How Much Does Driveway Resurfacing Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Most homeowners spend $600 to $6,000—or $3,000 on average—to resurface an asphalt driveway, which works out to roughly $3 to $10 per square foot for a standard 600-square-foot drive. Because resurfacing only adds a fresh top layer after minor repairs, it uses less material and labor and saves you money compared with a full replacement.

If your driveway is less than 15 years old and free of deep potholes, resurfacing is often the smartest move. The work calls for heavy equipment and know-how, so hiring a professional is worth the cost.

Driveway Resurfacing Cost Factors

Expect your final price to land somewhere between $600 and $6,000, depending on a few big variables. Local asphalt pros will look at your driveway’s condition, any custom design requests, and the prep work or add-on services your site needs before quoting the job.

Asphalt Condition

Resurfacing only makes sense when your base layer is still sound. If you need a few patches first, driveway repairs run $2 to $5 per square foot of damaged area. Asphalt replacement costs $8 to $18 per square foot. You may need to take this approach if the driveway has considerable damage.

Driveway Size

The size of your driveway plays the biggest role in resurfacing costs. Larger driveways require more material and labor hours, while smaller ones can still cost more per square foot because of minimum service fees. A standard single-car driveway measures 200 to 300 square feet, while a two-car layout ranges from 400 to 600 square feet. Three-car driveways or custom designs can easily reach 800 square feet or more.

Irregular layouts, extra width, or curves increase labor charges, since contractors need additional time for cutting, leveling, and finishing. The larger the surface, the higher the total price tag, but the cost per square foot often decreases compared to smaller projects.

Colored or Stamped Asphalt

Upgrading to a colored or stamped asphalt overlay increases the cost to $5 to $12 per square foot, but many homeowners see it as worth the investment. Stamped asphalt can mimic the appearance of brick, stone, or tile, giving your driveway a custom look without the higher cost of pavers. 

Color treatments add dimension and style, making your driveway a focal point of your home’s exterior. Beyond aesthetics, these treatments retain asphalt’s core benefits—durability, weather resistance, and a smoother installation process compared to concrete or pavers. While the upfront price is higher than a standard asphalt overlay, the added curb appeal and longevity can improve both daily enjoyment and resale value.

Labor

Professional labor is one of the largest parts of a resurfacing budget. Rates fall between $50 and $100 per hour, but pricing isn’t always hourly. Some contractors charge by the square foot, while others blend hourly rates with flat pricing for certain tasks like site prep or finishing. 

Labor costs also scale with project complexity—driveways with slopes, curves, or obstacles demand more time and skill, while simple, flat layouts keep costs lower. Because labor can make up 40% to 60% of the total resurfacing cost, it’s wise to gather multiple bids and confirm what’s included, such as cleanup, sealing, or decorative work.

Permits

Most municipalities require permits for driveway resurfacing, especially when altering the size, footprint, or materials. Permit fees range from $50 to $200, but additional inspections may add to the cost in some areas. 

Requirements vary widely—some towns may not require permits for straightforward resurfacing, while others enforce strict rules even for overlays. Failing to secure a permit can delay your project or result in fines, so it’s important to check with your local building or zoning department before work begins. A reputable contractor will often handle the paperwork for you, ensuring the project complies with local codes and avoiding last-minute surprises.

Materials

The material you choose plays a major role in overall project cost, with prices ranging from budget-friendly gravel to more durable but expensive concrete. Each option comes with its own balance of cost, appearance, and longevity, so selecting the right surface depends on both your budget and how you plan to use the space.

Driveway Resurfacing Replacement vs. Repair

The cost to resurface an asphalt driveway is $3 to $10 per square foot. Compare that to the cost of replacing an asphalt driveway, at $8 to $18 per square foot. To keep costs down and extend the life of your driveway, if it’s less than 15 years old and has less than 30% surface damage, then resurfacing is a solid choice.

The cost to repair asphalt paving may seem lower at first, but if the driveway has extensive damage or is approaching the end of its life, then it’s prudent to go straight for a full replacement. If you choose to resurface an old, damaged driveway, you may only get another year or two before you have to replace it.

Does Driveway Resurfacing Increase Home Value?

A fresh asphalt driveway resurfacing can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal, which is critical in closing the deal when listing your house for sale. A well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing driveway creates a strong first impression for potential buyers, signaling that the property has been well cared for.

From a financial perspective, driveway surfacing costs can offer a solid return on investment (ROI), netting homeowners up to 50% of the project cost during a home sale. The direct impact on assessed value may not be as dramatic, varying by location and market conditions. The biggest difference is a higher perceived value among potential buyers.

Budgeting for Driveway Resurfacing

Asphalt resurfacing costs can represent a major home improvement expense, but careful planning and strategic approaches can help you better manage how much you pay:

• Gather detailed estimates from at least three reputable contractors so you can compare apples to apples.

• Don’t jump at the lowest bid—it can lead to repeat repairs and early resurfacing.

• Save on labor costs by preparing the site yourself—remove obstacles and ensure easy access for contractors.

• Explore spot repair options instead of a full resurface if only portions of your driveway are damaged.

• Discuss more affordable asphalt mix options with your contractor.

• Maintain your current driveway with prompt crack sealing and annual seal coatings.

• Check your insurance coverage, as some driveway damage may be partially covered if it’s related to broader property issues.

DIY Driveway Resurfacing vs. Hiring a Professional

Resurfacing a driveway on your own can look like an easy way to cut costs, but it comes with significant expenses and effort. Materials, equipment rentals like a compactor or mixer, and disposal fees add up to $500 to $2,000, depending on driveway size and the surface you choose. Beyond that, you’ll need protective gear, basic construction know-how, and several days of strenuous work.

Although skipping labor fees may seem appealing, DIY resurfacing carries risks. Common issues include poor drainage, uneven finishes, or surfaces that don’t bond properly—all of which can lead to repairs that cost more than hiring a pro from the start. For large, sloped, or otherwise challenging driveways, bringing in a professional ensures the job is safe, durable, and compliant with local codes.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.