Standard steel rebar costs $0.18 to $6.80 per foot; specialized types and increased sizes increase this cost.
Rebar diameter is measured in imperial bar sizes (the most common are #3 through #8). Larger bar sizes are stronger but more expensive.
Rebar is separated by grade, with grades 40 and 60 being the most common.
You can reduce the cost of rebar by limiting the size, using repetitive bar lengths and cutting them to your needs, and choosing carbon steel rebar.
Working with a concrete professional ensures a high-quality result and a job done right.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Rebar costs range from $0.18 to $6.80 per foot for standard steel and can go up to $16 per linear foot for stainless steel. Knowing the cost factors—like size, type, grade, delivery, and quantity—helps you budget effectively for your concrete or masonry project. Hiring a concrete professional ensures your project is completed efficiently.
Your final rebar cost per foot is determined by a variety of factors. Here’s a closer look at what influences your total.
Each type of rebar—like carbon steel, stainless steel, galvanized, fiberglass, or epoxy-coated—has its own pros, cons, and price points. For most residential projects, standard carbon steel rebar works well. If your project is located in a high-moisture area, you may want to consider options such as galvanized or stainless steel for improved corrosion resistance, although these materials come at a higher cost.
Rebar Type | Average Cost per Linear Foot |
---|---|
Carbon steel (standard) | $0.18–$6.80 per foot |
Stainless steel | $2.50–$16 per foot |
Galvanized | 10%–15% more than standard steel |
Fiberglass | 20%–25% more per foot than standard steel |
Epoxy-coated | $300–$400 per 50-lb box |
Carbon steel is the most common rebar type for residential and commercial jobs. It’s cost-effective, considering its durability, which offers suitable strength and lifespan for most projects. However, it may not be suitable for locations with high moisture levels, such as humid climates or coastal areas. Carbon steel rebar costs between $0.18 and $6.80 per linear foot and is easily cut, welded, and worked with.
At $2.50 to $16 per linear foot, stainless steel is more expensive than carbon steel but offers enhanced protection against corrosion. This makes it a great option for projects in humid climates or anywhere with high moisture levels. Stainless steel rebar is virtually maintenance-free, but it is more difficult to weld than carbon steel.
Galvanized rebar is a special kind of alloy steel rebar that’s dipped in zinc. This adds an extra layer of protection against corrosion, offering 40 times the protection of standard carbon steel rebar. Galvanized rebar also tends to be more durable during shipping and installation. It costs 10% to 15% more than standard steel rebar.
Fiberglass rebar is specifically designed for areas frequently exposed to water, such as docks, jetties, piers, bridges, or construction in high-humidity areas. Fiberglass rebar never corrodes and has a higher tensile strength than carbon steel rebar. It’s also much lighter than steel, which saves money on delivery. Fiberglass rebar costs 20% to $25% more than standard steel rebar.
Epoxy-coated rebar costs $300 to $400 per 50-pound box and is designed for use in construction projects in high-humidity or high-moisture areas where corrosion is a significant concern. The steel rebar is covered in a thick coating of epoxy, slowing corrosion for as long as the coating lasts. However, the coating is sometimes damaged during transport, which limits its anti-corrosion properties.
Rebar is further categorized by grade, which is used to measure the yield and tensile strength range of each rebar grade. Yield strength refers to how much stress the rebar can take before it begins to permanently deform and bend, while tensile strength measures how much stress the rebar can take before it breaks. These stress limits are measured in kilopounds per square inch (ksi).
The two most common rebar grades are 40 (40 ksi) and 60 (60 ksi), although you can also find grades 75, 80, and 100 for heavy-duty projects. Grade 40 rebar is the most common type used for residential projects, while stronger Grade 60 rebar is used for heavier projects, such as buildings and bridges. You can expect to pay up to 40% more for Grade 60 rebar than for Grade 40 rebar. Grade 40 is recommended for patios, and grade 60 is recommended for driveways.
Don't forget to factor in delivery costs. Rebar is heavy and bulky, so shipping costs can add up, especially when ordering large quantities or if the shipment has to travel a long distance. To get an accurate idea of delivery charges, check with local suppliers or concrete contractors—they might offer better rates or include delivery in their services.
If you need thicker rebar for reinforcement, consider placing a mixed order of #3 and #4 rebar rather than purchasing all #4 rebar, for example. You might still be able to negotiate a bulk discount.
Utilize repetitive bar lengths to minimize fabrication and placement costs (the standard bar length is 60 feet).
If you’re building an irregularly sized wall or slab, you can save money by buying stock-length bars and having them cut or spliced to size onsite.
Use the right type of rebar. Standard steel works for most applications, while galvanized, fiberglass, and stainless steel are best reserved for projects where corrosion is a concern.
Rebar can be a significant investment and it plays an important part in your concrete projects. Whether you’re building a new patio or a driveway, hiring a concrete professional ensures the best quality results and that your rebar is used properly. Prevent costly mistakes and ensure a professional finish by hiring a local concrete contractor for your project.
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.
Calculating the amount of rebar needed depends on your specific project, including factors such as the size and type of structure. It's best to consult a local concrete contractor or structural engineer. They can assess your project and ensure you use the right amount of rebar to meet safety standards and building codes.
The type of rebar you choose depends on your project. Wire mesh is suitable for lighter, thinner concrete surfaces like sidewalks. Rebar is stronger and better suited for thicker applications, such as driveways and garage floors. It's a good idea to consult a professional to determine the best option for your project’s needs.
Stainless steel rebar is more expensive but offers durability and corrosion resistance, especially in high-moisture or corrosive environments. If you want extra longevity, investing in stainless steel rebar may be worth the higher cost.