Driveway Cost Calculator
Pick your driveway material and an installed price per square foot to estimate the total cost.
What your result means
Total cost is the area times your installed price per square foot. The material dropdown labels the estimate; enter that material's price in the cost field. Rough installed ranges: gravel $1 to $3, asphalt $3 to $7, concrete $6 to $12, pavers $10 to $30. Get three quotes either way.
How to use this calculator
- Measure driveway dimensions.
- Select material (concrete, asphalt, gravel, paver).
- Enter cost per sq ft from local quotes.
- Read area and total cost.
The formula
Driveway area is length times width. Multiply by the installed price per square foot for your chosen material.
Worked example
Say you've got a 40 by 12 ft asphalt driveway at $4 a square foot installed. The area is 480 sq ft, so the job runs $1,920.
Driveway cost by material (installed, per sq ft)
| Material | Installed cost per sq ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel | $1 – $3 | high upkeep |
| Asphalt | $3 – $7 | 15 – 25 yrs |
| Concrete | $6 – $12 | 30 – 50 yrs |
| Pavers | $10 – $30 | 30 – 50 yrs |
Tips & gotchas
- Gravel is cheapest upfront but needs the most upkeep.
- Asphalt is mid-priced and lasts 15 to 25 years.
- Concrete costs more but lasts 30 to 50 years.
- Pavers are the priciest, but you can pull and replace individual units.
- Always get three quotes.
Frequently asked questions
What's the cheapest driveway material?
Gravel at $1 to $3 a square foot, then asphalt at $3 to $7, concrete at $6 to $12, and pavers at $10 to $30.
Which driveway lasts longest?
Concrete and pavers tie at 30 to 50-plus years.
Can I install a gravel driveway myself?
Yes. Gravel is the one driveway material that's genuinely DIY-friendly.
Do I need a permit for a driveway?
Usually, if it connects to a public road. Check your local ordinances.
How much does a 1,000 sq ft driveway cost?
Gravel $1,000 to $3,000, asphalt $3,000 to $7,000, concrete $6,000 to $12,000, pavers $10,000 to $30,000.
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Estimates only — see our full disclaimer.