How Much Does a Heated Driveway Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Heated driveways cost $13,000 on average to install. For a two-car driveway, you can expect costs between $3,000 and $8,700.

Heating systems come in two main types: the commonly used electric systems and the less common hydronic systems. You can also choose between manual and automatic controls, and even extend the heating to include your sidewalks, patio, and walkways. It’s important to hire a driveway professional for your heated driveway project to ensure expertly installed, long-lasting results.

Heated Driveway Cost Factors

There are a variety of factors that impact your total heated driveway installation cost. These will vary from project to project, so it's best to consult your installation pro for an accurate estimate for your project.

Cost per Square Foot

The cost to install a heated driveway is an average of $12 to $25 per square foot. This includes the materials and labor. An electrical heated driveway system costs from $5 to $9 per square foot, not including labor or the driveway itself.  Your cost per square foot also depends on the surface material you choose.

Drainage

If your driveway doesn't drain properly, you may notice a buildup or pooling of water. When you install a heating system, you'll want to have your driveway graded properly. This helps prevent standing water from affecting both the system and the driveway.

Removal

Driveway removal costs an additional $1 to $2 per square foot over your project price. You don't always need to remove the entire driveway to install a heating system, but sometimes, if the concrete or asphalt is due for a replacement, it might be the best option.

New Driveway vs. Retrofit

Retrofitting can save you up to $4,000 on your project. It's likely less expensive and creates less waste to retrofit a driveway with a radiant heating system. There are three main methods to retrofit and depend on the type of driveway you have.

1. Overlay a layer of asphalt over the existing driveway, embedding the cables or pipes under that top layer. This technique typically only works with asphalt.

2. Saw cut channels for the pipe or cable. This method also works when doing just the tire tracks.

3. Tear out the old driveway and install a new one.

Automation

Most modern units sold or installed in driveways have automation built in. There are manual overrides, so you can use them when it wouldn't otherwise kick on. Most automation senses snow and ice to trigger the system, which tends to run for about an hour after it stops sensing moisture.

Maintenance

Electric systems are generally maintenance-free as long as you keep your driveway in good condition. Promptly repair any cracks to prevent damage to the heating elements. It's also advisable to inspect any exposed wires and regularly check mats and pads for signs of wear.

Hydronic systems include a boiler and pump, which should be serviced annually to ensure optimal performance. Typically, you won't need to flush the system if it's a closed-loop setup, but it's wise to consult your professional installer about recommended maintenance schedules. Maintenance requirements can vary by brand, so following expert advice helps keep your system running efficiently.

Heated Driveway Costs by Type

The cost of a heated driveway might run $7,000 to $16,000 for the average two-car driveway, but it’ll vary a bit depending on which system you choose.

Electric systems are simpler to install and require no heating components in your home, so they cost a bit less upfront. But electrical systems might cost a bit more to operate over the long term. Hydronic systems require more work to install, but usually cost less to run over time.

Electric

Electric snow melt systems are a form of radiant heat and cost an average of $3,200 to $5,800 for the system alone. The driveway materials (asphalt or concrete) plus labor cost more than double that price. This system relies on an electrical resistance cable embedded about two inches into your driveway surface material.

Hydronic

Hydronic systems, which rely on a heated liquid pumped through pipes, cost between $4,200 and $8,700 for the system alone. These systems cost 30% to 50% more than electric systems.

Hydronic systems heat water and antifreeze through pipes buried in your driveway. They require a boiler and pump, usually located within your home. Due to the additional equipment needed, hydronic systems have higher upfront costs. However, since they often use natural gas, they are more efficient over the long term.

Portable Mats

Portable heated driveway mats cost between $5 and $10 per square foot, or an average of $1,600 per mat.

Benefits of Installing a Heated Driveway

Installing a heated driveway offers several significant benefits, especially if you live in a region with frequent snow and ice:

• Reduce salt and chemical usage: Minimize the use of de-icing chemicals that can damage your driveway and harm the environment.

• Eliminate the need to shovel or hire a snow removal service: Save yourself the time, effort, and expense of manual snow removal.

• Save time and effort: Enjoy a clear driveway without the hassle of constant maintenance during winter months.

• Enhance safety for driving and walking: Prevent slips, falls, and skidding by keeping your driveway free of ice and snow.

• Protect your driveway: Keep your driveway dry to reduce cracks and damage from freeze-thaw cycles, extending its lifespan.

DIY Heated Driveway Installation vs. Hiring a Professional

Installing a heated driveway isn't a suitable DIY project. It requires professional tools and expertise that most homeowners don't have. The installation can be lengthy and challenging, especially if you need to demolish an existing driveway before installing the heating system. Professional heated driveway installers have extensive experience with heating systems and can embed the wires or pipes efficiently into your concrete or asphalt.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from 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.