How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost in 2025?
An asphalt driveway costs between $3,124 and $7,377 to install on average, with most homeowners paying $5,248. The size of your driveway and local labor rates are the biggest cost factors.
Asphalt costs more for bigger driveways, with the average driveway measuring 200 to 800 square feet.
An asphalt driveway costs $7 to $13 per square foot, including labor and materials.
The type of asphalt, gradient, and amount of excavation necessary can affect the cost.
Hiring a professional ensures proper installation and maximizes your driveway's lifespan.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
An asphalt driveway costs $5,248 on average, but you could pay as little as $1,500 or as much as $13,500. Factors like your location, driveway size and shape, and the materials used can affect the total price. Investing in a professional installation ensures a durable, long-lasting driveway that boosts your home's curb appeal and value.
Asphalt Driveway Cost Factors
Several factors affect asphalt driveway costs, including size, depth, materials used, site preparation, and more.
Project Type
A new asphalt driveway costs $7 to $13 per square foot, including labor and materials. Replacing an existing driveway costs $8 to $15 per square foot due to demolition and removal expenses.
An asphalt overlay, costing $3 to $7 per square foot, involves adding a layer of asphalt over an existing driveway in good condition. This option reduces materials and labor costs while extending your driveway's lifespan. However, it's not suitable for driveways with major cracks or structural issues.
Driveway Size and Shape
Size directly affects the amount of materials and labor needed for installation. Most driveways are between 200 and 800 square feet—single-car driveways under 400 square feet range from $1,400 to $6,000, while two-car driveways between 600 and 800 square feet cost between $4,200 and $12,000.
Rectangular driveways are the most straightforward and cost-effective to install. If you choose a circular, curved, or customized design, expect higher costs due to specialized design, additional labor, and more materials.
| Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 200 | $1,400–$2,600 |
| 400 | $2,800–$6,000 |
| 600 | $4,200–$9,000 |
| 800 | $5,600–$10,400 |
| 1,000 | $7,000–$15,000 |
| 1,200 | $8,400–$18,000 |
| 1,500 | $10,500–$22,500 |
Driveway Depth
Asphalt driveways are 2 inches thick over a base of crushed gravel or sand. Increasing the thickness up to 6 inches enhances durability and longevity but raises material costs. Consider a thicker asphalt layer if you have:
Hot climates that soften asphalt
Climates prone to freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, or snow
Homes with multiple or heavy vehicles
Unstable underlying soil conditions
Asphalt costs between $100 and $200 per ton, with one ton covering 25 to 80 square feet depending on the total depth. Greater driveway depth equates to greater overall volume and increased material, resulting in higher total costs. See this example of various depths and associated materials cost for a 600-square-foot driveway.
| Asphalt Depth (Inches) | Coverage per Ton (Square Feet) | Average Materials Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 80 | $750–$1,500 |
| 3 | 70 | $900–$1,800 |
| 4 | 55 | $1,125–$2,250 |
| 5 | 40 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| 6 | 25 | $2,250–$4,500 |
Asphalt Type
Asphalt is available in several types and grades, with costs ranging from $3 to $25 per square foot. These materials are made with various types of aggregates and binders that protect the driveway’s integrity by directing water away rather than through.
Standard asphalt, also known as hot mix asphalt, is the most common type of asphalt used for driveways and costs between $7 and $15. Ranging from $6.20 to $8.75, reclaimed or recycled asphalt is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to standard asphalt, but it doesn’t always have the same durability or visual appeal, depending on installation and other factors. Other specialty options, such as stamped asphalt or heated blacktop, carry higher prices but offer premium visual appeal and other features.
Porous asphalt works differently—instead of letting water run off, its composition encourages water draining. This minimizes the need for leveling and grading, particularly in areas with drainage concerns, but may come with more complex installation and upkeep needs.
| Asphalt Type | Total Cost Range per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Standard asphalt | $7–$13 |
| Porous asphalt | $3–$8 |
| Reclaimed or recycled asphalt | $6.20–$8.75 |
| Stamped or colored asphalt | $10–$17 |
| Heated blacktop asphalt | $12–$25 |
Labor
Labor costs for asphalt driveway installation range from $5 to $7 per square foot, making up about half of your total expenses. Paving contractors handle site preparation, excavation, base installation, asphalt laying, compaction, and finishing. Costs vary based on your location and market demand—urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living may charge more.
Site Prep
Site preparation is crucial for a durable driveway and can cost $5 to $10 per square foot for excavation and grading. While not needed for every project, proper site prep provides a solid base. Additional costs may include removing trees and bushes or adding dirt or gravel fill.
Demolition and Removal
Removing an existing driveway costs between $1 and $2 per square foot for demolition and removal, including dismantling, hauling, and disposal. The cost can vary based on how difficult the material is to remove.
Features and Add-Ons
Additional features enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your driveway as well as the cost. Consider these add-ons:
Decorative stone or brick edging adds curb appeal and prevents erosion and cracking.
Drainage systems protect your driveway from water pooling and erosion.
Outdoor lighting enhances safety and visual appeal.
An automatic or manual driveway gate adds privacy, security, and curb appeal.
Ongoing Maintenance
Proper maintenance prolongs the life of your asphalt driveway and helps prevent costly repairs. Asphalt driveways require sealing about six months after installation, which protects the surface from cracking and deterioration from exposure to water, extreme weather conditions, and other factors. Expect to pay about $3 to $7 per square foot for sealcoating every two to three years, potentially more frequently depending on usage and wear.
Other maintenance includes crack filling and other minor asphalt repairs to prevent further damage. These services cost about $1 to $4 per linear foot, depending on the damage’s severity.
Asphalt Driveway Repaving vs. Repair
Choosing between repaving and repairing your asphalt driveway depends on its current condition and long-term goals. Asphalt driveway repairs are suitable for minor or localized damage, such as small cracks, potholes, or surface imperfections. Periodic resealing and asphalt resurfacing can also prevent and resolve damage issues, but they can only extend the lifespan of a driveway for a limited time.
Repaving your driveway is more cost-effective in the long term, especially if it’s more than 15 years old and showing significant signs of wear, such as extensive cracks, uneven surfaces, or eroded base materials. Although it requires greater investment and time than repairs, opting for a new driveway offers a smooth and high-quality upgrade that can yield increased property value and minimize repair costs.
| Factor | Repairing | Repaving |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $1 to $4 per linear foot | $7 to $13 per square foot |
| Lifespan extension | Extends life by a few years | Lasts 15 to 30 years |
| Extent of damage | Minor cracks and potholes | Extensive damage or structural issues |
| Warranty | Limited or none | Often includes contractor warranty |
| 50% rule | Repair if less than 50% damaged | Repave if more than 50% damaged |
Does an Asphalt Driveway Increase Home Value?
An asphalt driveway can boost your property's value, potentially matching or exceeding your investment. Homebuyers appreciate benefits like:
Enhanced curb appeal
Durable surface compared to other materials
Additional parking space
Lower maintenance and repair costs
Practicality in extreme weather conditions
Convenience for guests or renters
Budgeting for an Asphalt Driveway
Installing a new asphalt driveway is a major investment, but you can save money without sacrificing quality:
Get detailed quotes from multiple contractors.
Source materials locally to reduce delivery fees.
Choose a simple design with affordable, quality materials.
Hire a reputable contractor for quality work.
Maintain your driveway with regular resealing to extend its lifespan.
Ready to get started? Find a trusted asphalt paving professional in your area to get personalized quotes and expert advice.
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. We surveyed over 10,000 real customers about their project 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
An asphalt driveway can last 25 to 30 years when properly installed over a solid base with quality materials. Regular maintenance—like sealcoating every two to three years, cleaning, and prompt repairs—helps ensure its longevity. Considering factors like climate, soil stability, and usage will also extend its lifespan, making it a reliable long-term investment.
Yes, asphalt is less expensive than concrete. Asphalt driveways cost $7 to $15 per square foot, while concrete driveways can cost as much as $18 per square foot. Asphalt's lower cost is due to reduced installation and labor expenses and quicker completion times, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
To maintain an asphalt driveway effectively, it is essential to engage in regular cleaning to remove dirt, debris, and weeds. Additionally, applying a sealcoat every two to three years protects against water damage and UV degradation. Immediate repair of any cracks prevents further deterioration and preserves the driveway’s structural integrity. Consistent maintenance ensures the driveway remains both durable and visually appealing for many years.
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