Find out concrete patio costs per square foot in 2026. Plain vs stamped concrete compared. Free concrete patio cost guide.
Concrete patios cost $6-$15 per square foot installed — making a 400 sq ft patio cost $2,400-$6,000 for plain concrete or $4,800-$12,000 for stamped decorative concrete. Concrete patios are the most durable outdoor surface option and require minimal maintenance compared to wood decks or pavers. Our guide covers all concrete patio options with real installed costs.
Installed cost per square foot: Plain broom-finish concrete: $6-$10/sq ft. Exposed aggregate: $8-$14/sq ft — textured, non-slip surface. Stamped concrete (patterns): $12-$22/sq ft — resembles brick, stone, or slate. Stained concrete: $8-$15/sq ft — color added for decorative effect. Polished concrete: $3-$12/sq ft for interior. 400 sq ft patio total: plain: $2,400-$4,000, stamped: $4,800-$8,800.
Patio surface options: Concrete: $6-$22/sq ft, 30-50 year lifespan. Paver patio: $15-$40/sq ft, 25-50 years, individual pieces replaceable. Wood deck: $20-$45/sq ft, 15-25 years with maintenance. Composite deck: $30-$60/sq ft, 25-30 year lifespan. Gravel or pea gravel: $1-$3/sq ft — cheapest, needs replenishing. Best value: concrete for level areas, pavers for aesthetic premium, deck if elevated or attached to home.
Concrete patio lifespan: Plain concrete: 30-50 years with proper care. Stamped concrete: same structural life but color and sealer fades every 2-5 years requiring resealing ($200-$500). What shortens life: freeze-thaw cycles with de-icing salts, tree root intrusion, heavy vehicle loads. Annual maintenance: reseal every 2-3 years ($100-$300 DIY) to protect surface and prevent staining.
Concrete patio vs deck: Concrete wins for: lower long-term cost (no staining, no board replacement), durability, ground-level installation. Deck wins for: elevated access from house, uneven terrain, appearance preference, can be higher off ground. Cost at 10 years: concrete requires periodic sealing $300-$600. Wood deck requires staining $500-$1,500 every 2-3 years. Concrete clearly lower maintenance cost.
Concrete patio permits: Usually NOT required for ground-level concrete patio. Usually required when: patio is attached to house structure, has overhead structure, drains toward neighbor's property, in some municipalities over certain size. HOA: may require approval for outdoor improvements. Always call 811 before excavation for utility locate. Setback requirements: check before pouring near property line.
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