How Much Does It Usually Cost to Pave a Driveway?

Paving your driveway makes your home look cleaner and gives your yard a nice finish. It’s also just more practical—less mud, fewer puddles, and it’s easier on your car.

But how much are we talking? Well, it depends on a few things:

• What kind of material you pick
• How big your driveway is
• Where you live

In some places, labor costs more or materials aren’t easy to get. If you’re looking into asphalt paving contractors in Northern VA, this article will help you figure things out.

How much does a 20x20 asphalt driveway cost?

What is the least expensive way to pave a driveway?

Trying to keep costs down? Asphalt isn’t your only option. Here are two cheaper choices:

Gravel: $1 to $2 per square foot

Tar and chip: $2 to $5 per square foot



Gravel is just crushed rocks spread out evenly. It’s the cheapest and fastest to install, but it needs more care over time. You might get weeds, ruts, or loose stones.

Tar and chip is a bit more stable. It uses hot tar and stone chips to make a rough, solid surface. It looks good and handles weather well.

It’s a smart choice if you want something stronger than gravel but still cheaper than full asphalt.

Want to learn more? Find out more about our tar and chip services.

How much does it cost to pave a 1500 square foot driveway?

Got a big driveway or a few cars in the family? If your driveway is 1,500 square feet, expect to spend more.

Here’s the usual range for asphalt:

Low end: $4,500

High end: $7,500

Why the range?

• Some driveways need a thick gravel base
• You might need drainage to handle rain
• If your land isn’t flat, it’ll take more work
• If there’s an old driveway to rip out

Fancy extras like stone borders or curves add more cost

A solid base is key. If it’s done right, your driveway will last longer and won’t crack early. That’s why picking a skilled asphalt paving company is a big deal.

Is it cheaper to pave or concrete a driveway?

Here’s the basic price comparison:

Asphalt: $3–$5 per square foot

Concrete: $6–$10 per square foot

Concrete costs more upfront, but here’s what else to think about:

• Asphalt lasts 15 to 20 years
• Concrete can last 25 to 30 years
• Asphalt is cheaper and easier to fix
• Concrete holds up better in super hot weather
• Asphalt can soften in heat but does better in freezing temps

So, if you want something easier on the wallet now, asphalt is a good pick. If you want fewer repairs over the long haul and live somewhere hot, concrete might make more sense.

The good news? Asphalt paving contractors in Northern VA know what works best in this area. They can look at your driveway and give you advice based on real local experience.

Locally trusted asphalt paving experts are ready to help.

Want to know what it’ll cost for your home? Get your free estimate today.

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