Most Arizona patios are either poured concrete or pavers. Concrete is usually the lower-cost slab. Pavers cost more but are easier to repair and come in many more looks.
| Pavers | Poured concrete | |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost (Phoenix) | About $8–$26 per sq ft, by material | Usually lower; get quotes |
| Cracking | Joints flex; single pavers can be lifted and reset | Slabs can crack as soil shifts |
| Repairs | Replace or reset individual pavers | Patching rarely matches |
| Heat underfoot | Light colors and travertine stay cooler | Light finishes help; can be stained or coated |
| Looks | Many colors, shapes and patterns | Broom, stamped or stained finishes |
Cost
Paver patios in the Phoenix area usually run about $8 to $26 per sq ft installed: concrete pavers $8 to $16, brick $10 to $21, natural stone $16 to $51 (paver patio cost guide). Poured concrete is often the cheaper option; ask contractors to quote both on the same layout.
Ground movement and repairs
Arizona soils can be hard caliche in one spot and loose fill in another. Pavers on a proper compacted base flex with small movement, and a sunken area can be lifted and reset. A cracked slab is harder to repair invisibly.
Heat
Travertine is popular in Arizona because it stays cooler underfoot. Whatever you choose, lighter colors help on a sunny patio.
Find a licensed pro
Every contractor on Dry Heat Yards has an active Arizona ROC license, checked monthly.
Find paver and hardscape prosFAQ
Are pavers or concrete cheaper in Arizona?
Poured concrete is usually the lower-cost slab. Paver patios in the Phoenix area run about $8 to $26 per sq ft installed depending on material. Get both quoted on the same layout.
Do pavers crack in Arizona heat?
Individual pavers rarely crack, and the joints let the surface flex. If an area sinks, pavers can be lifted and reset on a proper base.
What patio surface stays coolest in Arizona?
Lighter colors stay cooler. Travertine pavers are popular in Arizona because they stay cooler underfoot.
Prices are ranges from our sourced cost guides, checked November 2026, before tax. Always get written quotes from licensed contractors.