BuildMaterialCalc

Concrete & Masonry

How Much Is a Yard of Concrete?

Quick Reference

At a glance

Approximate ready-mix concrete pricing — US, 2026
Project sizeCubic yardsEstimated total
Sidewalk or pad (4×4×4")0.2 yd³$200–$280 (incl. short-load fee)
Patio (10×10×4")1.2 yd³$220–$320 (incl. short-load fee)
Garage floor (20×20×4")5.0 yd³$625–$875
Driveway (12×40×4")6.0 yd³$750–$1,050
Foundation (1,000 ft² × 8")24.7 yd³$3,090–$4,330

How to calculate it yourself

Total cost = (cubic yards × price per yard) + short-load fee (if under 3 yd³) + delivery surcharge (if over 25 miles). Add 10–15% for waste; rejected loads from a short-fill cost more than overage.

Common scenarios

Small DIY pad (under 0.5 yd³)

Bagged pre-mix at Home Depot or Lowes: ~$5–$6 per 80-lb bag. A pad needing 0.4 yd³ ≈ 18 bags ≈ $100 — half the cost of a short-load delivery.

Medium project (1–5 yd³)

Ready-mix delivery is now cheaper than bags but the short-load fee still applies. Expect $300–$900 total for most patios, walks, and small footings.

Large pour (5+ yd³)

No short-load fee, full economies of scale. Most contractors negotiate $5–$15 off list per yard at this volume.

Need exact numbers?

Use our Concrete Calculator

Free, instant results — no signup, no email.

Related questions

Frequently asked

  • For jobs under about 0.5 cubic yards, yes — the short-load fee makes ready-mix uneconomical. Above 1 yd³, ready-mix is usually cheaper per yard.

More answers

Related questions

More Tools

Related calculators

Free calculators for the most common construction and DIY materials.

About this calculation

Written and maintained by the BuildMaterialCalc editorial team. The math is derived from published codes and manufacturer specs — see our methodology page for the full source list and review process.

Last reviewed: 9 May 2026. We update cost references quarterly using the Bureau of Labor Statistics Producer Price Index plus regional supplier spot-checks.

Every result is an estimate. Real-world projects vary with sub-grade conditions, ambient humidity, supplier spec sheets, and local code amendments. For structural, code, or safety-critical applications, confirm with a licensed professional. See our full disclaimer for details.