Quick Answer
- New asphalt driveway: $3–$7 per sq ft installed (labor + materials)
- Asphalt resurfacing/overlay: $1.50–$3 per sq ft
- Standard driveway (12×40 ft = 480 sq ft): $1,440–$3,360
- Asphalt sealcoating: $0.15–$0.25 per sq ft (every 3–5 years)
Cost by Driveway Size
| Driveway Size | Sq Ft | Installed Cost (New) | Resurfacing Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single car (10×20 ft) | 200 | $600–$1,400 | $300–$600 |
| Standard (12×40 ft) | 480 | $1,440–$3,360 | $720–$1,440 |
| Double lane (20×40 ft) | 800 | $2,400–$5,600 | $1,200–$2,400 |
| Long rural (12×100 ft) | 1,200 | $3,600–$8,400 | $1,800–$3,600 |
| Large country (20×200 ft) | 4,000 | $12,000–$28,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
What's Included in the Cost?
| Cost Component | % of Total | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Subbase preparation (gravel layer) | 15–25% | $0.50–$1.50/sq ft |
| Asphalt material (hot mix) | 40–50% | $1.50–$3.00/sq ft |
| Labor (paving crew) | 25–35% | $1.00–$2.00/sq ft |
| Equipment (paver, roller) | 10–15% | included in labor |
| Old driveway removal | extra | $1–$3/sq ft additional |
Factors That Affect Asphalt Cost
- Oil prices: Asphalt is petroleum-based — costs rise and fall with crude oil prices
- Region: Northeast and West Coast average 15–30% more than Southeast
- Thickness: Standard residential = 2.5–3 inches. Heavy truck use = 4+ inches
- Prep work: Removing an existing driveway adds $1–$3/sq ft
- Season: Winter paving can cost 5–15% more due to challenges with curing
💡 Get 3 quotes and ask the right questions
- What thickness of asphalt is included?
- How many inches of base gravel will they install?
- Does the quote include sealing after installation?
- Is there a warranty on workmanship?
Calculate Asphalt for Your Driveway
Enter dimensions and thickness to get tons of asphalt, square yards, and cost estimate.
Open Asphalt Calculator →FAQ
How much does it cost to asphalt a 12×40 ft driveway?
A standard 12×40 ft (480 sq ft) driveway costs $1,440–$3,360 for new installation at $3–$7/sq ft. Resurfacing an existing driveway: $720–$1,440.
How long does an asphalt driveway last?
20–30 years with proper maintenance. Sealcoat every 3–5 years ($75–$200 for standard driveway) and fill cracks promptly to maximize lifespan.
What's the cheapest driveway material?
- Gravel: $0.50–$3/sq ft — cheapest but requires periodic topping
- Asphalt: $3–$7/sq ft — mid-range; lasts 20–30 years
- Concrete: $6–$12/sq ft — most expensive; lasts 30–50 years