20’x20′ Asphalt Driveway Cost ranges between $2,800 and $6,000, depending on some factors like asphalt type, slope of the driveway, asphalt price per square foot or ton, location, and condition of the existing surface. Asphalt is no doubt a popular choice for driveways, especially in northern climates, due to its durability in cold winters. Before constructing your asphalt driveway, it is crucial to consider these factors that impact the overall cost.
What Is 20’x20′ Asphalt Driveway Cost In 2025?
A driveway doesn’t just add a functional part to your property, but also adds to its curb appeal and value. If you’re in a moderate or cold climate, an asphalt driveway is a solid choice due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. They are easier to maintain than gravel, more affordable than concrete, and can last 20 to 30 years with proper maintenance.
Asphalt driveways usually cost between $7 and $15 per square foot, including materials and installation. However, it can vary depending on the size and slope of the driveway. However, the average cost of 20’x20′ Asphalt Driveway is around $4,000 for a standard installation. You may also consider renovating your garage before constructing the driveway.
Please note that some people think that asphalt and blacktop are the same thing. However, they’re made from similar materials and can withstand different weather conditions and usage well, but they’re slightly different. Blacktop is a strong and durable material often used for driveways and homes. However, asphalt is usually used on busy roads and is stronger.
What Is Asphalt Driveway Cost per Square Foot?
Asphalt driveways are a budget-friendly option. It ranges between $7 to $15 per square foot for a fully installed driveway, depending on factors like asphalt type, soil conditions and type, and driveway slope.
For example, the material cost ranges between $1 to $5 per square foot, and the installation cost if the surface condition is good ranges between $4 to $13 per square foot. However, in case of poor soil, consider an additional base cost of $2 per square foot.
On average, a new asphalt driveway can cost you around $10 with a good base. Those with favorable conditions might pay closer to $7 per square foot.
| Driveway Type | Dimensions | Square Feet | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single stall | 10 x 20-feet | 200 | $1,400 - $2,000 |
| Single | 12 x 24-feet | 288 | $2,016 - $2,880 |
| Double stall | 20 x 20-feet | 400 | $2,800 - $4,000 |
| Double | 24 x 24-feet | 576 | $4,032 - $5,760 |
| Triple | 24 x 36-feet | 864 | $6,048 - $8,640 |
Asphalt Driveway Costs By Size
Asphalt driveway costs are mainly affected by its size. A bigger and wider driveway needs more work for grading, compacting, excavation, materials, paving, labor, and installation time, which increases the total cost. Below is a detailed breakdown of estimated costs based on driveway size.
What Is Asphalt Driveway Cost By Type?
The type of asphalt you choose also affects the overall cost of your driveway. Your contractor might suggest alternative options with a different price per square foot. However, most of the homeowners use hot mix asphalt driveways, which often include recycled content. These types generally fall into four main categories.
| Asphalt Type | Price Range | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Hot mix | $1 - $3/sq.ft. | Standard driveways, roads, parking lots |
| Recycled | $1 - $4/sq.ft. | Eco-friendly projects, budget-conscious paving |
| Porous | $2 - $5/sq.ft. | Drainage solutions, flood-prone areas |
| Colored | $5 - $7/sq.ft. | Decorative driveways, commercial properties |
1. Hot Mix Asphalt Driveway Cost
Hot mix, also known as standard asphalt, is a popular and affordable choice for driveways, due to its affordability, use of recycled materials, and a lifespan of 15 to 30 years with proper maintenance. It typically costs between $1 and $3 per square foot, depending on location and job complexity.
It’s flexible, weather-resistant, easy to work with, and can be installed quickly, which helps keep costs down. It requires specialized equipment and skills for paving. It’s commonly used for large-scale projects like driveways, roads, and parking lots.
2. Recycled Asphalt Driveway Cost
Recycled asphalt driveways cost between $1 and $4 per square foot. This budget-friendly and eco-conscious type of asphalt driveway is made from reclaimed asphalt pavement. Incorporating recycled materials from old driveways and roads helps reduce costs compared to using all-new materials.
You can ask your contractor about the recycled content in your mix and request more if desired. However, it may require more frequent maintenance compared to standard hot mix asphalt driveways.
3. Porous Asphalt Driveway Cost
Porous or permeable asphalt driveways cost between $2 and $5 per square foot. This eco-friendly option is great for areas with heavy rainfall, as it allows water to pass through, reducing runoff and aiding stormwater management.
Porous asphalt is often used for larger-scale applications like large parking lots and requires a specialized installation with a deeper stone base. It’s less common for residential driveways, due to the increased cost. It might not be ideal for areas with freezing winters due to the risk of frost damage.
4. Colored Asphalt Driveway Cost
Colored, stamped, or decorative asphalt is a great option for decorative driveways or safety designations. It costs between $5 and $7 per square foot, offering a unique and distinctive look for your driveway. The pigment is mixed into the hot mix, offering subtle or vibrant colors depending on the shade and concentration.
Average Cost to Install an Asphalt Driveway
Asphalt driveway installation starts from the paving work, including excavation, grading, compaction, leveling, and drainage if needed. In areas with soft or wet soil, a gravel or stone base is often laid down to provide a stable foundation. Next, the asphalt is installed in two layers, including a base layer and a topcoat. However, a single layer might work in temperate climates with light usage.
The labor costs for installing an asphalt driveway usually range from $5 to $7 per square foot. Budget-friendly options can start at $3 to $5 per square foot, while premium options like heated or colored asphalt can range from $10 to $20 per square foot. Additionally, some factors like complex terrain, hills, curves, or stump removal can increase the overall cost.
Factors Affecting Asphalt Driveway Cost
Several factors, like area, location, material, asphalt layer depth, and more, impact the overall cost of an asphalt driveway.
1. Existing Driveway Removal
Removal of the existing driveway will cost you between $1 to $3 per square foot. Overall, it may cost you between $800 to $2,500 due to the disposal fee and extra labor.
2. Base Material & Preparation
When building a driveway from scratch, it’s essential to grade and prepare the soil. A 4-8 inch layer of gravel or substrate provides a solid base for a stable asphalt driveway. To ensure stability, use “fill dirt” that’s free of organic compounds, instead of topsoil. This will cost you between 50 cents to $1 per square foot to the overall cost.
3. Depth of Asphalt Layer
For a residential driveway, 2 to 3 inches of asphalt is usually sufficient, while heavy-duty or commercial driveway often requires 4 inches or more. This entire thickness is composed of asphalt to reduce the risk of shifting and movement. Thicker installations may cost more upfront, but can lead to a longer lifespan. This layer ranges between $3 to $20, depending on your preferred material and location.
4. Driveway Size
The size of the driveway is a major cost factor. A short or narrower driveway may help you save money, but if you need a bigger parking space or your house is farther from the road, you might need a larger driveway. Whether it’s longer or wider, or even with lower-grade asphalt, it will cost more.
5. Soil Condition
If your soil condition is good, you might save some money, but poor soil conditions, like clay soils, can require extra preparation, excavation, and base material to prevent cracking and settling.
6. Material
Asphalt types range from $1 to $7 per square foot, but a home asphalt driveway may require 7 to 15. Your contractor will give a more accurate quantity, which is measured in tons, and it may cost you from $100 to $200 per ton.
7. Labor
Labor costs for installing an asphalt driveway can vary depending on your location. Your contractor may charge you $2 to $7 per square foot.
8. Location
Your location directly impacts almost all the factors, like material availability and labor rates. Additionally, extreme weather conditions can impact asphalt costs. Therefore, you’ll also have to use specialized mixes to face these harsh weather conditions, which might add some amount to your estimated budget.
9. Current Surface Conditions
If your driveway needs removal or major fixes, your contractor will usually charge extra to tear out the old driveway and haul it away.
10. Driveway Design
If you want some slopes, curves, or shapes in your driveway, it will cost you more due to extra work and materials, compared to a straight and flat driveway.
11. Permit
Also, make sure to check with your city or town for permit requirements before installing a new driveway, as it may cost $50 to $400.
12. Maintenance
Once installed, it’s important to keep your asphalt driveway looking good. For this, try to seal it yearly with a pro sealcoat costing around $500 each time to prevent cracks and water damage. However, DIY sealcoat kits cost $30 to $400.
Asphalt Driveway Cost By Project Type
Below is a complete breakdown of asphalt driveway costs by project types.
| Asphalt Driveway Project | Average Cost Per Square Foot | Average Project Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Repair | $1 to $6 | $600-$1,800 |
| Replacement | $7 to $15 | $4,800-$9,000 |
| New construction | $1 to $7 | $4,200-$7,800 |
| Resurfacing | $7 to $13 | $3,000-$4,200 |
1. Asphalt Driveway Repair Cost
Fixing an asphalt driveway means fixing holes and filling cracks to make it safer and last longer. It may cost you between $1 to $6 per square foot. If it’s badly damaged, you might need to lay a new layer or replace it.
2. Asphalt Driveway Replacement Cost
Full replacement includes tearing out the old driveway and laying down fresh asphalt. The demolition phase will cost between $1 to $3 per square foot, while laying a newer layer will range between $7 to $15 per square foot.
3. Asphalt Driveway Resurfacing Cost
If you want a new look without spending too much and your driveway doesn’t have a sinking base or big cracks, consider resurfacing. It will add a new layer on top, costing you $1 to $7 per square foot.
4. New Asphalt Driveway Construction Cost
Constructing a new asphalt driveway will cost $7 to $13 per square foot. However, make sure your yard is leveled and doesn’t need much grading, digging, or prep work to avoid extra labor and material costs.
Is DIY Asphalt Driveway Installation Worth It?
Installing an asphalt driveway is no doubt a complex job that requires specialized tools and know-how. From grading and laying the sub-base to sealing the final surface, it’s a lot of steps. Without experience, DIY can lead to several issues like uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and more. These problems may cost you much more money and time. So, it’s better to hire a pro, as they ensure it’s done right and lasts longer.
Bottom Line
Asphalt is undoubtedly a popular choice for driveways due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. When looking for a 20×20 asphalt driveway cost, make sure to consider factors that affect its cost, like size and type of asphalt. Fixing up your driveway is a great way to fix home curb appeal and boost its value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is The Cost Of A 20×20 Asphalt Driveway?
The average cost to install a new 20′ × 20′ 400 sq ft asphalt driveway ranges from $2,800 to $6,000, or about $7 to $15 per square foot, including materials and labor.
What Factors Affect The Asphalt Driveway Installation Cost?
Factors such as site preparation, location, size, asphalt depth, type, quality of gravel base, permit fees, and complexity of the site affect the asphalt driveway installation cost.
How Long Does An Asphalt Driveway Last?
A well-installed and well-maintained asphalt driveway can last for 20 to 30 years.
How Do I Know If I Need A New Asphalt Driveway?
If your existing asphalt driveway has crumbling edges, large cracks, sinking or uneven areas, or even pooling water, you might need a new driveway. Chemical or large oil stains can also weaken the surface area.
Is 2 Inches Of Asphalt Enough For A Driveway?
Sometimes 2 inches is enough, other times it’s not. The thickness of asphalt needed depends on things like traffic, base, and condition.
