How Much Does It Cost to Pave a Driveway?
The average cost to pave a driveway is $4,905, with most homeowners paying between $2,523 and $7,292 depending on size and material. Every figure on this page is sourced — see below.
What's included in the cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Old driveway removal | $250–$3,000 |
| Permit (where required) | $50–$200 |
| Drainage system (if needed) | $1,500–$5,000 |
| Labor share of total cost | ~40%–60% |
Cost by material (per square foot, installed)
| Material | Typical cost per sq. ft. | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel | $1.25–$4 | Needs periodic replenishment |
| Asphalt | $7–$15 | 10–20 years |
| Concrete | $8–$18 | Up to 40 years |
| Pavers | $5–$50 | 30–50 years |
Source: HomeAdvisor (updated June 19, 2026). For an independent check, Homewyse prices asphalt driveways at $12.46–$15.23 per square foot (May 2026) — toward the top of HomeAdvisor's asphalt range, likely reflecting regional and site-prep differences.
What affects the cost
- Material. Pavers span the widest price range, since cost depends heavily on pattern and paver type; gravel is consistently the cheapest option per square foot, per HomeAdvisor.
- Site prep and grading. A sloped or poorly draining lot can require added grading or a drainage system, adding $1,500 to $5,000 per HomeAdvisor.
- Existing driveway removal. Replacing rather than adding a driveway adds $250 to $3,000 in removal cost.
- Climate. HomeAdvisor notes asphalt softens in extreme heat and can crack in freeze-thaw climates, which is part of why its lifespan trails concrete and pavers.
Common mistakes to avoid
Don't compare quotes on price per square foot alone without confirming base depth and material thickness — a thin gravel or asphalt base costs less upfront but fails sooner, which is part of why HomeAdvisor's lifespan figures vary so much by material. Ask each contractor what base preparation is included before comparing bids.
If your driveway connects to a public street, confirm permit requirements before work starts. HomeAdvisor lists this at $50 to $200 — inexpensive compared to the cost of redoing work that violates a local code.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to pave a driveway on average?
The average cost to pave a driveway is $4,905, with most homeowners paying between $2,523 and $7,292, according to HomeAdvisor (updated June 19, 2026).
How much does a driveway cost per square foot by material?
Per HomeAdvisor: concrete runs $8 to $18 per square foot, asphalt $7 to $15, gravel $1.25 to $4, and pavers $5 to $50. Homewyse independently prices asphalt driveways at $12.46 to $15.23 per square foot (May 2026), toward the top of HomeAdvisor's asphalt range.
How much does driveway removal cost?
HomeAdvisor prices removal of an existing driveway at $250 to $3,000 depending on material and size, in addition to the new driveway.
Do I need a permit to pave a driveway?
In many areas, yes, especially where the driveway connects to a public street. HomeAdvisor lists driveway permit costs at $50 to $200.
Does a driveway need drainage work?
Sometimes. HomeAdvisor prices added drainage systems for driveways at $1,500 to $5,000 where standing water or grading is a problem.
How long does a driveway last by material?
HomeAdvisor reports concrete driveways lasting up to 40 years and pavers 30 to 50 years, while asphalt typically needs replacement after 10 to 20 years and gravel needs periodic replenishment.
How much of driveway cost is labor?
HomeAdvisor estimates labor at roughly 40% to 60% of the combined material-and-labor cost, depending on site prep and material.
Related projects
Have a specific driveway question, or think one of these numbers is out of date? Contact us and we'll look into it.