Driveway comparison
Asphalt vs Concrete Driveway: Cost Comparison
Asphalt and concrete are the two main paved driveway materials. Asphalt is cheaper to install; concrete lasts longer and needs less upkeep. Here is the 2026 comparison.
Concrete
$6 to $14 per sq ft installed
Asphalt
$5 to $12 per sq ft installed
| Feature | Concrete | Asphalt |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost per sq ft | $6 to $14 | $5 to $12 |
| Typical 600 sq ft | $3,600 to $8,400 | $3,000 to $7,200 |
| Lifespan | 25 to 40 years | 15 to 20 years |
| Maintenance | Low, occasional sealing | Seal every few years |
| Climate | Better in heat | Better in cold |
| Repairs | Harder to patch | Easy to patch |
Concrete
- Lasts longer
- Less maintenance
- Can be stamped or colored
- Holds up in hot climates
- Higher upfront cost
- Cracks are hard to hide
- Longer cure time
Asphalt
- Lower upfront cost
- Quick to install and use
- Easy to patch
- Flexes in cold
- Shorter lifespan
- Needs regular sealing
- Softens in extreme heat
The verdict
Choose asphalt for the lowest upfront cost and in cold climates where it flexes with freeze-thaw. Choose concrete for the longest lifespan and least maintenance, especially in hot climates and if you want decorative finishes.
Frequently asked questions
Is concrete or asphalt cheaper for a driveway?
Asphalt is cheaper to install, about $5 to $12 per square foot versus $6 to $14 for concrete. Concrete lasts longer and needs less maintenance, so its lifetime cost can be lower.
Which lasts longer, asphalt or concrete?
Concrete lasts longer, about 25 to 40 years versus 15 to 20 for asphalt, though asphalt performs better in very cold, freeze-thaw climates.