How much does a patio cost?

Per sq ft installed: gravel: $3-$8. Plain concrete: $6-$15. Stamped concrete: $12-$25. Pavers: $12-$30. Natural stone: $15-$40. For a typical 300 sq ft patio: $1,800-$12,000 depending on material. National average: about $3,000-$5,000 for a mid-range patio. Additional features (fire pit, lighting, steps, seating wall) add $500-$5,000+.

Patio vs deck: which is better?

Choose a patio when: the ground is relatively flat. You want lower cost and less maintenance. You prefer stone, concrete, or brick aesthetic. You want a ground-level outdoor space. Budget is a priority. Choose a deck when: the ground slopes away from the house (deck is elevated). You want a wood or composite surface. You want the space at door level (no step down). You prefer the feel of wood underfoot. Cost: patio: $6-$25/sq ft. Deck (wood): $15-$35/sq ft. Deck (composite): $25-$50/sq ft. A patio is typically 30-50% cheaper than a comparable deck. Maintenance: patio: very low. Deck (wood): staining every 2-3 years. Deck (composite): very low.

What is the best patio material?

Best overall value: concrete pavers. Great appearance. Easy repair (replace individual pavers). Flexible (less cracking than poured concrete). Many styles and colors. 25-50+ year lifespan. Best budget: plain poured concrete. Most affordable. Durable (30+ years). Can be dressed up later with stain or coating. Best appearance: natural stone (flagstone or bluestone). Stunning, unique, premium look. Most expensive. Best for a mid-range upgrade: stamped concrete. Mimics expensive materials at lower cost. Seamless surface. Good value.

Can I build a patio myself?

Yes, several patio types are good DIY projects. Easiest DIY: gravel patio. Moderate DIY: paver patio (the most popular DIY patio project). Hardest DIY: poured concrete (requires experience with finishing wet concrete). Paver patio DIY tips: rent a plate compactor (essential for a solid base). Use a proper base: 4-6 inches of compacted gravel. Level meticulously (every paver depends on the base). Use edge restraints (to prevent shifting). Fill joints with polymeric sand (prevents weeds). Time: 2-4 weekends for a 300 sq ft patio. DIY savings: 40-60% vs professional installation.

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Outdoor Living

Patio Guide: Types, Cost & Design Ideas

Lumberama Editorial Team, Patio & Outdoor Living Specialists Nov 2, 2026 10 min read

Patio Materials

Poured concrete: The most common and affordable patio material. Plain broom-finish: simple, durable, non-slip. Can be colored, stamped, or stained for a more decorative look. Pros: durable (30+ years), low maintenance, versatile. Cons: can crack, plain appearance (unless stamped), hot in direct sun. Cost: $6-$15 per sq ft (plain). $12-$25 per sq ft (stamped or colored).

Pavers (interlocking): Individual concrete or brick units laid in patterns. Wide variety of colors, shapes, and textures. Pros: beautiful, easy to repair (replace individual pavers), flexible (less cracking), many design options. Cons: can shift or settle, weeds can grow between joints, more expensive than plain concrete. Cost: $12-$25 per sq ft (concrete pavers). $15-$30 per sq ft (brick pavers).

Natural stone (flagstone): Irregular shaped stones (flagstone, bluestone, sandstone, limestone). Laid on a sand bed or mortared. The most natural and premium appearance. Pros: stunning natural beauty, unique patterns, durable, cool underfoot. Cons: most expensive, uneven surface, can be slippery when wet. Cost: $15-$40 per sq ft.

Stamped concrete: Poured concrete that is stamped with patterns to mimic stone, brick, or slate. Colored to match the pattern. Pros: looks like expensive materials at a lower cost, seamless surface, many patterns. Cons: can crack (like any concrete), requires resealing every 2-3 years, slippery when wet. Cost: $12-$25 per sq ft.

Gravel: Crushed stone or pea gravel. The simplest and most affordable option. Pros: cheapest, natural look, excellent drainage, easy to install. Cons: shifts, requires edging, not ideal for furniture, needs replenishing. Cost: $3-$8 per sq ft.

Cost

By material (per sq ft, installed): Gravel: $3-$8. Plain concrete: $6-$15. Stamped concrete: $12-$25. Concrete pavers: $12-$25. Brick pavers: $15-$30. Natural stone: $15-$40.

For a typical 300 sq ft patio: Gravel: $900-$2,400. Plain concrete: $1,800-$4,500. Stamped concrete: $3,600-$7,500. Pavers: $3,600-$7,500. Natural stone: $4,500-$12,000.

Additional costs: Excavation and grading: $1-$3 per sq ft. Drainage: $500-$2,000. Retaining wall (if needed): $1,500-$5,000+. Steps: $200-$1,000 per step. Seating wall: $30-$60 per linear foot. Fire pit: $500-$5,000. Lighting: $500-$3,000. Permits: $50-$300 (varies).

ROI: A patio returns 30-60% of its cost at resale. Patios are among the most desired outdoor features. The best ROI: a mid-range patio (pavers or stamped concrete) with basic landscaping.