Concrete Slab Cost in 2026
What a flat concrete slab costs by size and thickness, where the money goes, and which upgrades are worth paying for.
A concrete slab costs about $6 to $12 per square foot in 2026, including materials and basic labor. A 10x10 slab runs $600 to $1,200; a 20x20 slab runs $2,400 to $4,800. Thickness, reinforcement, finish, and site access explain most of the spread.
Cost per square foot
| Component | Cost per sq ft | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete | $3–$5 | 4-inch slab; more for thicker pours |
| Labor | $2–$5 | Forming, pouring, finishing |
| Base prep | $0.50–$2 | Grading, compaction, gravel |
| Rebar or mesh | $0.50–$1.50 | More for driveways and structural slabs |
| Basic finish | $0–$1 | Broom or trowel |
| Decorative finish | $2–$6 | Stamped, stained, exposed aggregate |
Cost by slab size
| Size | Square feet | 4-inch slab | 6-inch slab |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 × 10 | 100 | $600–$1,200 | $850–$1,650 |
| 12 × 12 | 144 | $850–$1,700 | $1,200–$2,350 |
| 16 × 20 | 320 | $1,900–$3,800 | $2,700–$5,200 |
| 20 × 20 | 400 | $2,400–$4,800 | $3,400–$6,600 |
| 24 × 24 | 576 | $3,500–$6,900 | $4,900–$9,500 |
| 30 × 30 | 900 | $5,400–$10,800 | $7,600–$14,800 |
National planning ranges for a plain slab on a prepared base. Decorative finishes, removal, and poor access add cost.
Thickness matters
A 4-inch slab is standard for patios, walkways, and shed floors. A 5–6-inch slab is typical for driveways and garage floors. Going from 4 to 6 inches adds about 50% more concrete, plus more excavation and disposal.
| Use | Typical thickness | Reinforcement |
|---|---|---|
| Walkway | 4 in | Mesh optional |
| Patio | 4 in | Mesh recommended |
| Shed base | 4–6 in | Mesh recommended |
| Driveway | 5–6 in | Rebar or mesh |
| Garage floor | 4–6 in | Rebar recommended |
Concrete finishes
- Broom finish: standard, slip-resistant, usually included.
- Trowel finish: smooth and reflective; can be slippery when wet.
- Stamped concrete: imitates stone, brick, or slate; adds $3–$6 per square foot.
- Exposed aggregate: textured and durable; adds $2–$4 per square foot.
- Stained or colored: adds $2–$5 per square foot, depending on the system.
- Saw-cut joints: control cracking; often included, sometimes extra.
Where the money goes
For a typical 20x20 patio, concrete might be $1,200–$1,600, labor $800–$1,200, base prep $300–$600, rebar or mesh $200–$400, and forms and finishing $300–$600. The exact split depends on whether the contractor supplies materials and how much site work is needed.
Get a line-item bid. A single lump sum makes it hard to tell whether you are paying for 4 inches or 6, mesh or rebar, or proper base compaction.
Site prep and extras
- Old slab removal: $1–$3 per square foot.
- Grading and fill: $500–$2,000 for uneven sites.
- Haul-off of spoil: $200–$800.
- Pump truck: $300–$800 if the truck cannot reach the pour.
- Permit: $50–$300 for structural slabs, additions, or garages.
- Sealer: $0.50–$1.50 per square foot.
Use the concrete bag calculator to check the volume, then compare the bag cost with a ready-mix quote in cost per yard.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 10x10 concrete slab cost?
A 10x10 slab at 4 inches thick typically costs $600 to $1,200, depending on site prep, finish, and local labor. A plain broom finish is at the low end; stamped or colored concrete is higher.
How much does a 20x20 slab cost?
A 20x20 slab at 4 inches thick usually costs $2,400 to $4,800. Thicker slabs, rebar, stamped finishes, and difficult access push the price toward the high end.
Is a 4-inch slab strong enough for a driveway?
Most driveways need 5 to 6 inches of concrete with rebar or mesh, especially for heavy vehicles. A 4-inch slab is fine for patios, walkways, and shed bases.
How much does it cost to remove an old concrete slab?
Removal typically costs $1 to $3 per square foot, including breaking, hauling, and disposal. Thick or reinforced slabs cost more.
Does a concrete slab need rebar?
Patios and walkways often use wire mesh; driveways, garages, and structural slabs usually use rebar. The right choice depends on load, soil, and slab thickness. Ask for it in the bid.
How long before I can use a new concrete slab?
You can usually walk on it after 24 to 48 hours, drive on it after about 7 days, and reach full design strength around 28 days. Cold weather slows curing.