Quick answer
Replacing an asphalt driveway typically costs $4 to $9 per square foot in 2026, about $2,900 for a 480 sq ft single-car driveway at $6. Resurfacing costs $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot and lasts 8 to 15 years, but only works when the base is solid. Widespread alligator cracking or sinking means replace.
Driveway replacement cost by option
| Option | What it includes | Price per sq ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resurface | Clean or mill, crack repair, 1.5–2 in overlay | $1.50–$3.50 | 8–15 years |
| Full replacement | Tear-out, disposal, base repair, 2–3 in asphalt | $4–$9 | 20–30 years |
| New driveway | Grading, new gravel base, 2–3 in asphalt | $4–$9.50 | 20–30 years |
The calculator divides each price by the middle of its lifespan to show a cost per year. That makes it easy to see when a cheaper resurface is a good deal and when it only delays a replacement.
Resurface or replace?
Resurface when the driveway is faded, rough or has scattered cracks but still feels solid underfoot and drains well. Deep cracks and potholes should be cut out and patched before the overlay.
Replace when there is alligator cracking over large areas, sinking, soft spots or ruts, or when the driveway is over about 20–25 years old. These are signs the base has failed, and an overlay would crack in the same places.
Cost by driveway size
| Driveway | Area | Resurface ($2.50) | Replace ($6) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 car, 12 × 40 ft | 480 sq ft | $1,200 | $2,880 |
| 2 cars, 20 × 40 ft | 800 sq ft | $2,000 | $4,800 |
| 3 cars, 30 × 40 ft | 1,200 sq ft | $3,000 | $7,200 |
| Long drive, 12 × 100 ft | 1,200 sq ft | $3,000 | $7,200 |
Making a new driveway last
Let new asphalt cure for 6–12 months before the first sealcoat, then reseal every 2–3 years and fill cracks as they appear. Keep water draining away from the edges. Use the sealcoating calculator to budget for upkeep, the asphalt calculator for tonnage, or compare surfaces with asphalt vs concrete.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace an asphalt driveway?
Full replacement, including tear-out, base repair and new asphalt, typically costs $4 to $9 per square foot in 2026. A 480 sq ft single-car driveway (12 × 40 ft) at $6 per square foot comes to about $2,900.
Is it cheaper to resurface or replace a driveway?
Resurfacing costs about $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, often less than half the price of replacement. It only works if the base is still solid; overlaying a failing base leads to new cracks within a few years.
How do I know if my driveway needs replacing?
Signs include widespread alligator (web-like) cracking, sinking or soft spots, potholes that keep returning, standing water and a driveway older than about 20–25 years. Fading, surface wear and scattered cracks can usually be fixed with repairs or resurfacing.
How long does a resurfaced driveway last?
A resurfaced asphalt driveway typically lasts 8 to 15 years, depending on the condition of the base underneath, traffic and climate. A fully replaced driveway usually lasts 20 to 30 years with regular sealcoating.
Can I pave over an old concrete driveway with asphalt?
Sometimes, if the concrete is stable and not heaving. Joints and cracks will often reflect through the asphalt, so many contractors recommend removing the concrete first.