When choosing flooring for your outdoor patio, concrete is always a good idea. Smooth, versatile, affordable, and easy to maintain, a concrete patio can be made by pouring a concrete slab.
This slab can then be tinted, textured, painted, or left alone to cure to a neutral gray finish. Staining your concrete patio is also an option. Popular finishes for concrete patios include smoothed trowel, broomed and brushed, stamped, pebble, or rock salt finishes. The average cost per square foot of a concrete patio ranges from $5 to $30. You can get on the lower end of this rage by opting to DIY your concrete patio, but if you are working with a large area or complicated shape, tapping a professional may be best.
Here are some concrete patio ideas in a range of styles and sizes to inspire your outdoor space renovation or refresh.
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Large Concrete Patio Pavers
@ladylandscape / Instagram
Concrete pavers are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures, and can be placed on top of a bed of packed sand. If you dread the idea of weeds or volunteer plants growing between spaces, pavers can be butted together for a smooth, unbroken surface.
If you opt for the more traditional method of leaving spaces between pavers (this means you'll buy fewer pavers), they can be filled with pea gravel, pebbles, or a tight, low-growing ground cover.
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Seamless Tile Concrete Patio
The mid-20th-century concept of designing a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors has persisted and always looks modern. The design makes the most sense with one-story houses. Nothing beats concrete for a smooth, level transition, especially if the material and color indoors and out are the same or at least appear to be.
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Simple Slab Concrete Patio
Emily Bowser for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
A rich stained wood banquette and coffee table adds contrast to the smooth concrete floor in this outdoor living room designed by Emily Bowser for Emily Henderson Design.
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Concrete Block Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Lane Dittoe
While the idea of concrete blocks may bring something more rustic and rugged to mind, this patio designed by Mindy Gayer proves that isn't the only option. The outdoor space features a raised patio with surrounding concrete stairs that give easy access to other designated areas.
Another set of concrete blocks creates the foundation for a gathering space that allows guests to sit and relax—even the circular table is made of concrete.
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Built-In Spa Concrete Patio
@ladylandscape / Instagram
A concrete patio with a built-in spa? Count us in. This space designed by Melanie Rekola of Lady Landscape features not only a pool but a sunken hot tub built from custom concrete. With the spa being built into the space rather than simply placed on top of it, you get a clear, uninhibited view of the rest of the backyard, while also retaining some much-needed privacy.
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Black and White Concrete Patio
This DIY-painted concrete patio from A Beautiful Mess has the look of a classic black-and-white tile floor but with a modern twist thanks to the large geometric pattern. The geometric design gives it energy and dynamism complemented by white furniture and plenty of greenery.
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Concrete Patio With Rug
@jcdesign1.1 / Instagram
Concrete certainly has its advantages of being durable and creating a sophisticated setup for a patio. However, it makes sense to add a bit more color or decoration to the standard gray material. JC Designs does so here by adding a large outdoor rug to her seating area. The smooth concrete doesn't create any unwanted bumps or issues, and the rug adds a nice burst of color without adding paint or other pricier options.
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Herringbone Block Concrete Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine
This outdoor dining and lounge space by Mindy Gayer gives a concrete patio a fresh look. The herringbone-style pattern of concrete blocks adds some playful dimension to the dining area, which holds a perfect view of the outdoor pool and the feature wall in the backyard.
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Moss-Covered Concrete Patio
@S.U.S.A.P / Instagram
This charming patio space by S.U.S.A.P feels as if you've stepped into a quaint, hidden cafe. The rugged concrete blocks give a worn, rustic vibe to the space, along with the cobblestone wall and plenty of lush plant life.
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Brick Base Concrete Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine
This open front porch from Mindy Gayer has a smooth poured concrete base that creates a clean, modern feel for an outdoor living room decorated with neutral tones and adds contrast with the whitewashed brick chimney.
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Square Paver Concrete Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine
In a different area of the same backyard, Mindy Gayer's design for the lounge portion creates a perfectly square arrangement of concrete pavers. The middle of the square, rather than being filled in, was left bare to allow the insertion of a concrete fire pit. The surrounding yard is perfectly manicured and sharp, allowing some lush life to still be present amongst the more industrial elements.
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Converted Driveway Concrete Patio
This two-car garage turned Portland, OR vacation rental guest house from Arbor & Co. includes a driveway turned into a patio with an arched roof that creates space for dining and living areas that can be used even when the rain is coming down.
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Concrete Patio With Wood Border
Another large outdoor seating area from Brophy Interiors, this patio is covered in square concrete blocks and surrounded by a wooden bench border perfect for extra seating. The surrounding circular seating area is positioned to take in the stunning view of the lake and surrounding scenery.
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Painted Stripe Concrete Patio
This bright and lively concrete patio from A Beautiful Mess is painted in bold candy-colored DIY rainbow stripes giving it the opposite of a gray, industrial look.
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Multi-Section Concrete Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Lane Dittoe
The geometric shapes of this backyard are repeated in the concrete patio pavers, which also blend the indoors with the outdoors. The separated rectangular concrete spaces create individual locations for different activities while also creating a sense of unity throughout.
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Pavers Paired With Unique Furniture
A patio covered with large concrete pavers creates a neutral base that allows the palm print sofa, cactus garden, and Palm Springs landscaping of this backyard lounge space from Michelle Boudreau Design to take center stage.
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Mixed Material Concrete Patio
The former driveway outside this garage-turned-guesthouse from The Home Consultant has been turned into an open-air patio dining space. The patio is contrasted with terracotta tiles for a two-tone effect. It also brings extra warmth to the white walls and concrete patio.
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Concrete Patio and Wood Deck
@kirsten.diane / Instagram
Concrete doesn't have to be the only material involved in a backyard arrangement. This one from Kirsten Diane is a perfect example, featuring a wood deck, yet a lower patio made from concrete blocks. The two spaces seamlessly flow together, creating an ideal backyard escape.
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Elegant Concrete Paver Patio
@ladylandscape / Instagram
Evenly placed concrete pavers are lined up perfectly for this "outdoor living room" by Lady Landscape. Concrete pavers can be purchased or cast in place and made in assorted shapes and sizes.
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Fire Pit Concrete Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Lane Dittoe
A concrete patio is joined by a constructed concrete fire pit, surrounded by metal stools and cushioned outdoor bench seating. The indoor and outdoor spaces are separated by large glass panels, giving the impression of one united room.
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Large Concrete Paver Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine
A concrete patio designed by Mindy Gayer is surrounded by plenty of seating options and black flower boxes. The large fire pit and black wooden border wall add an extra level of sophistication to the modernized space.
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Smooth Finish Concrete Patio
Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine
Anything other than a plain, smooth concrete patio would look busy and compete with the other interesting elements of this patio. The lounge and dining spaces boast a cool color palette for a relaxing outdoor environment.
Additionally, the concrete and grass edges effortlessly blend into each other without any noticeable rift—a smooth, stunning transition.
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Seamless Stair Concrete Patio
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Margaret Austin Photo
The concrete patio of this home from Cathie Hong Interiors has integrated steps in the same finish for a seamless and polished aesthetic. The flowers and greenery help liven up the space.
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Checkerboard Painted Concrete Patio
This concrete patio from Most Lovely Things is painted with large squares in shades of gray, a simple project that helps to personalize the outdoor space equipped with a DIY fire pit.
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Grayscale Concrete Patio
Design and Photo by Ajai Guyot for Emily Henderson Design
This outdoor dining area designed by Ajai Guyot for Emily Henderson Design includes a gauzy gray tied-back curtain and a gray-toned weathered wood dining table that complements the concrete patio floor, while black, white, and gold tableware adds a chic touch.
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Barely There Paver Patio
Design by Martha O'Hara Interiors / Photo by Andrea Calo
This Austin bungalow back patio from Martha O’Hara Interiors has a cylindrical fire pit, comfortable chairs, and an outdoor TV that makes it feel cozy and inviting. The neutral color scheme brings everything together beautifully. The pavers are spaced so close together that you can barely see the grout for a seamless finish.
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Painted Rug Concrete Patio
A Beautiful Mess brightened this back patio with a DIY-painted concrete accent rug in a bold kilim-style pattern in neon pinks, yellows, and blues. This rug provides contrast against the surrounding gray concrete and neutral-toned outdoor furnishings.
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Concrete Patio With Green Accents
Emily Bowser for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
Darker gray walls complement the pale gray concrete patio of this outdoor dining space designed by Emily Bowser for Emily Henderson Design. The warm-toned wood table and apple green chairs add contrast and personality.
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Patio With Concrete Effect Tiles
Large format concrete effect tiling gives this spacious rooftop patio from Fantastic Frank a modern feel. The neutral colors of the furniture help bring everything together, solidifying the sleek look.
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Gravel Grid Concrete Patio
Concrete slabs interspersed with gravel create a simple and geometric look in this minimalist back patio from The Home Consultant. This simple design works well and does not overwhelm the small patio.
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Cut Out Concrete Patio
This Palm Spring concrete patio from Michelle Boudreau Design is designed around a circular fire pit area and includes gravel-filled cut-outs that give it a graphic and polished feel.
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Large-Format Concrete Tile
Large format concrete driveway tiles turned outdoor dining room patio in a Southern California property from The Home Consultant.
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Concrete Patio With Tree
Emily Bowser for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
This concrete patio designed by Emily Bowser for Emily Henderson Design was built around an existing tree trimmed out with a little brick border and creates a shady spot for a reading corner outfitted with a comfy chair and side table.
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Minimalist Gray Concrete Patio
Concrete flooring that echoes the pale gray walls of this covered patio and outdoor kitchen and dining space from Fantastic Frank gives the space a clean and minimalist feel.
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Turf and Concrete Patio
Design by Joshua Smith Inc. / Photo by Lance Gerber
This midcentury modern backyard patio from Joshua Smith Inc. mixes smooth concrete and astroturf for a sleek vacation house vibe.
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Smooth, Simple Concrete Patio
A smooth concrete patio complements glass and metal doors and adds contrast to the natural wood posts and patio cover in this outdoor space from Kern & Co.
How Much Does A 12x12 Concrete Patio Cost?
The average concrete patio cost is $3,362 and ranges from $1,793 to $4,937. For a 12-by-12 concrete patio, the cost sits anywhere between $850 to $2,300. For a 20-by-20-foot concrete patio, the average cost is between $2,400 and $6,400. Factors that can influence cost include materials chosen, whether it is stamped or stained, materials, and labor costs.
Concrete patios are typically cheaper than those made from other materials such as pavers. While it's possible to construct a DIY patio out of concrete, you should only do so if you're an experienced DIYer as the project will require leveling the patio, preventing cracks, and making the grade correct for water drainage. If you're hiring someone to do the job for you, labor costs vary depending on who you hire and where you live. You can use an online calculator to generate an estimate local to you before consulting contractors to give you a clearer range before proceeding.
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Are concrete patios a good idea?
Concrete patios are popular for a reason: they are practical, durable, and affordable. Keep them in good shape with a proper annual cleaning. While concrete patios are known to crack, they can be repaired when they do.
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Is it cheaper to do a concrete patio?
Concrete patios are typically cheaper than other patio materials like pavers, stones, bricks, or tiles.
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How hard is it to pour a concrete patio?
It is fairly difficult to pour a concrete patio since you are most likely working with a large area that requires ample planning and prep work. If you have a tiny backyard and need a very small patio, you will have an easier time working with the concrete yourself.
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How long do concrete patios last?
The average lifespan of a concrete patio is 25 years.