Paver driveway cost is one of the most important considerations for a driveway project. This will ensure no aftershocks when the project is done. You will not be handed over a bill containing some “unexpected expenses” that were part of the paving project. Such as, you have to pay around $12,000 to build a paver driveway 20 feet long and 24 feet wide. This can accommodate two cars side by side. Depending on the size and material, the driveways cost between $6,000 and $18,000 in general. One-car-wide grass paver driveways can be as cheap as $1,200, but cobblestone paver driveways can cost as much as $75,600. All pricing data is sourced from trusted industry resources.
What Are The 7 Factors That Affect the Paver Driveway Cost?
When it comes to the cost to install a paver driveway, various factors affect the overall pricing of the project. Some of the most crucial factors include:
- Paver material type
- Driveway size and layout
- Base preparation and excavation
- Labor and installation complexity
- Extra features and finishing touches
- Old driveway removal and permits
- Total estimated cost by project type
1- Paver Material Type
The cost of a paver driveway is heavily affected by the materials you select. It determined the base cost. Different materials have different pricing, durability, and visual appeal. The higher the quality of the types of pavers used, the higher the overall cost
| Material | Estimated Cost (Installed / sq ft) | Appearance | Lifespan | Best For |
| Concrete Pavers | $10 – $25 | Simple, clean | 30–40 years | Budget-conscious homeowners |
| Brick Pavers | $10 – $45 | Warm, traditional | 30–40 years | Heritage-style or classic homes |
| Cobblestone | $18 – $50 | Textured, premium look | 50+ years | High-end projects |
| Natural Stone | $25 – $70 | Unique and luxurious | 50+ years | Luxury driveways |
| Permeable Pavers | $12 – $70 | Eco-friendly, practical | 30–40 years | Stormwater management areas |
Opting for natural stone paver driveways (marble or bluestone) and cobblestone requires expert installation, and they are custom-order.
2. Driveway Size and Layout
Another affecting factor of driveway cost is its layout and size of driveway. Large-sized driveway pavers require more material, a longer installation timeline, and labor. Adding a fraction of change will result in a significant price increase in the end. Furthermore, opting for custom shapes for driveways and curves results in more time, project complexity, and waste due to extra cutting.
| Driveway Type | Approx. Size | Estimated Cost Range |
| Single-Car Driveway | 240–350 sq ft | $2,400 – $12,000 |
| Double-Car Driveway | 480–700 sq ft | $4,800 – $25,000 |
| Long/Curved Driveways | 700+ sq ft | $8,000 – $35,000+ |
3. Base Preparation and Excavation
The paver driveway cost is also affected by the base preparation and excavation. A strong paver base is essential for a durable structure that will last for years. The ground needs to be dug, leveled, compacted, and layered with crushed stone and bedding sand. Depending on the site, this crucial step costs around $2 to $5 per square foot.
| Component | Estimated Cost (per sq ft) | Purpose |
| Excavation | $1.50 – $3.00 | Removing soil or the existing driveway |
| Gravel Base Layer | $1.00 – $2.00 | Strength and drainage foundation |
| Bedding Sand Layer | $0.50 – $1.00 | Smooth setting surface |
| Geotextile Fabric (optional) | $0.30 – $0.70 | Weed control and soil stabilization |
Further base preparation or landscape preparation expenses may include tree removal, which costs around $200 to $2000, and if your driveway requires drainage as well, such as grading or trenching for slope, then the cost will also be increased accordingly.
4. Labor and Installation Complexity
The labor cost for a paver driveway is usually around $5 to $10 per square foot, but it may be influenced by:
- Installation experience of the labor (company)
- Paver pattern (e.g., herringbone or basketweave takes longer.
- Local labor rates
- Number of cuts and borders
- Access to the site (tight spaces increase effort)
- The shape of the driveway and the project complexity
5. Extra Features and Finishing Touches
These are optional components, but they can significantly increase the cost of the paver driveway. However, they can add functionality, aesthetics, and longevity to your driveway.
| Feature | Estimated Cost | Function |
| Edging/Restraints | $5 – $10 per linear foot | Keeps pavers from shifting |
| Driveway Sealer | $1 – $2 per sq ft | Protects from stains and fading |
| Lighting | $200 – $800 per fixture | Improves safety and curb appeal |
| Drainage Systems | $500 – $2,000+ | Prevents water pooling |
| Heated Driveway Option | $12 – $20 per sq ft extra | Snow and ice control in colder climates |
6. Old Driveway Removal and Permits
If the project involves upgrading an existing driveway, then you will need to remove the old driveway first before installing a new stone paver. It will be added to the upfront cost. The overall removal may cost between $500 and $1,700. The local permit for new construction or replacement can cost $50 to $250, depending on municipal regulations.
7. Total Estimated Cost by Project Type
Stone Paver Cost varies according to the project type. Usually, the base material is involved in installing a driveway.
| Driveway Type | Estimated Total Cost |
| Budget (Concrete, Simple) | $4,500 – $10,000 |
| Mid-Range (Brick, Permeable) | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Premium (Cobblestone, Natural Stone) | $15,000 – $35,000+ |
This is the cost of an average installation in most regions. If the location is too remote or challenging, then it will also increase the final cost.
How Do Driveway Size and Layout Impact Cost?
The size of the driveway and its layout impact the driveway paver cost significantly. If your paver driveway project is going to accommodate a single vehicle and straightforward construction, then the cost will be lower. But a more dramatic layout involving irregular shapes, delicate designs, and curves, then the cost will be much higher due to added labor and material cost combined with the experienced company handling the project. Figures are based on information from verified references.
| Driveway Type | Approximate Size (sq ft) | Cost Range |
| Single-car driveway | 240–350 (sq ft) | $2,500–$9,000 |
| Double-car driveway | 480–700 (sq ft) | $5,000–$18,000 |
| Custom/curved | 700+ (sq ft) | $10,000+ |
Longer or curved driveways may require more edge restraint, labor time, and paver cuts.
Which Paver Material Is Best for Driveway Projects?
Concrete paver is generally considered a good choice for a driveway due to its durability, aesthetic versatility, and being economical for most residential and commercial projects. However, the right material for driveways depends on several factors, including climate, maintenance, durability, and replacement cost. Here’s how each material type performs based on practical needs:
| Requirements | Best Option | Reason To Select |
| Budget-friendly solution | Concrete Pavers | Lowest upfront cost with wide availability |
| Long-term durability | Cobblestone or Stone | Can last 50+ years with minimal upkeep |
| Classic appearance | Brick Pavers | Traditional look with earthy tones |
| Stormwater management | Permeable Pavers | Helps reduce runoff and improve site drainage |
| Luxury or upscale finish | Natural Stone | Visually striking and adds high property value |
| DIY installation option | Concrete or Brick | Easier to install than cobblestone or natural stone |
Getting the pavers from a reputable brand like NT Pavers can also impact the overall paver driveway cost. However, make sure to contact them before starting your driveway project to determine the right budget according to the material.
How Do Paver Driveways Compare to Other Materials?
Driveway pavers are one of the most preferred materials to build a driveway, including options like porcelain pavers for a sleek and modern look. However, they are still compared with other materials, from concrete slabs to gravel and asphalt. However, how paver driveways perform against other materials is checked in the table below, from the following.
| Driveway Material | Lifespan | Maintenance | Cost (Installed/sq ft) | Appearance |
| Concrete Pavers | 30–40 years | Occasional sealing, weed removal | $10 – $25 | Clean, modular, wide range of styles |
| Brick Pavers | 30–40 years | May chip, moss growth in joints | $10 – $45 | Classic red tones, traditional layout |
| Cobblestone | 50+ years | Minimal maintenance | $18 – $50 | Historic, rugged charm |
| Permeable Pavers | 30–40 years | Must keep joints unclogged | $10 – $70 | Grid-style or open-joint finish |
| Natural Stone Pavers | 50+ years | Sealant recommended | $25 – $70 | Earthy, varied, and elegant |
| Porcelain Pavers | 20–30 years | Low maintenance, stain-resistant | $30 – $60 | Sleek, modern, often mimics stone/wood |
| Marble Pavers | 30–50 years | Needs sealing, may scratch/stain | $35 – $75 | High-end, smooth, bright-toned |
| Concrete Slab | 25–30 years | Can crack, needs patching | $5 – $10 | Plain unless stamped or stained |
| Asphalt | 15–20 years | Must be resealed every 3–5 years | $3 – $7 | Dark finish, heats up in the sun |
| Gravel | 5–10 years | Must be raked and topped up | $1 – $3 | Loose, informal look |
Pavers may have a higher initial cost, but they last longer than other materials and provide better aesthetics. They can be installed individually without redoing the whole surface.
How To Reduce The Paver Driveway Cost?
Paver driveways may have a varying cost, but the cost can be reduced significantly, even when you are using premium driveway materials. You can save on your driveway project by:
- Keep the layout simple. Opt for straightforward designs to cut the labor cost and reduce waste.
- Select the mid-range pavers. High-strength concrete or basic brick offers low pricing.
- If you are skilled enough, then prepare the base yourself. Excavation and gravel base can be DIY with the right tools.
- Install during the off-season. Contractors may offer lower rates in fall or early spring.
- Compare at least 3 quotes: Always look for insured and licensed professionals with verified reviews.
FAQs About Paver Driveway Costs
These are the most asked questions regarding the drive project cost.
What is the average cost of a paver driveway?
The average cost of a driveway ranges from $10 to $70 per square foot, depending on the site and material conditions. A 480 sqft driveway can cost $4,800 to $33,600.
Is a paver driveway more expensive than concrete or asphalt?
Yes, but it’s more durable and repairable. The Average lifespan of an average driveway is around 30–40 years, making it a cost-effective solution than replacing asphalt multiple times
Is it necessary to seal a paver driveway?
Yes. But not all material requires sealing. Sealing is optional for material like porcelain, but it can prevent paver staining and color fading over time. Opt for sealing every 3-5 years for the best results.
How long does a paver driveway last?
Paver driveway can last up to 30-50 years or more (in the case of cobblestone and natural stone) with proper installation and maintenance.
Can you DIY install a paver driveway?
Yes. But professionally installed paver driveways last longer, ensure proper drainage, compaction, and alignment. DIY is better suited for smaller paths or patios if you are skilled enough.
Conclusion
The paver driveway costs initially more compared to other materials, but it is a long-term investment. The per sq ft cost for a paver driveway is $10–$70 per sq ft, while a two-car driveway’s average cost is $6,000–$18,000, depending on materials and labor. However, factors like Base prep, paver type, design complexity, and so on, affect the overall cost of the paver driveway. You can opt for concrete and brick as they are the most cost-effective options. Cost insights are drawn from the references provided, so you can verify the pricing accordingly.
Cobblestone and permeable offer higher-end options. Make sure the driveway is installed with a proper base to ensure long-lasting results. Make sure to order your pavers a little extra, or even consider a full pallet of pavers from NT Pavers to accommodate damaged and cut pavers during the project, whether you’re working with a professional crew or exploring a DIY route.
