Purchasers typically pay for concrete by the cubic yard plus delivery and placement. For five yards, the main cost drivers are the material price per cubic yard, delivery fees, and any finishing or forming work required. This article outlines the cost range in dollars, with clear low, average, and high estimates to help budgeting.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete material (5 yd³) | $600 | $700 | $900 | Assumes standard 3500 psi mix, basic slump |
| Delivery & ramp/placement | $120 | $190 | $360 | Depends on distance and site access |
| Concrete pump (optional) | $100 | $200 | $500 | Needed for hard-to-reach placements |
| Forming & finishing (labor) | $200 | $400 | $900 | Includes edge finishes and curing |
| Permits & petty costs | $0 | $50 | $150 | Varies by local rules |
| Taxes & contingencies | $20 | $60 | $160 | Estimated small percentage |
Overview Of Costs
Cost for five cubic yards of concrete typically ranges from about $780 to $1,770 when including material, delivery, and basic finishing. The material portion commonly falls in the $600–$900 band, while delivery and placement add $120–$360, with additional components like finishing or pumping pushing the total higher. Assumptions: region, mix strength, access, and work scope.
Cost Breakdown
The following table breaks down the main cost components and how they contribute to the total. The values are ranges to reflect regional variation and project specifics. Material and delivery are the dominant costs, while finishing and permits are variable.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $600 | $700 | $900 | Concrete price per yd³ commonly $120–$180 |
| Delivery | $120 | $190 | $360 | Includes basic ramp access |
| Finishing & forming | $200 | $400 | $900 | Edges, broom finish, joints |
| Labor (prep & site work) | $60 | $140 | $400 | Site prep, form removal |
| Permits & fees | $0 | $50 | $150 | Depends on municipality |
| Contingency & taxes | $20 | $60 | $160 | Small reserve for overruns |
What Drives Price
Key price factors for five yards of concrete include the strength grade of the mix (such as 3000 vs 3500 psi), the slump (workability), local material costs, and delivery distance. For specialty needs, like color or fiber reinforcement, costs rise. Regional labor rates and access conditions also affect total.
Ways To Save
Budget-conscious buyers can reduce costs by combining pours with nearby projects, selecting standard strength mixes, and minimizing finishing work. Purchasing in-season can also lower delivery fees when demand is steady. Request a formal estimate that itemizes materials and labor to compare quotes accurately.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary across the United States due to material costs and logistics. In urban centers, expect higher delivery charges and parking constraints, while rural areas may have lower delivery fees but longer wait times. Mid-tier regions show moderate variation. Typical deltas range from -10% to +20% compared with national averages.
Labor & Installation Time
Five yards of concrete typically requires a small crew for site prep and finishing, with placement time around 2–6 hours depending on form complexity and weather. A concrete pump can add hours if needed, or a separate crew may be employed for finishing. Labor hours × hourly rate helps explain the portion of the total in multi-station setups.
Cost Compared To Alternatives
Alternatives to a full pour include patching, stamped overlays, or smaller slab segments, which can lower upfront costs but may require additional long-term maintenance. For resurfacing, per-square-foot costs often replace the per-yard calculation. Compare lifecycle costs when evaluating options.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for five cubic yards of concrete. Each includes specs, labor hours, and totals to help buyers align expectations.
Basic scenario: standard 3500 psi mix, 5 yd³, basic broom finish, no color. Materials $650, Delivery $150, Labor $120, Permits $0, Total $920.
Mid-Range scenario: 4000 psi mix, standard color, light rebar integration, pumping for distant lot. Materials $750, Delivery $210, Pump $150, Finishing $300, Permits $0, Total $1,410.
Premium scenario: high-strength 5000 psi mix with fiber reinforcement, stamped edges, color integral, long pump run, multiple inspections. Materials $900, Delivery $260, Pump $250, Finishing $450, Permits $100, Total $1,960.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.