How much does a yard of concrete cost?

Ready-mix concrete costs $125–$175 per cubic yard in most US regions. Prices vary based on mix design, delivery distance, and local market conditions. Short-load fees (orders under 5 yards) typically add $50–$100.

Is it cheaper to mix your own concrete or buy ready-mix?

For projects under 1 cubic yard, bagged concrete is usually cheaper. Above 1–2 cubic yards, ready-mix is more economical per cubic yard and saves significant labor time.

Concrete Cost Estimator — Project Budget Calculator

Project Cost Estimator

Materials · Delivery · Labor

STEP 1 — Project dimensions

Length (ft)

Width (ft)

Thickness (in)

STEP 2 — Pricing inputs

Supply method

Price per cubic yard ($)

Avg US: $125–$175/cu yd

Delivery / short-load fee ($)

0 if picking up bags

Labor cost ($ per sq ft)

0 if DIY. US avg: $2–$5/sq ft

Reinforcement

Waste / overage

estimated project cost

per sq ft

cubic yards

Cost breakdown

Concrete material—

Delivery fee—

Labor—

Reinforcement—

Total estimate —

Concrete cost FAQ

How much does a 20×20 concrete slab cost?

A 20×20 ft slab at 4 inches thick requires about 5 cubic yards. At $150/cu yd plus $3.50/sq ft labor, expect $750–$900 for materials and $1,400 for labor — approximately $2,100–$2,300 total, depending on location and site conditions.

What factors affect concrete pricing?

Key factors include: distance from the batch plant (delivery cost), minimum order sizes, fuel surcharges, mix design strength (3000 PSI vs 4000 PSI), seasonal demand (summer is more expensive), and regional aggregate costs. Always get 3 quotes from local suppliers.

How much does concrete labor cost?

Concrete labor typically costs $2–$5 per square foot for residential work. This includes screeding, finishing, and basic sealing. Decorative finishes (stamped, colored, exposed aggregate) add $4–$10 per square foot. Structural or commercial work runs higher.

How much does concrete cost per yard in 2025?

Ready-mix concrete costs $125–$175 per cubic yard delivered across most US regions in 2025. Prices vary by location, mix design (PSI strength), and distance from the batch plant. Urban markets like New York City and San Francisco typically run 20–30% higher than national averages.

What drives concrete cost?

The four main cost drivers are: (1) material cost — the per-yard price from your ready-mix supplier, (2) delivery fees — most suppliers charge $50–$150 short-load fees for orders under 5 yards, (3) labor — flatwork finishing runs $2–$5 per square foot for standard broom finish, and (4) reinforcement — wire mesh adds 15%, rebar adds 20% to material cost.

How to save money on concrete

Order full truck loads (8–10 yards) to avoid short-load fees. Schedule pours mid-week when batch plants are less busy. Get quotes from at least 3 local suppliers — prices often vary by $15–$25 per yard within the same city. Avoid pouring in extreme heat (above 90°F) or cold (below 40°F) which requires additives and increases cost.

Save on concrete costs

Order full truck loads to avoid short-load fees
Schedule pours early in the week
Avoid pouring in extreme heat or freezing temps
Get at least 3 quotes from local suppliers
Ask about fiber reinforcement vs rebar

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