How Much Does an Asphalt Driveway Cost?
Asphalt is priced by the ton but poured by the square foot, so the estimate lives or dies on tonnage and base prep. Get those two right and the bid holds.
Cost drivers
Tonnage (area × thickness × density), the depth of the sub-base, tear-out of an old surface, and access for the paver and roller. Hot-mix price also swings with oil prices and haul distance. Price your own supplier — averages are not a bid.
Base prep is half the job
A driveway is only as good as its base. Grading, a compacted gravel sub-base and proper drainage are real cost and the most common thing left out of a quick number. Feed area, thickness and base into the asphalt calculator for a real total.
From tonnage to a client quote
The Trowla asphalt calculator works out the tons from your dimensions and thickness, then lets you add your price per ton, base prep and labor to produce a full job total and a branded quote. No sign-up.
FAQ
How much does an asphalt driveway cost per square foot?
Roughly $3–$7 per square foot installed, depending on thickness, base prep and hot-mix price. Tear-out and grading add to it.
How is asphalt priced?
By the ton of hot-mix placed. Tonnage = area × thickness × density, so thickness has a big effect on the number.
Why does base prep matter?
A weak or poorly drained base cracks and fails early. Grading and a compacted gravel sub-base are essential cost, not an optional extra.