Buying 17 cubic yards of concrete typically involves materials, delivery, and possible finishing or pumping. The main cost drivers are concrete strength, slump (workability), distance from the quarry, truck delivery charges, and any additional services like pumping oredging. The following guide provides practical price ranges in USD for a 17 yd3 project.
Assumptions: region, mix design, delivery distance, and crew/time for placement.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (Concrete, 4000–4500 psi) | $1,700 | $2,550 | $3,150 | Assumes standard mix, yardage 17 yd3 |
| Delivery & Fuel Surcharge | $200 | $350 | $500 | One trip depending on distance |
| Pumping (optional) | $0 | $400 | $1,000 | Per project; varies by height and distance |
| Finishing / Time & Labor | $0 | $450 | $900 | Finishing, control joints, and brooming |
| Permits / Fees | $0 | $50 | $150 | Depends on local rules |
| Subtotal (materials + services) | $1,900 | $3,350 | $5,700 | Before tax |
| Taxes & Miscellaneous | $0 | $150 | $600 | State/local tax and minor charges |
| Total Project Range | $1,900 | $3,500 | $6,300 | Bars show low/avg/high for 17 yd3 |
| Per Yard Range | $112 | $206 | $369 | Includes materials only; other items listed separately |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges for 17 yd3 of concrete typically cover material price, delivery, and basic placement. For a standard 4-inch slab, expect about 17 × 0.3333 yd3 = 5.67 yd3? Note: this section uses the commonly quoted 17 yd3 as total project volume, with price guidance separated into materials, delivery, and services. Assumptions: single pour, typical weather, no rebar beyond minimums.
Cost Breakdown
| Categories | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $1,700 | $2,550 | $3,150 | Standard 17 yd3, 4,000–4,500 psi |
| Labor & Placement | $0 | $450 | $900 | Finishing and edging |
| Delivery & Pumping | $200 | $350 | $1,000 | Pumping increases with height and reach |
| Permits / Fees | $0 | $50 | $150 | Local requirements |
| Taxes | $0 | $100 | $500 | State/local sales tax |
| Subtotal | $1,900 | $3,450 | $6,700 |
What Drives Price
Key price factors include mix design (strength and slump), total yardage, and distance from supplier. Higher strength concrete (e.g., 5000 psi) or specialty mixes add cost. Poured slabs near grade with minimal joints can reduce finishing time, while thicker sections or pours with elevated access increase labor and equipment needs. Regional labor rates and local permit costs also shift totals.
Labor, Time & Region Variations
Regional price differences can be notable. In the Northeast, expect higher delivery charges and taxes; the Midwest often presents middle ranges; the West Coast can be higher due to logistics. Urban markets typically incur premium delivery and access fees, whereas Rural areas may offer lower transport costs but fewer contractor options. A 10–20% delta between regions is common for 17 yd3 projects.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden charges may include extended pump time, overnight storage, disposal of old concrete, or additional forming and curing materials. If the site requires trenches, rebar, or fiber reinforcement, costs rise. Access constraints can necessitate extra crew hours or a two-crew pour, increasing labor and equipment costs.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Basic Scenario
Spec: standard 4-inch slab, 17 yd3, no pumping, basic broom finish. Labor 6 hours, crew of 2. Total: $3,400 with materials and delivery, plus $80 tax.
Mid-Range Scenario
Spec: 4-inch slab, 17 yd3, with pumping to mid-level height, moderate finishing. Labor 8 hours, crew of 3. Total: $4,900 plus $140 tax.
Premium Scenario
Spec: high-strength 4500–5000 psi, 17 yd3, pumping to elevated deck, extra joints and edge finishes. Labor 10 hours, crew of 4. Total: $7,200 plus $260 tax.
Regional Price Differences
Price by region shows distinct deltas. Northeast +8–14% vs national average; Midwest within ±5%; West Coast +12–20% depending on distance and access. For 17 yd3, a Northeast project might reach $5,000–$6,000 versus $4,000–$5,000 midwest, and $5,500–$6,800 on the West Coast.
Cost Drivers & Pricing Variables
Concrete cost variables include: mix design (psi), yardage, pumping distance, slab thickness, and site access. Concrete suppliers often quote per yard and add delivery fees; some offer fixed-price packages for standard pours. Planning for curb distance, pour timing, and weather windows improves budgeting accuracy.
Ways To Save
Budget tips include batching a slightly lower slump to save finishing time, scheduling deliveries in off-peak seasons, combining multiple pours into a single delivery, and negotiating a bundled price that includes pumping and finishing. Consider standard-strength mixes when suitable to lower unit costs and avoid unnecessary upgrades.