Buyers commonly pay per yard for asphalt millings, with price influenced by material quality, moisture content, and delivery distance. Primary cost drivers include material density, processing level, loading and spreading, and whether compaction is included. The following figures give a practical cost overview in USD for the U.S. market.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material (loose, unspread) | $12 | $22 | $40 | Per cubic yard before delivery; varies by source and moisture |
| Delivery (per load, 6-12 yards) | $60 | $120 | $260 | Distance-dependent; some suppliers offer flat rates |
| Spreading/leveling | $40 | $90 | $150 | Often included with milling projects over 1,000 sq ft |
| Compaction (optional) | $0 | $25 | $80 | Powered compaction adds density; may be bundled |
| Tax/Permits | $0 | $10 | $50 | Depends on jurisdiction |
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for asphalt millings per cubic yard is $12-$40 for material alone, with total installed costs often ranging from $32 to $280 per yard depending on delivery, spreading, and compaction. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Costs include material density and processing level. Per-yard estimates can be paired with per-ton equivalencies to compare against traditional hot mix asphalt or recycled asphalt pavement options.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $12 | $22 | $40 | Loose, ungraded millings | Assumes 2,500–2,800 lb/yd3 |
| Labor | $0 | $20 | $60 | Spreading or raking by crew | Install crew hours vary by area |
| Equipment | $0 | $10 | $30 | Wheel loader or skid-steer usage | Operational costs included in labor |
| Delivery/Disposal | $60 | $120 | $260 | Per load; distance-based | Typical 6–12 cubic yards per load |
| Spreading/Compaction | $40 | $90 | $150 | Leveling and compaction if requested | Compaction increases density and stability |
| Taxes/Permits | $0 | $10 | $50 | Local requirements may apply | Permits rarely required for small jobs |
What Drives Price
Distance to site and access to the worksite are major cost drivers, influencing delivery and fuel surcharges. Material quality and processing level (screening, crushing, dust suppression) impact per-yard price.
Other variables include climate and season, which can alter handling and compaction needs. Project size affects the economies of scale; larger jobs often reduce per-yard costs.
Ways To Save
Order enough material in one trip to reduce delivery fees per yard. Bundle spreading and compaction into a single service to avoid separate labor charges. Source locally to minimize transport distance and avoid seasonal surcharges.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to availability and logistics. In the Northeast, expect higher delivery and processing costs, while the Midwest can offer more competitive per-yard material rates. The West often shows higher dispersion due to remote suppliers. Assumptions: urban/ suburban markets; typical truckloads.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor costs include spreading, leveling, and optional compaction. A small driveway project (approx. 100–400 sq ft) may require 2–6 labor hours, whereas larger driveways or lots (1,000–3,000 sq ft) can require 8–20 hours plus equipment time. Labor hours scale with area and desired density.
Real-World Pricing Examples
- Basic: Material only, loose millings, local supplier, 10 yards delivered; 1 hour spreading. Estimated total: $170-$260 for material plus $60 delivery; Total $230-$320.
- Mid-Range: 20 yards delivered, spreading included, light compaction; Assumes moderate distance. Estimated total: $420-$860.
- Premium: 40 yards, processed millings with moisture control, full compaction, and delivery within 20 miles. Estimated total: $1,200-$1,800.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Asphalt millings typically require minimal ongoing maintenance, but long-term performance depends on drainage and base preparation. Regrading or resurfacing may be needed after several years, potentially adding modest rework costs.
Seasonality & Price Trends
Prices can fluctuate with demand: off-season deliveries may reduce costs, while peak construction months can raise them due to tighter trucking capacity. Seasonal pricing should be considered in budgeting.
Cost Compared To Alternatives
Compared with hot-mix asphalt, millings generally offer lower material costs but may require additional labor for compaction and stabilization. Recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) options can offer similar per-yard price ranges with different handling requirements.
Sample Quotes & Assumptions
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours. For a typical residential driveway, a mid-range quote often falls between $400 and $1,000 per 100–300 sq ft, depending on thickness, compaction, and distance.