A paver patio is one of the best ways to upgrade your outdoor space on Long Island. It adds value, improves how your yard functions, and creates a place to relax or entertain. But before starting the project, most homeowners want to know the same thing: What is the actual cost of a paver patio?
Average Paver Patio Cost in Long Island, New York
Most Long Island homeowners spend somewhere between $30 and $45 per square foot to have a paver patio professionally installed. That price includes both the materials and the labor to get it done right.
Here’s what that adds up to, depending on the size of your patio:
| Patio Size | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 100 sq ft | $3,000 – $4,500 |
| 200 sq ft | $7,000 – $9,000 |
| 400 sq ft | $12,000 – $18,000 |
If you’re opting to DIY it, it’ll cost you around $20 to $25 per square foot (excluding tools and materials like gravel and joint sand.)
What Impacts the Cost of a Paver Patio?
There are a few things that really move the price up or down.
- Size of the patio
This one’s obvious. The bigger the patio, the more you’re going to spend. You’re paying for more pavers and more time to install them. Some installers may give you a slightly better rate on larger jobs, but the total still climbs with the square footage.
- Materials you choose
Not all pavers cost the same. Concrete tends to be the most budget-friendly. Brick and natural stone look great but cost more, both for the product and the extra labor it takes to install them cleanly.
.
| Material | Cost per Sq Ft (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | $20 – $30 |
| Brick | $25 – $35 |
| Natural Stone | $40 – $55 |
At Unified Home Remodeling, we use pavers from brands like Cambridge, Nicolock, and Techo-bloc. Each one offers a mix of styles and price points. Some are simple and clean, while others have more texture or color variation. It just depends on the look you want and how much you’re looking to spend.
- Layout and design
Simple shapes and patterns take less time to install. If you choose curved edges, decorative inlays, or borders with contrasting colors, your labor cost will go up.
- Site prep
You’ll have to spend extra time and money removing an old patio, leveling the space, and clearing roots and debris. Things can also get slow in backyards with tight access.
- Permits and drainage
Some towns on Long Island require permits for patios, especially if you’re building close to the property line or adding drainage. It’s not a huge cost, but it’s something to keep in mind. A good contractor should know what’s needed and handle it for you.
- Extras
Features like paver walkways, steps, seating walls, lighting, or a fire pit will raise the price. Some homeowners run conduit while the patio’s going in so they’re ready to add a kitchen or other features later. It takes a little more work upfront but can save time and money if you plan to upgrade down the road.
Paver Patio Costs If You DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Installing a paver patio yourself can cut costs, but it depends on what you already have. Most DIY projects land somewhere between $20 and $25 per square foot, not counting tool rentals or extra materials you might need.
Here’s an average of typical equipment rental costs needed:
| Equipment | Estimated Rental Cost |
|---|---|
| Sod Cutter | $79 |
| Wet Masonry Saw | $79 |
| Power Compactor | $106 |
| Jackhammer | $125 |
| Bobcat | $280 |
You’ll also need basic tools and materials:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Gravel | $200 |
| Paver Sand | $21 |
| Edging Stakes | $26 |
| Paver Spikes | $12 |
| Spade/Shovel | $18 |
| Rubber Mallet | $12 |
| Rake | $17 |
| Broom | $13 |
Mistakes during base prep or leveling can cause issues with drainage and long-term performance. On Long Island, most homeowners choose a professional crew for peace of mind. Professional installation typically ranges from $30 to $45 per square foot, depending on the scope of the project.
How Pattern Affects The Cost of a Paver Patio
The layout you choose changes the cost. Simpler patterns are faster to install. The more cuts and precision needed, the more time it takes—and that shows up in your final price.
Here’s how a few common options stack up:
- Running bond (basic rows) — quickest and most budget-friendly
- Herringbone — takes a little longer but is still common
- Basketweave or circular layouts — more time, more waste, more cost
If you’re looking for something custom but want to keep the price reasonable, a simple layout with a contrasting border is a smart way to go.
What’s Included in a Standard Install
Before you compare quotes, make sure you’re looking at the full job. Some installers only handle the surface. Others take care of everything from prep and base work to installation and cleanup.
A proper patio installation should cover more than just setting the pavers.
Here’s what most full-service installations include:
- Layout and measurement
- Excavation and disposal of old material
- Base and sub-base installation
- Edge restraints
- Paver placement and leveling
- Joint sand application
- Final compaction and cleanup.’
If you’re not sure what’s included, ask. It’s better to clarify now than get hit with unexpected add-ons halfway through the job.
Tips to Keep Costs in Check
Whether you hire a professional masonry contractor in Long Island or DIY your project, there are a few smart ways to bring down the cost of a paver patio without cutting quality.
Our tips:
- Stick to one color or style
- Choose a standard pattern
- Prep for future upgrades, but add them later
- Focus on proper drainage and grading
- Use premium materials in focal areas only
These small decisions add up and can make a big difference in how much you spend and how long your patio holds up.
What the Numbers Don’t Tell You
The real value of a paver patio isn’t just about the price per square foot. It comes from how the space works with your home, how well it handles Long Island weather, and how often you’ll actually use it. A solid layout and the right materials matter, but so does hiring a crew that knows how to build it right the first time.
Ready to Start Your Patio?
Unified is a leading stonework and masonry installer for homeowners on Long Island. If you’re planning a paver patio, we’ll help you figure out what makes the most sense for your space, your layout, and your budget.
Contact us today for your Free Estimate, and we will help you identify the masonry that fits your needs, wants, and, most importantly, budget. Call us today at (888) 631-2131, or contact us online.
And once it’s installed, we’ve got tips for keeping it looking sharp, too. Check out our paver maintenance guide to learn how to keep your patio in great shape for years.