Homeowners and contractors typically pay for delivered ready-mix concrete by the yard, with overall cost driven by strength, additives, location, and delivery logistics. The price range reflects regional differences, waste handling, and project size. This guide uses clear cost ranges and practical factors to help buyers estimate a concrete project’s budget.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (concrete mix) | $100-$120 | $110-$140 | $150-$180 | Per cubic yard for standard 4,000 psi mix |
| Delivery | $120-$160 | $140-$190 | $180-$240 | Includes fuel surcharge; distance dependent |
| Labor (placement & finishing) | $1.50-$2.50 | $2.50-$4.00 | $5.00-$7.00 | Assumes crew of 2–3; time varies by slab size |
| Equipment & pumps | $20-$40 | $40-$70 | $90-$120 | Per yard; pump rental or trailer pump use adds cost |
| Permits & inspections | $0 | $0-$60 | $60-$200 | Typically not required for simple slabs; varies by jurisdiction |
| Waste handling & cleanup | $0-$10 | $10-$20 | $20-$40 | Disposal of excess concrete, washout |
| Taxes & overhead | Included in base price | Included in base price | Included in base price | Vendor-specific |
Assumptions: region, slab size, mix strength (e.g., 4,000 psi), delivery distance, and labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for ready-mix per cubic yard is $110-$180, with delivered totals often landing between $230 and $600 for a 2–6 yard job after labor, pumps, and taxes. Per-unit ranges commonly appear as $110-$140/yd³ for materials, plus $120-$240 for delivery, and $2.50-$7.00/yd³ for placement labor depending on finish requirements. These figures reflect standard 4,000 psi concrete with typical wheelbarrow or pump-assisted placement.
Cost Breakdown
Concrete cost components vary by project specifics. The table below shows representative line items and how they contribute to the total. Regional mileage, pump use, and slab dimensions influence the final price.
| Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery | Warranty | Contingency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $110-$140/yd³ | $2.50-$4.00/yd³ | $40-$70/yd³ | $0-$60 | $120-$190 | Varies by supplier | $0-$20/yd³ |
What Drives Price
Project scale and strength grade are primary cost drivers. Slabs with higher 5,000–6,000 psi or specialty admixtures (air-entraining, rapid-set, or color additives) raise material costs and may require specialist placement. data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> Proximity to the batch plant reduces delivery charges, while longer runs increase truck time and fuel surcharges. Volume discounts apply for larger orders, but small jobs incur higher per-yard delivery and setup fees.
Ways To Save
Shop around and schedule strategically to cut costs. Buying standard 4,000 psi mixes from one supplier for a mid-size slab and coordinating a single delivery can reduce per-yard costs. Consider off-season placement, precise concrete placement windows, and minimizing finish work (e.g., avoiding decorative finishes) to trim labor and equipment charges. Ensure the plan includes a clear pump vs. wheelbarrow approach to avoid unexpected rental fees.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to fuel, labor, and supplier competition. In coastal metros, delivery tends to be higher, while inland markets may offer tighter margins. Comparing three regions shows typical delta ranges: Northeast urban (+8% to +14%), Midwest suburban (0% to +6%), and Southwest rural (-4% to +8%). These deltas reflect distance-to-plant, road fees, and seasonal demand fluctuations.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor hours scale with slab size and finish. A basic slab of 200–400 ft² might require 4–8 hours of placement and finishing with a small crew, whereas a 1,000 ft² slab with a broom or trowel finish can take 12–24 hours of labor across multiple days. Labor costs depend on crew size, local wage rates, and whether forms, rebar, or vibratory compaction are needed. Assumptions: region, slab size, finish type.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden fees often arise from logistics and site conditions. Extra charges may include early-morning delivery surcharges, extended pump rental, washout disposal, or alley/permit fees in restricted zones. If the slab requires color or texture finishes, expect higher material costs and longer installation times. Always confirm a final per-yard price that includes delivery, pump, and a fixed crew rate.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes under common conditions.
Basic Scenario
Small residential slab, 6 yd³ total, standard 4,000 psi, wheelbarrow finish. Labor 2 workers, 6 hours; Delivery standard.
Totals: Materials $110/yd³ × 6 = $660; Delivery $140; Labor $2.50/yd³ × 6 = $90; Equipment $40/yd³ × 6 = $240; Misc $0–$40. Estimated total around $1,130–$1,200 before tax. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Mid-Range Scenario
Garage slab, 12 yd³, 4,000 psi with basic broom finish. Labor 3 workers, 12 hours; Delivery pump-assisted.
Totals: Materials $125/yd³ × 12 = $1,500; Delivery $190; Labor $3.00/yd³ × 12 = $360; Equipment $60/yd³ × 12 = $720; Misc $20–$60. Estimated total around $2,900–$3,200 before tax.
Premium Scenario
Patio slab with color and stamp finish, 18 yd³, 5,000 psi, colorant additive. Labor 4 workers, 20 hours; Delivery pump-assisted; Extras decorative finish.
Totals: Materials $150/yd³ × 18 = $2,700; Delivery $240; Labor $5.50/yd³ × 18 = $990; Equipment $90/yd³ × 18 = $1,620; Extras $400. Estimated total around $6,000–$6,800 before tax.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.