Ready-Mix Concrete Prices Per Yard, 2026

Ready-mix concrete is batched at a plant and delivered wet in a rotating truck - it has roughly 90 minutes before it starts setting, so every price includes a race against the clock. In 2026 expect:

• Base mix (2,500-3,500 psi): $140-$165 per cubic yard
• High-strength (4,000-5,000 psi): $155-$190 per cubic yard
• Delivered (typical 5-10 yard load): add $60-$130 per load
• Small loads under the truck minimum: expect a short-load fee of $40-$75 per yard

What Moves the Price

Fuel and distance. Batch plants serve a radius; every mile past it costs you. Rural quotes carry fuel surcharges urban ones skip.

Season. Concrete season is late spring through early fall. Winter pours in cold states need hot-water batching and additives - budget $10-$20 more per yard, or see our cold weather pouring guide for when it's worth it.

Additives. Fiber mesh $5-$10/yard, air entrainment $5-$8, retarder for big pours $8-$15, coloring $25-$60.

Before You Call for a Quote

Know three numbers: yards (our calculator gives them), psi your job needs, and whether the truck can reach the pour in one run. Suppliers quote faster and sharper when you sound like you've done it before.