Homeowners and builders typically pay for concrete by the cubic yard plus delivery and placement. For 17 cubic yards, main cost drivers include concrete mix type, delivery distance, removal of old material, and labor on site. This article presents a clear price range and practical budgeting notes for 17 yards.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete mix (cubic yard) | $110 | $140 | $180 | Standard 4-sack mix to high-strength options |
| Delivery | $70 | $110 | $180 | Farther distances incur higher fuel charges |
| Placement & Finishing | $300 | $800 | $1,600 | Includes screeding and finishing work |
| Permits & Fees | $0 | $50 | $250 | Depends on local rules |
| Subtotal (17 yd) | $2,270 | $3,130 | $5,030 | Assumes standard slab; excludes site prep |
| Per-yard average | $133 | $184 | $296 | Includes delivery/placement |
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges for 17 cubic yards of concrete typically span from about $2,270 to $5,030, depending on mix, delivery radius, and site work. The per-yard range commonly falls between $110 and $180, with placement and finishing adding a substantial portion of the total. For a smaller or larger project, price scales with volume and distance.
Cost Breakdown
| Cost Component | Assumed Range | Typical Unit | Notes | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $110-$180 | $ per yd | Concrete mix strength and additives | $1,870-$3,060 total for 17 yd |
| Labor | $0-$800 | $ per job | Pour crew, screeding, finishing | $0-$1,600 depending on complexity |
| Delivery | $70-$180 | $ per delivery | Distance-based fees | $1,190 total in average scenario |
| Permits | $0-$250 | $ flat | Local requirements | $50-$200 typical |
| Equipment & Tools | $0-$180 | $ both | Vibrators, chutes, floats | $60-$120 |
| Contingency | $0-$300 | $ flat | Unforeseen site issues | $150 |
| Taxes | $0-$200 | $ flat | State/local sales tax | $120 |
data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> For concrete work, a typical crew might cost $75–$120 per hour, with 8–20 hours depending on slab size and complexity.
What Drives Price
Concrete strength, delivery distance, and site access are the primary price variables. Higher-strength mixes (for driveways or industrial floors) raise material costs, while remote sites incur higher delivery charges. Easy access reduces labor time, lowering total spend.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor rates and material costs. In the Northeast, expect higher delivery and permit costs; the Midwest often balances lower material costs with moderate delivery fees; the Southeast may see moderate delivery charges but lower permit impact. Regional deltas can be ±8% to ±22% from a national baseline.
Labor & Installation Time
A standard 17 yd pour can span 1–2 days of work depending on slab size, thickness, and finishing requirements. Labor costs scale with crew size and pace, typically $75-$120 per hour for concrete finishers and helpers. Time and weather can extend totals beyond initial estimates.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs may include ground prep, forms, excavation, and slope corrections. If the site requires extensive formwork or backfill, add 10%–25% to the base estimate. Seasonal demand can also push delivery windows and prices higher.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes for 17 cubic yards. Each scenario assumes regional delivery within 20 miles and standard slab dimensions. Prices shown include delivery and basic finishing.
Basic Scenario
Specs: standard ready-mix, no additives, smooth finish. Labor: minimal finishing. Volume: 17 yd. Total range: $2,270-$2,500. Assumptions: urban area, standard mix, typical soil.
Mid-Range Scenario
Specs: standard Mix with a mid-strength option, basic reinforcement not required. Labor: average crew. Total range: $3,000-$4,100. Assumptions: suburban region, average distance, standard forms.
Premium Scenario
Specs: high-strength mix, additives for quick set, enhanced finishing, optional curing sealer. Labor: full crew with longer finish. Total range: $4,800-$6,200. Assumptions: rural site, long haul delivery, complex finish.
Pricing By Region
Regional price differences show tighter ranges for urban core areas and wider bands for rural locations. For 17 yd, a typical urban delivery might sit near the high end of the average range, while rural sites may encounter higher transport fees but similar per-yard material costs.
How To Save
Get multiple quotes, optimize pour timing, and choose standard concrete mixes when possible. Request early delivery windows, consolidate pours to reduce trips, and verify site prep is ready to minimize delays and labor hours.
