How Much Does It Cost to Pour 1 Cubic Foot of Concrete?

The cost to pour 1 cubic foot of concrete can vary based on several factors including location, the type of concrete used, and labor costs. As of my last update in August 2023, the average cost of concrete itself typically ranges from $100 to $150 per cubic yard. Since there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard, this translates to approximately:

Cost per cubic foot

$3.70 to $5.55

Keep in mind that this estimate only includes the material cost. Additional expenses such as delivery, labor, and any necessary site preparation can significantly increase the total cost. Therefore, the overall cost to pour 1 cubic foot of concrete could range from about $5 to $10 or more depending on these additional factors.

Factors Influencing Concrete Cost

Material Costs

The primary cost is the concrete itself. Ready-mixed concrete, delivered in bulk, can typically be purchased in increments of a cubic yard. The price per cubic yard usually varies depending on your location and the supplier.

Labor Costs

Labor costs can vary widely depending on the contractor and the complexity of the job. Skilled workers, especially in urban areas, can charge higher rates. In addition to the concrete pour, the labor might also include mixing, transporting, placing, and finishing the concrete.

Site Preparation

Site preparation can add significant costs. This includes clearing the area, ensuring the ground is level, and setting up forms if necessary. If you need to pour concrete in a confined space, this can further increase the expense.

Delivery and Demobilization

The delivery of the concrete and the setup and clean-up after the job (demobilization) can also affect the overall cost. In areas with limited access or complex construction sites, these costs can be higher.

Example of Cost Breakdown

Consider a commercial project in New York City. A union contractor might charge around $300 per cubic yard for a pour, which includes forms, delivery, and demobilization. However, this figure can vary based on the specific project requirements and market conditions.

Estimating Concrete Costs

When estimating the cost for pouring concrete, it's essential to consider all these factors. A rough guide is that for a small project, the total cost per cubic foot could range from $5 to $10. For larger projects, especially in urban areas, costs can be higher due to the variety of additional expenses.

Conclusion

The cost to pour 1 cubic foot of concrete can vary, but a good estimate can be provided by considering the material cost, labor, and site preparation. Larger projects or those in urban areas may incur higher costs due to the complexity and additional expenses involved.