If you’re planning a new patio, driveway, garage floor, or any other concrete project, one of the most important questions you’re likely asking is: how much does 500 square feet of concrete cost?
At Concrete Company, we know how essential it is to understand the true cost of materials, labor, and extras before you start pouring. That’s why we’ve broken down all the key elements that go into pricing a 500 sq ft concrete slab — including concrete mix pricing, delivery, labor, finishing, and long-term value.
Whether you’re a homeowner planning a DIY project or a contractor gathering quotes, this guide will help you make the most informed decisions possible.
Average Cost of a 500 Square Foot Concrete Slab
The average cost to install 500 square feet of concrete typically ranges from $2,500 to $6,000, depending on a number of factors like thickness, finish, and reinforcement. That’s approximately $5 to $12 per square foot, fully installed.
At Concrete Company, we find that most of our customers pay around $3,750 for a standard 4-inch thick concrete slab with basic finishing and no decorative upgrades.
Basic Cost Breakdown:
- Concrete Material: $125–$150 per cubic yard
- Concrete Needed: Around 6.25–7.5 cubic yards (depending on thickness)
- Concrete Delivery: $100–$200
- Labor: $2–$4 per square foot
- Finish Work: $1–$3 per square foot (if required)
- Rebar or Wire Mesh Reinforcement: $0.50–$1 per square foot
How Thickness Affects Concrete Cost
The thickness of the slab is one of the biggest factors affecting the final cost.
- 4-inch slab (most common): Suitable for patios, walkways, and some residential floors
- 5-inch slab: Offers added durability for driveways or garage floors
- 6-inch slab: Ideal for heavy loads like RVs, trucks, or commercial vehicles
Each additional inch of thickness will increase the concrete volume and cost by about 20-25%. If you’re unsure about the right thickness for your project, Concrete Company is happy to provide guidance based on your needs.
Material Costs: Concrete Price Per Yard
Concrete is generally sold by the cubic yard. One cubic yard covers:
- 81 square feet at 4 inches thick
- 65 square feet at 5 inches thick
- 54 square feet at 6 inches thick
For a 500 sq ft slab at 4 inches thick, you’ll need roughly 6.2 cubic yards of concrete.
At current market rates:
- $125 to $150 per cubic yard
- Total Material Cost: $775 to $1,000
If you’re working with Concrete Company, we offer transparent pricing and volume discounts for larger orders.
Labor Costs for Pouring Concrete
While DIY projects are possible, most concrete installations are done by professionals. Labor typically includes:
- Site preparation
- Framing with wood forms
- Mixing and pouring
- Screeding and finishing
- Clean-up and curing
Labor usually runs between $2 and $4 per square foot, or $1,000 to $2,000 for a 500 sq ft slab.
At Concrete Company, our crews are trained to work efficiently, keeping your labor costs competitive while ensuring high-quality results.
Optional Features and Their Impact on Cost
If you’re looking to go beyond a basic gray slab, there are plenty of upgrades to consider.
Decorative Finishes
- Stamped Concrete: Adds texture and pattern, mimicking stone or brick. Adds $8–$18 per sq ft.
- Colored Concrete: Integral color or stains range from $0.50–$2 per sq ft.
- Polished Concrete: For interior slabs, adds $3–$8 per sq ft.
Reinforcement
- Rebar: $0.75–$1.50 per sq ft
- Wire Mesh: $0.50–$1 per sq ft
Adding reinforcement is recommended for driveways, garages, or any area exposed to heavy loads or freeze-thaw cycles.
Vapor Barrier and Gravel Base
- Vapor Barrier: $0.50 per sq ft
- Gravel Base: $1.25–$1.75 per sq ft
Both help improve drainage and prevent cracking, especially in wet climates. At Concrete Company, we include base prep in most standard installation packages.
Regional Pricing Variations
Concrete pricing can vary depending on your location. For example:
- Urban areas: Higher labor costs and permit fees
- Rural areas: Lower labor, but possibly higher delivery charges
- Climate zones: Colder climates may require thicker slabs or insulation
Contact Concrete Company to get a precise quote based on your region and project scope. We work across a wide range of zip codes and always account for local material availability.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
Installing concrete yourself can save on labor, but it’s a physically demanding job that requires the right tools and knowledge.
DIY Cost Estimate:
- Concrete Mix: $900
- Delivery: $150
- Tool Rentals (mixer, screed, trowel): $200
- Miscellaneous (forms, gravel, stakes): $150
- Total: ~$1,400–$1,500
Professional Install Estimate:
- Materials and Labor: $3,500–$4,500
- All tools, reinforcement, finishing, and warranties included
Concrete Company offers affordable packages that give you the best value without the hassle of DIY. We also handle permitting and inspections where required.
Cost by Project Type (Examples)
Here’s what 500 sq ft of concrete may cost based on the type of project:
- Basic Patio: $2,500–$3,500
- Stamped Patio: $5,000–$7,500
- Garage Floor: $3,000–$4,000
- Driveway (standard): $3,500–$5,000
- Shed Foundation: $2,750–$3,750
Every project has its own variables, so it’s always best to get a custom quote from Concrete Company.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much concrete do I need for 500 square feet?
For a 4-inch slab, you’ll need approximately 6.2 cubic yards of concrete. Thicker slabs will require more. Concrete Company can help you calculate exact volume needs for your job.
What is the cheapest way to pour a concrete slab?
Using basic gray concrete, minimal reinforcement, and no finish upgrades will reduce costs. You can also save by prepping the site yourself. Concrete Company offers budget-friendly packages for cost-conscious customers.
Can I pour a concrete slab myself?
Yes, but it requires careful planning, proper tools, and experience. Mistakes can lead to cracks, poor drainage, or uneven surfaces. Concrete Company can save you time and long-term repair costs by doing it right the first time.
How long does it take to pour and cure 500 sq ft of concrete?
Pouring typically takes 1 day. Initial set takes 24-48 hours. Full curing for maximum strength takes 28 days. We recommend waiting at least 7 days before placing heavy objects on the slab.
How thick should my concrete slab be?
For most residential projects, 4 inches is standard. If you plan to park heavy vehicles, go with 5 or 6 inches. Concrete Company offers expert advice based on your use case.
What’s included in Concrete Company’s concrete installation service?
We handle everything from site prep and formwork to mixing, pouring, finishing, and cleanup. We also offer optional upgrades like reinforcement, decorative finishes, and sealing.
Final Thoughts
The cost of 500 square feet of concrete depends on the slab thickness, finish, site conditions, and labor. For most residential projects, you can expect to spend between $2,500 and $6,000, depending on your choices and whether you DIY or hire a pro.
At Concrete Company, we make concrete installation affordable, professional, and hassle-free. Whether you’re planning a new patio, foundation, garage floor, or driveway, we’ll walk you through every step and provide a quote that fits your goals and budget.
Ready to get started?
Contact Concrete Company today for a free estimate and expert guidance on your next concrete project.