San Diego Paver Costs: A No‑Nonsense Homeowner Guide (2025)

Here’s the straight, cost‑focused breakdown of what San Diego homeowners actually spend on paver installations—and how to keep your bid tight without cutting the wrong corners.

By California Clean and Seal • Updated September 18, 2025

Quick Snapshot: Typical Price Ranges

Patios/Walkways: ~$18–$32 per sq ft

Driveways: ~$28–$49 per sq ft (deeper base, more cuts, heavier duty)

Premium Pool Decks (stone/porcelain): ~$37–$62 per sq ft

Ranges reflect scope variables like demolition & haul‑off, base depth, pattern complexity, site access, drainage, and sealing.

Where Your Dollars Go

1) Site Work & Access

Demolition & haul‑off of concrete/turf/DG
Access constraints (narrow gates, stairs, limited staging)
Soils: sandy/coastal vs. clay pockets that need geotextile

2) Base & Prep (the deal‑maker)

Class II base (4–8″ patios; 6–10″+ driveways), compacted in lifts
Screed bed, plate compaction, edge restraints
Quality control: density, flatness, and drainage slope

3) The Pavers

Concrete, natural stone, or porcelain (cost & handling differ)
Stock sizes/colors vs. special orders
Borders, inlays, herringbone/diagonals increase cuts

4) Labor & Finish

Layout, cuts, setting, compaction, joint sand
Drainage components (channel drains, basins, French drains)
Sealing for stain resistance and easy cleaning

San Diego Scenarios & Benchmarks

A) 400 sq ft Backyard Patio (Concrete Pavers)

Base & prep: $2,000–$3,000
Pavers & setting: $4,800–$8,000
Edge restraint & cuts: $600–$1,200
Demolition/haul‑off (if needed): $800–$2,400
Estimated total: $8,200–$14,600 (~$20–$36/sq ft)

B) 800 sq ft Driveway (Heavier Base, More Cuts)

Base & prep (deeper): $5,600–$8,800
Pavers & setting: $12,800–$20,800
Edge restraint & cuts: $1,200–$2,400
Drainage upgrades (common): $800–$2,500
Demolition/haul‑off old slab: $1,600–$4,800
Estimated total: $22,800–$39,300 (~$28–$49/sq ft)

C) 1,200 sq ft Pool Deck (Premium Stone/Porcelain)

Base & prep: $9,600–$14,400
Material & setting (premium): $30,000–$48,000
Curves, coping, intricate cuts: $2,500–$6,000
Sealing: $1,800–$3,600
Drainage (often needed): $1,200–$3,000
Estimated total: $45,100–$75,000 (~$37–$62/sq ft)

How to Control Costs Without Sacrificing Quality

Pick efficient patterns (running bond/modular) to reduce cuts
Use borders/inlays strategically in focal areas
Right‑size the base: patios vs. driveways need different depths
Bundle trenching for lighting/irrigation before pavers are set
Choose readily available pavers to avoid special‑order premiums
Seal once; clean easier for years—especially near BBQs/trees/pools

Explore our related services: Paver Installation, Paver Cleaning & Sealing, and Concrete Resurfacing.

Permits & Drainage: San Diego Realities

Driveways and any work that touches the public right‑of‑way can involve permits or reviews. Drainage changes may trigger stormwater requirements. Check the latest guidance and confirm before you start:

These external resources help you understand processes and standards; your specific project may differ—ask us how permitting applies to your address.

FAQs

Are pavers more expensive than poured concrete?: Upfront, often yes—especially for driveways. Over 10–20 years, pavers usually win on maintenance and repair costs, as individual units can be lifted and reset without replacing the whole slab.
Do I need to seal my pavers?: Optional but recommended in sunny or high‑use areas. Sealing reduces staining and makes cleaning faster. We’ll recommend a finish (natural, enhanced, or wet look) that fits your space.
How long does a typical project take?: Small patios: 3–5 days. Driveways/pool decks: 1–2+ weeks depending on demo, drainage, and complexity.

Next Step: Get a Firm Number

Every property is different. We’ll verify access, base depth, drainage, and the pattern you want—then give you a written, line‑item quote that respects your budget and timeline.

Request a Free Estimate or Browse Our Recent Projects

San Diego Paver Costs: A No -Nonsense Homeowner guide (2025)