Driveway Installation Cost Estimator
Enter the driveway size and surface for professionally installed pricing.
Runs entirely in your browser — your numbers never leave this page.
How it works
Installed driveway = area × surface rate (base included):
- Gravel (~$4/sq ft): cheapest, needs raking and topping up — fine for rural/long drives.
- Asphalt (~$9/sq ft): the suburban default — reseal every 3–5 years, 20-year life.
- Concrete (~$11/sq ft): 25+ years with control joints, higher upfront.
- Pavers (~$19/sq ft): prettiest, repairable, premium price.
- Base: 6–8" compacted gravel — the part you never see and always pay for if skipped.
- Drainage: slope away from the garage; water pooling at the apron destroys edges.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a driveway cost installed?
About $4/sq ft gravel, $9 asphalt, $11 concrete, $19 pavers — including base prep and labor.
Asphalt vs concrete driveway?
Asphalt: cheaper now, reseal every 3–5 yrs, 20-yr life. Concrete: ~20% more, 25+ yrs, minimal maintenance.
How much is a 60×12 driveway?
720 sq ft: ~$2,900 gravel, $6,500 asphalt, $7,900 concrete, $13,700 pavers.
How thick should the base be?
6–8 inches of compacted gravel — non-negotiable for any surface.
Do I need a permit?
Often yes, especially for the apron connecting to the street — check with your city.
How long does installation take?
1–3 days for asphalt/concrete; pavers take longer. Cure time: 3–7 days before driving.
Can I widen my driveway?
Yes — match the existing base depth and surface; check setback and impervious-surface limits first.
What about heated driveways?
Radiant snow-melt adds ~$12–20/sq ft — luxury that pays in snow country.
How do I maintain asphalt?
Reseal every 3–5 years ($0.15–0.25/sq ft), fill cracks promptly, keep oil off it.
Does a new driveway add value?
Curb appeal, yes — expect ~50% recouped. A crumbling driveway actively hurts sale price.