What this calculates
Choose the project type that matches your job — slab, driveway, patio, sidewalk, garage floor, pad, foundation footing, wall, column or steps — and the exact geometry-derived volume is calculated first, separately from every cost.
Then add only the numbers you actually have: your ready-mix price per cubic yard or metre (or bag price), any delivery or short-load fee, a labor rate per square foot or metre where the footprint is defined, and a reinforcement/forms allowance you enter yourself.
The result itemizes material cost, each ancillary cost and the estimated total, plus cost per cubic yard and per square foot where those are mathematically valid. No average or local prices are assumed anywhere on this page.
Formula
Order quantity = exact volume × (1 + waste % ÷ 100)
Material cost = order quantity × your price per yd³ (or bags × price per bag)
Total = material + delivery fee + (labor rate × footprint area) + extras
Cost per yd³ = total ÷ order quantity · Cost per ft² = total ÷ footprint area
Worked example
24 × 24 ft driveway, 4 in thick, at an example $165/yd³ quote
- 1.Exact volume at 4 in: 7.11 cu yd; with 10% waste: 7.82 cu yd
- 2.Material: 7.82 × $165 ≈ $1,291
- 3.Plus $80 delivery, $4/ft² labor (576 ft² = $2,304) and $150 reinforcement: total ≈ $3,825 → $6.64/ft²
Common mistakes
- Using a national average price as if it were a quote. Concrete pricing varies by region, mix, season and load size — always price from a real supplier quote.
- Forgetting short-load fees on small orders, which can exceed the concrete cost itself.
- Leaving reinforcement, forms, base gravel, pump fees and finishing labor out of the budget.
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn't the calculator show average prices?
Prices change by region and over time, and an outdated average can mislead. Enter a current quote from your supplier for an accurate number.
What else should I budget for?
Typical extras include delivery, short-load or pump fees, rebar or mesh, form lumber, gravel base, sealer and labor.
How much is concrete per yard?
It varies by region and mix. Our concrete cost per yard guide explains what drives the price and how to compare quotes.