The price of ready mix concrete depends on your area, the strength you order, the size of the order, and delivery fees. Rather than quote a number that may be wrong for your town, this guide shows how to calculate your total, with a table you can use once you have a real quote.
Why the price varies
Concrete is made and delivered locally, so prices differ from town to town. Strength (measured in psi), special mixes, and additives such as fiber or air entrainment all change the price. Fuel and material costs also move over time.
Call two or three local ready mix plants for a delivered price per cubic yard. That is the only number that matters for your budget.
What is usually extra
Ask about short load fees for small orders, fuel or delivery surcharges, waiting time charges, and extra charges for early or weekend delivery. A good quote lists all of these.
If you pour a patio, you may also pay for forms, base gravel, rebar or mesh, and finishing labor. Concrete is only part of the total.
How to estimate your total
Step 1: calculate cubic yards for your slab, footing, or wall using the calculator. Step 2: add 5 to 10 percent for waste. Step 3: multiply by the delivered price per yard. Step 4: add any short load or delivery fee.
The table below shows the math at example prices. These are not quotes. They show how fast the total grows as the volume grows.
Bags or ready mix?
For under about 1 cubic yard, compare bag cost to ready mix. 45 bags of 80 pound mix make one yard. Multiply the price of one bag by 45 for a bag cost per yard. Bagged concrete is often more expensive per yard, but you avoid short load fees.
Example totals at sample prices (not quotes)
| Price per cubic yard | 1 cubic yards | 2 cubic yards | 3 cubic yards | 5 cubic yards | 10 cubic yards | 15 cubic yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $120 | $120 | $240 | $360 | $600 | $1,200 | $1,800 |
| $140 | $140 | $280 | $420 | $700 | $1,400 | $2,100 |
| $160 | $160 | $320 | $480 | $800 | $1,600 | $2,400 |
| $180 | $180 | $360 | $540 | $900 | $1,800 | $2,700 |
| $200 | $200 | $400 | $600 | $1,000 | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| $220 | $220 | $440 | $660 | $1,100 | $2,200 | $3,300 |
Frequently asked questions
How much is a yard of concrete?
It varies by area and strength. Get a delivered quote from a local plant.
Is there a short load fee?
Many plants charge one for small orders. Ask when you call.
How do I figure my total?
Multiply cubic yards including extra by the delivered price, then add fees.
How many yards for a patio?
A 12 by 12 foot patio at 4 inches thick needs about 1.78 cubic yards with 10 percent extra.