How Much Does a Custom Concrete Patio Cost in the St. Louis?

Average Concrete Patio Prices in 2026

In 2026, St. Louis homeowners will typically spend between $4 and $30 per square foot to build concrete patio installations. The lowest price point is for a standard gray concrete with a simple broom finish, while the higher price point is for an elaborate stamped or stained design. For example, a 400-square-foot (a standard 20-foot by 20-foot) patio would be priced at anywhere from $1,600 to $12,000, depending on the degree of finish complexity. On average, a mid-range project with one decorative element is estimated to be around $3,500. Approximately 50 to 60% of all the money spent on building a concrete patio goes toward the labor involved, while the remaining percentage is spent on materials.

promptly

The Size of the Patio and Its Effect on Overall Cost

Since most concrete patio builders charge by the square foot, the size of the patio has a dramatic effect on how much you will ultimately pay. Small “bistro” style patios of 100 to 150 square feet can cost anywhere from $400 to $4,500 to complete, while mid-sized patio gatherings of 200 to 300 square feet are generally priced between $800 to $9,000. Large patio gatherings of 400 to 600 square feet are often used to include an outdoor kitchen and/or seating arrangement and can cost anywhere from $1,600 to $18,000. One interesting thing to note is that because larger patio projects allow for more efficient labor and bulk purchasing of materials, many times the cost per square foot decreases as the size of the patio grows. Some patio builders have a minimum project fee for small patio projects, which could result in a slightly higher cost per square foot.

Decorative Finishes and Their Prices

The simplest and least expensive decorative finish for a concrete patio is plain gray concrete at a price of $4 to $12 per square foot installed. Gray concrete is a durable, clean, functional surface that lasts for 30 to 50 years if properly maintained. Adding a broom finish to your concrete patio adds some subtle texture and slip resistance and costs anywhere from $1 to $3 per square foot extra. An exposed aggregate finish is also available and creates a visually interesting surface that also provides excellent traction. Exposed aggregate is created when the decorative stones in the concrete mix are left uncovered after the slab is finished, and costs anywhere from $7 to $18 per square foot. This finish is very popular among homeowners who live in areas of the city where there are pools (such as Botanical Heights and Franz Park), as it is extremely slip-resistant and, therefore, provides a safe walking surface.

Stamped and Stained Concrete Features

Stamped concrete transforms a patio into a feature that mimics natural stone, brick, or tile and costs anywhere from $9 to $30 per square foot. To create these patterns and textures, concrete stampers press specialized stamps into wet concrete. Because of the wide variety of stamps and stamp combinations available, along with different colors and decorative borders, the cost of stamped concrete can vary greatly depending on the design desired. Stained concrete is another feature that homeowners can use to upgrade the look of their patio, and it costs anywhere from $8 to $25 per square foot. Acid-stained concrete creates rich, variegated earth tones that penetrate deeply into the surface of the concrete. There are also water-based stains that provide a wider range of colors and more consistent results. When you combine stamping with staining, you get the ultimate in custom concrete patio designs, but at a much greater cost.

Breakdown of Material and Labor Costs

Materials for a concrete patio will cost anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot, depending on the quality and the number of decorative elements selected. Gray concrete is usually less expensive than colored concrete that contains integral pigments. Professional installation labor costs typically range from $2 to $18 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project and the experience level of the installer. Simple installations with straightforward shapes and finishes fall at the low end, while complex designs that incorporate multiple decorative techniques fall at the high end. In addition to the cost of materials and labor, other factors such as site-preparation work (excavation, grading for drainage, etc.), and the cost of reinforcing materials (wire mesh or rebar) should also be factored into the total price of the project. Reinforcing materials are necessary to prevent cracking in Missouri’s freeze-thaw environment.

Reinforcement and Foundation Requirements

To ensure the long-term performance of your concrete patio and to prevent cracking due to temperature fluctuations, you need to ensure that your patio is properly reinforced. Wire mesh is a good choice for most residential concrete slabs (it costs anywhere from $1 to $1.50 per square foot and can handle a 4-inch-thick slab). If you are looking to pour a thicker slab (for example, 5 to 6 inches) and, or if you want to add weight to your patio (for example, by installing an outdoor kitchen, a hot tub, or a fire pit), then you should consider using rebar (rebar costs anywhere from $2 to $3 per square foot).

In general, most residential concrete slabs are poured 3.5 to 4 inches thick, which is sufficient for most furniture and traffic. However, properties that intend to install large heavy items outdoors (such as those mentioned above) should consider pouring a 5 to6-inch-thickk slab. Regardless of the thickness of the slab, it is always best to install expansion joints so that the concrete can expand and contract with seasonal changes, thereby reducing the likelihood of cracking.

Additional Expenses Due to Site-Preparation Work

Preparation of the property for the concrete installation will add significant expense to the total cost of the project, beyond just the cost of materials and labor. Grading and leveling services will cost you anywhere from $0.40 to $2 per square foot, or $500 to $1,000 for a small patio area. Properties with steep slopes or poor drainage will require a lot more work to prepare, and thus will add a lot more expense. If you currently have a concrete patio and you want to remove it, you will need to hire someone to demolish it and dispose of the rubble, which will cost you anywhere from $1 to $4 per square foot.

Building Permits Required for Your Project

Typically, building permits issued by the City of St. Louis cost anywhere from $50 to $200, and will depend on the scope of your project and the location of the property. Depending on your neighborhood (for example, Clayton-Tamm and Hi-Pointe) and the size and complexity of your project, you may need to obtain a permit to begin construction.

Accessibility and Property Challenges

Accessibility of your property to the concrete delivery truck can impact the cost of your project. If your backyard is accessible via a narrow side yard or gate, it will take longer for the delivery driver to unload the materials, and will therefore increase your labor costs. Similarly, if your property has steep slopes, you will need to pay to have them graded, which will increase your overall costs. As you develop your property for your concrete patio installation, you will need to navigate around any existing landscaping, trees, and underground utilities, which will add to your labor costs. Furthermore, if you live in an area known for having poor soil (for example, near Tower Grove Park), you may need to pay to have additional preparation done, or even special drainage solutions, to support your new patio.

Basic to Custom Design Element Comparison

A simple rectangular or square patio with a plain finish is the cheapest way to go at a price of $4 to $9 per square foot. While these functional spaces provide great value and durability, they do not have any decorative elements. Mid-range designs that include one color or a simple stamped pattern cost $8 to $15 per square foot and are much more aesthetically pleasing than basic designs. High-end designs that include multiple colors, intricate stamping, contrasting borders, and hand-applied details can cost anywhere from $15 to $30 per square foot. Designs with curved edges, circular designs, and multi-level constructions are much more complex than rectangular designs and will, therefore, require specialized forming and additional labor, which can increase the cost of the project by 15 to 30%.

Feature Integration and Amenities

Many homeowners choose to integrate additional features into their patio designs to create a complete outdoor living space. Seating walls built into the patio add functionality and define the boundaries of the space, and cost anywhere from $30 to $60 per linear foot. Fire pit installations can cost anywhere from $325 to $2,000, depending on the size and fuel type. Outdoor kitchens are a significant investment and can cost anywhere from $7,000 to $35,000, depending on the size and number of appliances included. Pergolas provide shade and add architectural interest to a patio and can cost anywhere from $1,450 to $5,750 to install. Lighting systems provide safety and ambiance to a patio and can cost anywhere from $80 to $300 per fixture. These amenities turn a basic patio into an entire outdoor room, and are popular throughout neighborhoods in the south city of St. Louis (including those near the Missouri Botanical Garden and Lafayette Square).

Timing and Seasonality

Both the timing and seasonality of your project can impact the pricing and success of your project. Peak construction season in St. Louis occurs during the spring and fall, when contractor schedules are booked solid, and prices are highest. Summer is a consistent weather window for construction, although extreme heat requires special curing procedures. Winter is limited by temperature, as concrete must be placed and cured in above-freezing temperatures. However, contractors may offer discounts during the slow winter months, provided the weather cooperates. Booking early in the season, either in the spring or fall, will help to ensure that you secure the contractor of your preference and avoid delays caused by contractor overbooking.

Impact of Weather on Installation Success

The weather in St. Louis can have a big impact on the success of your concrete installation, nd when you schedule your project. Hot, dry summer days require careful management of moisture to prevent rapid surface drying and cracking. Contractors use curing compounds and water misting to control moisture during the critical curing period. Spring and fall provide ideal weather conditions for concrete placement and finishing. Unpredictable temperature swings or sudden rainfall can delay your project and negatively impact your final product. Experienced contractors carefully monitor the weather forecast to minimize delays and adjust their schedules to optimize the installation process. Additionally, Missouri’s humid climate generally benefits the curing of concrete; however, contractors must protect freshly placed concrete from excessive rain within the first 24 hours.

Long-term Maintenance and Value

Taking care to regularly seal your concrete patio will extend the useful life of your investment and provide many years of enjoyment for you, your family, and your friends. The cost to professionally seal your patio every two to three years is typically anywhere from $1 to $3 per square foot, and will help prevent stains, moisture penetration, and surface degradation. Given the freeze-thaw cycles and extreme temperatures of St. Louis, this preventative maintenance is crucial. Minor crack repairs performed promptly will cost you anywhere from $200 to $500, and will help prevent small problems from becoming major structural issues. Regular power washing will maintain the appearance of your patio at an annual cost of anywhere from $0.30 to $0.50 per square foot, and will help remove dirt, mildew, and algae buildup. Resealing and resurfacing an existing patio will cost anywhere from $3 to $10 per square foot, which is a fraction of what it will cost to completely replace the patio.

Return on Investment Considerations

Compared to other outdoor living options, a concrete patio provides tremendous value. Wood decks cost anywhere from $15 to $35 per square foot, which is comparable to, or often greater than, the cost of a concrete patio. However, wood decks require more maintenance than a concrete patio. Pavers made from brick or natural stone can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 per square foot, which is often double the cost of a concrete patio. With a lifespan of 30 to 40-plus years, concrete far outlasts most other materials and provides superior long-term value. Real estate professionals agree that an attractive outdoor living space will increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. Neighborhoods in the south city of St. Louis, with high demand and relatively short supply, are no exception.

Cost Saving Strategies That Don’t Compromise Quality

There are several ways to reduce the cost of a concrete patio without compromising the quality and durability of the finished product. One way is to request detailed quotes from multiple licensed contractors, which will give you an idea of the going rate for materials and labor in your area. By choosing a simpler design, rather than an elaborate multi-color stamping job, you can save thousands of dollars while still getting a beautiful, functional space. Performing the site-preparation work yourself (debris removal, minor grading, etc.) can save you money on labor, but keep in mind that a professional installation is still a necessity for long-term performance. Booking your project during the off-season of the contractor can potentially save you 10 to 15%, while still getting an experienced contractor. Finally, by planning for a modest installation now, with room to grow in the future, you can spread the costs over multiple seasons.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Choosing a qualified contractor is the most important decision you will make regarding your concrete patio. Not only will a professional contractor protect your interests and ensure that the project is completed correctly, but a professional contractor will also ensure that you receive the quality and longevity that you expect. All licensed contractors have the proper insurance and bonding to protect you from liability and ensure that the project is completed. Experienced contractors are familiar with the characteristics of St. Louis’ clay soils and will know how to adjust the installation techniques to meet the demands of the local climate.

A professional contractor will provide you with a detailed, written estimate, which will outline the materials to be used, the method of installation, the dimensions of the patio, and the warranty offered. A contractor with recent references will provide you with insight into their ability to perform quality work, communicate effectively, and solve problems. Contractors who specialize in working with homeowners in the St. Louis area are familiar with the permitting requirements of the City Building Division and will assist you with obtaining the necessary approvals for your project. Established contractors will also provide you with a warranty that covers any defects in the workmanship.

At St. Louis Concrete Works, we create beautiful concrete patio installations throughout the metro area, combining transparent pricing with superior craftsmanship to deliver outdoor living spaces that enhance your home’s functionality, beauty, and value for years to come.