Quick Answer: Asphalt paving in Southern Illinois costs $3-$7 per square foot for residential driveways and $2.50-$5 per square foot for larger commercial parking lots. A typical 2-car driveway (600 sq ft) costs between $2,500-$6,000 installed.
Asphalt Paving Cost by Project Type
Residential Driveway Costs
| Driveway Size | Square Feet | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single Car | 200-400 sq ft | $1,200-$2,800 |
| Two Car | 400-600 sq ft | $2,400-$4,200 |
| Three Car | 600-900 sq ft | $3,600-$6,300 |
| Long/Circular | 1,000+ sq ft | $5,000+ |
Commercial Parking Lot Costs
Commercial projects typically cost less per square foot due to economies of scale:
- Small lot (10-20 spaces): $8,000-$20,000
- Medium lot (20-50 spaces): $20,000-$50,000
- Large lot (50+ spaces): $50,000+
Factors That Affect Asphalt Paving Cost
1. Site Preparation
The condition of your existing surface significantly impacts cost:
- New construction on prepared base: Lowest cost
- Removing old asphalt: Add $1-$3 per square foot
- Removing concrete: Add $2-$4 per square foot
- Grading and base work: Add $1-$2 per square foot
2. Asphalt Thickness
Thicker asphalt costs more but lasts longer:
- 2 inches: Light residential use (lowest cost)
- 3 inches: Standard residential driveways
- 4+ inches: Heavy traffic, commercial use
3. Base Material
A proper aggregate base is essential for longevity:
- 4-6 inch base: Standard for driveways
- 8-12 inch base: Required for parking lots and heavy use
4. Accessibility
Difficult access increases labor and equipment costs:
- Narrow access points
- Steep grades
- Distance from road
- Obstacles requiring hand work
Asphalt vs. Concrete: Cost Comparison
| Factor | Asphalt | Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | $3-$7/sq ft | $5-$10/sq ft |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 30-40 years |
| Maintenance Cost | Higher (sealcoating) | Lower |
| Repair Cost | Lower, easier | Higher, harder |
| Best For | Cold climates | Hot climates |
For Southern Illinois: Asphalt is generally the better choice due to our freeze-thaw cycles. Asphalt flexes with temperature changes, while concrete can crack.
How to Save Money on Asphalt Paving
- Get multiple quotes: Always compare at least 3 estimates
- Time it right: Late spring and early fall often have better pricing
- Combine with neighbors: Contractors may offer discounts for multiple jobs in one area
- Prepare the site: Clear vegetation and obstacles yourself
- Consider overlay: If your base is solid, resurfacing costs less than full replacement
Red Flags When Getting Quotes
- Prices significantly below competitors (corners will be cut)
- No written contract or warranty
- Demanding full payment upfront
- No physical business address
- Pressure to decide immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to pave a driveway in Illinois?
In Southern Illinois, asphalt driveway paving typically costs $3-$7 per square foot, or $2,500-$6,000 for an average 2-car driveway. Factors like base preparation, thickness, and accessibility affect final pricing.
Is asphalt cheaper than concrete?
Yes, asphalt is typically 30-40% cheaper than concrete upfront. Asphalt costs $3-$7 per square foot while concrete costs $5-$10 per square foot in Southern Illinois.
How long does an asphalt driveway last?
A properly installed and maintained asphalt driveway lasts 20-30 years. Regular sealcoating every 2-3 years and prompt crack repairs can maximize lifespan.
Get a Free Estimate
Ready to get an accurate price for your project? Pinpoint Parking provides free, detailed estimates for driveways and parking lots throughout Southern Illinois. We'll assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations.