linear foot, while extensive repairs can range from $800 to $2,600.
Entrance Apron Installation
The apron is the transitional area between the driveway and the street pavement, typically made of the same material as the driveway.
Adding a driveway apron can cost you an additional $3 to $10 per square foot, depending on the material and method used.
Yet remember that, due to the significant wear and tear it endures, the apron may require more frequent maintenance or replacement.
Drainage System Setup
In some cases, such as with large driveways or in regions with heavy rainfall, it is advisable to install systems to drain water away from your foundation, home, and driveway.
A drainage system installed in the driveway, such as a culvert or drainage pipe, typically increases paving driveway costs between $1,500 and $5,000.
Heated Driveways
Installing a radiant heating system beneath your driveway—whether asphalt, concrete, or pavers—can be a smart investment for those living in colder climates.
However, due to the need for expert installation, heated driveways can significantly increase the price of paving driveways.
The average price for a heated driveway ranges from $12 to $25 per square foot.
Repaving Driveway Cost
Repaving a driveway can sometimes be more expensive than installing a new one from scratch. Always have that in mind when in doubt about whether to repair or replace.
However, unlike new paving, repaving allows you to lay materials without the need for extensive preparation. Nevertheless, the costs of demolition can offset the savings from reduced preparation work.
Concrete and asphalt are the two materials most frequently repaved.
The average cost to repave an asphalt driveway goes from $4 to $10 per square foot with a gravel base preparation or $3 to $7 per square foot with an existing gravel base.
For concrete driveways, the repaving costs range from $8 to $18 per square foot.
Considering these prices, you should consider repaving your driveway only if you have major potholes, drainage issues, cracks wider than one-quarter inch, or your driveway is older than 20 years.
In any other cases, which include small cracks and pits, you should invest in repair.
Tips to Lower Your Driveway Paving Costs
Since most homeowners don’t frequently undertake paving installation projects, here are some tips from experienced professionals to help you save some money:
- Choose materials wisely: Select materials that suit your region’s climate conditions, such as asphalt for colder areas and concrete for warmer climates.
- DIY preparation: Save on costs for driveway paving by clearing the area and potentially demolishing the old driveway yourself, if feasible.
- Keep it simple: Opt for basic designs and avoid intricate patterns, colors, edging and borders, decorative elements, or complex paver designs.
- Accurate measurements: Double-check measurements to avoid overpaying for materials and labor.
- Online site plan: Obtaining an online site plan provides you with a detailed plan comparable to what an architect offers but at a significantly lower cost.
- Long-term perspective: Consider long-term maintenance costs, not just the initial cost of driveway paving.
- Compare quotes: Shop around and obtain quotes from multiple contractors to find competitive driveway paving prices.
- Seasonal pricing strategy: Inquire about offseason discounts from contractors or companies.
Price to pave a driveway FAQs
Is It Possible to Pave My Own Driveway?
Yes, it is possible to pave your own driveway. However, it’s an exhausting job, especially if you lack experience in landscaping and construction and have no required equipment.
What Is the Time Required to Pave a Driveway?
The time required to pave a driveway is around a week. It takes 2-3 days for the installation process and an additional 2-3 days for the materials to cure properly (except for gravel and paver driveways).
How Long Should a Driveway Last?
Driveways can last anywhere from 15 to 100 years, depending on the material used to pave them. Asphalt can last 15–30 years, concrete 30–40 years, and gravel-type driveways can last up to 100 years.
How Long Does It Take Before You Can Drive on a New Driveway?
It takes around 3–10 days before you can drive on a new driveway. It all depends on the material used. Gravel and paver driveways are ready to drive on instantly; asphalt takes 48–72 hours; and concrete usually takes 7–10 days to fully cure.
How Thick Should a Driveway Be?
The ideal thickness for a driveway ranges from 8 inches to 12 inches. The thickness required depends on the size and weight of your vehicles; standard vehicles typically need a minimum of 4 inches, while heavier vehicles may require a driveway thickness of 5 inches or more.
Tailoring Your Driveway to Fit Your Needs
Now that you’re familiar with all the factors influencing driveway paving costs, you can plan your budget and dive into your project.
While the price of paving a driveway can be high, consider it an investment that will enhance your convenience and increase your home’s value.
A quality site plan can significantly simplify this daunting task in terms of both cost and time assessment. If you need one, feel free to contact us; we can provide yours within 24 hours.
