How Much Does a Patio Cost? (2026 Pricing Guide & Costs)

If you're planning to add or replace a patio, how much does a patio cost is likely your first question. Across the United States, a new patio installation typically runs $2,200 to $6,800 for a standard 12x12 or 20x20 footprint, with the national average landing around $4,200. Material choice is the single biggest cost driver—concrete costs about $150 per cubic yard delivered, while premium pavers can triple your per-square-foot spend. This guide breaks down every major patio type, size, and regional pricing variable so you can budget with confidence.

Average Patio Costs at a Glance

Before diving into specifics, here's a snapshot of what you can expect to pay for different patio materials and sizes across the US in 2026. These figures include both materials and professional labor.

Costs are national averages for a 400 sq ft (20x20) patio. Regional labor rates shift these numbers significantly.

Cost by Patio Material: What You'll Really Pay

How Much Does a Concrete Patio Cost?

A poured concrete patio costs $7 to $13 per square foot on average across the US. For a standard 20x20 concrete patio (400 sq ft), expect to pay $2,800 to $5,200. In lower-cost markets like Oklahoma City or San Antonio, a 12x12 concrete patio cost falls between $1,000 and $1,900. In higher-cost metros like Seattle or Boston, the same slab runs $1,600 to $2,700. A 10x20 concrete patio cost lands in the $1,400–$2,600 range nationally. These prices assume a standard 4-inch slab with basic finishing—stamped or colored concrete adds $4–$10 per square foot.

How Much Does a Paver Patio Cost?

How much does a paver patio cost depends heavily on material and base preparation. Concrete pavers average $12 to $24 per square foot installed. A 20x20 paver patio cost ranges from $4,800 to $9,600, while a compact 12x12 paver patio cost runs $1,700 to $3,500. Brick pavers push slightly higher at $14–$26 per sq ft. If you're asking how much does a 20x20 paver patio cost DIY, materials alone range $2,000–$4,000, but you'll need to handle excavation, base compaction, and precise leveling—tasks that are more demanding than they appear.

How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Patio Cost?

How much does a stamped concrete patio cost averages $11 to $22 per square foot. For a 20x20 stamped concrete patio, budget $4,400 to $8,800. Stamping mimics stone, slate, or brick at roughly half the material cost of genuine stone. The 20x20 stamped concrete patio cost in cities like Phoenix or Dallas often falls toward the lower end ($4,400–$6,000), while the same project in Portland or Denver may exceed $7,500 due to higher labor rates and more complex subgrade requirements.

How Much Does a Covered Patio Cost?

Adding a roof or cover transforms the project scope. How much does a covered patio cost averages $25 to $55 per square foot depending on structure type. A basic aluminum patio cover for a 20x20 space runs $2,000–$4,500, while a full louvered patio cover cost with motorized slats can reach $10,000–$18,000. How much does it cost to build a covered patio from scratch with a permanent roof structure? Expect $8,000–$22,000 for a 20x20 footprint, depending on roofing material, electrical work, and whether you need new foundation footings.

Patio Size Cost Breakdown: From 10x10 to 20x30

Square footage drives material quantity, excavation time, and waste factor. Here's how costs scale across common patio dimensions for a mid-range concrete paver installation.

Figures reflect national mid-range pricing. A 400 square foot patio cost is the most common homeowner query—and the 20x20 size remains the sweet spot for value.

Factors That Affect Patio Installation Costs

Several variables beyond material choice influence your final bill:

• Site preparation: Sloped yards require grading, retaining structures, or additional fill. If your site needs significant leveling, a retaining wall can cost $3,200–$9,500 depending on length and material.
• Accessibility: Tight backyard access means workers carry materials by hand instead of using equipment, adding 10–20% to labor.
• Soil conditions: Expansive clay or poorly draining soil may require a deeper gravel base or geotextile fabric.
• Permits: Some municipalities require permits for patios over 200 sq ft or attached covers. Permit fees range $50–$400.
• Finish options: Staining, sealing, built-in lighting, or fire features each add $500–$3,000+.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

If you're researching how much does it cost to build a patio yourself, materials for a 20x20 concrete paver patio run $2,000–$4,000—roughly 40–55% less than hiring a pro. But the trade-off is significant: excavation, base compaction, screeding, and precise paver laying require specialized tools (plate compactor, wet saw, levels) and a solid understanding of drainage. A poorly installed patio can shift, sink, or pool water within two seasons. For poured concrete, DIY is rarely recommended—concrete delivery, finishing, and curing demand experience. Most homeowners find that how much does it cost to pour a concrete patio professionally ($2,800–$5,200 for 400 sq ft) is well worth avoiding costly mistakes.

Regional Price Differences Across the US

Where you live matters enormously. In the Southeast (Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville), patio costs run 10–15% below the national average due to competitive labor markets and longer construction seasons. The Midwest (Chicago, Indianapolis, Kansas City) sees moderate pricing but may include frost-depth excavation requirements. West Coast cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles command 20–30% premiums due to labor costs and seismic code requirements. Northeast metros (New York, Boston, DC) are the most expensive, with some 20x20 paver patio installations exceeding $12,000. Always get localized quotes—national averages only tell part of the story.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Budgeting for a Patio

1. Ignoring drainage: A patio without proper slope or perimeter drainage will pool water and erode base material within months.
2. Underestimating base depth: A 4–6 inch compacted gravel base is essential in freeze-thaw climates; cutting corners here guarantees cracks and settling.
3. Choosing materials on price alone: Cheap pavers fade, chip, and stain faster. Mid-range options from established manufacturers typically offer the best long-term value.
4. Skipping the permit: Unpermitted patio covers or large slabs can cause issues during home sales or insurance claims.
5. Not budgeting for sealing: Concrete and paver patios need sealing every 2–4 years at $0.50–$2 per sq ft to prevent staining and freeze-thaw damage.