How Much Do Flagstone Patios Cost?

Adding a flagstone patio to your home gives your backyard pizzaz that makes it stand out and creates an outdoor space prime for entertaining guests. The cost of flagstone patios depends on a few key factors; the materials needed, cost of labor, and installation method cause the price to sit between $750 to $8,400, depending on square footage.

How Much Do Flagstone Patios Cost By Square Footage?

The cost to install a flagstone patio fluctuates between $15 to $30 per square foot, depending on the time of year you buy materials and where you live.

The bigger the patio, the more you’re going to pay. So, if you want a flagstone patio that is 300 square feet, then you’re looking at paying $4,500 to $9,000.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Flagstone Patio Near You?

One of the biggest factors that will influence the cost to install a flagstone patio is where you live. Companies need to source these stones from where they form naturally, so the further away you are from that location, the more you’re likely to pay. That’s why states such as Florida will have a lower cost for limestone than New York.

Here are the average costs for a 200-square-foot flagstone patio:

How Much Do Flagstone Patios Cost By Method of Installation?

There are two main methods of laying a flagstone patio: Dry-laying the patio, which is more affordable, or wet-laying the patio.

Dry-Laid Flagstone Patio Costs

Dry-laying a flagstone patio costs around $1,900 to $4,400 on average. This is more affordable because the patio will sit on top of sand and gravel, rather than poured concrete.

Here’s how it’s done: local patio contractors cut and shape slabs of stone blocks to meet the concept you created. After they’ve been cut, the contractor will put grout between the stones. The grout keeps the stones in place and helps create the elegant finish that defines flagstone patios.

Wet-Laid Flagstone Patio Costs

A wet-laid flagstone patio can range from $2,700 to $7,000. This extra cost comes from the contractor needing to create a concrete base, rather than a sand and gravel base.

Once the concrete is poured, contractors need to work fast to place the stones, as the concrete has a time limit before it sets. After the concrete sets, there is little that can be done to change the position of the stones. When the stones are laid and the concrete sets, grout is put between the stones to give a stylish finish. Consider this the final piece of the puzzle.

How Much Do Flagstone Patios Cost Versus a Stamped Concrete Patio?

The difference between flagstone patio cost vs. stamped concrete cost is minimal. On average, a flagstone patio costs around $4,345, while a stamped concrete patio costs around $4,025.

Because there are only a few hundred dollars between projects, it comes down to your personal preference. Flagstone patios offer a more rustic look, while stamped concrete tends to look more like cracked marble floors. No matter what style of house you’re going for, there are plenty of different patio types that can help compliment the rest of the house.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Flagstone Patio Yourself?

The cost to DIY a flagstone patio is between $855 to $1,385 on average for a 200-square foot patio. Most people who tackle a DIY flagstone patio prefer the dry-laid method, because it doesn’t require you to pour and mix concrete. 

Most of this cost is the flagstone itself, which costs around $600 to $1,000 for 200 square feet. Other materials you’ll need are sand, grout, and gravel, which cost around $95 to $105. Because you’ll need to place a seal and cut stone, you might need to borrow specific equipment, which will cost around $60 to $80 for the equipment and around $100 to $200 for a gallon of sealer.

If you’re set on a wet-laid flagstone patio, you’ll want to leave that to the professionals. They move fast and have the equipment needed to put together a beautiful patio that makes everyone jealous. Even though you’ll pay more, you’re likely to see a bigger gain in your house’s value.

Photo: Kristyna / Adobe Stock

Flagstone Patio Cost Breakdown

The total cost to install a flagstone patio comes from the materials, labor, and whether you need a permit.

Cost of Materials

The color and type of flagstone will influence your material costs. There are around five main types of flagstone available, each with benefits and downsides. 

The five main types of flagstone are:

• Bluestone: Dense and durable, but the color fades easily

• Limestone: Durable and withstands weathering well, but chemicals and other acids damage it

• Quartzite: Holds up against stains and weathering well, but costs more and is harder to install

• Sandstone: Keeps the stones cool but absorbs water, which may damage it 

• Slate: Easiest to mold, but easiest to break apart

After you’ve picked out the type of flagstone you want, choose the color that goes hand-in-hand with your house.

Cost of Labor

The cost of labor will depend on the contractor you hire. Keep in mind that certain contractors may have higher costs, but they may offer cheaper prices for materials. Include both of these numbers when picking between contractors, and get a quote from at least three pros before signing a contract.

Possible Permits

Certain cities or counties may require you to file for a permit to add on to your house. Because flagstone patios often increase the value of the home, this may impact prices throughout the neighborhood.