Concrete is bought by the cubic yard, and the price per yard is only the starting point. Delivery fees, short load charges, pumping, reinforcing and labor can double the cost of what ends up in the ground. This guide explains what a yard of concrete costs, what changes the price and how to calculate how much you need.
Average Cost of Ready Mix Concrete per Cubic Yard
According to Concrete Network, the national average price of ready mix concrete in 2025 was about $180 per cubic yard, with a typical range of $160 to $195. Prices are higher in large cities and remote areas, and lower where there is strong competition between suppliers. Always confirm with a local ready mix plant before you bid, because prices change during the year.
What Changes the Price per Yard
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| Strength (psi) | Higher strength mixes use more cement and cost more per yard |
| Admixtures | Accelerators, retarders, fiber and air entrainment add cost |
| Delivery distance | Long hauls from the plant add fuel and time charges |
| Short loads | Small orders below a full truck often carry a short load fee |
| Weekend or after hours | Pours outside normal hours often cost extra |
| Hot or cold weather | Chilled water, ice, heated water or blankets add cost |
The Real Cost Is More Than the Concrete
When you estimate a concrete scope, the ready mix is only one line. A complete concrete estimate also includes:
- Formwork, measured in square feet of contact area (see our formwork estimating page)
- Reinforcing steel, measured in pounds (see rebar takeoff)
- Vapor barrier, base course and compaction under slabs
- Pump truck or conveyor when the truck cannot reach the pour
- Finishing, curing, saw cutting and joint sealant
- Labor for placing and finishing, and testing if required
How to Calculate Cubic Yards
Multiply length by width by thickness, all in feet, to get cubic feet. Then divide by 27 to get cubic yards.
| Example | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Slab 20 ft by 30 ft, 4 inches thick | 20 x 30 x 0.333 = 200 cubic feet, divided by 27 | 7.4 cubic yards |
| Footing 100 ft long, 2 ft wide, 1 ft deep | 100 x 2 x 1 = 200 cubic feet, divided by 27 | 7.4 cubic yards |
Add 5 to 10 percent for waste, uneven subgrade and spillage. You can also use our free concrete calculator.
Ready Mix vs Bagged Concrete
For very small jobs, such as setting posts, bagged concrete mixed on site can be simpler. Once a pour reaches about one cubic yard, ready mix is usually faster and more consistent. One cubic yard is roughly 45 bags of 80 pound mix, which is a lot of mixing by hand.
Tips to Control Concrete Costs
- Order full truckloads when you can, to avoid short load fees.
- Plan pours so the truck is not waiting, because standby time is often billed.
- Confirm the mix design in the specs before you price, so you do not overpay for strength you do not need, or underbid strength that is required.
- Take off formwork and rebar carefully. They often cost as much as the concrete.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a yard of concrete cost?
The 2025 national average for ready mix was about $180 per cubic yard according to Concrete Network, with most prices between $160 and $195. Local prices vary.
How many square feet does a yard of concrete cover?
At 4 inches thick, one cubic yard covers about 81 square feet. At 6 inches thick, it covers about 54 square feet.
Does the price include delivery?
Not always. Many suppliers add delivery, fuel or short load fees. Ask for the full delivered price.
Need a concrete takeoff for your bid?
We take off concrete, rebar and formwork for footings, walls and slabs and deliver editable Excel, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
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