An asphalt driveway costs $7 to $15 per square foot for new installation and $3 to $7 for resurfacing. A standard two-car driveway runs $4,200 to $9,000 total.
Average Asphalt Driveway Costs
Most asphalt driveway projects cost between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on the size, type of work, and site conditions.
Asphalt driveway cost per square foot (installed)
| Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Installation | $7 – $15/ sq ft |
| Resurfacing | $3 – $7/ sq ft |
For a standard two-car driveway (roughly 600 sq ft):
- New installation: $4,200 to $9,000
- Resurfacing: $1,800 to $4,200
New Installation vs. Resurfacing
The biggest cost factor is whether you need a completely new driveway or can resurface the existing one.
New Installation
A new asphalt driveway involves excavation, grading, laying a gravel base, and applying asphalt in multiple layers. This is necessary when there is no existing driveway or the current one has severe structural damage like deep cracks, heaving, or a failed base.
Resurfacing
If your existing driveway has a solid base but the surface is worn, cracked, or faded, resurfacing is the more affordable option. A new layer of asphalt (typically 1.5 to 2 inches) is applied over the existing surface. This works well for driveways that are less than 20 years old with minor surface damage.
What Affects Asphalt Driveway Cost?
Thickness
Standard residential driveways use 2 inches of asphalt. Heavy-duty options at 4 inches are recommended for areas with heavy vehicles or harsh freeze-thaw cycles. Expect a 20 percent increase for heavy-duty thickness.
Site Access and Preparation
Difficult access (narrow lots, steep grades, or obstacles) increases labor costs. If significant grading or drainage work is needed before paving, that adds to the total.
Driveway Size and Shape
Larger driveways cost more overall but less per square foot due to economies of scale. Curved or irregularly shaped driveways require more precision and labor. If you are considering pavers as an alternative material, our pavers vs concrete patio comparison covers the key trade-offs.
Geographic Location
Asphalt prices fluctuate with oil prices since asphalt is a petroleum product. Regional differences in labor costs and material availability also affect pricing.
How Long Does an Asphalt Driveway Last?
A properly installed and maintained asphalt driveway lasts 15 to 25 years. To maximize its lifespan:
- Sealcoat every 2 to 3 years to protect against UV damage and water infiltration
- Fill cracks promptly before they expand
- Avoid heavy loads in hot weather when asphalt is soft
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent water pooling
Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveway
Asphalt is generally cheaper to install than concrete ($7 to $15 per sq ft vs. $8 to $18 per sq ft). Asphalt is also easier and cheaper to repair. However, concrete lasts longer (25 to 50 years) and offers more design options. In cold climates, asphalt tends to perform better because it flexes with freeze-thaw cycles. For a side-by-side look at all driveway materials, see our driveway paving cost guide.
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Use our free asphalt calculator to see what your driveway project might cost based on your specific dimensions and requirements.
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