How much does a paver walkway cost?

Per sq ft installed: concrete pavers: $10-$20. Brick: $12-$25. Natural stone: $15-$40. Typical walkway (50-100 sq ft): $500-$4,000 depending on material. National average: about $1,500-$2,500 for a mid-range paver walkway. DIY: $3-$12/sq ft (materials only), saving 40-60% on labor.

Can I install a paver walkway myself?

Yes, a paver walkway is one of the most popular and achievable DIY hardscaping projects. What you need: pavers, paver base (gravel, 4-6 inches), paver sand (1 inch leveling layer), edge restraints, polymeric sand (for joints), a plate compactor (rent for $80-$150/day). Steps: 1. Excavate to the proper depth (typically 7-9 inches). 2. Lay and compact gravel base (4-6 inches, in lifts). 3. Screed a 1-inch layer of paver sand. 4. Lay pavers in your chosen pattern. 5. Cut border pavers as needed (rent a wet saw). 6. Install edge restraints. 7. Sweep polymeric sand into joints. 8. Compact the finished surface. Time: 1-2 weekends for a 50-100 sq ft walkway.

What is the best paver pattern for a walkway?

Best overall: running bond (offset). Simple, clean, and easy to install. Works with any paver shape. Minimal cutting required. Best for durability: herringbone (45 degree). Interlocking pattern resists shifting. Best for driveways and high-traffic areas. More complex to install. Best for appearance: herringbone or basketweave. Traditional and decorative. Classic curb appeal. Best for modern: stacked bond. Geometric and contemporary. Requires strong edging. The recommendation: running bond for DIY (easiest). Herringbone for a front walkway (strongest and most attractive).

How long does a paver walkway last?

Concrete pavers: 25-50+ years. Brick pavers: 25-100+ years. Natural stone: 50-100+ years. What affects lifespan: base preparation (the number one factor). A proper compacted gravel base prevents settling. Joint sand (polymeric sand prevents shifting and weeds). Edge restraints (prevent pavers from spreading). Drainage (water should not pool on or under the walkway). The beauty of pavers: individual pavers can be replaced if damaged. The surface can be releveled if it settles. Pavers are essentially permanent with proper installation and minimal maintenance.

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Outdoor Living

Paver Walkway Guide: Cost, Design & Installation

Lumberama Editorial Team, Hardscaping & Walkway Specialists Nov 2, 2026 9 min read

Paver Materials

Concrete pavers: The most popular choice. Wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Pros: affordable, durable, many design options, easy to replace. Cons: can fade over time, requires edging. Cost: $3-$8 per sq ft (material). $10-$20 per sq ft (installed).

Brick pavers: Clay brick in classic rectangular shape. Timeless, traditional appearance. Pros: classic look, very durable, retains color (all the way through). Cons: limited shapes and colors, can crack in extreme freeze-thaw. Cost: $5-$12 per sq ft (material). $12-$25 per sq ft (installed).

Natural stone: Flagstone, bluestone, sandstone, or limestone. Cut into regular shapes or used as irregular flagstone. Pros: most beautiful and natural, unique character. Cons: most expensive, can be uneven, some types are slippery. Cost: $6-$20 per sq ft (material). $15-$40 per sq ft (installed).

Porcelain pavers: High-density porcelain tiles designed for outdoor use. Modern, clean appearance. Pros: very low maintenance, does not stain, consistent color. Cons: expensive, requires precise installation. Cost: $8-$15 per sq ft (material). $15-$30 per sq ft (installed).

Patterns

Running bond (offset): The most common pattern. Simple and clean. Bricks laid in rows, each offset by half a brick. Great for walkways.

Herringbone: Bricks laid in a zigzag pattern (45 or 90 degree angles). Very strong (resists shifting under load). Excellent for driveways and walkways. More complex to install.

Basketweave: Pairs of bricks alternating direction. Traditional, decorative look. Good for walkways and patios.

Stacked bond (soldier): All bricks aligned in straight rows. Modern, geometric look. Least resistant to shifting (needs strong edging).

Circular (fan): Radiating pattern from a central point. Very decorative. Best for focal areas or small patios. Most complex to install.

Cost

Per sq ft (installed): Concrete pavers: $10-$20. Brick pavers: $12-$25. Natural stone: $15-$40. Porcelain: $15-$30.

For a typical walkway (50 sq ft, 3 feet wide x 17 feet long): Concrete pavers: $500-$1,000. Brick pavers: $600-$1,250. Natural stone: $750-$2,000.

For a larger walkway (100 sq ft): Concrete pavers: $1,000-$2,000. Brick pavers: $1,200-$2,500. Natural stone: $1,500-$4,000.

Additional costs: Demolition of old walkway: $2-$5 per sq ft. Edging (metal or plastic): $1-$3 per linear foot. Steps: $200-$500 per step. Lighting (landscape lights): $50-$200 per fixture.

DIY savings: DIY material cost: $3-$12 per sq ft. Labor savings: 40-60% vs professional installation. A paver walkway is one of the best DIY hardscaping projects.