How Much Does a Paver Driveway Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

Paver driveway costs average around $12,000, with most homeowners spending between $6,000 and $18,000 for installation. Prices are $10 to $30 per square foot, depending on material, size, and complexity. Understanding these cost factors helps you plan and budget for a new paver driveway.

A paver driveway is a smart upgrade for curb appeal and function. This guide will walk you through every cost consideration, including labor (often $50 to $80 per hour), materials, and ongoing maintenance, so you can make an informed decision.

Paver Driveway Cost Factors

When budgeting for a paver driveway, several factors determine your total cost. Let’s break down the main elements that impact what you’ll pay.

Paver Type

The type of paver driveway you choose shapes both the look and the price. Standard paver driveways use basic patterns and materials, while permeable options help with drainage and can cost more. Decorative and custom-pattern driveways offer unique designs and curb appeal but come at a premium.

Basic installations are more affordable, focusing on function over flair. Premium or custom options, such as intricate inlays or high-end materials, lift the price per square foot. Choosing between these types depends on your style and budget.

Driveway Size

The size of your driveway is one of the biggest cost drivers. Larger driveways require more materials and labor, increasing the total price. Common residential sizes include single-car (about 300 square feet), double-car (about 600 square feet), circular, or extended layouts for extra vehicles or turnarounds.

While the cost per square foot remains fairly steady, larger projects may offer small volume discounts. Still, the overall total grows with every added square foot.

Materials

Paver materials come in several options, each with its own price, look, and maintenance needs. Concrete pavers are cost-effective and versatile, while brick offers classic charm and natural stone provides a premium, elegant appearance. Porcelain and permeable pavers add unique benefits but can increase your paver driveway cost.

Material choice impacts not just upfront cost, but also durability and long-term upkeep. Some materials are more resistant to stains, weather, or shifting, which can reduce future repair expenses.

Labor

Labor is a significant portion of your total paver driveway cost. Most pros charge $50 to $80 per hour, or $5 to $15 per square foot for installation. Landscapers, masons, and specialized driveway contractors are the most common professionals for this job.

Labor costs can fluctuate depending on your region, the complexity of your project, and the contractor’s experience. More intricate designs, curves, slopes, or limited site access can increase installation time and cost. Labor includes site preparation, grading, base installation, laying pavers, cutting and fitting, and final finishing.

Prep

Site preparation is essential for a stable, long-lasting paver driveway. Prep work often includes grading, excavation, and the removal of any existing driveway. Demolition and disposal of old materials add to the overall expense, especially for concrete or asphalt removal.

Soil stabilization and installing a compacted gravel base ensure your driveway resists settling and drainage issues. Prep costs depend on the starting condition of your site—expect higher costs for poor soil, heavy roots, or challenging slopes. Skimping on prep work can lead to expensive repairs down the road.

Tipping

Tipping for driveway installation crews is not required, but is appreciated for excellent service or exceptional effort. For large projects, a tip of $20 to $50 per worker is common, or you can provide lunch or refreshments as a thank-you.

Project size, complexity, and the crew’s attention to detail may influence your decision to tip. Consider tipping if the crew goes above and beyond or completes the project ahead of schedule.

Additional Cost Factors

Several other factors can add to your paver driveway cost:

• Permit and inspection fees: Many cities require permits, which can range from $50 to $300.

• Post-construction cleanup: Hauling away debris or old materials may cost $100 to $500.

• Decorative add-ons: Borders, inlays, or custom lighting can increase costs by $1,000 to $5,000.

• Drainage systems or edge restraints: Adding French drains, channel drains, or reinforced edges can range from $500 to $3,000.

• Accessibility challenges: Tight spaces or steep grades may add labor hours.

• Heavy vehicle upgrades: Reinforcing the base for RVs or trucks can add $500 to $2,000.

Paver Driveway Ongoing Costs

After installation, ongoing costs help protect your investment and keep your driveway looking its best.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance for a paver driveway includes sweeping, occasional power washing, sealing, refilling joint sand, and controlling weeds. Sealing helps preserve color and prevent stains, needed every three to five years, costing $1 to $3 per square foot.

You can handle basic maintenance yourself or hire a pro for $300 to $800 per visit, depending on driveway size. Staying on top of maintenance extends the life of your driveway and helps avoid costly repairs.

Operating Costs

If you add features like a heated driveway, expect ongoing electricity costs—often $100 to $300 per winter season. Repairs to heating elements can add several hundred dollars if needed.

Drainage systems require periodic checks and cleaning, which may cost $100 to $200 annually. Seasonal care, such as snow removal or applying de-icing products, is another consideration, especially in colder climates.

Repairs

Common repairs include replacing cracked, sunken, or stained pavers and fixing loose joints. Minor repairs, such as swapping out a few pavers, are $200 to $500. More extensive repairs, like resetting sections or fixing drainage, can cost $1,000 to $2,500.

Repair costs depend on the material, installation quality, and local labor rates. High-quality installation and materials reduce the frequency and severity of repairs, saving money over time compared to full replacement, which can cost just as much as the original installation.

Insurance

Most home insurance policies cover driveways as part of your property, but high-value or custom paver driveways may require additional coverage. Upgrading your driveway can impact your premiums, especially if it increases your home’s value or risk profile.

Check with your provider to confirm what’s covered and whether you need to update your policy for new features, like lighting or heated systems.

DIY Paver Driveway vs. Hiring a Pro

Some homeowners consider installing a paver driveway themselves to save on labor. DIY costs include materials ($10 to $30 per square foot), tool rental (about $200 to $500), and equipment like compactors and saws. While you avoid labor charges, DIY projects require significant time, skill, and physical effort.

A DIY project for a two-car driveway can take two to three weekends with help. Mistakes—like poor grading or improper base installation—can lead to drainage issues, uneven surfaces, or warranty voids. Professional installation ensures proper prep and long-term durability.

We recommend hiring a professional for most paver driveway installations, especially for complex designs, large areas, or sites needing significant prep. Pros bring experience, warranties, and the right equipment for a lasting result.

Common Paver Driveway Add-Ons

Many homeowners choose to personalize their paver driveway with add-ons. These features can enhance curb appeal, function, or convenience, but they do add to your total cost.

• Decorative borders or inlays: $1,000 to $3,000

• Driveway lighting: $500 to $2,500

• Heated driveway systems: $5,000 to $12,000

• Drainage solutions (French drains, channel drains): $500 to $3,000

• Edge restraints or curbing: $300 to $1,500

• Stain or color enhancements: $500 to $2,000

• Integrated landscaping or privacy features: $1,000 to $5,000

These upgrades let you tailor your driveway to your style and needs, but it’s important to balance your wish list with your budget.

Tips to Reduce Cost While Installing a Paver Driveway

Let's look at some practical ways to keep the cost to build a paver driveway wallet-friendly:

• Compare multiple contractor quotes for best pricing.

• Choose standard paver shapes and colors to lower material costs.

• Handle site prep or demolition yourself if feasible.

• Opt for a simpler design to reduce labor and material expenses.

• Schedule installation during off-peak seasons for potential discounts

• Bundle driveway installation with other landscaping projects.

• Maintain your driveway regularly to avoid costly repairs.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.