You’ve got a big project on your hands and you’re ready to get pouring. But before you start mixing, there’s one BIG question on your mind: “How much is this gonna cost me?”
We get this question ALL the time. And we’re here to give you the straight scoop on concrete prices in Idaho.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- The average cost of concrete per yard in Idaho
- Sneaky factors that can jack up the price
- The REAL cost of concrete projects (hint: it’s more than just the concrete!)
- Tips and tricks for stretching your concrete budget
By the end, you’ll have a solid handle on what to expect when you’re buying concrete in the Gem State. Let’s dive in!
Average Cost of Concrete Per Yard in Idaho
Alright, let’s cut to the chase. In Idaho, you can expect to pay around $100 to $150 per cubic yard for your standard concrete mix.
Now, we know what you’re thinking: “That’s a BIG range! What gives?” Well, hold your horses, because we’re about to break it down for you.

Factors That Affect Concrete Pricing
The price of concrete is like a roller coaster – it’s got a lot of ups and downs. Here are a few key factors that can make your concrete bill skyrocket:
Type of Concrete Mix
Not all concrete is created equal! If you need a specialty mix (think high-strength, quick-setting, or decorative), be ready to fork over some extra dough. Those fancy mixes can cost 50% more (or higher!) than your basic blend.
Delivery Distance
The farther your job site is from the batch plant, the more you’ll pay for delivery. Most companies charge by the mile, so if you’re way out in the boonies, your concrete budget could be in for a wild ride.
Site Prep and Access
Is your site a flat, easy-peasy dream? Or a rocky, hilly nightmare? The more work it takes to get the site ready for concrete, the more you’ll pay in labor costs. And if the truck can’t get close to the pour site? Get ready to pay extra for all that wheelbarrowing!
The REAL Cost of Concrete Projects
Okay, so now you know what goes into the price of concrete itself. But what about the total cost of your project? Here’s a quick breakdown for some common concrete jobs:
Project | Average Cost |
---|---|
Foundations | $10,000 – $25,000 |
Patios | $2,500 – $5,000 |
Sidewalks | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Driveways | $4,000 – $8,000 |
Keep in mind, that these are just ballpark figures. Your ACTUAL cost will depend on the size of your project, the complexity of the job, and the going rates in your specific area.
Regional Price Variations
Speaking of going rates, concrete prices can vary A LOT from city to city – even within Idaho! Here’s a quick peek at what you might pay in a couple of Idaho hot spots:
Idaho Falls
In Idaho Falls, concrete tends to run a little cheaper than the state average. You might snag a deal at around $95 to $125 per cubic yard.
Boise
In the Boise area, prices are pretty much smack-dab on the state average. Plan on shelling out $100 to $150 per cubic yard for your standard mix.
Calculating Your Concrete Needs
Alright, so you’ve got a handle on the price of concrete. But how much do you actually NEED for your project? Here’s a quick and dirty way to estimate:
- Calculate the volume of your project in cubic feet (length x width x depth)
- Divide that number by 27 to convert to cubic yards
- Add 5-10% to account for waste and spillage
So, let’s say you’re pouring a patio that’s 20 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 4 inches thick. The math would go like this:
- 20 x 10 x 0.33 = 66 cubic feet
- 66 / 27 = 2.4 cubic yards
- 2.4 x 1.1 = 2.64 (rounded up to 3 yards to be safe)
In this case, you’d need about 3 cubic yards of concrete for your patio.
Extra Costs to Keep in Mind
Concrete is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to project costs. Here are a few more expenses to keep on your radar:
Reinforcement and Additives
If your project needs rebar, wire mesh, or special additives (like fiber or color), be ready to tack an extra $1 to $3 per square foot onto your bill.
Labor
Unless you’re a DIY master, you’ll need to pay for professional installation. Labor costs can range from $1 to $5 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job.
Permits and Inspections
In many areas, you’ll need a permit for your concrete work. Permit fees can run $100 to $500 (or more!), depending on the scope of your project.
DIY vs. Pro Installation
We know, those labor costs can be a real kick in the wallet. So, should you just mix up a batch and do it yourself? Here’s the scoop:
The Pros of DIY
- You’ll save a chunk of change on labor costs
- You can work on your own schedule
- You get bragging rights for a job well done
The Cons of DIY
- Concrete work is HARD – are you up for the challenge?
- You might not have the right tools or know-how
- If you mess up, it can be costly (or even dangerous!) to fix
In our expert opinion? Leave the big jobs to the pros. Pouring a concrete slab is NOT the same as whipping up a batch of cookies – there’s a lot of science and skill involved. Plus, one misplaced rebar or poorly mixed batch can spell disaster down the road.
Budgeting for Your Concrete Project
Okay, so you’ve got a ballpark idea of what your concrete project will cost. But how do you make sure you’ve got the cash to cover it? Here are a few tips:
- Get quotes from multiple contractors (we’re happy to give you a free estimate!)
- Factor in a 10-20% buffer for unexpected costs
- Consider financing options (like a home equity loan or personal loan)
- Look for ways to save (like doing your own site prep)
The bottom line? With a little planning and some smart budgeting, you CAN afford that dreamy concrete project.
The Bottom Line on Concrete Costs in Idaho
Whew, that was a lot of info! Let’s recap the highlights:
- In Idaho, concrete typically costs $100 to $150 per cubic yard
- Factors like mix type, delivery distance, and site access can impact the price
- The REAL cost of a concrete project includes labor, reinforcement, and permitting
- DIY is doable for small jobs, but leave the big stuff to the pros
- Smart budgeting (and maybe some financing) can make your concrete dreams a reality
So there you have it, folks – the inside scoop on concrete costs in Idaho.
At Boise Concrete Contractor, we’ve been pouring and fixing concrete in the Treasure Valley for 25 years. We’ve seen it all – from simple sheds to massive warehouses – and we know how to get the job done RIGHT.
If you’re ready to turn your concrete vision into reality, give us a shout. We’ll walk you through the process, crunch the numbers, and make sure you get the most bang for your concrete buck.
Here’s to your next concrete adventure – let’s make it a solid one!